Lack of sleep linked to chronic pain

As an Osteopath and Functional Medicine Practitioner, I am always looking for the underlying cause of peoples symptoms. Pain is the most common symptom I see and often the cause is diet related. Another little known cause is lack of sleep.

Recent research found that poor or insufficient sleep was the strongest predictor for widespread pain in adults over 50.

Poor sleep can impact virtually every aspect of your health, because your circadian rhythm (sleep-wake cycle) "drives" the rhythms of biological activity at the cellular level.

Lack of natural sunlight during the day, combined with too much artificial light in the evening, can cause you to get insufficient or poor sleep.

Keeping your bedroom too warm is another frequent mistake that can lead to tossing and turning.

Sleep apnea, which is closely linked to obesity, is a common problem that can prevent restorative sleep. Recent research shows even a modest weight reduction can halt the progression of obstructive sleep apnea.

Dominick Hussey
 
Osteopath and Functional Medicine Practitioner

Ottawa Holistic Wellness