What causes sleep-related back pain. How can you prevent waking up with a sore back. Which sleep positions are best for reducing back pain. How does your mattress affect back pain. What role do pillows play in preventing back pain while sleeping. How can you modify your sleep setup to alleviate back pain. When should you seek professional help for sleep-related back pain.

Understanding the Link Between Sleep and Back Pain

Back pain is an incredibly common issue, affecting up to 80% of people at some point in their lives. The relationship between sleep and back pain is complex and bidirectional. Poor sleep can exacerbate existing back pain, while back pain can significantly disrupt sleep quality. This vicious cycle can have far-reaching effects on overall health and well-being.

The COVID-19 pandemic has further complicated this issue. Many people have experienced disrupted sleep patterns due to anxiety and altered routines. Additionally, the shift to working from home has led to an increase in back and neck pain for those lacking proper ergonomic setups.

How does sleep affect back pain?

Insufficient or poor-quality sleep can lower pain thresholds, making existing back pain feel more intense. It can also impair the body’s natural healing processes, potentially prolonging recovery from back injuries or strains. Conversely, chronic back pain can make it difficult to find a comfortable sleep position, leading to fragmented sleep and daytime fatigue.

The Importance of Neutral Spine Alignment During Sleep

Maintaining a neutral spine position while sleeping is crucial for preventing and alleviating back pain. A neutral spine means there are no significant bends or twists in your neck or back. This alignment helps distribute pressure evenly across the spine, reducing strain on muscles, ligaments, and joints.

What is the best sleep position for a neutral spine?

While individual needs may vary, side sleeping is often considered the best position for maintaining a neutral spine. When sleeping on your side:

• Place a pillow between your knees to keep your hips aligned
• Hug a pillow to prevent your upper body from twisting
• Use a pillow that keeps your head in line with your spine

However, it’s important to note that the ideal sleep position can differ based on individual factors such as body shape, flexibility, and existing health conditions. Some people with hip or shoulder issues may find side sleeping uncomfortable and may need to explore alternative positions.

The Role of Mattresses in Sleep-Related Back Pain

Your mattress plays a significant role in maintaining proper spinal alignment during sleep. A mattress that’s too soft or too firm can contribute to back pain by forcing your spine into an unnatural position.

How do different mattress types affect back pain?

Mattress preferences can vary widely between individuals. Some key considerations include:

• Firmness: A firmer mattress provides more support but may be uncomfortable for some sleepers
• Moldability: Foam mattresses can contour to your body, potentially reducing pressure points
• Condition: A sagging or worn-out mattress can lead to poor spinal alignment

If you’re experiencing back pain, consider the age and condition of your mattress. Rotating your mattress regularly or adding a mattress topper can help extend its lifespan and improve support.

Pillow Selection for Back Pain Prevention

Choosing the right pillow is essential for maintaining a neutral spine and preventing neck pain, which can contribute to overall back discomfort.

How should you choose a pillow based on sleep position?

Different sleep positions require different pillow heights to maintain proper alignment:

• Stomach sleepers: Opt for a thin pillow to prevent neck extension
• Back sleepers: Choose a medium-thickness pillow that supports the natural curve of your neck
• Side sleepers: Use a thicker pillow to fill the space between your ear and shoulder

Remember that the goal is to keep your head in line with your spine, regardless of your preferred sleep position.

Modifying Your Sleep Setup to Alleviate Back Pain

If you’re experiencing back pain, making small adjustments to your sleep environment can often provide significant relief.

What are some effective ways to modify your sleep position?

Consider these strategies to improve spinal alignment and reduce back pain:

1. Use a pillow between your knees when side sleeping to keep your hips aligned
2. Place a small pillow or rolled towel under your lower back when sleeping on your back to support the natural curve
3. If you’re a stomach sleeper, try placing a thin pillow under your pelvis to reduce lower back strain
4. Use a body pillow to prevent yourself from rolling onto your back if side sleeping is more comfortable

These modifications can help you maintain a more neutral spine position throughout the night, potentially reducing morning stiffness and pain.

Addressing Specific Back Pain Issues During Sleep

Different types of back pain may require specific approaches to find relief during sleep.

How can you alleviate lower back pain while sleeping?

