Arthritis and joint pain solutions through better sleep podcast.

By Dick Beijen, Managing Director of Devon Duvets

If you’ve ever woken up feeling stiff or noticed your joints seem more painful in the morning, you’re not alone. Many people dealing with arthritis or inflammation find that their discomfort peaks overnight. What you may not realise is that the bedding you sleep under could be playing a role in how you feel.

At Devon Duvets, we’ve spent years developing natural bedding to help improve sleep quality, and this is a subject close to my heart. I have arthritis myself, and through personal experience and conversations with our customers, I’ve come to understand just how important temperature regulation is when it comes to managing inflammation and joint pain.

Temperature fluctuations and inflammation

Inflammation is the body’s natural response to injury or infection, but when it persists, it can lead to chronic pain and conditions like arthritis. One factor that can make this worse is fluctuations in body temperature, particularly while you sleep. When your body temperature drops too low or spikes too high during the night, it can disrupt the repair processes that take place while you rest. For those with arthritis, this often leads to increased stiffness and discomfort by the time morning rolls around.

Studies have shown that maintaining a stable body temperature can help reduce inflammatory responses. In fact, research published by the National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society highlights that temperature sensitivity is common among those with rheumatoid arthritis, with cold weather and night-time chills increasing joint stiffness. Another study from the Journal of Inflammation Research found that temperature fluctuations during sleep can elevate markers of inflammation, exacerbating symptoms.

Winter can make arthritis symptoms worse

The colder months present additional challenges. As outdoor temperatures drop, the body works harder to stay warm, which can result in even greater fluctuations during the night. You might go to bed feeling warm and comfortable, only to wake up in the early hours feeling cold and stiff. This cycle can trigger inflammation and make existing pain feel more intense.

Taking extra care of your body during the winter becomes essential, and that starts with creating the right sleep environment. From staying active during the day to using the right bedding at night, every little step can contribute to managing inflammation.

Why arthritis is not just an issue for older people

Although arthritis is often associated with age, inflammation and joint discomfort don’t discriminate. I hear from younger adults, including athletes recovering from injuries and individuals managing autoimmune conditions, who experience the same sensitivity to temperature fluctuations. No matter your age, maintaining a consistent body temperature throughout the night can have a noticeable impact on how you feel the next day.

Could your current bedding be part of the problem?

While it’s easy to overlook, the materials you sleep under can significantly affect how well your body maintains temperature overnight. Bedding that traps heat or fails to breathe properly can lead to overheating, while lighter materials may not provide enough insulation in colder months.

I’ve personally found that wool offers one of the best solutions for temperature regulation. Wool is naturally breathable and can absorb and release moisture, helping to keep your body at a steady, comfortable temperature throughout the night. This is particularly beneficial for those with arthritis or inflammation, as it reduces the risk of temperature-related flare-ups.

Why wool is the perfect solution

Wool’s unique properties make it an excellent option for bedding, especially if you experience joint pain or inflammation. Unlike synthetic materials, wool works with your body to regulate heat. It traps pockets of air to provide insulation in the winter while remaining cool and breathable in the summer. This adaptability is key to preventing the spikes and drops in temperature that can trigger inflammation.

A study by The Woolmark Company found that wool bedding can improve sleep quality by up to 25%, particularly for individuals sensitive to temperature changes. It’s not just about warmth—it’s about maintaining balance throughout the night.

At Devon Duvets, we’ve seen first-hand how wool duvets make a difference. Our customers regularly tell us that switching to wool bedding has helped them wake up feeling less stiff and more rested. I can personally vouch for the difference it makes.

Taking care of your body through better sleep

Whether you’re managing arthritis, recovering from injury, or simply looking to improve your overall comfort at night, choosing the right bedding can be a game-changer. And as the winter months set in, this becomes even more important.

If you’ve noticed your joints feeling worse during the night or early morning, consider what your bedding is made of. The switch to natural, temperature-regulating wool could provide the relief you’re looking for.

Have you experienced temperature sensitivity affecting your sleep? I’d love to hear how you’ve managed it—feel free to share your experiences in the comments. Sometimes the smallest adjustments make the biggest difference.

To learn more about our handcrafted wool duvets and how they could help you, visit devonduvets.com.

 

**If you are experiencing symptoms of arthrtis and inflammation, please consult your doctor or medical professional.

Refs: National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society; The Woolmark Company; The Journal of Inflammation Research.

