Why does my back hurt when I wake up?

Why does my back hurt when I wake up? 

Back pain first thing in the morning is very common, and in most cases is nothing to worry about.

What causes it?

Often it isn’t a result of one single thing you’ve done. Instead it may be because of stiffness, how your back has been loaded during the day daily, your sleep position, how much you move at night or even your mattress. In most cases it is a combination of these factors.

What can you try at home?

 If you wake up with back pain you can try gently moving before getting out of bed. Hug your knees to your chest or gently rock bent knees side to side.

Roll onto your side before sitting up too, this makes it slightly easier to push yourself up with your arms.

Take a short walk or try a warm shower to get things moving.

You could also try experimenting with different sleeping positions, If you sleep on your side, try placing a pillow between your knees. If you sleep on your back, a pillow under your knees may feel more comfortable.

When to seek help?

When back pain is accompanied by certain other symptoms, it is important to seek medical advice promptly. These include loss of bowel or bladder control, numbness between your legs and around your buttocks, significant leg weakness, fever or unexplained weight loss. If you experience any of these symptoms call NHS 111 or your GP and request urgent assessment.

You should also consider seeking help if you have been waking with back pain for several weeks and it isn't improving, if the pain continues throughout the day and is affecting your daily life, or if it keeps returning.

How can an osteopath help?

At Move Better Osteopathy, you will receive a full assessment to understand the likely contributing factors. Advice will be tailored to your specific situation and needs. You will get hands on treatment along with exercises and strategies to help your move more comfortably and reduce the chance or pain returning.  

And remember…

 Most morning back pain settles with the right combination of movement, advice and simple lifestyle changes. If you're unsure why you're waking with back pain, or it isn't improving, Move Better Osteopathy in Witney is here to help.

If you need some personalised advice, you can book an appointment through the button below.

If you’re not sure osteopathy can help you, you can book a free 15minute telephone call, also by clicking the button below.