How to Prevent Knee Pain When Sleeping on My Side

Most knee pain is caused by overusing the knee and is easily treated with rest and anti-inflammatory medications. Knee pain that occurs from sleeping on your side is frustrating, especially for people who prefer to sleep in this position. You do not need any fancy devices to help prevent knee pain that happens when you sleep. All it takes is a few minutes of preparation before going to bed to ensure you wake up feeling rested and pain-free.

Spend just a few minutes stretching before bedtime. Often, knee pain is caused by the tendons, ligaments and muscles that surround the knee becoming too tense. Stretching before bed helps loosen the tissues that surround the knee and can reduce knee pain.

Place a small pillow between your knees once you are ready to go to sleep. Your knees sometimes rub against each other when you sleep on your side, which might cause pain and discomfort. Placing a pillow between your knees helps prevent this from happening.

Do light exercise during the day. When the muscles that support your knees weaken, knee pain is likely to occur. Try to do some light exercise, such as walking, each day to help strengthen and maintain the muscles that support your knees.

Warnings

If your knee pain is severe or persists, seek medical advice; your pain might indicate a more serious problem.