Osteoarthritis and Sleep Deprivation


It’s no secret that if you suffer from back pain, you won’t sleep as well. But what may be less clear to patients is how certain lifestyle changes can help them get better sleep if they suffer from osteoarthritis. We’re dedicated to helping our patients at Cleary Family Chiropractic in Woodstock to free themselves of pain through holistic, minimally invasive means, so we want to explore the ways patients can escape the vicious circle of pain and insomnia.


Osteoarthritis differs from other forms of arthritis in that it is characterized by mechanical wear to cartilage. As the bones rub together, their cushioning erodes and they form bony spurs at their tips, triggering inflammation in the surrounding tissues. The dread of pain often causes people more sleep deprivation than the pain itself, and when a person is short on sleep, their soft tissues become less elastic and supportive. If they suffer pain long enough, it may become centralized, meaning that their body is continually sending pain signals.


The first step toward treating osteoarthritis is to relieve pressure from the joints. Chiropractic adjustments can help with this, and can unblock the central nervous system. Patients may also try maintaining a straighter posture in their sleep and avoiding large amounts of sugar, which contributes to inflammation. Doctor-approved exercise can reduce the weight bearing down on joints and put the patient in a more tired state before they attempt to sleep. Many people also find chiropractic techniques to be psychologically soothing, reducing their fear of pain.


Dr. Matthew Cleary runs Cleary Family Chiropractic at 246 Creekstone Ridge, Woodstock, Georgia, 30188. To schedule an appointment, call 678-494-9668 or visit Chiropractor Woodstock.




 

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