The Science Behind Twitching Before Falling Asleep: Insights from a Pain Doctor
Pain management specialist Dr. Kunal Sood explains that the phenomenon of twitching or experiencing a falling sensation before falling asleep, known as hypnic jerk, may be caused by confusion in the brain when muscles relax. This reaction is typically harmless and can be induced by stress, stimulants, and lack of sleep. The Cleveland Clinic notes that around 70% of the population may experience this phenomenon. The jerks occur during a shift in sleep phases and are more likely to happen as one begins to fall asleep or during the light stage of sleep. Neurotransmitters and receptors play a role in these involuntary muscle movements, and reducing triggers such as stress can help improve sleep quality and reduce the frequency of these movements.