For lower back pain:

• Try sleeping on your back with a pillow under your knees to reduce pressure on the lower spine
• If you prefer side sleeping, place a pillow between your knees and slightly bend your legs
• Avoid sleeping on your stomach, as this can increase lower back strain

What about upper back and neck pain?

For upper back and neck issues:

• Ensure your pillow provides adequate support to keep your neck in a neutral position
• Consider using a cervical pillow designed to support the natural curve of your neck
• Avoid using too many pillows, which can cause neck flexion

When to Seek Professional Help for Sleep-Related Back Pain

While many cases of sleep-related back pain can be addressed through self-care measures, there are times when professional intervention may be necessary.

What are the signs that you should consult a healthcare provider?

Consider seeking medical advice if:

• Back pain persists for more than a few weeks despite home remedies
• Pain is severe or worsening over time
• You experience numbness, tingling, or weakness in your legs
• Back pain is accompanied by unexplained weight loss or fever
• Pain significantly impacts your daily activities or quality of life

A healthcare provider can help determine the underlying cause of your back pain and recommend appropriate treatments, which may include physical therapy, medication, or in some cases, further diagnostic tests.

Lifestyle Factors Influencing Sleep-Related Back Pain

While addressing your sleep environment is crucial, it’s important to recognize that daytime activities and habits can also contribute to nighttime back pain.

How do daily activities impact sleep-related back pain?

Several lifestyle factors can influence back pain during sleep:

• Sedentary behavior: Prolonged sitting can weaken core muscles and lead to poor posture
• Lack of exercise: Regular physical activity helps maintain flexibility and strength in back muscles
• Poor ergonomics: Improper workstation setup can strain your back throughout the day
• Stress: Tension from stress can manifest as muscle tightness in the back and neck
• Obesity: Excess weight can put additional strain on the spine and supporting structures

Addressing these factors can complement efforts to improve your sleep setup and may lead to more significant reductions in back pain.

What lifestyle changes can help reduce back pain at night?

Consider implementing the following strategies:

1. Incorporate regular stretching and strengthening exercises for your back and core
2. Practice good posture throughout the day, especially if you have a desk job
3. Take frequent breaks to move and stretch if you sit for long periods
4. Manage stress through relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation
5. Maintain a healthy weight to reduce strain on your spine
6. Stay hydrated, as dehydration can contribute to muscle stiffness and pain

By addressing both your sleep environment and daily habits, you can create a comprehensive approach to managing and preventing sleep-related back pain.

The Impact of Sleep Quality on Overall Back Health

While we’ve discussed how back pain can affect sleep, it’s equally important to understand how sleep quality influences back health and pain perception.

How does sleep affect pain perception and back health?

Quality sleep is crucial for several aspects of back health:

• Tissue repair: Sleep is when the body performs much of its healing and repair processes
• Pain threshold: Poor sleep can lower pain thresholds, making existing back pain feel worse
• Inflammation: Lack of sleep can increase inflammation throughout the body, potentially exacerbating back pain
• Muscle tension: Sleep deprivation can lead to increased muscle tension, contributing to back discomfort

Prioritizing good sleep hygiene can therefore play a significant role in managing and preventing back pain.

What are some strategies for improving sleep quality to support back health?

Consider these tips for better sleep:

1. Stick to a consistent sleep schedule, even on weekends
2. Create a relaxing bedtime routine to signal to your body that it’s time to wind down
3. Ensure your bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool for optimal sleep conditions
4. Limit exposure to blue light from electronic devices before bedtime
5. Avoid caffeine, large meals, and intense exercise close to bedtime
6. Consider relaxation techniques like gentle yoga or progressive muscle relaxation before sleep

By improving your overall sleep quality, you may find that your back pain becomes more manageable and less likely to disrupt your rest.

Alternative Therapies for Managing Sleep-Related Back Pain

While traditional medical approaches are often effective for managing back pain, some individuals find relief through alternative or complementary therapies.

What alternative therapies might help with sleep-related back pain?

