Chronic back pain can be physically, mentally and emotionally draining, and it’s not uncommon for this discomfort to leave you feeling tired and exhausted. When you’re feeling fatigued, it can be difficult to pursue some of the active treatment techniques like exercise or physical therapy that can be so helpful in combating your chronic pain, which makes it hard to break out of this cycle of pain and fatigue. But why do so many people with back pain regularly feel fatigued throughout the day? We explain why back pain can leave you feeling tired in today’s blog.
Back Pain And Fatigue
Chronic back pain and fatigue oftentimes go hand in hand, and here’s a look at a number of reasons why:
- Pain Is Exhausting – First and foremost, chronic pain is exhausting. If your brain is constantly interpreting and relaying sensory information, there’s never a dull moment for your brain. Your body is also working to respond to pain signals and protect injured areas, and that’s physically draining. It’s like your brain and your body are fighting a daily battle to quell persistent physical discomfort, leaving you feeling perpetually exhausted from all of the resources being used behind the scenes.
- Sleep Disruptions – Another common theme among patients with chronic pain is that they oftentimes struggle to find restful sleep as a result of their condition. Chronic back pain can make it hard to fall asleep at night or it can cause you to wake up in the middle of the night, both of which make it difficult to achieve extended periods of deep sleep. If you’re not getting quality sleep at night, it stands to reason that you’re going to wake up feeling a little groggy in the morning.
- Medications – While NSAIDs typically won’t leave you feeling tired, many stronger medications list fatigue or drowsiness as a potential side effect. If you are taking opioids or a prescription medication to help drown out discomfort, your fatigue may be a direct result of the medication you’re on. Typically the stronger the medication, the more severe the potential side effects, so if your pain is severe, so too may be your fatigue.
- Physical Activity – Finally, if you have chronic back pain, there’s a good chance that your discomfort is limiting your activity level. Exercise and movement can bring more oxygen to your lungs and increase your heart rate, both of which can help you feel more alert and wake. You may find that you have more energy after a short workout – even though you’re expending energy while exercising – than if you had stayed on the couch and not physically challenged yourself. Back pain can make us more sedentary, which can also contribute to feelings of lethargy.
Treating your underlying chronic pain condition is the most effective way to also take care of your feelings of fatigue, but you can also make some lifestyle adjustments based on the above points. Really try to go to bed and wake up around the same time each day, keeping the room dark and free of distractions so that you can get into a healthy circadian rhythm. Additionally, talking with your doctor about switching your medication regimen could prove beneficial if you believe they may be contributing to your fatigue. And finally, even though you may not look forward to it, push yourself to be physically active, as it can help boost your energy and work to strengthen key spinal structures and areas that support your back.
If you want to put an end to your fatigue caused by chronic back pain, pick up the phone and give Dr. Jackman and the team at The Midwest Spine & Brain Institute today at (651) 430-3800.
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