How Your Sleeping Positions Affect Your Back

I cannot emphasize enough how important getting the proper amount of rest is. While sleeping well is important, it's just as important to sleep in a way that won't negatively effect you later. Certain positions that may seem comfortable in the moment are actually wreaking havoc on your back and neck. Chiropractic can help keep your spine in proper alignment, but your sleeping positions should be adjusted as well.

Stomach Sleeping: The Worst Thing For Your Back

Sleeping on your stomach forces your spine into an unnatural position. Your shoulders are forced upward which and your neck is turned to the side in a strained position. The whole benefit of sleep is to let your body rest, relax, and reset. So sleeping in a position where your neck is strained all night is obviously not a good idea. Stomach sleepers often suffer from neck, back, and shoulder pain. It's best to switch to sleeping on your back. If this position is too uncomfortable for you, place a pillow under your pelvis while sleeping on your stomach to offer some additional support for your back.

Side Sleeping: Avoid the Spinal Twist

Sleeping on your side is actually not bad for your back as long as you don't twist your spine. When you lay on your side your spine elongates. However, if you twist so that your upper leg is on the mattress, this strains your pelvis and low back. The easiest way to modify this position to alleviate stress on your spine is to place a small pillow between your knees. This will prevent you from crossing your top leg and twisting your spine. Sleeping on your side can also lead to shoulder pain, so be sure to alternate sides.

Back Sleeping: The Best Thing For Your Back

Sleeping on your back is the ideal position for your spine. This allows your spine to be properly aligned and in a neutral position. To make this position even better for your spine, tuck a small pillow beneath your knees to elevate them slightly.

Posture matters even when you're asleep. Making these small adjustments to your sleeping position will have a huge impact on your day-to-day. If you want even more help and guidance for your sleep or spinal health, contact us!