Several alternative approaches have shown promise in managing back pain:

• Acupuncture: This traditional Chinese medicine technique may help reduce pain and improve function
• Massage therapy: Regular massages can help relax tense muscles and improve circulation
• Yoga: Gentle yoga practices can improve flexibility, strength, and body awareness
• Tai Chi: This low-impact exercise combines gentle movements with mindfulness
• Mindfulness meditation: Practicing mindfulness may help manage pain perception and reduce stress
• Biofeedback: This technique can help you learn to control certain bodily processes to reduce pain

It’s important to note that while many people find these therapies helpful, scientific evidence for their effectiveness varies. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment regimen, especially if you have a chronic or severe back condition.

How can you incorporate alternative therapies into your back pain management plan?

If you’re interested in exploring alternative therapies:

1. Research reputable practitioners in your area
2. Discuss your interest in alternative therapies with your primary care provider
3. Start with gentle, low-risk options like guided relaxation or gentle stretching
4. Keep a pain journal to track the effects of different therapies on your symptoms
5. Be patient, as some therapies may take time to show noticeable benefits
6. Combine alternative approaches with conventional treatments for a comprehensive pain management strategy

Remember that what works for one person may not work for another. It may take some trial and error to find the combination of treatments that best addresses your sleep-related back pain.

The Future of Sleep Technology and Back Pain Management

As our understanding of sleep science and back pain continues to evolve, new technologies are emerging to help people achieve better sleep and manage back discomfort.

What innovative technologies are being developed to address sleep-related back pain?

Several exciting developments are on the horizon:

• Smart mattresses: These can adjust firmness and support based on your sleeping position and pressure points
• Wearable sleep trackers: Advanced sensors can provide detailed data on sleep quality and body positioning
• AI-powered sleep coaching: Personalized recommendations based on your sleep patterns and reported pain levels
• Virtual reality therapy: Immersive experiences designed to distract from pain and promote relaxation
• Customized 3D-printed pillows: Tailored to your exact body measurements and sleep preferences
• Neurofeedback devices: Help train your brain to achieve more restorative sleep states

While many of these technologies are still in development or early stages of adoption, they represent promising avenues for improving sleep quality and managing back pain in the future.

How might future technologies change our approach to sleep-related back pain?

The integration of advanced technologies could lead to:

1. More personalized treatment plans based on individual sleep patterns and pain triggers
2. Earlier detection and intervention for potential back issues
3. Improved understanding of the relationship between sleep positioning and back health
4. Greater ability to track and adjust treatments in real-time
5. Enhanced collaboration between patients and healthcare providers through shared data
6. Reduced reliance on medication for pain management

As these technologies continue to develop, it will be important to balance their potential benefits with considerations of privacy, accessibility, and integration into existing healthcare systems.

In conclusion, managing sleep-related back pain requires a multifaceted approach that considers sleep position, mattress and pillow selection, lifestyle factors, and potentially alternative therapies. By understanding the intricate relationship between sleep and back health, individuals can take proactive steps to improve their sleep quality and reduce back pain. As technology continues to advance, we may see even more sophisticated and personalized solutions for addressing this common issue. Remember, if back pain persists or significantly impacts your quality of life, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional for a comprehensive evaluation and treatment plan.

Tips to reduce sleep-related back pain

Back pain is one of the most common types of pain reported in the United States. Most people — up to eight out of 10 — will have at least one episode of back pain during their lives. While various factors contribute to back pain, how you sleep — from your sleep position to the pillow or mattress you choose — can be a cause.

Pain and sleep are interconnected. Back pain can make it harder to get a good night’s sleep, while some research shows that insufficient sleep can exacerbate pain in addition to causing other health problems, from impaired focus to increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

The COVID-19 pandemic has only made matters worse. Disrupted daily routines and anxiety about the pandemic have fueled insomnia, while working from home without proper office equipment has caused more people to experience back and neck aches and pains.

Health Matters spoke to Dr. Clark Smith, a neck and back pain medicine specialist with NewYork-Presbyterian Och Spine, and Dr. Kelly Grimes, a physical therapist with Columbia University Irving Medical Center, about what causes sleep-related back pain and what you can do to prevent it.

Everyone has unique, individual variations in terms of the shapes of our spines and individual flexibilities. This is called “body anthropometrics,” says Dr. Grimes, so what’s most important is to find a sleep position that balances support for your spine with comfort and allows you to get a good night’s sleep.

