What Are Some Tips for Sleeping Comfortably with Elbow Pain?

Reviewed by Tomas Diaz, MD

Emergency Medicine

Using supportive pillows and adjusting your sleeping position can help relieve elbow pain at night. A few simple changes to how you sleep can reduce stress on your elbow, helping you rest more comfortably.

Explanation

There are several simple ways to manage elbow pain at night. Consider using a pillow to support your arm—placing it under or next to your elbow may prevent excessive bending. This support can reduce pressure on any painful areas and may help ease discomfort. Many find relief by sleeping on the side opposite to their injured elbow. Try gradually adjusting your sleep position until you find what feels most comfortable. These adjustments let your elbow rest naturally and can improve sleep—which your body needs for healing.

(References)

Gorski JM. Evaluation of Sleep Position for Possible Nightly Aggravation and Delay of Healing in Tennis Elbow. J Am Acad Orthop Surg Glob Res Rev. 2019 Aug 2;3(8):e082. doi: 10.5435/JAAOSGlobal-D-19-00082. PMID: 31592507; PMCID: PMC6754212.
Lei JX, Yang PF, Yang AL, Gong YF, Shang P, Yuan XC. Ergonomic Consideration in Pillow Height Determinants and Evaluation. Healthcare (Basel). 2021 Oct 7;9(10):1333. doi: 10.3390/healthcare9101333. PMID: 34683013; PMCID: PMC8544534.
Bateman M, Hill JC, Cooper K, Littlewood C, Saunders B. Lived experience of people with lateral elbow tendinopathy: a qualitative study from the OPTimisE pilot and feasibility trial. BMJ Open. 2023 Aug 29;13(8):e072070. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-072070. PMID: 37643850; PMCID: PMC10465899.

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