That “go-to” sleeping position that feels so “comfy” could be a “major risk” for your long-term health. A chiropractor and spine specialist has singled out two very common postures that can lead to chronic pain. The expert explained that sleep is when your body is supposed to recover, but a bad position can put uneven pressure on the spine, disrupting its alignment and straining nerves.
The specialist warned that the consequences of a poor sleep posture are serious. What starts as minor morning stiffness can, over time, develop into chronic back and neck pain and even a lasting posture imbalance. Your energy levels and overall well-being are directly linked to the quality of your rest, which is determined by your posture.
The first position to be avoided is sleeping on your stomach. The specialist cautioned that this “unnatural” posture forces you to twist your neck to one side for hours. This sustained rotation strains neck muscles and can compress nerves in the cervical spine. It also causes the lower back to arch excessively, putting undue stress on the lumbar region.
The second risky posture is the tight fetal position. The expert noted that many people “tuck their knees tightly to their chest, thinking it’s cozy.” However, this “rounds the spine too much.” This over-stretches the back muscles, tightens the hip flexors, and restricts deep breathing. This combination can, over time, decrease flexibility and lead to chronic mid-back pain.
The best way to sleep, according to the specialist, is to maintain the spine’s natural curve. He recommends lying on your back with a small pillow under your knees to support the lower back, or on your side with a supportive pillow between your legs to align the hips. These positions distribute weight evenly, prevent strain, and allow you to wake up refreshed.