how to sleep with shoulder pain
I am really struggling with how to sleep with shoulder pain lately. It’s been super tough because I usually love curling up and getting comfy, you know? But for the last few weeks, I’ve been dealing with some serious shoulder pain, it started after I did this intense workout, and honestly, I think I might have pushed too hard. No idea what I did, but I wake up in terrible pain every morning. I’ve tried different positions, like sleeping on my back and my side, but no matter what, I end up tossing and turning, and I think that just makes it worse. Someone told me to use a pillow to support my arm, but that hasn’t really helped yet. I even bought one of those special pillows but it’s like, do I need to try something else? I read somewhere that sleeping on your side can be bad for shoulder pain, but how am I supposed to sleep on my back all night? Also, ice packs during the day have been kinda a lifesaver but at night, when I’m trying to find a comfy position, I get lost in the pain and just, it’s such a struggle! Any advice on how to sleep with shoulder pain would be great because I’m really at my wits' end with this. Thanks in advance!
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Doctors' responses
Sleeping comfortably with shoulder pain can certainly be challenging, especially when your usual positions aggravate the discomfort. Since the pain started after an intense workout, it might be due to strain or inflammation of the muscles or tendons around the shoulder. One helpful strategy is to continue sleeping on your back if you can, because this position generally places the least stress on your shoulders. Placing a pillow under your arm can provide support and reduce strain—make sure it’s firm enough to keep your arm aligned with your body rather than drooping down. If you’re a side sleeper, try lying on the side opposite to the painful shoulder, and use a body pillow to hug which may help keep your arm supported. Another option is a reclining chair or adjustable bed, which lets you sleep slightly upright, reducing pressure on the shoulder. This can be particularly beneficial if flat positions aren’t effective. Applying ice before bed can help reduce inflammation, but be cautious using ice for extended periods at night due to the risk of frostbite. For persistent pain, consider non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen, but ensure this is appropriate for you by consulting a healthcare professional, especially if you have any contraindications like gastrointestinal issues. It might be advantageous to reassess your workout routine to prevent further strain, perhaps working with a physical therapist to tailor a program that considers your shoulder. Keep an eye on “red-flag” symptoms such as persistent or worsening pain, loss of shoulder function, or any numbness or tingling in the arm since these warrant prompt medical evaluation.
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