What Your Sleeping Positions Are Doing To Your Back

Sleep is such an important time for your body. You'll likely do whatever you can to ensure a good night's sleep. However, what might feel like a comfortable position to you may actually be detrimental to your spine. Chiropractic can help keep your spine in proper alignment, but your sleeping positions should be adjusted as well. 

Are you a Stomach Sleeper?

Sleeping on your stomach is possibly the worst sleeping position for your back. It forces your spine into an unnatural position. Sleeping on your stomach forces your shoulders up and strains your neck since you are turning your head to the side. This sleeping position is likely to lead yo neck and back pain as well as joint and shoulder pain. If possible, switch to sleeping on your back. If it's too difficult for you to get comfortable in any other position, place a pillow under your pelvis to offer some extra support for your back. 

Are You a Side Sleeper?

Side sleeping is not so bad for your back if you don't twist your spine. When you're on your side your spine elongates. However, if you twist to place your upper leg on the mattress, this places stress on your pelvis and low back. The easiest way to modify this position is to place a small pillow between your knees to prevent you from crossing your top leg to the mattress. Sleeping on your side also typically leads to shoulder pain so be sure to alternate sides.

Are You a Back Sleeper?

Sleeping on your back is the best position for your spine. It keeps your spine in a neutral position, with your spine and neck in alignment. If you want to make this position even better for your back, tuck a small pillow underneath your knees to elevate them.

Even your posture when you're sleeping matters! So make some of these small changes to your sleeping positions and you'll notice a great improvement in your spine!