Shoulder Pain: A Chiropractor Discusses How You Sleep Could Be a Contributing Factor
If you often find yourself waking up with aching or stiff shoulders, your sleeping position might be the culprit. Many people don’t realize how much their nighttime posture can affect joint health—especially in sensitive areas like the shoulders.
At Ishitani Health Center, we frequently hear from patients who say, “I didn’t injure myself; I just woke up with shoulder pain.” This is a common experience, and it usually points to the way the body was positioned during sleep.
The shoulder is one of the most flexible yet delicate joints in the body. When pressure is applied to it for hours—especially if you sleep on your side without proper support—this can lead to irritation of the muscles, tendons, or bursae surrounding the joint. Additionally, misalignment in the neck or upper spine can contribute to nerve irritation, causing discomfort or even numbness in the arm.
Signs that your shoulder pain may be sleep-related include pain that is worse upon waking but eases throughout the day, increased discomfort when lying on one side, or sensations like tingling and numbness in the arm. These symptoms often indicate that your sleeping habits are placing unnecessary strain on your shoulder joint.
Chiropractic care at Ishitani Health Center offers a holistic approach to managing this pain. We don’t just focus on the shoulder itself, but also assess spinal alignment and overall posture to relieve nerve pressure and promote healing. Our treatments include precise adjustments and soft tissue therapy that can help restore proper movement and reduce inflammation.
Alongside professional care, modifying your sleeping environment and habits can make a big difference. Avoid lying directly on the painful shoulder and consider sleeping on your back, using a pillow to support your arm in a comfortable, neutral position. For side sleepers, hugging a pillow can help keep your shoulder aligned and reduce joint compression throughout the night.
Incorporating gentle stretches before bedtime to loosen tight chest and shoulder muscles can also improve comfort and reduce morning stiffness.
If shoulder pain is disrupting your sleep, it’s important to address it sooner rather than later. Chiropractic treatment at Ishitani Health Center can help correct the root cause and improve your overall quality of life, so you can enjoy restful nights and pain-free mornings.
Don’t let shoulder pain steal your sleep. Reach out to Ishitani Health Center today to schedule your appointment and start your journey toward relief.
