Shoulder Pain Keeping You Up at Night? Here’s Why — and What You Can Do About It
Why Shoulder Pain Can Feel Worse at Night
If shoulder pain is making it hard to sleep, you’re not alone. Many people with shoulder issues find that their pain gets worse at night—no matter how they position themselves. The frustration of tossing and turning can leave you feeling tired, foggy, and less motivated to stay active or work out the next day.
1. Your Body’s Nighttime Chemistry
So why does shoulder pain often flare up overnight, and what can you do about it? Let’s break it down.
When it’s time to rest, your body produces melatonin, a hormone that helps regulate your sleep–wake cycle. Interestingly, melatonin also interacts with your body’s pain pathways.
Research has shown that people with shoulder conditions—such as frozen shoulder or rotator cuff tears—may have more melatonin receptors in their shoulder tissues. This may make their shoulders more sensitive to the effects of melatonin at night.
Melatonin can increase the activity of certain pain-related chemicals, which may lead to heightened sensitivity and inflammation. As a result, your shoulder can feel more sore or tender when you lie down, especially if there’s direct pressure on it.
2. Mechanical and Positional Factors
How you position yourself during sleep can also make a difference. Staying in one position for too long can lead to stiffness or decreased circulation, which may irritate the shoulder.
Additionally, at night there are fewer distractions, so it becomes easier to notice discomfort you might overlook during the day.
What You Can Do About It
Here are a few strategies to help manage shoulder pain and improve your rest:
Review medications or pain relievers with your healthcare provider. These may help reduce nighttime inflammation or discomfort.
Optimize your sleep setup. Try using a supportive pillow to keep your shoulder in a neutral position and reduce pressure points.
Prioritize sleep hygiene. Maintain a consistent bedtime routine, limit screens before bed, and create a cool, quiet environment.
Do gentle stretching or relaxation exercises before bed. These can decrease muscle tension and improve circulation.
Stay active during the day. Gradual, controlled movement helps maintain mobility and prevents stiffness.
Bottom Line
Nighttime shoulder pain can be frustrating, but understanding the “why” behind it can help you manage it more effectively. A combination of mindful positioning, healthy sleep habits, and the right exercise program can go a long way toward reducing nighttime discomfort and helping you wake up refreshed.
If shoulder pain is keeping you from getting a good night’s sleep, talk to your KAUNO physical therapist. Together, you can identify the root cause and create a plan to help you sleep and move comfortably again.
