Waking Up With A Stiff Lower Back In The Morning And Why It Happens

According to the NHS, lower back pain affects 1 in 10 of us at some point in our lives. The good news is that it could be something as simple as your sleeping position or even your mattress that’s causing the problem.So, before you cart yourself off to the doctors, be sure to consider one of the below reasons for waking up with a stiff lower back in the morning.

1. The sleeping position

We humans are creatures of habit, meaning most of us fall asleep in the same position every night. Mixing things up could help you work out if your sleeping position is causing the problem.

Those that sleep on their stomachs are most at risk from lower back pain as this position pulls the spine out of alignment and puts extra pressure on your joints. Side sleepers are also at risk of this, too.

Sleeping on your back has the most benefits with your head, neck and spine all being fully supported by your mattress and therefore reducing any pain the following day.

Whilst it’s important to get comfortable in a sleeping position you like, it’s also important to listen to what your body is telling you.

2. The pillow

Believe us when we say… your pillow is just as important as your mattress when it comes to getting comfy in bed.

Finding the right pillow for you can depend on the position you sleep in, so be sure to try a few out before making your final decision.

Back sleepers can often feel unsupported around the neck so a firm pillow is our recommended choice here.

On the other end of the scale, stomach sleepers are recommended to use soft, flat pillows to ensure the spine isn’t positioned in an unnatural curve as you sleep.

Most of us choose to sleep on our side at night resulting in the head resting much higher than the spine and body. For this reason, a firm, high pillow – or maybe two – is a great choice for getting that extra support you need.

3. The mattress

It’s always worth reviewing your mattress if you suffer from back pain in the morning. It might not solve the problem, but ensuring you’re comfortable in bed will certainly help.

For many with back problems, choosing between a firm or soft mattress can be a tricky decision. So, how do you know which one is right for you?

If you’re waking up feeling stiff and sore then it’s more than likely due to a mattress that’s too soft. Without efficient support, your mattress is allowing the spine to fall out of alignment causing your muscles to work overtime rather than relax.

For those that experience joint pain in the morning, your mattress could be too firm. A mattress that contours to your body – such as memory foam – is a great way to ensure you’re getting the support you need without restricting any natural alignments in the spine.

If in doubt, it’s always best to speak to a medical professional for advice on what will work best for you.

4. The adjustable bed

For the most part, adjustable beds are often associated with hospitals and the elderly, but in reality, they could benefit anyone who suffers from a stiff lower back.

With the ability to raise your feet and head, you can improve blood circulation with an adjustable bed and subsequently reduce any joint pain the next day.

With less pressure on your head, neck and spine, adjustable beds help promote a healthy spine alignment, too, with a sleeping position that suits you. The best bit is that you and your partner can have completely different setups to ensure both your needs are catered for in one.

It may feel like a drastic decision to opt for an adjustable bed, but if an aching back is ruining your morning it might just be the perfect solution!

By paying a little extra attention to how you’re sleeping, you could unlock the causes behind your pain, putting you in a better position to do something about it. The solution may be simpler than you think...