June 10, 2014

Get your ZZZ’s!

A full night's rest is critical to good health. Chiropractic’s objective is health for our Vancouver clients, specifically those suffering with back pain and neck pain. New research reports that a night of restless sleep might maintain back pain’s intensity high. That’s not good news for our Vancouver back pain patients! Getting a good night’s rest with lots of ZZZ’s may be tricky for some, but Vancouver Disc Centers has a few tips that just may help lull you to sleep.

First, know that sleep is good. It’s not a waste of time! Vancouver Disc Centers knows a few of our patients who have too much to do and want to do it all, and sleep seems an inconvenience. (You know who you are!) We’re not going to tell you to change who you are. Vancouver Disc Centers just wants you to see that good sleep is beneficial. (1) Here are just a few benefits: 

  • Lowers inflammation
  • Keeps depression at bay
  • Improves creativity
  • Promotes weight loss
  • Enhances memory

And new research now points out that sleep quality and pain intensity for acute low back pain patients is strongly tied together. Poor sleep leads to higher pain intensity. (2)  Can you see why Vancouver Disc Centers wants to help you get a better night’s sleep. Your Vancouver back pain relief treatment plan may be hindered if you don’t get some good sleep!

So how can you get some good sleep regardless of your bustling Vancouver lifestyle? Keep the lights low in the bedroom. Eat early and light. Sip your wine early and slowly. (Alcohol decreases deep sleep.) Eat sleep-inducing foods like carbs and protein containing tryptophan, an amino acid that converts to sleep-promoting serotonin. Take your hot bath earlier (not right before bed because your body then wants to cool down which takes energy and isn’t sleep inducing). Do some yoga stretching and breathing. (3) Vancouver Disc Centers knows you can implement a few of these sleeping tips into your routine!

So if back pain is keeping you awake at night and even pestering you during the day, contact Vancouver Disc Centers today. Your Vancouver chiropractic back pain relief plan may set you on the course to better sleep and control of your back pain which includes getting your ZZZ’s!