Tips for a Better Sleep
Sleep is a crucial aspect of managing AS/AxSpa, yet many of us face sleep troubles due to pain and discomfort. Let's discuss how AS/AxSpa affects your sleep patterns and share tips and strategies that have helped you achieve a better night's rest. What works for you in managing pain-related sleep disturbances, and do you have any sleep hygiene practices or products that have made a difference? Share your experiences and insights on improving sleep quality, and let's help each other get the rest we need to thrive with AS/AxSpa.
I have an update. I've had a horrible year with the forest fires so my asthma was worse. I have developed pain in my neck that interferes with my sleep. Waiting to get into an MRI, but taking so long, I was referred to get a sleep study. Moderate sleep apnea, which I didn't expect. so I'm waiting to go back for a second time to calibrate the correct pressure. He showed me how a brain reacts when having sleep apnea. I am hoping this helps with some of my nighttime wakefulness. Fingers crossed.
Lisa
Sending thoughts of healing your way, Lisa. Smoke and forest fires are huge asthma triggers. I can relate. Thankfully I'm faring well in the SW currently. I hope the MRI happens quickly so you can find the cause of your neck pain and that treatment is implemented. I know this pain, just had another extended fusion surgery. Hoping it's not that bad for you. Many times PT exercises can ease it and strengthen up those upper body muscles. Sorry to hear about your sleep apnea diagnosis. But it's fantastic you are taking steps to improve your sleep and nighttime breathing. These have such a profound effect on a person. Do keep us in the loop. So very interested to hear how you've improved. With care - Rebecca (team member) 
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We appreciate the update.
Sleep apnea is no fun.
When you mentioned calibrating the correct pressure is that for a CPAP machine?
Here's hoping you'll find many restful nights of sleep ahead.
~Doreen (Team Member).
I am both a back and side sleeper. Per recommendation from my PT, I now sleep with a pillow for my legs: behind my knees when sleeping on my back and between my knees when sleeping on my side. Since I MUST use a relatively soft mattress to avoid pressure points, the pillow helps keep my back in a more neutral position. It not a panacea by any means, but it helps some. The only (very minor) negatives are having to change its position whenever I switch from back to side and having to re-set its location every morning when I get up and straighten my bedding.
I understand. I sleep like a fish out of water - on my side, to back, to side, to the other side. I am quite restless. I recently bought a better (foam) body pillow over the holidays. I love it. And, changing positions is a bit tricky as you mention. But, I am managing. Have you thought about a U-shaped pillow? One they use for pregnancy? I was seriously considering it. Then all I would need to do is turn over. Anything to help the pain and sleepless nights. Thanks for sharing. Sending wishes for holiday joy and peace. Rebecca (team member)
Listen to my meditation ,there's a pain section on the better sleep app
Oh I like this. I've experimented with meditation as well and find it extremely helpful. Thanks for sharing. Rebecca (team member)
My meds
