How Your Sleep Positioning Can Contribute to Hip Pain
There are a number of underlying medical conditions that can trigger persistent hip pain. However, hip pain can also be the result of ordinary things you don’t think much about – such as how you sleep.
Our experienced team of pain management specialists understand how ongoing hip pain can limit you. At LA Pain Doctor in Metairie, Laplace, Harvey, Hammond, and Luling, Lousiana, our team is skilled in using advanced techniques to address the many underlying causes of hip pain. Their focus on restoring your mobility and reducing the need for you to have invasive treatments like surgery.
We also offer on-site diagnostic services to uncover the root cause of your hip pain. One key area our team focuses on while investigating your hip pain is your lifestyle and daily habits, including your sleep habits.
How you sleep can trigger hip pain
For many, hip pain is most noticeable at night when you’re lying on your hips. While your pain might originally stem from underlying conditions like arthritis, bursitis, or sciatica, the added pressure on your hip joints that occurs during sleep can make your pain more pronounced.
If you frequently experience hip pain during the nighttime hours, it might be due to your sleep position, mattress, or inactivity.
Sleep position
People have a natural tendency to sleep in a specific way. If you’re prone to sleeping on your side, you might be at increased risk for persistent hip pain.
Without the right support, side sleeping can also cause a misalignment in your hips and spine that lead to a worsening of your pain over time.
Poor quality mattress
If you sleep on a mattress that’s too hard or too soft, you might be putting pressure on certain trigger points that result in hip soreness or pain.
When your mattress is old, the materials may no longer support your weight properly and cause unnecessary pressure on your hip joints.
Lack of movement
Some people don’t move much during sleep. As you get older, this lack of movement can make your hips and other joints stiff and swollen after several hours.
How to reduce your risk for hip pain during sleep
One of the most effective ways to address existing hip pain and prevent it from recurring is to consult with our team. We can show you ways to better support your hips during sleep and when you’re physically active.
Some options for preventing hip pain include the following solutions.
Use sleep supports
If you’re a side sleeper, you can place a pillow in between your knees to keep your hips and spine in alignment.
There are also other supportive pillows available on the market that can keep you from sleeping on your side and putting unnecessary pressure on your hips and other joints.
Upgrade your mattress
When you’re able to invest in a new mattress, our team can recommend which types would offer the support you need to sleep comfortably and reduce pressure on your joints.
If you have hip pain, don’t put off coming to see us for an evaluation. Call LA Pain Doctor to schedule an appointment or book one online today at the location most convenient to you.