Whether you work the night shift or day, a good night's sleep is essential for overall health and well-being. Yet, many of us struggle with sleep disturbances that can significantly impact our daily lives. If you feel that way, you are not alone! According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 1 in 3 adults in the United States reported not getting enough sleep on a daily basis. There is even a long term effect on a body that is not getting enough rest. Experimental studies have also shown an increase in inflammatory and pro-inflammatory markers, which are indicators of body stress, under sleep deprivation.
If you find yourself tossing and turning at night, unable to get the restorative sleep your body needs, chiropractic care might be the solution you've been looking for. In fact, many of our patients tell us this all the time. These are my top four reasons why chiropractic may help you get more restful sleep.
- Stress Management:
The effects of stress on the nervous system have been investigated for over 50 years (Thierry et al., 1968). Many studies have shown that stress has various effects on the human nervous system and can cause changes in different parts of the brain (Lupien et al., 2009). It is normal to feel stressed at times, but when it is persistent, stress can cause the nervous system to maintain a heightened state of arousal. People experiencing chronic stress may experience a decrease in the amount of time spent in deep sleep, and disruptions during REM sleep. The chiropractic adjustment aims to remove interference to spinal and nervous system function, which leads to a body more adaptable to stress.
- Pain Relief:
Pain of any form can make falling and staying asleep a real "pain in the neck". Pain often leads to restless nights and sleep interruptions. Chiropractic adjustments have been shown to alleviate pain by correcting musculoskeletal imbalances. By relieving pain, chiropractic care allows your body to relax fully, and allow for a more restful sleep.
- Improved Sleep Quality:
Chiropractic care not only helps you fall asleep but also enhances the quality of your sleep. When your spine is properly aligned, it ensures that your body maintains its natural curves, which can improve sleep posture and prevent disturbances during the night. Better sleep posture leads to reduced pressure on nerves and muscles and optimal body function which we call homeostasis. This results in a deeper, more rejuvenating sleep.
- Hormonal Balance:
Adequate sleep is essential for hormonal regulation, impacting everything from mood to metabolism. Research has shown that chiropractic adjustments positively affect hormone levels, including those related to sleep-wake cycles. By promoting hormonal balance, chiropractic care can help regulate sleep patterns, making it easier to maintain a consistent sleep schedule.
In conclusion, when it comes to achieving restful sleep, chiropractic care offers a holistic and effective approach. By targeting the underlying causes of sleep disturbances, such as stress, pain, and nervous system imbalances, chiropractic adjustments can significantly improve sleep quality and overall well-being. If you're tired of counting sheep and seeking a drug-free solution to your sleep issues, consider consulting a chiropractor and experience the benefits of better sleep for yourself. Sleep better, live better with chiropractic care!
References:
Thierry A-M, Javoy F, Glowinski J, Kety SS. Effects of stress on the metabolism of norepinephrine, dopamine and serotonin in the central nervous system of the rat. I. Modifications of norepinephrine turnover. J Pharmacol Exp Ther. 1968;163:163–171.
Lupien SJ, McEwen BS, Gunnar MR, Heim C. Effects of stress throughout the lifespan on the brain, behaviour and cognition. Nat Rev Neurosci. 2009;10:434–445.
