New research commissioned by Dreams has revealed the prevalence and impact of back, neck, and shoulder pain on the UK population.
The survey, which polled 2000 people across the country, found that almost three quarters (72%) of Brits experienced back, neck or shoulder pain. This comes as two in 10 (18%) sufferers say they are most likely to experience pain in December, January, and February, while two-thirds (66%) experience pain all year round.
The research revealed that women are more likely than men to experience back, neck or shoulder pain, with three quarters of women suffering (76%) compared to two thirds (67%) of men. Unsurprisingly, research also found that those aged 55 or older were most likely to be living with pain (82%).
This pain is having a significant impact on the lives of those affected, with respondents who experienced back, neck, or shoulder pain saying it had impacted their ability to exercise (31%), work and study (26%), and travel (17%).
Particularly concerning is the impact back, neck, and shoulder pain is having on sleep, says Dreams, especially considering the importance of sleep in chronic pain recovery. Nearly two-fifths (39%) of those who have experienced back, neck, or shoulder pain say it has affected their ability to sleep or rest, with almost a quarter (22%) of these individuals losing between an hour and two hours of shuteye every night as a result of pain. Linked to this, six in 10 (60%) sufferers say that their pain causes them to feel exhausted and mentally drained during the day.
Despite the link between sleep and pain, only a quarter (27%) of those in pain have tried changing their mattress and/or pillows – something that should be considered, says the retailer, when almost a fifth (18%) of those asked are sleeping on a mattress that is more than eight years old, the age at which Dreams recommends a mattress is replaced.
In response to the scale of the findings, Dreams is partnering with professional osteopath, Anisha Joshi, to raise awareness of the back, neck and shoulder pain "epidemic" facing the UK and educate customers on how a supportive sleep set-up can help them to manage their pain.
With almost half (46%) of sufferers using over-the-counter painkillers to manage their pain, and over a quarter (27%) using prescription painkillers, Dreams’ partnership with Anisha aims to educate the public through a social media campaign on what a supportive sleep set-up looks like, and how it can minimise pain. She suggests that for some, an improper mattress or pillow could actually be a cause of pain, with more than one in 10 (16%) of sufferers saying their pain is worst just after waking up.
Emma Long, chief customer officer, Dreams, says: “At Dreams, we know that quality sleep is essential to overall wellbeing, particularly for those managing pain. As a specialist bed retailer and manufacturer, we recognise the important role we play in helping people find the right sleep solutions tailored to their needs, as we strive to do through our innovative Sleepmatch technology.
"And that’s why we’ve partnered with Anisha to raise awareness of the back, neck, and shoulder pain epidemic facing the UK and the impact this is having on Brits’ daily lives. Throughout the campaign we will be educating the public about the real difference a good night’s sleep and supportive sleep set-up can have in helping those struggling with pain. Dreams’ current and prospective customers should keep this guidance in mind when considering making a change to their sleep set-up.”
Daniel Collis, president of the Institute of Osteopathy, and principal of the Vantage Clinic, notes: “Back, neck, and shoulder pain can deeply affect daily life, from physical activities and socialising to getting a good night’s sleep. It's crucial for people to understand how their sleep environment influences pain management. To have the bed experts working alongside pain experts will help raise awareness about the pivotal role a well-chosen mattress and pillow can play in mitigating pain, empowering the public with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions for their health and comfort.“
Anisha Joshi adds: “Many people don’t realise how crucial their sleep environment is to their physical wellbeing. A supportive mattress and pillow aren’t just about comfort – they play an important role in breaking the sleep-pain cycle and preventing issues like back and neck pain. I’m really excited to be partnering with Dreams to share practical advice and simple adjustments that can hopefully help people dealing with pain wake up feeling energised and pain-free.”