Whatever position a person chooses, having a neutral spine is important, says Dr. Smith. This means there is no major bend in your neck or back.

When you lie down, your back either flexes a little bit or extends, meaning it leans forward or leans back, depending on your position. For a lot of people, the easiest way to achieve a neutral spine is to lie on your side with a pillow, either between your knees or a pillow that you’re hugging, and not have your neck or spine contorted in any way, says Dr. Smith. However, people with some conditions, including hip conditions, shoulder bursitis, or hip bursitis, can have trouble with side sleeping. While there’s no one best position for everyone, lying on the side is usually going to be the healthiest thing in terms of spine care for most people.

Some people prefer a firmer mattress, while others prefer something with more moldability, like a foam mattress, but generally, you want a mattress that’s in good condition, says Dr. Grimes. If you’re sleeping on a sagging mattress and you’re starting to have problems sleeping, rotating the mattress or getting a mattress topper could help.

Your body will react to mattresses in different ways. If you’re lying flat on a hard mattress, your spine may be neutral, with no bending or twisting. This may be beneficial for someone who needs extra support. But if you’re lying flat on your back on a soft mattress, your lumbar spine might bend forward like you’re looking down, which is called “flexion,” says Dr. Smith. This compresses the discs, and that can make disc pain worse. If you’re lying on your stomach in a soft bed, that could extend your back. This position might feel good for the low back in people whose spines bend forward, but it could cause discomfort for others.

Pillows should also help you achieve a neutral spine, adds Dr. Smith. Stomach sleepers usually prefer a thin pillow so their neck isn’t contorted, while back and side sleepers can tolerate a thicker pillow as long as their spine stays neutral.

If you’re sleeping on your back and that’s not working out, try sleeping on your side, says Dr. Smith. You could even place a pillow next to your back so if you move from your side to your back in the middle of the night, you’d have a gentle reminder to stay on your side, adds Dr. Grimes. If you’re a stomach sleeper and you have neck pain, try using a skinnier pillow so your neck is not turned back as much, or if you’re using two pillows, use only one.

Props like a pillow or rolled-up towel can also be helpful, says Dr. Grimes. If you sleep on your back, you might get an arch in your back in that position. If that’s causing pain, place a pillow or two underneath the knees, which helps with low back pressure, and/or place a little towel roll underneath the arch of the low back to support that gap.

Similarly, stomach sleepers can put a small pillow under their stomach to help create a neutral spine. These fixes mean a person can still sleep in their preferred position, but they’re not putting as much stress on the tissues in their spine throughout the night.

An expert can help determine the cause of your pain, says Dr. Grimes, though she adds that it might take a bit of detective work. They might ask questions about your sleep positions and if you feel any similar pain connected to sitting or standing, which can help them narrow down the cause of your pain.

It is also important to investigate whether other medical issues are interfering with sleep. If somebody is waking up frequently because of sleep apnea, their back pain might be getting worse because they’re not getting restorative sleep. For some people, immobility while they sleep rather than a particular sleep position could cause pain, says Dr. Smith. With osteoarthritic conditions, for example, joints may swell a little bit when they’re not mobile. So getting those joints moving again can be painful when you go to the bathroom at night and get up in the morning. Some people may report similar discomfort if they go to a movie, so that pain may not be related to your sleep position.

Today, there’s a lack of separation between work and home for many due to COVID-19, so it’s easy for people to go right from the computer to bed. This is why it’s important to build in behaviors and habits, like a gentle mobility routine, into an intentional nighttime wind-down routine, says Dr. Grimes. The “motion is lotion” concept means you’re bringing nutrition and blood flow to the tissues in your spine when you move. Here are simple stretches and exercises that you can do before bed to loosen up your back.

When you wake up in the morning, if you’re lying on your back, squeeze your abdomen down into the bed to engage those core muscles. This is called “abdominal bracing,” says Dr. Smith. Or bring your knees to your chest to loosen up your hips a little bit. If you can tolerate it, try some supine knee twists, where you lie on your back and turn your knees to one side. Like the Tin Man with no oil, the spine and other joints can feel stiff and creaky after a period of immobility when you get up, so just giving yourself a little bit of extra time in the morning can also help. Often symptoms will improve once you get moving.

