Sleep Supplements and Medication

Sleep can be difficult with pain after an auto injury and you may be inclined turn to sleep supplements or medication to solve this problem.  However, many sleep medications have side effects and can be addictive.  In the case of pain and tightness after an injury that leads to difficulty sleeping, sleep medication masks the symptoms instead of treating the cause.  Pain and tightness can also make it difficult to get deep sleep even with medication. 

Chamomile tea and melatonin can aid sleep.  Chamomile tea before bed helps calm and help you get to sleep.  Melatonin is a hormone that promotes sleep on a daily cyclical basis.  Melatonin levels in the body are affected by light levels, especially blue light.  Computers, screens, and smart phones in general produce significant blue light in their normal operation, and many people have difficulty falling asleep when using these devices at the end of the day or at night.  While it is best to avoid screens and blue light right before bed, blue light screen filters or blue light filtering glasses can help to minimize the effects of blue light on melatonin, and supplemental melatonin can be taken if necessary.  It is especially important to maintain good sleep hygiene after an accident or injury as pain will impact sleep.

Epsom salt and magnesium help aid and maintain sleep.  Epsom salt baths allow magnesium to be absorbed through the skin and help to relax muscles and reduce pain.  Either Epsom salt baths or magnesium taken before bed can help produce deeper sleep. 

Chiropractic care is a safe and effective way to treat the muscles, ligaments, and joints that are injured after an injury and produce the pain and tightness that affects sleep.  Our Chiropractor will be able to treat your injuries as well as advise you on natural supplements and remedies that can help you sleep and heal more fully.  Visit our chiropractic clinic in Aloha / Beaverton, or SE Portland, OR if you are injured and suffering from pain after an auto accident.