There is a well-established connection between pain and sleep. Chronic back pain conditions like piriformis syndrome and sciatica can make it hard for you to sleep well at night. Therefore, “How to sleep with piriformis syndrome?” is a common question. Keep on reading, as we will cover everything that can help you sleep better with back pain.
What Is Piriformis Syndrome?
Piriformis syndrome happens when the sciatic nerve gets irritated. This happens due to the piriformis muscle, which is located behind the hip joint in the buttocks. It can cause pain, tingling, and numbness that runs down the back of the leg to the foot.
Ways to Sleep with Piriformis Syndrome
Every physical pain gets worse at night, and so does the pain from piriformis syndrome. Therefore, the following tips can help you sleep better:
Choose Back-Saving Sleep Positions
Your sleeping position can also affect lower back pain. The best and worst positions for neck or back pain are:
- Back sleeping: This is the best position for spine alignment and support unless you’re pregnant. Some people find it hard to sleep on their back, but using the right pillows can help.
- Side sleeping: This is the next best option to prevent back pain and joint soreness. It’s also good for people with sleep apnea or snoring because it keeps airways open. Pregnant women may find side sleeping best for back support. Keep your legs straight or only slightly bent, and tuck your chin for good spine alignment.
- Reclined position: If standing straight makes your pain worse and bending forward brings relief, try sleeping in a reclined position, either in a reclining chair, adjustable bed, or using a wedge pillow for comfort and support.
- Avoid Sleeping on Your Stomach: Sleeping on your stomach is the worst for spine health because it puts pressure on your joints and muscles, and you have to turn your head to one side, which strains your neck and spine.
Cutting-Edge Therapies to Sleep Better with Piriformis Syndrome
If learning how to sleep with piriformis syndrome hasn’t worked for you, consulting an orthopedic surgeon like Dr. Gombera at Fondren Orthopedic Group is a good next step. He is a board-certified surgeon who focuses on reliving painful symptoms through modern therapies. Following are some techniques they might use to reduce your pain:
- Spinal Manipulation: This technique gently moves your vertebrae into proper alignment to improve flexibility in your lower spine. Better flexibility can help reduce pain and improve your posture.
- Soft Tissue Mobilization: This method breaks up scar tissue and increases blood flow to the affected area, helping the muscles relax and reducing soreness and inflammation around the piriformis muscle.
- Dry Needling: This involves inserting small, sterile needles into trigger points to relax muscles, relieve pain, and reduce other symptoms of piriformis syndrome. It can also improve mobility and decrease inflammation.
Wrapping Up
Your battle against chronic conditions like piriformis syndrome can be tough. You might be interested in trying all the tips and tricks you can get to make your life easier. For example, learning “How to sleep with piriformis syndrome?” However, they might not always be helpful.
Visit our board-certified orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Gombera, at Mufaddal M. Gombera, MD. Our doctor avoids rushing to surgical procedures and opts for minimally invasive ones to cure your condition. Dial (713) 794-3457 to secure an appointment.
