Discover the Link Between Pain and Poor Sleep

(ARA) - There is no overstating the value of a good night's sleep. Rejuvenating, uninterrupted rest delivers a host of health benefits, from re-energizing you for the day ahead to relieving many forms of pain.

Whether pain stems from arthritis, injury, surgery or chronic disease, it is so inextricably linked with sleep deprivation that these conditions often feed each other, experts say. The less sleep you get, the more pain you may feel. The more pain you experience, the less likely you are to get a good night's rest. Conversely, undisturbed slumber for the recommended number of hours seems to reduce pain for many people.

September is National Pain Awareness Month, a good time to take stock of what's keeping you awake at night and explore ways to get a better sleep overall.

"According to Tempur-Pedic's 2008 Night-time Renewal Survey, 94 percent of Americans say that a good night's sleep results in them feeling less neck and back pain the next day," says Dr. Barry Bittman, neurologist, chief executive officer of the Mind-Body Wellness Center and member of Tempur-Pedic's Wellness Advisory Board. "And more than 93 percent of Americans agree that quality sleep is an integral part of a healthy lifestyle.

Bittman advises that if pain is disrupting your rest, seek help. "A rational approach includes comprehensive medical evaluations that address both the pain and the inability to get quality sleep. Healthy lifestyle changes with a focus on nutrition, exercise and stress reduction can make a world of difference for many individuals. Sleeping on a bed that enables you to enjoy a restorative night's sleep can also help break the pain/sleeplessness cycle."

Fortunately, there are many ways you can help improve your rest. In its Web-based "Ask the Expert" column, the National Sleep Foundation offers the following tips:

* Curtail caffeine consumption. "It's not just a wives' tale - caffeine really is a stimulant that can interfere with sleep," Bittman says. "Reduce your intake throughout the day and especially avoid caffeine in the hours prior to bedtime."

* Limit alcohol consumption and avoid it altogether in the evening. "Even moderate alcohol consumption can act as a stimulant that disrupts sleep," Bittman says.

* Avoid vigorous exercise just before bedtime. "For many people, exercise is far more beneficial if performed earlier in the day," Bittman says.

* Don't nap too long in the afternoon - no more than 10 to 20 minutes. "Short naps can be very beneficial," Bittman says. "But long naps during the day may actually make it harder to fall asleep at night."

* Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing and meditation.

"I would also add that if you're sleeping on an old, uncomfortable mattress, or one with any dips or body impressions, replace it," Bittman says. "Mattresses that offer gentle support to your entire body can relieve pressure, stiffness and ultimately pain for many people. It's not surprising that 89 percent of Tempur-Pedic owners believe their mattress provides relief from the aches and pains of everyday life."

To learn more, visit www.nighttimerenewal.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent