Are You Sleeping in the Right Position?

Pain and muscle stiffness in the morning is a common complaint of many patients. "What is the best position to sleep in?", is a question that chiropractors get on a daily basis. The three positions that most individuals sleep in are on their side, on their back or on their stomach.

Ergonomically, the best way to sleep is on your side with your head supported by a pillow that keeps your neck straight. This will allow you to stay in a "neutral spine" position without putting strain on your neck throughout the night. Sleeping with a body pillow beginning under your armpit, knee and calf or placing a pillow between your knees to keep your shoulders and hips neutral is also helpful.

For individuals who cannot sleep on their side, sleeping on your back with a pillow or other support under both knees will keep your spine in a neutral position.

Sleeping on your stomach is the worst position for your spine because twisting your neck to the side all night can lead to neck and upper back pain.

Keeping your body less stressed while you sleep can have a large impact on feeling "well rested" in the morning.

Posted by Jason Rosenberg, D.C.