Can sleeping on your side cause shoulder pain?

Question

Always sleeping on my side, I've been waking up for the last few months with a persistent dull ache in my shoulder. I've tried changing mattresses, but it still hurts. Can sleeping on your side regularly lead to chronic shoulder pain?

Karan Shergill · Accepted Answer

Definitely can. If you keep your shoulder joint under constant load all night, it will get inflamed, especially if your rotator cuff is already tight from gym workouts. Try doing some active mobility work before bed and maybe switch up your pillow height to take the pressure off.

Rohan Deshmukh · Answer

Actually same here yaar. I used to wake up with frozen shoulder vibes every single morning. I changed my mattress to a slightly firmer one and started sleeping on my back, and the pain literally vanished in a week.

Sunita Sharma · Answer

Yes, sleeping on one side puts a lot of pressure on the neck and shoulder alignment. I suggest trying simple shoulder-opening stretches like Bhujangasana or gentle rotations before you sleep. Sleeping with a thin pillow tucked under your side can also help keep your spine straight.

Meena Iyer · Answer

You can try applying a little warm sesame oil on the shoulder before sleeping, it really helps soothe the joints. But please don't ignore it if the pain is severe or shooting down your arm. If it doesn't get better with a change of position, definitely go and see a doc.

Aditya Verma · Answer

Bro, I had this for months because of my cheap pillow. It was too flat so my neck was bent and all the weight was going on my left shoulder. Bought a decent memory foam pillow and the pain is completely gone now.

Can sleeping on your side cause shoulder pain?

5 answers

Consult a orthopedist

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