A herniated disc is a condition that can cause pain and discomfort, especially when sleeping. It occurs when the gel-like center of a spinal disc protrudes through a weak or torn area in the outer ring. Herniated discs can happen in any part of the spine, including the neck (cervical), middle back (thoracic), and lower back (lumbar). In this article, we will discuss how to sleep with a herniated disc in different parts of the spine.
Why is Herniated Disc Worse at Night?
Herniated disc pain can often be worse at night due to several reasons. Firstly, when we lay down to sleep, the pressure on the spine is reduced, which can lead to a redistribution of fluid in the spinal discs. This can cause the herniated disc to push against nearby nerves, leading to pain, numbness, or tingling sensations in the affected area.
Secondly, our sleeping position can also exacerbate herniated disc pain. Sleeping on the stomach can cause the spine to arch, increasing pressure on the herniated disc. Sleeping on the back or side can also lead to pain, especially if the spine is not properly supported.
Thirdly, during the day, we are often distracted by work, activities, and movements, which can mask the pain caused by a herniated disc. However, the pain can become more noticeable and intense at night when we are resting.
Lastly, stress and anxiety can also contribute to increased pain at night. As our bodies and minds relax, we may become more aware of the pain and discomfort caused by a herniated disc.
Herniated disc pain can worsen at night due to changes in spinal fluid pressure, sleeping position, lack of distractions, and stress and anxiety. It’s important to find a comfortable sleeping position and use appropriate support, such as pillows or a supportive mattress, to help manage herniated disc pain at night. If the pain persists or becomes severe, seeking medical advice to explore other treatment options is important.
How to Sleep with a Thoracic Herniated Disc: the Best Practices
A thoracic herniated disc is a rare condition that affects the middle back. It can cause pain, numbness, and weakness in the chest, stomach, and legs. Here are some tips on how to sleep with a thoracic herniated disc:
- Sleep on your back: Sleeping on your back can help relieve pressure on your middle back. Place a pillow under your knees to support your lower back and reduce strain on your thoracic spine.
- Use a firm mattress: It can provide better support for your spine and prevent it from sinking in too much. Avoid using a soft mattress or a waterbed, as they can worsen your condition.
- Use a cervical pillow: A cervical pillow can help support your neck and keep it in a neutral position. This can help reduce pain and discomfort in your thoracic spine.
- Avoid sleeping on your stomach: Sleeping on your stomach can cause your back to arch, putting more pressure on your thoracic spine. It can also strain your neck and cause more pain.
- Change positions frequently: If you find sleeping hard on your back, try sleeping on your side. Use a pillow between your knees to support your lower back and align your spine.
How to Sleep with Herniated Disc in Neck
A herniated disc in the neck, also known as a cervical herniated disc, can cause neck pain, headaches, and tingling sensations in the arms and hands. Here are some practices on how to sleep with a herniated disc in the neck:
- Sleep on your back: Sleeping on your back can help keep your neck in a neutral position and reduce strain on your cervical spine. Use a cervical pillow to support your neck and prevent it from bending too much.
- Use a firm mattress: A firm mattress can provide better support for your neck and prevent it from sinking in too much. Avoid using a soft mattress or a waterbed, as they can worsen a situation.
- Avoid using too many pillows: Too many can cause your neck to bend too much, which can put more pressure on your cervical spine. Use a cervical pillow to support your neck and keep it in a neutral position.
- Change positions frequently: If sleeping on your back is difficult, consider sleeping on your side with a pillow between your knees to support your lower back and maintain spine alignment. Avoid sleeping on your stomach as it may strain your neck and exacerbate pain.
- Use a neck brace: If your neck pain is severe, you may benefit from using a neck brace. A neck brace can help support your neck and reduce strain on your cervical spine.
How to Sleep with Herniated Lumbar Disc
A herniated lumbar disc can provoke lower back pain, leg pain, and numbness or tingling sensations in the legs and feet. Here are some tips on how to sleep with a herniated lumbar disc:
- Sleep on your side: Sleeping on your side can help relieve pressure on your lower back and reduce pain. Use a pillow between your knees to support your lower back and keep your spine aligned.
- Use a medium-firm mattress: It can provide better support for your spine and prevent it from sinking in too much. Avoid using a soft mattress or a waterbed, as they can worsen your condition.
- Use a lumbar pillow: A lumbar pillow can help support your lower back and reduce pain. Place the pillow between your lower back and the mattress to provide extra support for your spine.
- Avoid sleeping on your stomach: Sleeping on your stomach can cause your back to arch, which can put more pressure on your lumbar spine. It can also strain your neck and cause more pain.
- Change positions frequently: If you find it challenging to sleep on your side, try sleeping on your back. Use a pillow under your knees to support your lower back and reduce strain on your lumbar spine. Avoid sleeping on your stomach, as it can strain your lower back and cause more pain.
Conclusion
Sleeping with a herniated disc can be challenging, but there are ways to reduce pain and discomfort. The tips mentioned in this article can help you sleep better and prevent further damage to your spine. It’s important to remember that everyone’s condition is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. If you’re experiencing severe pain or discomfort, consult your doctor or a spine specialist for further advice. You can manage your herniated disc and improve your quality of life with proper care and treatment.