The position you sleep in could improve your sleep quality and relieve pain. There are benefits to each position, but also some downfalls. So what position is the best position to sleep in?
Side sleeping:
• Some benefits of side sleeping include reducing lower back pain, snoring, and indigestion. It is also the best position to sleep in if you are pregnant.
• Side sleeping could cause some hip or knee pain. A good tip to reduce hip or knee pain is to place a pillow between the knees and lower legs to keep both joints in a comfortable position.
• When side sleeping it is important to have a pillow that keeps the head in line with the spine. In order to do this, look for a pillow that is about the width from your shoulder to the side of your head.
Sleeping on your back:
• Sleeping on your back can reduce hip and knee pain, along with spinal pain.
• If you struggle with back pain, putting a pillow below the knees can often help decrease the pressure on the lower back by supporting the natural curve of the spine.
• Sleeping on your back can sometimes be difficult for snorers. It is important to have a pillow that supports the natural curve of your neck in order to keep airways optimally open.
Sleeping on stomach:
• Sleeping on the stomach is the least beneficial of all sleeping positions due to the extra stress it puts on the joints and muscles of the neck and the back. Sleeping in this position is never recommended.
Overall, sleeping on your back is the most beneficial for your health, followed by side sleeping. However, sleep quality is important for rest and recovery of the body. Good sleep quality is shown to improve the immune system, concentration and brain health, heart health, and boosts mood. This means if you are getting good quality of sleep, without pain or other side effects, there is no need to change your sleeping position when sleeping on your side or back.
If you have any questions about how to improve the quality of your sleep, or feel you need a new pillow to improve the quality of your sleep, call the clinic to schedule an appointment with one of the doctors!