Knee pain is a common problem. While there are many causes, the pain often seems to worsen at night. Why does this happen? And what can you do to find relief and get a good night’s sleep?
What causes knee pain?
Knee pain can be brought on by a number of factors. The most common causes include:
- Bursitis: Bursae—sacs filled with fluid that protect joints—can become inflamed from overuse.
- Injured ligaments, tendons and cartilage: These types of injuries can be brought on by everyday overuse, sports, falls and accidents.
- Osteoarthritis: When the cartilage that cushions joints wears down over time, bone-on-bone contact can bring on pain, swelling and stiffness.
- Rheumatoid arthritis: This is an autoimmune disease that can damage cartilage and ligaments, resulting in pain and stiffness.
- Tendonitis: Repeated injury or stress to the knee can cause the tendon to stretch and become swollen.
Why is knee pain worse at night?
No matter the cause of your knee pain, it may seem to flare up at night, preventing you from getting much-needed sleep. What triggers this nighttime discomfort?
Cortisol, an anti-inflammatory hormone, is naturally at lower levels when you are resting, which could contribute to increased pain. Your joints may also get stiff from being in one position for a longer period of time. But there might also be a simpler explanation: You simply notice the pain more at night because there is nothing to distract you from it.
What can I do about the pain?
Try the following tips to ease your nighttime discomfort and wake up feeling rested:
- Get on a healthy weight-loss plan. Being overweight can add unnecessary stress to your knees, and every pound you lose can help with pain.
- Set yourself up for a good night’s sleep with meditation and a soft, comfortable mattress.
- Take anti-inflammatory pain medication, such as aspirin or ibuprofen.
- Try low-impact exercise, such as walking, during the day to keep your joints active.
- Use hot or cold packs in the evening. You can also try taking a warm bath before bed.
Ready to meet with one of our orthopedic and sports medicine specialists? To request an appointment with a Riverview Health physician, call 317.565.0505.
Sources: medlineplus.gov, aarp.org, asahq.org
