Have you ever woken up in the morning with unexpected lower back pain? Back pain is common, particularly in the mornings because you go from lying down to standing. People usually describe this type of pain as feeling tight or stiff. Fortunately, once you’re up and moving, the blood flow gets going and the symptoms usually subside.

Morning back pain is usually sporadic, happening on some days and not others. However, you might experience this pain regularly while your friend only gets it once in a while. If you’re waking up with lower back pain after getting a restful sleep, there are some things you can do to keep yourself going.

Know the Causes of Morning Back Pain

The difference between morning back pain and other types of back pain is that pain in the mornings typically subsides during the day as you move around. Other types of back pain will not. By determining why you’re having this pain, you can fix the problem and decrease your symptoms.

The most common causes of morning back pain are:

• Poor sleeping posture
• Old or low quality mattress
• Pregnancy
• Degenerative disc disease
• Fibromyalgia

Start Your Day with Stretching and Movement

To start your morning off right, ease into your routine. Begin with some light stretching as you get out of bed. This will boost circulation and loosen your muscles and joints. You can rock from side to side, reach your arms above your head or do some yoga exercises. Morning back pain also responds well to breathing exercises, particularly during flare-ups.

Try Over-the-Counter Medications or Remedies

There are some OTC medications and remedies that you can try. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen reduce pain and inflammation. However, you don’t want to take these medications long term.

Other things you may want to try include a TENS machine (also sold over the counter) and topical creams like peppermint oil or turmeric oil. These remedies work best when they are combined with exercise, proper posture and weight management.

Stay Active Throughout Your Day

It’s not just the mornings when you need to be active. It’s important to keep active throughout the day as well. Walking is one of the best exercises, especially if you have low back pain. Aim for at least 10,000 steps a day. If you have a desk job, get up and walk every 30 minutes and practice good posture while sitting.

Schedule an Appointment with a Back Pain Doctor

If all else fails to manage your morning back pain, contact a back pain specialist. Jersey Rehab is a pain management center that specializes in back pain management. We can determine why you’re experiencing pain and the best ways to manage your symptoms. We also have a wide range of alternative treatment options such as steroid back injections, PRP therapy and stem cell therapy.

To speak with a back pain doctor, contact Jersey Rehab at one of our three locations. We look forward to helping you start your day in the best way possible – pain free!