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The Benefit's of a Good Night's Sleep
With so many demands on our time, often sleep is sacrificed to get everything on our to-do list completed. In addition, people with chronic pain, fibromyalgia or headaches frequently have sleep difficulties associated with their condition. However, research now shows how important sleep is to our general health and functioning.
Effects of poor sleep:
Impaired higher levels of reasoning, problem-solving and attention to detail, and reduced productivity
Mood changes which affect the way we interact with others
Greater risk for obesity, heart disease, infections and depression
Effects of good sleep:
During sleep, all aspects of the body are being affected positively: growth and stress hormones, immune system, appetite, overall cardiovascular health, energy balance, intellectual function, alertness and mood
Sleep helps you think more clearly, have quicker reflexes and improve focus
How to Improve Quality of Sleep:
1. Go to bed at the same time every night, and wake up at the same time each morning
2. Avoid napping during the day
3. Sleep in a dark, quiet, comfortable environment
4. Exercise daily (but not within 2 hours of bedtime)
5. Limit use of electronics before bed; do not watch TV in bed
6. Relax before bedtime
7. Do not eat large meals or snacks before bedtime
8. Avoid alcohol and stimulants such as caffeine late in the day
9. Avoid nicotine
10. Consult a health care professional if you have ongoing sleep problems
Resources:
http://newsinhealth.nih.gov/issue/apr2013/feature1
http://www.sleepfoundation.org/article/ask-the-expert/sleep-hygiene
http://www.cdc.gov/sleep/about_sleep/sleep_hygiene.htm
Pain Center Video Series
The following is part 2 of a 12-part video series in which Dr. Eddie O'Connor explains what to expect during your treatment at the Mary Free Bed Pain Center. Our team is here to teach you how to interact with and overcome your pain so that you can get back to the life you want to live. We will be sharing a video from this series each month in our newsletter.
Part 2:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uggatbd9odk
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More than the programs ...
At The Pain Center, all of our doctor's and therapists see patients outside of the programs. If you have a new injury, significant stressor, severe pain flare-up or need to adjust your home exercise program - come back to the team that you trust. We're happy to help.
Have a question about a flare up?
You are still a part of The Pain Center family. If you ever have a question, please give us a call at 616.233.3480 and we'd be happy to answer it.
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