Clark Smith, M.D., MPH, is an attending physiatrist at NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center and the John A. Downey Associate Professor of Rehabilitation and Regenerative Medicine at Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons. A fellowship-trained physiatrist, Dr. Smith specializes in treating patients with acute and chronic sports and spine injuries. Dr. Smith is board certified in both physical medicine and rehabilitation and pain medicine.

Kelly Grimes, DPT, is a Doctor of Physical Therapy at Columbia University Irving Medical Center who specializes in musculoskeletal pain, with a particular interest and expertise in spine care and scoliosis management across the lifespan. Her practice focuses on individualized treatment plans built around each patient’s unique goals —relying on assessments grounded in movement analysis, and a collaborative, hands-on style that considers the whole patient rather than just a painful or troublesome body part.

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9 Sleep Tips for Back Pain

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

• 1. Find the right position.
• 2. Get a good mattress.
• 3. Get into and out of bed carefully.
• 4. Exercise your core.
• 5. Try gentle yoga stretches before bed.
• 6. Medication may help.
• 7. Establish a bedtime routine.
• 8. Cut down on stress.
• 9. Don’t give up.
• More

Back pain can make getting through the day hard, but it can make getting a good night’s sleep even harder. It can be tough to find a comfortable position so you can doze off. And you might not even be able to get in and out of bed without pain.

But good sleep is essential to your health, and an important part of your overall well-being. Studies have found that Americans who ranked their quality of life very good or excellent slept an average of 18 to 23 minutes longer than those who considered their health and quality of life poorer. But studies have shown that not getting enough sleep may actually make you more sensitive to pain.

If you’re having trouble getting enough shut-eye because of back pain, try these tips that can make sleeping a little easier.

Certain sleeping positions can help ease your back pain, so find one that is most comfortable for you. Try sleeping with a pillow between or underneath your legs for extra support.

If you sleep on your side, put the pillow between your knees and draw them up slightly toward your chest. If you like to sleep on your back, try the pillow under your knees, or roll up a small towel and place it under the small of your back.

Avoid sleeping on your stomach because it puts a lot of strain on your back. If it’s the only position you can fall asleep in, put a pillow under your stomach to take some of the pressure off your back. Or, to break the habit, wear a sleep shirt with a pocket in front and put a tennis ball in it.

The Sleep Foundation recommends that you evaluate your mattress about every 6 to 8 years. You may need a change for optimal comfort and support. In one study, nearly 63% of people reported significant improvements in low back pain after switching to a new sleep system.

If your budget allows for buying a new mattress, don’t be afraid to “test drive” a few options. When in the store, take off your shoes, lie down in your favorite sleeping position, and spend a few minutes resting. Make sure the mattress supports you well enough to maintain your spine in the position you have with good standing posture.

The type of mattress you need depends on your body type. A soft mattress can be good if your hips are wider than your waist because it will let your spine stay straight while you sleep. If your hips and waist already line up straight, a harder mattress might feel better because it will give you more support.

Doctors used to always recommend firm mattresses, but research has shown that people with low back pain actually sleep worse on very hard mattresses when compared to other kinds. But soft mattresses can cause problems, too. You may sink in too deep and your joints may twist and cause you more pain.

Try sleeping on different kinds of mattresses, either at friends’ houses, or in hotels, to see what feels best. If you think a harder mattress might help, put a sheet of plywood between your mattress and box spring, or try a few nights with your mattress on the floor to see if the extra support makes a difference in your pain.

It may sound obvious, but be extra careful when you get into and out of bed. Bending forward at your waist or making quick and jerking motions can cause you more back pain.

Take your time and roll over onto one side and use your arms to push your way up. You can then swing your legs out of bed to stand up slowly. Reverse the movements when it’s time to lie down at night.

Getting regular physical activity is a great way to improve the quality of your sleep. But doing targeted exercises to strengthen your core — the muscles in your abdomen, hips, lower back, and pelvis — can also help ease back pain.

Building strength and flexibility in these muscles can lower the chances of you straining your back and experiencing muscle spasms during the night. Holding a plank position with your hands under your shoulders and your legs out straight can help tighten these muscles. Start by holding the pose for 15 to 30 seconds and try to maintain proper alignment, with your body in a straight line and your abdominal muscles engaged.