Q&A: How Bedding Affects Arthritis and Inflammation

1. Can the type of bedding I use affect my arthritis or inflammation?

Yes, the type of bedding you use can influence arthritis and inflammation. Bedding that does not regulate temperature effectively can lead to fluctuations in body temperature during the night, which may worsen joint stiffness and discomfort. For example, overheating can increase inflammatory responses, while being too cold can cause muscles around the joints to tighten, making morning stiffness worse.

Natural fibres like wool are particularly effective at maintaining a consistent sleep temperature. Wool’s breathability helps regulate body heat, reducing the chances of night-time discomfort linked to arthritis and inflammation.

2. Why is temperature regulation important for people with arthritis?

Temperature regulation is essential for managing arthritis because temperature fluctuations during sleep can trigger inflammation and joint stiffness. If your body becomes too cold, circulation slows, which may increase discomfort. Overheating, on the other hand, can exacerbate inflammatory responses.

Keeping your body at a consistent, comfortable temperature during the night allows your joints to remain relaxed and reduces stress on the body. Bedding made from wool excels in temperature regulation, making it an ideal choice for those seeking relief from arthritis symptoms.

3. Is wool bedding good for arthritis and inflammation?

Yes, wool bedding is highly beneficial for individuals with arthritis or inflammation. Wool naturally regulates temperature by trapping warm air when it’s cold and releasing excess heat when it’s warm. This helps maintain a stable sleep environment, which can ease joint discomfort and reduce inflammation.  

Additionally, wool is hypoallergenic and resists dust mites, contributing to a healthier sleep environment—another important factor for those managing autoimmune conditions or chronic pain.  

4. Why does arthritis feel worse in winter?

Arthritis often feels worse in winter because cold temperatures cause muscles to contract and joints to stiffen. Reduced circulation in colder weather can also intensify pain. Furthermore, barometric pressure changes in winter can increase joint swelling and discomfort.

Using wool bedding during winter months can help mitigate these effects by keeping your body warm and maintaining consistent joint temperature. This reduces the likelihood of morning stiffness and makes winter nights more comfortable. 

5. Is there scientific evidence that wool bedding improves sleep for people with arthritis?

Yes, research supports the benefits of wool bedding for individuals sensitive to temperature changes, including those with arthritis. A study conducted by The Woolmark Company found that wool bedding improves sleep quality by up to 25% due to its breathability and ability to regulate temperature.

In addition, findings published by the National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society highlight the importance of maintaining consistent body temperature to reduce joint stiffness and inflammatory responses, making wool bedding an excellent choice for arthritis sufferers.  

6. Can younger people with inflammation benefit from wool bedding, or is it just for older adults?

Absolutely. Arthritis and inflammation are not limited to older adults. Younger individuals managing autoimmune conditions, recovering from sports injuries, or dealing with general joint discomfort can also benefit from temperature-regulating bedding. Wool’s ability to adapt to your body’s temperature needs makes it suitable for people of all ages seeking better sleep and improved joint comfort.

7. How can I tell if my current bedding is contributing to inflammation?

If you frequently wake up feeling stiff, sore, or overheated during the night, your bedding might be contributing to inflammation. Synthetic materials often trap heat and moisture, creating an environment that can exacerbate inflammatory responses. Conversely, bedding that lacks proper insulation may cause your body to cool down excessively, leading to joint stiffness.

Switching to natural, breathable materials like wool can help maintain a steady temperature, reducing night-time discomfort and promoting better sleep.  

8. What makes wool a better choice compared to synthetic bedding?

Wool is a natural fibre with several advantages over synthetic bedding. Wool regulates temperature effectively by creating insulating air pockets that keep you warm when it’s cold and cool when it’s hot. It also wicks away moisture, helping to maintain a dry and comfortable sleep environment.

In contrast, synthetic materials often trap heat and moisture, which can disrupt sleep and worsen inflammation. Wool’s hypoallergenic properties also make it a healthier option for individuals sensitive to allergens.  

9. What steps can I take to create a better sleep environment for arthritis?

Creating a comfortable sleep environment for arthritis involves more than just bedding. Here are a few additional tips:

  • Choose wool bedding to help regulate temperature and reduce joint stiffness.
  • Keep your bedroom warm but not hot. Aim for a room temperature between 16-18°C (60-65°F).
  • Use supportive pillows that align your neck and spine.
  • Stay active during the day to promote circulation and reduce stiffness at night.

By making these small adjustments, you can significantly improve your quality of sleep and better manage arthritis symptoms.