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Re: Anyone experienced back pain with CPAP?

Posted by Cue Miller on August 17, 2001 at 12:26:43:

In Reply to: Anyone experienced back pain with CPAP? posted by John on August 17, 2001 at 11:47:31:

This is a common problem. A lot of people have back pain for a while when first starting CPAP use. It usually has to do with lying stiffly in one position for long periods of time. This is frequently caused by getting much deeper sleep (you toss and turn less), and because the hose from the CPAP restricts your nighttime movements.

One suggestion is to rig your hoses up over your head so you can turn over easily without getting wrapped up in the hose. Just knowing that you have this freedom of movement available is frequently a help to back pain sufferers. I have my hose rigged up with a short bungee cord attached to a clamp I put on the bed's headboard. This dangles the hose above my head and allows me to turn like a fish on a line. Before I did this, I used to lie frozen in one position in bed in semi-conscious fear that I would yank my mask off if I moved. If you haven't done so already, try this hose-hanging technique.

Another thing to try is to put a large pillow or foam wedge under the backs of your knees. Never tried this myself, but many people (who sleep on their backs) swear by it. Personally, I sleep on my side and my stomach so I really can't use it.

For most people, getting used to sleeping with CPAP and hoses takes a while, but eventually the back pains cease.

PS: I'm surprised your doctor didn't have you use your CPAP while recovering from the angioplasty and stent implant. I've unfortunately had three stents implanted and used my CPAP in the hospital each time.

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