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How to Sleep Better with Joint Pain: Expert Tips

Getting a good night’s sleep is essential for overall health and healing, but when you suffer from joint pain, restful sleep can feel out of reach. Whether your discomfort stems from arthritis, injury, or chronic inflammation, joint pain can make it difficult to find a comfortable position or stay asleep throughout the night.

If you’re struggling to sleep due to joint pain, you’re not alone—and there are steps you can take to improve your comfort and sleep quality. Here are some expert-backed tips to help you rest easier.

1. Choose the Right Sleep Position

The position you sleep in can make a big difference in managing joint pain.

• For hip or knee pain: Sleeping on your back with a pillow under your knees or on your side with a pillow between your legs can help reduce strain.
• For shoulder pain: Avoid sleeping on the affected side. Try placing a pillow under your arm or hugging a body pillow for added support.
  

Experiment with different positions to find what provides the most relief for your specific condition.

2. Invest in Supportive Bedding

A high-quality mattress and supportive pillows can provide the cushioning your joints need. Look for a mattress that supports proper spinal alignment and relieves pressure points. Memory foam or hybrid mattresses are often recommended for people with joint pain.

3. Practice Gentle Stretching Before Bed

A short stretching routine or light yoga session can ease joint stiffness and reduce inflammation before you lie down. Focus on gentle, low-impact movements that relax your muscles and encourage better circulation.

4. Use Heat Therapy

Applying heat to painful joints for 15–20 minutes before bed can soothe sore areas and prepare your body for rest. Try a heating pad, warm compress, or a warm bath to help loosen stiff joints.

5. Maintain a Consistent Sleep Schedule

Joint pain can feel worse when your body is fatigued. Going to bed and waking up at the same time each day can help regulate your body’s natural sleep rhythm and improve overall sleep quality.

6. Talk to a Specialist

If joint pain is interfering with your sleep on a regular basis, it’s time to consult with an orthopaedic specialist. You may benefit from personalized treatments such as physical therapy, medications, injections, or surgical options depending on the severity and cause of your discomfort.

Sleep Better, Feel Better with Joint Care From Orthopaedic Specialty Group

Don’t let joint pain steal your sleep. By creating a bedtime routine that prioritizes comfort and support, and by getting the right care, you can enjoy deeper, more restorative rest. 

At Orthopaedic Specialty Group, our dedicated team provides comprehensive care to help you manage joint pain and get back to a better quality of life, including restful sleep. Ready to get to the root of your joint pain? Contact Orthopaedic Specialty Group in Connecticut today to schedule a consultation.