Source: MedicalNewsToday.com by: Charlotte Lillis
The sacroiliac joints connect the base of the spine to the pelvis. Damage to these joints or surrounding structures can cause SJP, which is typically in the lower back and buttocks and may travel down the back of the thigh to the knee.
SJP may worsen at night, particularly if a person lies on the side of the affected joint or moves suddenly in bed. Adopting certain sleeping positions and other nighttime habits may help to ease the pain.
This article explains how sleeping position affects SJP and why the condition worsens at night, offers tips for relieving nighttime SJP, and advises on when to speak with a doctor.
People with sacroiliac joint injury are often unable to sleep on the side of the affected joint due to pain.
The Weill Cornell Medicine Center for Comprehensive Spine Care suggests people with SJP in one joint should avoid sleeping on the side of the affected joint.
Instead, it recommends sleeping with the affected side facing up or lying on the back.
It offers the additional following tips to help reduce nighttime SJP:
- Avoid sudden movements: Getting up or turning too quickly can compress the joint space, causing more pain.
- Use pillows as supports: Place a pillow under the knees when sleeping on the back or between the legs when sleeping on the side. This can help to relieve pressure on the joints.
- Sleep on a supportive mattress: A mattress with adequate support that is not too firm or soft may benefit people with SJP. A mattress that is too soft may not offer adequate joint support.
Why is sacroiliac joint pain worse at night?
Sacroiliitis is the medical term for inflammation of the sacroiliac joints. A 2018 review notes that sacroiliitis typically occurs at night and may cause stiffness upon wakening.
UK-based arthritis charity, Creaky Joints suggests SJP can worsen with inactivity and during certain movements, such as turning in bed. These are two key reasons the condition may worsen at night.
According to Creaky Joints, SJP that keeps a person awake at night may indicate a form of spinal arthritis known as ankylosing spondylitis (AS). Pain due to AS may:
- worsen in the morning and at night
- wake a person regularly throughout the night
- feel better with movement and worsen with rest
- last more than 3 months
Other tips for relieving sacroiliac joint pain at night
Changing sleeping position may help to relieve SJP at night, but there are other steps a person can take if this is not enough to manage symptoms.
A 2019 article lists the following three main nonpharmacological treatment options for SJP. The effects of these treatments may be more noticeable at night when SJP is more likely to flare.
Transversus abdominis muscle exercise
The United Kingdom’s National Health Service (NHS) provides the following step-by-step instructions for exercising the transversus abdominis muscles:
- Lie on the back with both knees bent.
- Gently draw the lower abdominal muscles toward the spine while maintaining a relaxed breathing pattern.
- Hold the contraction for 10–30 seconds, then release.
- Repeat the exercise 10 times.
Chiropractic manipulation
A 2020 study found that high-velocity, low-amplitude chiropractic manipulation may be beneficial for chronic pain in people with sacroiliac joint dysfunction.
In this type of manipulation, a chiropractor uses their hands to deliver a short, quick thrust over the affected joint to help restore its range of motion.
Kinesiology taping
Kinesiology taping involves applying a thin, stretchy tape to help with the following without restricting movement:
- stabilizing the joints
- promoting blood flow
- reducing pain
Kinesiology tape is latex-free, waterproof, and breathable. A person can wear it for up to 3 days at a time, meaning they can wear it through the night to help alleviate nighttime SJP.
A person can ask a doctor or physiotherapist for advice on applying kinesiology tape to support the sacroiliac joints.
Summary
The sacroiliac joints connect the base of the spine to the pelvis. Sacroiliac joint pain (SJP) typically presents in the lower back and buttocks. Some people may experience pain that travels down the back of the thigh to the knee and foot.
Sleeping on the back with a pillow beneath the legs can help to relieve SJP. For side sleepers with SJP affecting one side, sleeping on the unaffected side with a pillow between the legs is another option that can help support spine and hip alignment.
Other treatment options include transversus abdominis muscle exercises, chiropractic manipulation, and kinesiology taping. Anyone with symptoms of SJP should see their doctor for additional treatment and a proper diagnosis.
Recent Comments