Research has shown that yoga or intensive stretching can help reduce low back pain. It can also help reduce your stress and make you sleep better.

Talk to your doctor about which poses are safe for you to practice and which ones won’t make your pain worse. It might be helpful to start off using yoga props like blocks and bolsters for added support so that you can hold poses comfortably. And taking a few yoga classes with an instructor to be sure you’re doing the poses and breathing correctly — which is key to relaxation — isn’t a bad idea either.

Some medications can help you get sleep while helping with back pain. They should be used as part of a complete treatment plan and only under the direction of your doctor. The goal of medication should be to help you develop a more normal sleep pattern.

Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as aspirin, Tylenol (acetaminophen) or Advil or Motrin (ibuprofen), can be effective for short-term use. These drugs are also available in a “PM” version that includes a medicine to help you sleep. Naproxen sodium (Aleve) is long-lasting and may offer pain relief throughout the night. It’s also available in a “PM” version. 

Sedatives like zolpidem (Ambien), suvorexant (Belsomra), eszopiclone (Lunesta), and zaleplon (Sonata) are prescription medicines that can help you sleep.

Prescription drugs for back pain include antidepressants, such as doxepin or duloxetine (Cymbalta), or a medicine that combines antidepressant and pain reliever effects, such as amitriptyline, or a muscle relaxant, such as cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril).

Try to go to bed at the same time each night. Follow a routine, such as setting the alarm, putting on your pajamas, and brushing your teeth. Do not read, work, or watch TV in bed.

Stress is the major cause of insomnia. It’s also linked with back pain. So look for ways to relax and better manage stress. Don’t self-medicate with alcohol, which also hurts your sleep.

Do some soothing exercises. Try relaxation techniques, and ask your health provider or physical therapist about exercises that you can do to help your back early in the day.

The best way to get a good night’s sleep is to get rid of back pain, but this isn’t always possible. Other things that affect sleep and pain, such as anxiety and depression, might also need attention and treatment. Many people put up with pain, but it often can be helped and treated. Don’t give up on finding a treatment that can work for you.

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Rarely, when back pain after sleep occurs as a result of physiological causes, for example, when you stay in one body position for a long time. In 99% of cases, discomfort is disturbing due to a pathological change – which one, only a doctor can determine.

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Kuchenkov A.V.

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Publication date: September 22, 2021

Verification date: January 30, 2023

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Causes of back pain after sleep

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Rehabilitation is the final stage after therapeutic treatment aimed at eliminating pain in the spine after sleep. The recovery individual program is compiled by experienced specialists of the rehabilitation center “Laboratory of Life”.

The course allows you to significantly reduce the recovery period, improve the quality of life.

These measures are especially effective in diseases of the spine, scapula and other structures of the musculoskeletal system.

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After sleep, back pain in the lumbar region: causes, possible diagnoses

If in the morning you wake up with pain in the lumbar part of the back, this circumstance can not only darken the mood, but also significantly limit the possibilities. Modern medicine gives many explanations for why the lower back hurts in the morning after sleep.

Causes of back pain in the lumbar region after sleep

The reasons why the lower back hurts after sleeping in the morning are very diverse and ambiguous – from the most frivolous and easily eliminated to intractable pathologies. But sometimes it is enough to look at the external circumstances that provoke this painful symptom every morning.

Hard surface, awkward posture

Too hard or, on the contrary, soft bed makes you take an unhealthy and uncomfortable position in your sleep. As a result, the muscles that should rest at night are not able to relax – and now, after sleep, the back hurts in the lumbar region. At the same time, even owners of orthopedic mattresses are often tormented by this problem. A properly organized place will not relieve the painful inconvenience in the morning if a person sleeps in the wrong position. It is recommended to sleep in such a way that the muscles do not have to stretch or tighten, one of the proven options is on the back with legs elevated.

Overvoltage

Overstrain of the back muscles occurs in those who are engaged in heavy physical labor or, on the contrary, sit in one position for a long time. During sleep, the muscles do not have time to relax, which is why the lower back hurts after sleep. This condition is temporary and passes without the participation of a doctor, however, for its further prevention, it is recommended to do physical exercises.

