When Tendinitis Makes Sleeping Impossible
Tendinitis (or tendonitis) refers to a condition characterized by inflammation or irritation of a tendon, a cord-like structure that attaches a muscle to a bone. The disorder usually affects different parts of the body: the shoulder, elbow, wrist, hip, knee, and ankle. Tendinitis is often caused by repetitive use of the tendon or it can be caused by a sudden and intense injury.
The condition can recur or it can also be a long-term, or chronic, case. Although tendinitis can be treated early if it is diagnosed early, there are instances when it becomes aggravated and makes sleeping a nearly impossible activity. Depending on the location of the injured tendon, sleeping with a tendinitis can either be tolerable or it can be difficult.
How to sleep with tendinitis in the arm
For tendinitis on one elbow, the affected arm must be rested on a big pillow to avoid the patient from sleeping on it. A patient with tendinitis in both arms will be advised to sleep on his back as much as possible with the hands positioned on the pelvis and the elbow supported with a soft pillow. Placing the arms on the chest or stomach should be avoided since this position can pull on the tendons all night.
Having a large, downy pillow can be placed to help position the arms in a sleeping posture that will minimize aggravating the injury. If the patient finds it difficult to sleep on his back, it is possible that the back is not adequately stretched or the mattress is not of good quality. The one position to avoid is sleeping on the stomach as this is unpleasant for the injured arm as well as the back and posture.
Easing tendinitis pain
There are various methods to ease the pain caused by tendinitis in the arm. The first is by applying an ice pack on the sore area. A plastic bag filled with ice cubes wrapped in a thin towel must be placed on the painful spot. This must be done several times a day. Ice aids in minimizing swelling and easing tendinitis pain. Ice must not be directly applied on the skin because this can lead to skin damage.
Another effective way to alleviate pain is by massaging the affected area with a pain relief cream like MAXX Relief All Natural Pain Relief Cream. Pain creams typically contain natural ingredients that help get rid of the pain and provide long hours of relief. For several times a day, the pain cream must be massaged on the affected area until it is completely absorbed.
In the event that the patient wishes to take medications to aid in relieving pain, there are over-the-counter medicines that can help. Ibuprofen, which is usually recommended for reducing inflammation and for easing the soreness, may help with mild pain. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can also be used. For stronger medications, medical advice must first be sought.
Tendinitis can cause utter discomfort and sleeping problems. Thus, it is crucial that the right approach is conducted and followed. This is to make sure that the sufferer gets better rest and he is able to cope with the pain brought on by the disorder.