Dr Tom Naylor, an Orthopaedic Surgeon, has discussed back pain and how it can affect your sleep – with the expert sharing some tips on how to get a better night’s rest
A top doctor has issued a warning to the public about consuming a common drink after 3pm – as it could not only disrupt your sleep but also exacerbate back pain.
Dr Tom Naylor, an orthopaedic surgeon, shared his insights on BBC Morning Live, revealing that a staggering eight out of 10 adults will experience back pain at some point in their lives. This condition not only affects our daily activities but can also interfere with our sleep, creating a “vicious cycle”.
He explained that poor sleep can make us more aware of the pain, leading to around “120 million days of work are lost” due to back pain. While there are medical causes such as pulled or strained muscles, bulging discs, or irritated nerves, he noted that for about 95 per cent of severe back pain cases, there’s no identifiable cause, which adds to the frustration.
Discussing the importance of sleep, the doctor highlighted: “We all know that we’re aiming for seven and a half to eight hours of sleep. If we have less than six hours of sleep then that’s going to affect things and is going to make you feel worse and you’re going to feel more pain.
“But quality is really important too, so ask yourself in the daytime do you feel refreshed in the morning? Do you ever wake up without the need for an alarm clock? Do you have enough energy throughout the day? And if you haven’t had all those things then you’re not getting enough or you’re not getting as good enough quality sleep as you should be having.”
He also mentioned that individual responses to improving sleep vary, but there are general tips everyone can follow, known as good sleep hygiene, which can enhance sleep quality. The expert warned about the use of alcohol and caffeine, noting that caffeine is a stimulant that can last several hours, reports the Express.
He advised: “At least six hours after your cup of coffee, you’re going to be feeling it so avoid coffee or caffeine after 3pm.”
