Sleeping Positions
Sleeping Positions – How to Get the Best Rest
Sleeping Positions and Pain
You are spending (hopefully) one-third of your day in this position, so why not inspect your sleep habits as a source of some of your health concerns. Let’s evaluate your sleeping position and how you can make the most of your rest.
Everybody Sleeps
As a chiropractor I am often asked, what’s the best position to sleep in? The truth is we all have our different sleeping positions that we find comfortable. Some are strictly back sleepers while others prefer sleeping on their sides. There is even the occasional face down enthusiast that claims that is the only position for them to get a good night’s sleep. So which one of these positions is best for you and your back? The answer is, it all depends on the person. Here are a few details on each sleeping position to help you maintain proper position and get a restful night’s sleep.
Back Sleeping
While some people find sleeping on their backs to be the most suitable, this position may be difficult for those that snore or have sleep apnea. Back sleepers tend to prefer a bit firmer mattress in order to provide them with the proper low back support. Putting a pillow under your knees while sleeping can help to maintain the spine’s natural curves and can take pressure off your low back as well. When choosing a pillow for your head, you want to find one that is comfortable and supportive without raising the head too far towards the chest. This will help to keep the neck muscles relaxed while you sleep.
Side Lying
Side lying is the most common way people sleep. Those with shoulder injuries may want to avoid this position as lying on your shoulder for an extended period of time can increase pain. People that sleep on their sides often should choose a softer mattress that conforms to the curves of their body. Placing a pillow between your legs while you sleep can help to keep your hips in a neutral position, decreasing tension on the low back. Side sleepers will want to get a larger pillow to keep the head propped up and in a neutral position.
Stomach Sleeping
Stomach sleeping is the least ideal position for those with neck pain. Sleeping with your head to the side for the night can increase muscle tightness and decrease motion. Airways can also feel more restricted when the head is turned to one side. Stomach sleepers will want a very firm mattress to avoid letting the body sink, reversing the body’s thoracic curve. They will also want a very thin or even no pillow to keep the head out of extension. If you are going to sleep on your stomach it may be beneficial to sleep with a pillow under your hips to help reduce the compression on your low back.
Applying in Your Life
The first step is to identify your habits. Then take steps to correct and change. If you have any additional questions or concerns seek professional advice. Here at Sport and Spine Woodinville and Mercer Island, we regularly offer and work with a wide range of patients who are concerned with this very issue. Give us a call and see how we can help.
Snooze on!
-Dr. Brandon Price
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