Best Sleeping Positions with Back Pain
Charles Street Family Chiropractic Offers Sleep Suggestions
The health care professionals (or physicians) at Charles Street Family Chiropractic are happy to help our patients in Boston suffering from back pain find their ideal sleeping positions. An uncomfortable night’s sleep can cause back pain throughout the day and even worsen chronic back pain as a result of excessive muscle stress. Our chiropractors can deliver exceptional back pain relief for our clients, but that may be undone with one night of improper spine curvature. However, we can suggest proper sleeping positions that will keep you comfortable throughout the night and enhance the benefits of our chiropractic adjustments. Contact us today to learn ways to prevent back pain in your sleep.
Best Sleeping Positions for Persons with Back Pain
Not only can poor sleeping positions make back pain worse, but they can also be the cause of lower back pain. The chiropractors at Charles Street Family Chiropractic in Boston recognize that certain positions may place unwelcome pressure on your back, neck, and hips. To prevent this pressure, it is essential to maintain your spine’s natural curve while you lay in bed. Proper alignment and support are key factors that can ensure your spine’s wellbeing. Sleeping positions that can facilitate such goals include:
- Sleeping on Your Back with Knee Support
Medical professionals overwhelmingly agree that sleeping on one’s back is the best position for guaranteeing comfort because it evenly distributes weight and minimizes pressure points. But Charles Street Family Chiropractic recommends going a step further by placing a pillow under your knees for added support. In this position, it is ideal to avoid twisting your head sideways, which may put stress on your neck.
- Sleeping on Your Side with A Pillow Between Your Knees
Many individuals are uncomfortable sleeping on their back and prefer to choose aside. However, this position can strain your lower back by pulling your spine slightly out of alignment if you do not take proper precautions. Placing a pillow between your knees is a simple, effective solution that will raise your upper leg and restore the natural alignment of your spine, hips, and pelvis. Additionally, consider adding a small support pillow if there is a gap between your waist and the mattress.
- Sleeping in the Fetal Position
Another way to sleep on one’s side is by curling up in a fetal position. This can be especially comforting for individuals with a herniated disc because tucking one’s knees can reduce any bends in the spine and alleviate pressure on the joints. If the fetal position is right for you, be sure to switch sides periodically to prevent any imbalances.
Ancillary Tips for Preventing Back Pain During Sleep
In addition to determining the proper sleeping position to help you manage back pain, there are several other factors to consider, such as:
- Be selective when choosing a mattress – A soft mattress may inhibit proper alignment. You should feel good in the morning when you get up. If not, it may be time for a new mattress.
- Try a sleep schedule – Setting regular bedtimes and wake times will help you adopt a more natural sleeping pattern that can eliminate some restlessness. Some experts are now recognizing that this is a critical factor in long term health.
- Choose a correct pillow – Use a firm pillow under your neck or between your legs. Also, consider a body pillow to maintain alignment if you like to sleep on your stomach. Again, your neck should feel good in the morning when you get up. If not, it may be time for a new pillow.
Contact Charles Street Family Chiropractic Today
A restful night’s sleep sets the tone for your whole day. If you toss and turn throughout the night, not only will you wake up feeling tired, but you may experience worse back pain than you did the night before. But Charles Street Family Chiropractic in Boston can help. Our chiropractors have spent over 30 years alleviating clients’ back pain. We are familiar with proper postures and ways to take the stress off of one’s spine. During your next adjustment for back, neck, or shoulder pain, let us know about your back pain sleep woes. We will happily suggest ways to eliminate your discomforts so that you can lead an active, pain-free lifestyle. Contact us today to learn more.