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Make sleep a priority
About 70 percent of people with osteoarthritis have some kind of sleep problem, among them insomnia, which involves having trouble falling asleep and waking up earlier than you wish. Pain might be a culprit behind sleep troubles, but researchers also suspect that insomnia may also worsen or contribute to that pain. Sleep deprivation may also intensify pain during the day.
But you can get better rest, and possibly ease knee osteoarthritis pain in the process, by focusing on better sleep habits. Try going to bed at the same time every night—weekdays and weekends—and establish a nighttime ritual that gets you ready for slumber, such as taking a warm bath or reading a book. Avoid screens like TVs and smartphones for at least a half hour before bed, and opt for an early, lighter dinner rather than eating too close to bedtime.
If pain is still keeping you up at night, consider talking to your doctor about pain relief strategies, which could include cognitive behavioral therapy.