According to the Mayo Clinic, back pain is one of the most common complaints from adults. Poor posture, muscle strains, injuries or accidents can all cause back pain, making it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep at night. For some patients, pain medication is required to provide relief, but back pain sufferers can also do other things to relieve the pain at night.
Take Pain Medication
Pain medication is an acceptable form of treatment for back pain as long as it is taken according to the prescribing doctor's instructions. Prolonged pain can inhibit the ability to fall or remain asleep throughout the night. Over-the-counter pain medication is typically effective in treating back pain. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, commonly called NSAIDs, are low-risk pain medications that are readily available in most drugstores and grocery stores. Taking the recommended dosage of pain medication at the first sign of pain can help to alleviate pain before going to sleep, enabling a better night's sleep.
Pay Attention to Posture
It is important to monitor posture throughout the day, particularly when one sits for long periods of time. Paying closer attention to posture is equally as important at night because a sleeping position is held between six and eight hours. Back pain sufferers should find a comfortable sleeping position and attempt to reduce pressure on the back, the Mayo Clinic recommends. If a patient typically sleeps on the back, they can place a pillow under the knees to relieve pressure. If a patient sleeps on the side, he should place a pillow between the legs for the same effect.
Take a Warm Bath
To help muscles relax and reduce inflammation, some patients find relief after taking a warm bath before bed, indicates the University of Maryland Medical Center. Use warm, not hot, water and soak for 15 to 20 minutes. Adding Epsom salt to a warm bath can help to alleviate pain and reduce muscle soreness.
