Why Do My Shoulders Hurt When I Sleep
It looks like you are struggling with shoulder pain at night. We know it can be a very annoying thing indeed, is it a sharp or sluggish pain that disturbs you when you are trying to fall asleep? When this happens to you, you have to pay more attention, your shoulder might be in a health crisis.
Fortunately, we are not clueless when it comes to this situation. FIVALI will break down why your shoulders hurt when sleeping and how you can heal and prevent it.
Poor Sleep Position
Poor sleeping posture is the direct cause. Many people like to sleep with their body on the side, which is a position that may provide you with a sense of security, or it help your nose breathe well. But while holding this position, your shoulder is subjected to prolonged stress. If your shoulders are weak or worn out, they may trigger pain while you sleep.
Depending on the state of health of the shoulder, the type and severity of pain can vary.
Overuse
Overuse of your shoulder is one of the common causes of shoulder injuries. While working or playing sports, your shoulder moves too much and doesn't get enough rest. So much so that it is more than it can handle and that can bring about pain. If it's just a general muscle strain, then a few days of rest will make it better. But if it is causing damage to your shoulder, then you may need to seek professional treatment.
There are shoulder injuries that can result from overuse:
Rotator Cuff Tear
The rotator cuff is an important part of the shoulder, consisting mainly of tendons and muscles. It is located near the shoulder joint and serves to hold the bones of the shoulder in place as well as assist in the movement of the shoulder. Prolonged use of your shoulder and lack of rest can lead to injury to this part. In addition, the risk of rotator cuff tears becomes greater as you age.
Bursitis
In the shoulder, there are things called bursa, which look like small fluid-filled air sacs that protect and cushion the shoulder joint during movement. Bursitis occurs when the bursa becomes inflamed and swollen.
Frozen Shoulder
If you suffer from frozen shoulder, your shoulder can become difficult to move. Every movement brings about stiffness and pain in the shoulder. Overuse is a trigger for frozen shoulder. In addition, complications that are triggered as a result of other conditions are also possible.
How to Alleviate Shoulder Pain at Night
Adjust Sleeping Position: Adjust your sleeping position to sleep on your back or sleep on another side to avoid adding more pressure to your shoulder.
Heat and Cold Therapy: Place a hot towel or an ice pack on your pain area. However, hot and cold packs need to be used on a case-by-case basis, and it's better to have a consultation before using them.
Gentle Stretching: If you don't feel pain when you move your shoulder, try gently stretching your shoulder to move the muscles and relieve the pain.
Fix Your Shoulder: If your shoulder will feel aches when you move it even slightly, you should have a shoulder brace for torn rotator cuff to help you immobilize the shoulder and arm. FIVALI Shoulder Sling for Rotator Cuff Dislocation and Tear Recovery is a good choice. It uses multiple compression straps to hold the shoulder and arm in place, effectively preventing pain from accidentally moving your arm.
Medication: If you are unable to relieve the shoulder pain when sleeping after trying some of the therapies then you can take painkillers on the advice of your doctor or professional.
Preventions of Shoulder Pain
Rest and Relax: Breaks are really important, please allow enough time for your body to rest after work and exercise. This way the tissues in your shoulder can heal themselves during the rest.
Warm-Up: A lot of injuries can be caused during exercise. That's why it's especially important to warm up, which can help your muscles become more flexible and reduce the chance of injury during subsequent activities.
Wear a Daily Shoulder Sleeve: Wearing a shoulder compression sleeve during activity can be a great option to help share the stress on your shoulders. Designed for everyday use, the type can be easily worn over clothing for a soft, snug fit. It is great for protecting the shoulder by limiting and alerting the shoulder joint when there is too much range of motion.
Strengthening Exercises: Incorporating regular shoulder exercises into your daily routine can strengthen your shoulder muscles as well as your joints. Simple stretching exercises can reduce discomfort and improve muscle vitality.
Hopefully, your sleep will never be disturbed by the unexpected again. Shoulder health needs to be maintained with our care. If you need any help, Fivali and other professionals are at your service. Wish you have a sweet dreams!