International Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
Open Access

Abstract

Rehabilitation: The Critical Role of Sleep Hygiene

Craig H. Lichtblau*, Christopher Warburton, Gabrielle Meli and Allyson Gorman

Sleep is vital to life, and poor sleep hygiene is associated with an array of health deficits. Through its physiological impact, inadequate sleep undermines the rehabilitation process, preventing optimal recovery. Without proper sleep, patients experience fatigue, are at increased risk for psychiatric illness, and tend to have a lower threshold for pain. Each of these consequences of insufficient sleep is associated with poorer rehabilitation outcomes. To ensure that rehabilitation is successful, physicians must evaluate, monitor, and address potential sleep disturbances as well as their sequelae in relevant patients. Referral to mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists and psychologists, may be warranted to restore healthy sleep cycles.

Published Date: 2022-10-21; Received Date: 2022-09-12