At Homewood Chiropractic Clinic in Fareham our experienced team of chiropractors take a holistic approach when looking after our patients. Instead of focusing on a single symptom, we look at the whole picture, including the patient’s physical condition, lifestyle and mental wellbeing. This approach helps us treat each patient as effectively as possible.
One of the most important factors we consider is sleep. That’s because the quality of your sleep can affect the health of your spine in several ways. In this post, our Fareham chiropractor explains why sleep matters and shares several simple tips to help you get a great night’s sleep.
Why Is Good Sleep Important For Back Health?
Sleep helps spinal discs regenerate
The vertebrae in the spine are separated by spinal discs. They are fluid-filled rubbery discs which act as shock absorbers, preventing the bones from rubbing against one another. They also provide additional structure to the spine and protect spinal nerves.
As you move about during the day, the spinal discs will compress repeatedly. They can lose a small amount of fluid as they do so. This is the reason why you become shorter over the course of the day.
When you lay down to sleep, pressure is taken off the spinal discs, which allows the discs to expand again. The body will use this time to rehydrate the discs, supply additional nutrients to the discs and remove waste.
Failing to get enough sleep can lead to your spinal discs becoming dehydrated, flat and malnourished — which increases the risk of injury and back pain.
Sleep reduces stress levels
Getting a good night’s sleep can reduce the level of cortisol in your body, which is a hormone responsible for triggering the stress response. As you reduce your levels of cortisol, the symptoms of stress will ease, including muscle tension. This can relieve back pain associated with tight muscles.
More time for repair
The body uses the time you spend sleeping to repair muscles and connective tissue. This can help you heal more efficiently from an injury. Sleep also reduces the amount of inflammation in the body, which is particularly helpful for reducing lower back pain.
Our Fareham Chiropractor Shares 7 Tips For Getting A Better Night’s Sleep
Now that you know some of the benefits of quality sleep, here are a few tips for sleeping well:
- Get plenty of exercise
Exercising for at least 30 minutes 4 to 5 times a week will help you get to sleep faster and enjoy a deeper sleep. - Avoid stimulants before bed
Avoid sugar-rich foods or caffeine within 6 hours of going to bed, as these foods will have a stimulatory effect. - Sleep at the same time each night
You will find it easier to go to sleep if you keep a regular bed time. - Create a bedroom environment that is makes sleep easier
Make your bedroom a calm, clean and comfortable space. Remove anything that makes excessive noise or emits lights at all hours. Do your best to keep the bedroom a comfortable temperature and use blinds to block light from outside. Investing in high quality bedding can also help. - Expose yourself to bright light
Being exposed to bright light during the day will regulate your body’s circadian rhythm, making it easier to go to sleep and stay asleep. Speaking of light, do your best to avoid exposure to blue light at night, as this can trick your body into thinking it is daytime. - Take a melatonin supplement
Melatonin is a natural substance which helps you get to sleep. - Visit a chiropractor
A trip to a good chiropractor can help you resolve issues which are causing pain and preventing you from sleep.
Visiting Homewood Chiropractic Clinic in Fareham
Our experienced team of Fareham chiropractors are here to help you. To book an appointment with one of our team, simply call 01329 280 283 or you can Book Online on our website here.
Our Experience Counts: 55 Years in Fareham
Serving the people of Fareham, and surrounding areas of Southampton, Portsmouth, Hampshire and the local areas of Whiteley, Hedge End, Locks Heath & Portchester
