80% of Arthritis Sufferers Report Trouble Sleeping Due to Persistent Joint Pain

Restful, good quality sleep is the bedrock of all round wellbeing, fundamental to every aspect of our physical and mental health. However, for the 17 million people in the UK affected by a musculoskeletal condition, a peaceful night’s sleep may seem like a pipe dream.

Whilst chronic joint conditions such as arthritis are commonly associated with poor mobility, symptoms also include chronic joint pain, inflammation, stiffness, and fatigue, which can have a debilitating impact during both the day and night. As a result, studies suggest that as many as 80% of people with arthritis report trouble sleeping.

GP and Health Economist with an interest in rheumatology and arthritis, Dr Alastair Dickson, explains: “Arthritic pain can make it difficult to sleep at night, and poor sleep can exacerbate joint pain, resulting in a vicious cycle. The cause of why poor sleep aggravates our joint pain is not fully understood. There are multiple competing theories about why poor sleep intensifies joint pain, including the theory that poor sleep can exacerbate joint inflammation. Our perception of pain can also be more pronounced at night, contributing to increased distress and sleepless nights.”

In addition to increased pain overnight, joint stiffness upon waking is a common early symptom of arthritis, further impeding your ability to jump start the following morning. Fortunately, simple lifestyle changes can help to relieve symptoms and increase the likelihood of a deep and restorative night’s sleep, helping to get your day back on track.

According to Dr Alastair Dickson: “What we do know is that keeping active during the day, such as taking part in exercise, is beneficial as it can help improve your sleep cycle. Exercise also helps to improve muscle strength which in turn supports your joints and reduces pain. Even a gentle outdoor walk, swimming, yoga, or pilates can make a big difference. A relaxing bedtime routine may help prepare your body and mind for restful sleep, including relaxation techniques and avoiding electronic devices, alcohol, and caffeine late in the day.”

“There is clinical evidence that rose-hip supplements may be effective with joint pain with a summary analysis of three clinical trials showing that a rose-hip supplement containing a high level of a galactolipid called GOPO® is clinically effective in relieving pain. Laboratory-based studies of the same rose-hip GOPO® compounds indicate that they may have anti-inflammatory properties and potential benefits to cartilage, but clinical trials are required to confirm whether these laboratory findings are able to be translated into patients. Separately there is also some evidence that ginger can help relieve mild osteoarthritic pain.”

GOPO® Joint Health Plus Ginger is the first UK supplement to contain the unique combination of ginger extracts with the powerful anti-inflammatory GOPO® – a galactolipid extracted from the seeds and husks of the Rosa-canina plant. Research has shown that both compounds, GOPO and ginger, are able to relieve joint pain as well as improve joint flexibility, helping to keep your nights restful and days active.

Dr Alastair Dickson comments: “Rose-hip and ginger supplements are not available on the NHS but can be bought over the counter. Regular exercise (even small amounts), access to direct sunlight and a good sleep routine will all help with your muscle and joint pain, sleep, and also improve the effectiveness of what you use for your pain control. Importantly if your joint pain at night is persisting over several weeks, is affecting your quality of life, or your mood, it may be worth speaking to your doctor.”

GOPO® Joint Health Plus Ginger is available to purchase from Amazon, pharmacies nationwide and directly from www.gopo.co.uk

About Lisa Baker, Editor, Wellbeing News 4212 Articles
Editor Lisa Baker is passionate about the benefits of a holistic approach to healing. Lisa is a qualified Vibrational Therapist and has qualifications in Auricular Therapy, Massage, Kinesiology, Crystal Healing, Seichem and is a Reiki Master.