Waking up with neck pain is frustrating. You go to bed hoping for rest and end up starting your day with stiffness or soreness. If this is sounding familiar, you are definitely not alone. Neck pain after sleeping is a common issue, and the good news is that it is often fixable. If you have been waking up with neck pain, it may be time to find a solution before things get any worse. Finding the cause of why your neck is hurting will also help you to find a solution to your problem faster as well.
Your Sleeping Position
The way you sleep has a big impact on how your body feels when you wake up. Sleeping in positions that twist or strain your neck can cause soreness, even if it does not feel uncomfortable during the night. Sleeping on your stomach can be one of the biggest downfalls. It forces your head to turn to one side and keeps your neck in that position for hours. Over time, that can lead to tightness and pain. Side and back sleeping are generally better for your neck, especially if your pillow supports the natural curve of your spine. Trying to keep your neck in line with the rest of your body can help to reduce tension while you sleep.
Check Your Pillow
All pillows are different and can serve different purposes. A pillow that is too high, too flat, or too soft can lead to poor alignment throughout your body. If your head is tilted up or down during the night, your neck muscles may stay slightly stretched or compressed the whole time. That can lead to pain and stiffness in the morning. Everyone has different needs, so the best pillow for you depends on how you sleep and what feels supportive. If your pillow is a few years old and has lost its shape, it might be time to be looking for a replacement.
Stress and Tension
Sometimes neck pain is not just physical, it can also be emotional. Stress can cause us to clench our jaws, shrug our shoulders, or hold tension in our neck without realizing it. This can carry over into our sleep and leave our muscles sore in the morning. Things like gentle stretching, relaxation techniques, and reducing screen time before bed can all help ease that tension. When the tension in your body is eased, especially in your neck, you will find that it does not hurt as much, especially after sleeping.
When to Get Professional Help
If your neck pain does not get any better or it is starting to get worse, it is a good idea to talk with a Rexburg physical therapist or a healthcare provider. You might have an underlying issue that needs attention, like a pinched nerve or poor posture. A physical therapist can assess how you move, look at your posture, and help you improve your sleep setup. You do not have to wake up sore forever because there are real, simple solutions that can help you to feel better.
