This article is one of a series covering back pain — causes, symptoms, and the treatments we use at Back and Body Medical in Midtown Manhattan. For the complete overview, see the full guide:
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Why Sleep Position Matters for these Conditions
Why sleep position matters is quite obvious when you think about it. Afterall, you spend a third of your life asleep so a good mattress and pillow is vital to a good night’s sleep for your own mental health, but your physical health as well. Did you know that your sleep posture could be the cause of your daytime pain? Fear no more; today we will be giving you some tips on how to improve your sleep posture to relieve any pain you may be experiencing.
1. Rotator Cuff Syndrome
Rotator cuff syndrome occurs when sleeping with an arm above the shoulder. Sleeping with one arm impinging this rotator cuff can become a bad habit and can be the cause of nocturnal pain, an asymptomatic shoulder, and rotator cuff rupture. To avoid this, make sure to sleep on the opposite side that is affected. You can also place a pillow between the affected arm and body to give extra support.
2. Neck Pain
Neck pain is a frequently seen chiropractic issue. Did you know that your neck pain may be caused by the height of your pillow? Pillow height causes static compression and stretches cervical structures, which may be why you’re experiencing neck pain throughout the day. If you find yourself having this problem, opt for a pillow that lets the neck remain in a neutral position. Feather or fiberfill pillows work best, while stiff foam is what you should avoid.
3. Tennis Elbow
Tucking an elbow under your pillow puts compression on the wrist extensors. Keeping both arms at your side when you sleep ensures a reduction in the aggravating pain that lingers from your wrists to your elbows during the day.
4. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome, another common chiropractic issue, is mainly caused by the fetal sleeping position. Sleeping in this position with your wrists tucked under themselves cause compression on the median nerve. Wearing a splint while sleeping will make sure that your wrists stay straight and avoid tucking under, which causes that numb tingly pain.
If you are having troubles with you sleep, it is something we can help you with. When we treat the many pain points that our patients experience, we also educate them and let them know best practices to avoid pain and injury in the future.
If you are in pain, suffer from back pain, neck pain, headaches or whatever, come in and see us, we can help. We also accept insurance and would be delighted to help you out of pain. Call us today or Schedule an appointment.
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Dr Shan Sivendra MD is the founder and medical director of Back and Body Medical in Midtown Manhattan. A board-certified medical doctor, certified acupuncturist, and Director of House Physicians at St. Barnabas Medical Center, Dr Sivendra has been practicing in New York since 1995.
He completed his residency in Internal Medicine at Saint Barnabas Medical Center (affiliated with Mount Sinai School of Medicine) and received the Resident Research Award for three consecutive years.
Dr Sivendra has a background spanning internal medicine, pain management, and conservative spine rehabilitation, and was licensed in both the US and the UK.
At Back and Body Medical, he leads a multidisciplinary team of chiropractors, physical therapists, and acupuncturists dedicated to helping patients recover from pain without surgery or unnecessary medication.
Further Reading: Back Pain