Sleep

Getting good-quality sleep is an important part of your health and wellbeing. Living with a neurological condition can sometimes make sleep more difficult, for example, due to pain, muscle stiffness, changes in movement, medication, or worry.

Sleep hygiene means the routines and environmental factors that help you sleep better. Even if your sleep varies from night to night, focusing on what you can control can make a real difference over time.

Small adjustments may help improve your sleep, concentration, emotional wellbeing, and energy levels. For example:

  • Keep regular sleep and wake times, including at weekends
  • Develop a calming bedtime routine and stick to it
  • Limit screen use (phones, tablets, TV) before bed
  • Make your bedroom comfortable, quiet, dark, and cool
  • Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and large meals in the evening
  • Avoid vigorous activity too close to bedtime
  • Spend time outside during the day to get natural light and gentle activity
  • Try relaxation techniques to help calm your mind and body

Where can I find more information?

The Good Sleep Guide, from the CSP (Chartered Society of Physiotherapy):The Good Sleep Guide | The Chartered Society of Physiotherapy

Parkinson’s UK: https://www.parkinsons.org.uk/information-and-support/managing-sleep-problems

MS Society: https://www.mssociety.org.uk/living-with-ms/physical-and-mental-health/sleep-and-ms.
- Here you can also find a link to the sleep and MS Podcast series.

NHS guide: https://www.nhs.uk/every-mind-matters/mental-wellbeing-tips/how-to-fall-asleep-faster-and-sleep-better/

Sleep, Fatigue and Daily Function