Diseases of the spine

One of the common reasons why the back hurts in the lumbar region after sleep is various pathologies of the spine. Localization of pain in the lumbar region indicates that the source is located in the lumbar part of the spine. There are the following pathological conditions that provoke this unpleasant symptom:

Osteochondrosis

We are talking about lumbar osteochondrosis, when various tissues of the lumbar region are damaged. The pain is caused by the fact that the disease affects the nerve endings, which is why the lower back hurts during sleep, even on the back and after it. The only way to stop the pain is to actively treat the disease, since neglected osteochondrosis turns into even more serious complications and painful manifestations.

Spondylolisthesis

This is a vertebral pathology in which one of the vertebrae moves forward and backward. If the lumbar region hurts after sleep, it is in this part of the back that the structure of the spine has changed. Spondylolisthesis is rarely caused by traumatic lesions of the spine, more often it is a congenital anomaly or the result of neoplasms affecting the vertebrae.

Spondylosis

Consequence of untreated lumbar osteochondrosis. Hard bone tissue grows around the spine, forming spikes that periodically touch the soft tissues. This is what causes back pain in the lumbar region after sleep. Spondylosis often accompanies other chronic diseases of the spine. This condition is typical for older people.

Herniated disc

It is characterized by rupture of the fibrous ring of the intervertebral disc and compression of the nerves. This causes back pain in the lumbar region after sleep, lasting all day. The spine in the lumbar region is most vulnerable to a pathological condition, since it bears the highest load.

Spondylarthrosis

This is a lesion of the intervertebral joints, which is often combined with osteochondrosis and spondylosis. The connections between the vertebrae are broken, resulting in pinched nerves and discs. Therefore, after sleep, back pain occurs in the lumbar region. Spondylarthrosis is often provoked by developing vertebral diseases, it occurs with beriberi.

Diseases and pathologies of internal organs

Many internal organs and vessels are adjacent to the lumbar region. Therefore, back pain in the lumbar region after sleep can appear in the absence of any problems with posture, as a result of damage to nearby organs. Pain can indicate the following diseases:

Pathologies of the pancreas

Girdle pain of a aching nature is characteristic of various problems with the pancreas. If your lower back hurts this way after sleeping, you should visit a doctor, as this is a common symptom of pancreatic pancreatitis.

Pyelonephritis

It is an acute inflammation of the kidneys. The kidneys are located close to the lower back, so back pain after sleep is localized in this area. The nature of the pain is dull aching. They may not stop all day.

Pelvioperitonitis

This gynecological disease is an inflammation of the uterus and ovaries, which makes itself felt primarily with pain in the lower abdomen. Sometimes after sleep with pelvioperitonitis, back pain occurs in the lumbar region. You also need to pay attention to the general condition: body temperature, the presence of nausea and vomiting. Additionally, other symptoms may accompany pelvioperitonitis – for example, amenorrhea (prolonged absence of menstruation).

Metastases and tumors

The back in the lumbar region can hurt after sleep due to neoplasms in the internal organs: pancreas, stomach, kidneys, etc. Quite often, this symptom manifests itself as urological diseases. This is a serious phenomenon that needs to be carefully investigated.

Kidney disease

Due to their proximity to the lumbar part of the back, the kidneys can make themselves felt with dull aching and intense pain in the lower back. Sometimes back pain after sleep appears during movements and blocks them, thereby limiting a person’s capabilities. The pain is usually localized in the lateral part of the lower back. Also, this symptom is accompanied by edema. Kidney disease requires accurate diagnosis.

Diseases of the heart and blood vessels

In rare cases, the back in the lumbar region hurts after sleep due to circulatory disorders and the work of the heart muscle. Night pains are characteristic, while their intensity is disproportionate to the severity of the problem. Therefore, people prone to cardiovascular disease should pay attention to this symptom.

How to relieve pain

Since the causes of lower back pain after sleep can be different, self-diagnosis and pain relief is strongly discouraged. Some external problems do not require the participation of a doctor, while serious internal disorders need proper treatment. Self-management of pain – an important symptom that will allow the doctor to determine the source of the problem – is not recommended until the examination by a specialist. How to relieve an attack of back pain in the lumbar region after sleep, only the attending physician will tell you.