Waking up with shoulder pain or experiencing it more frequently could be linked to your morning coffee. New research has indicated a surprising connection between caffeine consumption and those aches often attributed to stress, poor posture, or awkward sleeping positions.
Small lifestyle changes might make a significant difference, and reducing your coffee intake could alleviate discomfort. Dr. Louise Carter, a physiotherapist, says: “Caffeine isn’t necessarily harmful.
“But for those prone to shoulder pain, it can add to the problem. Over time, increased muscle tension and lower pain tolerance can make minor aches more noticeable.”
Caffeine blocks adenosine, which normally helps muscles relax and decreases pain sensitivity. This means while it keeps you awake, it may also exacerbate muscle tightness and aggravate shoulder pain in already stressed areas.
Health and wellness experts at Ski Famille warn that although shoulder pain might seem trivial, if ignored, it can greatly affect your life quality, productivity, and physical health. They recommend moderating caffeine intake, focusing on better posture, and engaging in practices that relieve tension, allowing you to enjoy your coffee without compromising comfort, reports Bristol Live.
It’s recommended to keep your caffeine intake below 300mg per day, which equates to about two to three cups of coffee. If you’re looking for ways to alleviate shoulder pain, consider swapping out coffee for tea to help relax your muscles.
If that doesn’t appeal to you, try some stretching exercises that target the neck and shoulders to relieve tension. Some beneficial exercises include shoulder rolls, neck tilts, and doorway stretches to keep muscles limber and improve posture.
At work, ensure your desk setup is ergonomically friendly. Your screen should be at eye level, your lower back supported, and your arms resting comfortably at a 90-degree angle.
Keep a bottle of water on your desk as dehydration can worsen muscle tightness. Counteract the dehydrating effects of caffeine by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.