Sleeping is essential for our physical and mental health. It is during sleep that our body repairs itself and rejuvenates. However, for many people, sleeping can be a source of discomfort and pain, especially in the neck and shoulders. If not chosen correctly, sleeping mattresses can aggravate neck and shoulder pain, causing discomfort and disturbed sleep.
Specialists from the Asheville Pain control clinic state that the primary cause of neck and shoulder pain during sleep is the improper alignment of the spine. When the spine is not aligned correctly, it puts pressure on the muscles and nerves in the neck and shoulders, causing pain and discomfort. The type of sleeping mattress plays a significant role in spine alignment. If the mattress is very soft, it can cause the spine to sink too deep, leading to the head and shoulders sagging, which can create stress on the neck and shoulder muscles. Conversely, if the mattress is too firm, it does not contour to the body’s shape, which can result in the spine’s misalignment and cause neck and shoulder pain.
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Your pillow matters
Another factor contributing to neck and shoulder pain is the type of pillow used with the sleeping mattress. A pillow that is too high or too low can cause the neck to bend unnaturally, resulting in pain and discomfort. A pillow that is too high can elevate the head too much, causing the neck to turn upwards and putting pressure on the muscles and nerves. On the other hand, a pillow that is too low can cause the neck to bend downwards, creating a similar effect. The ideal pillow should support the neck’s natural curve and align the head with the spine.
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Sleeping position
One of the most significant contributors to neck and shoulder pain during sleep is the sleeping position. Sleeping on the stomach is the worst position for the neck and shoulders as it twists the spine and puts pressure on the muscles and nerves. Sleeping on the back or the side is a better option for spine alignment. However, if the sleeping mattress does not contour to the body’s shape, it can cause the spine to twist, leading to neck and shoulder pain.
Over time, the support and cushioning provided by the mattress deteriorate, leading to sagging and misalignment. As a result, the body’s weight is not distributed evenly, causing pressure points and discomfort. Furthermore, old or worn-out sleeping mattresses can also aggravate neck and shoulder pain.
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Alleviate the pain naturally
Choosing the correct type of sleeping mattress that supports the spine’s natural curvature. Memory foam mattresses are popular for people with neck and shoulder pain as they contour to the body’s shape, providing adequate support and cushioning. Latex mattresses are another option, as they are firm yet responsive, keeping the spine aligned while relieving pressure points.
Changing sleeping positions can also help prevent neck and shoulder pain. Sleeping on the back or the side is preferable to sleeping on the stomach. If you tend to sleep on your stomach, gradually transition to a different position. Placing a pillow between the knees while sleeping on the side can help keep the spine aligned and prevents pressure points.
Having trouble sleeping well lately? Most people will quickly answer ‘Yes’! Constant fatigue, neck and shoulder pain, headaches are many of the problems we might be experiencing. While some of us know the reasons behind our ailments – work pressure, stress and tension, others would be surprised to know that the cause could be something a lot simpler: the wrong mattress.
Most of the mattresses available today are designed to give comfort and improve our lifestyle. But what if the mattress is not suitable for our body type? Chances are, it would end up giving us more pain than comfort! A mattress that is not ‘fitted’ for us would cause an irregular posture that could lead to pain in the neck and shoulders, along with other physical issues like muscle cramp and back pain.
An important factor to consider when buying a mattress is the kind of material it is made of. An innerspring mattress – or a mattress with internals like springs or foam, provide firm cushioning and support to the spine without causing any pressure on other body parts. However, the mattress should be flipped and rotated occasionally to maintain the newness and durability of the material.
One should also pay attention to their sleeping patterns. A mattress that is ideal for one person might not be suitable for another, as we all have different sleeping habits. But if you have persistent shoulder and neck pain, it might be because of an improper mattress.
A wrong mattress can also cause other serious health concerns. Keeping this in mind, it is important to pick the right mattress suitable according to your body type, physique and lifestyle. The best way to go about this is to take a nap test – try out mattresses and observe which one is comfortable for you.
It goes without saying that taking some preventive measures can help you avoid the pain from having a wrong mattress and make sure you have a good night’s sleep. So don’t be complacent and choose a mattress wisely, rather than regret it later!
