Getting your proper ZZZs is so critical to your overall health. Sleep delivers all sorts of good health benefits, including lowered blood pressure, steadier blood sugar, strengthened immune system, and weight control. Sleep deprivation can lead to mood swings, problems with decision-making, and memory issues. If you’re having a hard time clocking in that magical eight hours of sleep per night, read about a seldom-known way to get better sleep.

What Happens to My Body While I Am Sleeping?

There is a whole lot going on in your body while you are nodded off. When you sleep, your body undergoes a series of changes that allow you to rest, which are vital to your overall health. Changes in the brain during sleep affect your entire body. Almost every part of the body undergoes noticeable changes during sleep; your heart rate and body temperature drop, your breathing rate drops slightly and becomes very regular, and kidney function slows down. The muscles gradually relax during each phase of slow wave sleep, and the total energy expenditure by the body is reduced.

After falling asleep, thousands of brain neurons transition from wakefulness to sleep, sending signals throughout the body. Important electrical and chemical processes take place in the brain and throughout the body during all stages of sleep

When you enter rapid-eye movement (REM) sleep, the eyes move rapidly behind closed eyelids, and brain waves are similar to those during wakefulness. REM sleep is typically entered approximately 90 minutes after initial slumber. Increased brain activity is why REM sleep is said to be the most relevant stage of vivid dreams. REM sleep is believed to provide key cognitive abilities, including memory consolidation, and is therefore considered to be particularly important for brain development. 

Although people dream during this phase, deep sleep is primarily a period when your body repairs muscle and tissue, stimulates growth, and strengthens immune function. Sleep allows the brain and body to slow down and participate in recovery processes, helping to improve physical and mental performance the next day and in the long term. 

How Can Chiropractic Care Support Better Sleep?

Over 50 million Americans report having a sleep disorder. Drowsy driving is responsible for 1,550 deaths and 40,000 vehicular injuries every year. In addition to the many health benefits associated with getting a good night’s rest, there are significant safety concerns that accompany poor sleeping habits. There are several ways in which chiropractors can assist their patients with obtaining better sleeping habits and patterns, and in so doing, improving their overall health.

Through the Treatment of Sleep Disorders

For patients with insomnia, chiropractic (including spinal correction) can be of great help in solving the underlying cause of insomnia. Chiropractic care can also help to correct spinal sleep apnea by treating symptoms with spine manipulation and alignment. Apnea can also be caused by severe subluxations that press on the trachea, obstructing the flow of air. A chiropractor can relieve the discomfort caused by restless sleep. 

Eliminate What’s Keeping You From Sleeping 

Regular chiropractic care has a host of benefits:

• Relief of muscle tension
• Relief of pain and discomfort
• Improved circulation and blood flow
• Increased relaxation

All of which are the perfect prelude to a great night’s sleep.

Assistance with Pain Management

Muscle pain, old injuries, and chronic pain can disrupt sleep, wake you up, or make it difficult to fall asleep. Discomfort while trying to fall asleep is a common cause of insomnia, and chiropractors can treat neck and back pain that can cause insomnia. Chronic pain, such as pain in the spine, neck, buttocks, and legs, may feel too uncomfortable to fall asleep. Studies have shown that if you sleep better, chronic pain may subside over time, so all the more reason to find a pain resolution.

By Providing Sleeping Advice

A chiropractor can also offer helpful solutions to improve sleep quality, such as a specific body position, type of ergonomic bed or pillow, complimentary relaxation techniques, or even strategies around establishing a healthy nighttime and bedtime routine.

Experience the Benefits of a Good Night’s Rest

Make an appointment with your chiropractor today to review any of your sleep concerns and experience the tremendous difference that a good night’s sleep can provide. Sweet dreams are within reach thanks to your chiropractor.

Schedule an appointment online or call 256-721-9696.

This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person advice or care from a medical professional.