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Does laying down make your neuropathy worse?
Neuropathy | Last Active: Oct 15, 2023 | Replies (12)Comment receiving replies
I find it doesn't matter if I lay down, sit in a chair, stand, walk or anything, the degree of intensity does not change with my PN. it's constant and always there even sleeping. One small symptom of several that does change is my balance. I have some better days than others on balance, far and few between but never good balance.
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Yes, I hurt more when lying down but when I absolutely MUST, I lie down on sofa or bed, sometimes fall into a quasi sleep but the whole time aware of the pain that seems to come in waves from toes to cranium. I lie there for generally no more than 25 minutes to about an hour or so. Then I literally FORCE myself to get up. I don't have a housekeeper, etc., so I need to get up to prepare a meal or at least find a deliberately-set-aside left over. After being upright for about 30 minutes, I do feel a bit better, and most of the pain has subsided (although not gone!). In the morning, same thing. If I've had an especially difficult night due to cramps/spasms in legs/feet/calves, and throbbing pain-spots (buttocks, back, arms, shoulders), I find that body pain will dissipate once I am upright, walking, and looking forward to my café con leche caliente.
Sitting still or lying down can make my body "chill" and then permits pain to set in, so I make sure to get up and DO something, like laundry, light vacuuming (hurts my hands/fingers). I'm referring to PAIN, whether neuropathic or fibromyalgic, which is not helped by just "being still." Walk around the house, do "laps" around the kitchen island, bring laundry upstairs or go to basement pantry. The point is to MOVE. I don't give in to pain unless it is intense (Pain Levels 6-7 to a 9 out of 10). Then I listen to my body telling me I have to take the time to do more, like apply heat or a pain balm, take Aleve or aspirin (the only things my primary and cardiologist approve, especially since I have gastric issues as well). Gentle stretches also help.
Each person has favorite things to employ, and these are some of what works for me. Living with constant pain (from various sources) can be very discouraging, distressing, and depressing. I've learned to modify activities or just "let them go" if they are not that important nor really add much value to what is now my life. That has brought a release from resentment for what I cannot do, and a sense of relief and more gratitude for what I accept and embrace.