Get the Sleep You Need With Chiropractic
By Rachel Carver
Do you stare at the ceiling after you've turned off the lights, willing yourself to fall asleep? Do you wake up in the middle of the night for no reason, or struggle to get up when the alarm goes off? If any of these situations sound familiar, you may be experiencing sleep deprivation.
Effects of Sleep Deprivation
We need sleep. It is just as important to our health as eating and drinking. Consistently not getting enough sleep -- at least 7-8 hours each night -- can cause a variety of negative effects, including:
- Loss of productivity
- Increased injury risk
- Difficulty focusing throughout the day
- Weight gain
According to a CDC study, nearly 40 percent of adults fell asleep during the day without meaning to at least once a month. An estimated 50-70 million Americans have sleep disorders.
A Possible Solution
If you want more sleep, don't despair. Some answers might be waiting for you at The Joint Chiropractic clinic in your neighborhood.
While chiropractors are best known for treating back and joint pain, chiropractic adjustments can also help with many other things, including the improvement of your sleep. Natural, safe, and drug-free adjustments can improve your sleep by:
- Reducing stress
- Improving blood flow
- Restoring injured joints to their proper position, decreasing pain and discomfort
- Increasing flexibility and range of motion
Creating the right sleep environment is also key to getting the rest you need. Here are some additional sleep tips from The Joint.
Beware Your Mattress
So you love your mattress. You've had it forever, but it is starting to sag. Maybe it has some lumps, or maybe it just does not support you the way it used to.
Your mattress needs to keep your body in a neutral position as you sleep. A sagging mattress can position your feet higher than your head, putting more pressure on your back and hips. Mattresses should be replaced every 5-7 years.
Research mattress options. Take the time to try multiple mattresses at the store to find one that works for you.
Sleep Correctly
Most of us fall asleep when we are comfortable. However, we need to try our best to keep our bodies in a neutral position as we sleep.
If you sleep on your side, place a pillow between your knees. Sleep with a pillow under your knees to keep your body lined up while sleeping on your back. Avoid sleeping on your stomach whenever possible.
If you're ready to get some rest, visit your local Joint Chiropractic clinic. The Joint team can help you get the sleep you need to accomplish your goals.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Alpharetta, Ga.