Waking up with shoulder or elbow pain? Your sleep position may be the reason.

At Limitless, we help people connect the dots between everyday habits—like how you sleep—and how your body feels. When dealing with a shoulder or elbow injury, finding a sleeping position that is comfortable can be hard. We are here to help!

💤 What is the best sleeping position?

The best sleeping position is the one that feels best for you. There are a wide variety of mattresses, pillows, and blankets for this reason. If there was only one right way to sleep, we would not see such a huge selection!

Often, sleeping in a position we are not used to can be the cause of a cranky shoulder or elbow, not the style that we sleep

With that said, here are some suggestions on sleeping positions, and how to find the best one when managing a shoulder or elbow injury.

Side Sleeping
Most people sleep on their side, but if you are managing a shoulder or elbow injury, this may be uncomfortable to do. If one position is uncomfortable, trial one of the others listed below.

• Sleeping on the affected side could be more aggravating, sleeping on the other side could relax the shoulder. Supporting the shoulder or elbow on top with a pillow can also be helpful in taking strain of the shoulder or elbow as it heals. 

Stomach Sleeping
Also a perfectly fine position to sleep, but if you are having shoulder pain to the front of the shoulder, it may be compressing sensitive areas.

Back Sleeping
Sleeping on your back with arms by your sides keeps things most aligned. This can be comfortable for the elbow and shoulder. If your elbow does not like to be straight, you can set a pillow at the wrist to prevent it from extending.

⚠️ Morning Red Flags to Watch For

Your body often tells you something’s off:

• Numbness or tingling in your hands or fingers
• Stiffness or pain lasting more than 24 hours

These patterns usually show that the sleeping position you have been in, may be too uncomfortable for the elbow or shoulder and some modification on position may need to be made.

🧠 Still Waking Up in Pain?

Track your symptoms and test new positions for a week at a time. If you're still stiff, numb, or weak in the mornings after making adjustments, it's time to call a PT. Early intervention makes all the difference.

Better Sleep = Better Recovery
Don’t let your sleeping habits hold back your healing. Give your shoulders and elbows the overnight care they deserve—and start your mornings pain-free.