The phenomenon of the arms falling asleep while lying down can be uncomfortable and disrupt your sleep. In this article, we will look at the most common causes of arms falling asleep while lying down, as well as some tips on how to treat and prevent this problem.

Why do arms fall asleep when lying down?

Arms falling asleep while lying down can be caused by various factors, including

- Pressure on nerves: lying on your arms can cause pressure on the nerves, resulting in numbness and tingling.
- Restricted blood circulation: An unfavorable lying position can restrict blood circulation in the arms, which can lead to a feeling of numbness.
- Nocturnal movements: Unconscious movements during sleep can cause the arms to lie in awkward positions, which can lead to numbness.

Symptoms of arms falling asleep while lying down

The symptoms of arms falling asleep while lying down can vary, but the most common are

- Numbness or tingling in the arms and hands.
- Difficulty moving or lifting the arms.
- A feeling of heaviness or stiffness in the arms.

Treatment options for arms that fall asleep while lying down

If you suffer from arms that fall asleep when lying down, there are some measures you can take to alleviate your symptoms:

- Optimize your sleeping position: Try to find a sleeping position that minimizes the pressure on your arms, e.g. by using a special pillow or supporting your arms while you sleep.
- Take movement breaks: If you lie in the same position for a long time, you should regularly take small movement breaks to promote blood circulation in your arms.
- Curpal: If symptoms persist, curpal can help to widen the carpal tunnel and improve the mobility of the hands.
- Consult a doctor: If your symptoms are severe or do not improve, you should see a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and treatment recommendations.

Summary

Arms falling asleep while lying down can be due to various causes and can affect the quality of your sleep. By optimizing your sleeping position, taking exercise breaks and visiting a doctor if necessary, you can help alleviate your symptoms and promote restful sleep.

For help and self-diagnosis, you can carry out the Hoffman-Tinel test or the Phalen test at home. You can find out how to do this here.

Sources and references:

- National Sleep Foundation. (2022). "Why Do My Arms Fall Asleep When I Sleep?"
- Mayo Clinic. (2022). "Numbness and tingling." https://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/numbness-and-tingling/basics/definition/sym-20050838