Do you often wake up with pain in your shoulder from sleeping on your side? If so, then you’re not alone. Due to uneven weight distribution, many people experience shoulder pain when they sleep on their sides. Fortunately, some simple tips and tricks can help reduce this type of discomfort. So let’s look at How To Relieve Shoulder Pain From Sleeping On Side?
Can Sleeping On One Side Cause Shoulder Pain?
Yes, sleeping on one side can cause shoulder pain! People often assume that shoulder pain from sleeping has something to do with rolling onto the same shoulder all night. However, this is only part of it.
Poor sleep positioning also plays a role as it places extra strain on your shoulder joint, which over time, can result in tension and discomfort that may wake you up in the middle of the night.
Although switching sides often can help reduce some of the strain, it is essential to remember that the best way to avoid this kind of pain is by picking up healthy sleep habits, such as using a supportive mattress or pillow and using good body alignment while you sleep.
Also Read: Can Side Sleepers Use Adjustable Beds?
How To Relieve Shoulder Pain From Sleeping On Side | Easiest Ways
Adjust Your Pillow Height
The first step is to adjust the height of your pillow to provide enough support to keep your neck and head in line with your spine while you sleep. You may want to experiment with different pillows or pillow heights until you find one that works best.
Additionally, if you tend to sleep on your stomach, try using a thin pillow or no pillow, as this will help reduce strain on your shoulders and neck.
Change Your Sleep Position
Changing how you sleep can also help relieve shoulder pain from side sleeping. For example, try lying on your back instead of your side, as this may help reduce pressure points in the shoulders and neck and provide more support for the spine.
Additionally, if you prefer to sleep on your side, switch sides periodically throughout the night so that both shoulders get equal rest and support.
Use Heat/Ice Therapy
Heat or ice therapy can provide relief if pain persists after adjusting your sleep position and pillow height.
The heat helps relax tense muscles while cold application reduces inflammation in joints and soft tissues – both of which can be beneficial in reducing shoulder pain caused by side sleeping. You may want to experiment with both modalities until you find out which works best for you!
Also Read: How To Sleep With Pregnancy Pillow?
Should Shoulders Be On a Pillow When Sleeping?
When it comes to sleeping, you may be surprised to hear that the position of your shoulders impacts your overall comfort! Many studies have shown that having your shoulders on top of the pillow while lying down can lead to better sleep quality.
This is because it reduces stress on the neck and back muscles, allowing them to relax while you get a whole night’s rest. Additionally, it encourages proper spinal alignment, which can help prevent early morning aches and pains.
Ultimately, whether or not you choose to put your shoulders on the pillow is up to you; however, if you’re looking for a more comfortable night’s sleep, this is worth considering!
Also Read: Is It Better To Sleep Without Pillow?
Conclusion:
Now you know, How To Relieve Shoulder Pain From Sleeping On Side? Shoulder pain caused by side sleeping is a common issue many people experience, but luckily there are ways to alleviate it!
Adjusting the height of your pillow and changing how you sleep are two great ways to reduce discomfort in the shoulders from side sleeping. If these don’t seem to do the trick, using either heat or ice therapy may also provide additional relief!
Remember – giving both of your shoulders equal rest throughout the night is essential so that neither one gets overworked! With these simple tips and tricks, hopefully, those painful mornings will soon become a thing of the past!