Pain can affect everyday tasks, making life challenging. While minor discomfort can be addressed by over-the-counter medication, chronic pain may require professional care. Physicians can determine the cause and severity, providing a more personalized approach. Among the many strategies to alleviate severe discomfort, sleep is often overlooked despite its influence on overall well-being. Let’s look at the role of sleep in chronic pain management to help you lead a more comfortable life.
Stimulating Healing and Tissue Repair
One important aspect of sleep in chronic pain management is its promotion of healing and tissue repair. Even though a good night’s rest might not seem like much, it allows the body to replenish worn tissues and heal. For those suffering from chronic pain, the deep stages of the REM cycle allow the body to release tissue repair and regeneration hormones. In addition, sleep regulates inflammation, reducing the severity of discomfort and restoring function.
Better Emotional Well-Being and Mood
Another important aspect of sleep in alleviating chronic pain is improving emotional well-being and mood. Research shows that persistent discomfort is linked to mental health conditions like anxiety and depression. Sleep is vital in regulating emotional resilience and mood, improving your overall health. However, inadequate sleep can exacerbate depression and anxiety, which is disastrous for one’s mental health. If you struggle with chronic pain, prioritizing sleep can improve your emotional stability and mood, allowing you to manage the physical and emotional challenges of pain better.
Enhanced Quality of Life
The cumulative role of sleep in chronic pain management is the improvement of your overall quality of life. Since a good night’s rest is associated with mental resilience and physical healing, those affected can engage in daily activities with ease. Despite the cause of your discomfort, sleep can help to restore control over your life.
How to Improve Sleep in Chronic Pain Patients
Physicians can determine the cause and severity of discomfort to provide a more personalized treatment. Although prescription medication can provide relief, sleep can supplement the treatment to improve your overall wellness. However, rest is not easy when you suffer from chronic pain. Some proven home remedies to help you rest include creating a sleeping schedule, following a consistent bedtime routine, and limiting electronics before going to bed.
If home remedies don’t work effectively for you, come see us at River Cities International Pain Specialists to address the underlying cause. Contact us today and schedule a consultation with our doctors to access exceptional chronic pain management in Shreveport so that you can enjoy life without pain.