Hello, I'm Dr. Anadu, a medical doctor with AlynMD. Orthopedic complaints like neck pain are really a problem and often make sleeping very difficult. Good orthopedic mattresses that are firm help maintain the neck in its usual shape. Contour pillows that preserve the neck shape during sleep are great, but I'd recommend getting a very soft pillow that's easily foldable according to how you feel at the moment. Arthrotec, which contains Diclofenac and Misoprostol, is great for neck pains, and I prescribe this usually except in people with peptic ulcer diseases; it helps a lot with reducing inflammation and pain. Cocodamol (codeine/paracetamol) is another good option, low doses at 8/500mg. I usually recommend a muscle relaxant like SIRDALUD (tizanidine) alongside the pain killers to relax the neck muscles a bit, but it can make one drowsy, so I'd recommend at night only. Neck pain can be a result of something very minor, like post-sleep posture or muscle strains, to very serious conditions like disc herniation or cervical spondylosis. You should seek professional help if the pain lasts more than 2 weeks or is severely limiting daily activities. Also, when you get symptoms like shocking sensations in the hands and numbness, it could mean nerve damage, and you must seek treatment from an orthopedic surgeon. Good sleep postures can save you from a lot of neck issues. Be sure to use a comfortable pillow that keeps your neck neutral; avoid high or flat ones. Exercises generally can help, but more specifically, breathing exercises and yoga techniques like supported shoulder stand (under guidance) can also help. I'd be glad to talk more about neck pain if you find this interesting.
Neuroscientist | Scientific Consultant in Physics & Theoretical Biology | Author & Co-founder at VMeDx
Answered 7 months ago
Good Day, 1. Pick the Right Pillow and Mattress The goal is simple: Keep your head and neck in alignment with your spine. Go for a medium firm mattress which is supportive but not too stiff. As for pillows use memory foam or one which is contoured to the neck especially if you are a side or back sleeper. If your pillow is too flat or too plump it may not be the best choice. 2. Ease the Pain Before Bed. Try out a pillow under your knees. For side sleepers put one between your knees. This is to help keep your spine in alignment. 3. Also know when it's time to get help. If your neck pain has been present for over a week, is getting worse, or is accompanied by tingling, numbness or weakness don't ignore it. See a physical therapist, chiropractor, or orthopedic specialist. They will determine the cause of your pain and help you to avoid making it better. 4. Build Better Daily Habits. o Fix up your posture which is key when you're on your phone or at your desk. o Go to bed at the same time each night. Replace your pillow every 18 to 24 months (it truly does make a difference). o Use a rolled up towel under your neck for extra support. o Practice relaxation of the muscles in your neck -- try deep breathing. If you decide to use this quote, I'd love to stay connected! Feel free to reach me at gregorygasic@vmedx.com and outreach@vmedx.com
1. Both the pillow and the mattress are essential to relieve neck pain. You need a firm mattress that helps align the spine and a pillow that is firm and not too high. If the pain is when the person sleeps on the back, it is recommended to use a cylindrical pillow where the neck can rest in a comfortable position. 2. Sleeping position is important to relieve pain, sleeping on the back or side are the best positions for people suffering from neck pain. Also, if the person sleeps on his or her side, I recommend adding a pillow between the knees to maintain spinal alignment. 3. Some of the signs that your pain may be more severe than you thought are: persistent and progressive pain, numbness in the arms, and weakness in the arms and/or hands. I recommend the person seek out a cervical spine orthopedic surgeon if possible, also a pain management physician and a chiropractor are professionals who can help with this issue and diagnose if there is something else beyond this that is causing the pain. 4. Improving posture during the day makes a big difference in neck pain at night. If people work at a desk all day, they may consider taking walking breaks. Neck stretches during the day could also make a difference. Keep in mind that sometimes neck pain is triggered by stress, so breathing exercises, practicing yoga and meditation are a good way to relax.
Good sleep begins with good alignment. Your pillow should support your neck in a neutral position, not tilted up or down. Adjustable memory foam pillows that mold to your neck and shoulders tend to be good choices. For a mattress, stay away from anything too soft; support is more important than comfort. Neck pain may also be a result of stress. Tension accumulated throughout the day tends to accumulate in the shoulders and neck. Slow breathing, gentle stretching, or short mindfulness prior to sleep can help the body release that tension and enable improved sleeping. Technology can be of assistance, too. Sleep position apps, activity tracking, and relaxation aids provide easy methods for optimizing your nighttime routine. They allow for more ease when prioritizing both your mental and physical well-being simultaneously. If pain in the neck lasts longer than a few weeks, get professional assistance. A body alignment professional can address body alignment through movement, and a licensed therapist can address stress or trauma that may be causing pain. Attention to both areas typically leads to deeper, more profound relief.