What Causes Leg Pain at Night?
By Sara Butler
How many times have you laid your head down on your pillow, snuggled into your blanket, ready to drift off into dreamland when leg pain strikes? Nighttime leg pain can be a real, well, pain. And it can make getting quality sleep at night nearly impossible. The Chiropractors at The Joint know that leg pain at night is a reality for many people, but they also know all the reasons that leg pain may be affecting you. Here are some of the most common reasons for nighttime leg pain and how the chiropractors at The Joint can help.
Arthritis
It may not seem intuitive for arthritis joint pain to bother you while at rest, but the truth is that many people experience arthritis flare-ups due to inactivity and lack of movement. Arthritis pain, inflammation, and swelling can throw a wrench in your sleep plans for sure!
If you suffer from arthritis in the joints of your hips, ankles, and knees, performing everyday tasks can be a challenge. While there is no cure for arthritis, the chiropractors at The Joint can help you to retain the range of motion in your joints and give you tips for life at home that can help ease your discomfort. If leg pain from arthritis is robbing you of sleep, then you may want to consider ice packs or heating pads to help -- and talk to your chiropractor about it!
Sciatica
Your sciatic nerve runs from your lower back, through your buttocks, and down both legs. If there’s a problem with the nerve at any point, it can cause pain in your legs that make resting comfortably at night a dream. The pain can range from a cramping feeling to a sharp, shooting pain. If you’re experiencing this type of pain at night, make sure to bring it to the attention of your chiropractor. Chances are there is a problem that needs to be identified and treated somewhere along the nerve’s pathway.
Muscle Cramps
Most people associate muscle cramps with exercise, but they can occur when at rest, too. At night, it’s not uncommon for the muscle in your calf to tighten and involuntarily seize, bringing with it a sharp pain that is not conducive to a good night’s rest.
As you get older, you're more prone to muscle cramps, especially if you live in a hot climate. Let your chiropractor know if you get leg cramps at night but also make sure to drink enough water throughout the day.
Leg pain is no fun -- especially when you're sleeping. Discuss it with your chiropractor and make a plan to find relief today!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Aurora, Colo.