Understanding the Link Between Arthritis and Sleep

Arthritis affects many people, causing inflammation and pain in the joints throughout the body and disrupting sleep patterns. This chronic condition may be more noticeable in the foot and ankle joints, which bear a significant amount of weight and can experience greater discomfort. Arthritis also has a complex impact on sleep that can interfere with daily life. Here is more information about the link between the two:

Pain & Discomfort

Joint inflammation may intensify during rest periods, creating a paradox where the time meant for recovery becomes uncomfortable. The foot and ankle contain numerous joints, and when arthritis affects these areas, lying in bed can become challenging. Morning stiffness compounds the problem. Your joints may stiffen overnight, making those first steps particularly painful. This cycle of pain and stiffness creates issues at bedtime.

People with arthritis may find themselves dreading the night ahead, knowing the discomfort that follows. Temperature changes affect arthritic joints differently. Cooler nighttime temperatures may worsen joint pain and stiffness. Your bedroom environment has a direct impact on how your joints feel.

Lack of Sleep Link

Sleep deprivation can amplify pain sensitivity in measurable ways. Poor sleep may lower pain thresholds, making arthritis symptoms feel more intense than they actually are. Your brain processes pain signals differently when you’re tired, creating a heightened response to discomfort.

Pain disrupts sleep, and lack of sleep worsens pain. This complex connection creates a challenging cycle. When you don’t sleep well, your body produces more inflammatory markers, which directly worsen arthritis symptoms. Sleep fragmentation can occur with arthritis. You may fall asleep easily but wake multiple times due to pain or discomfort. These frequent awakenings prevent the occurrence of deep, restorative sleep phases. 

Sleep Disorders

Arthritis may increase your risk of developing specific sleep disorders beyond general insomnia. Sleep apnea can also occur in individuals with inflammatory conditions, such as arthritis. The inflammation affects your airways and breathing patterns during sleep.

Restless leg syndrome can accompany arthritis in the feet and ankles. When your feet and ankles hurt, you may experience uncomfortable sensations that create an urge to move your legs. This movement disrupts sleep continuity throughout the night. These movements wake you up, even if you don’t remember the interruptions. 

Symptom Overlap

Fatigue from poor sleep mirrors arthritis exhaustion, making it challenging to identify the root cause. Both conditions can cause daytime drowsiness, difficulty concentrating, and reduced energy levels. This overlap complicates treatment approaches and symptom management. The combination creates a complex web of symptoms that reinforce each other. Chronic pain adds another layer to this challenging situation.

See a Podiatrist for Arthritis

Foot and ankle arthritis requires specialized care that addresses both joint health and sleep quality. A podiatrist understands how lower extremity pain affects your entire sleep experience. They evaluate your specific symptoms and develop targeted treatment strategies. A professional evaluation identifies the exact type of arthritis affecting your feet and ankles. Your podiatrist examines how your condition impacts daily activities, including sleep. Schedule an appointment with our podiatry team to discuss your symptoms and explore treatment options that address both your joint health and sleep quality.

• The Link Between Plantar Fasciitis and Weight Gain: What You Need to Know
• How Pet Ownership Can Positively Impact Life with Fibromyalgia
• The Importance of Stretching and Flexibility in Sports Medicine
• Understanding the Role of Cosmetic Dermatology in Skin Rejuvenation
• Navigating the Stages of Dementia: What to Expect