If you notice aches and pains upon waking up, your sleeping position could be part of the problem. Poor posture during slumber could cause or worsen back or neck pain. Any position that puts your neck at an unnatural angle can put pressure on it, causing strains. The same goes for the back: failure to support the spine’s natural curvature can cause discomfort. While it’s always a good idea to seek professional chiropractic care for persistent pain, here are some sleep positions you can try in the meantime. 

3 Sleep Positions to Help Prevent Aches & Pains

1. On the Back

Sleeping on your back helps proper alignment of your spine, head, neck, shoulders, mid back, low back and hips, therefore promoting spinal health. If you are a back sleeper, there is one simple enhancement you can make for better support of the back’s natural curve: place a small pillow beneath your legs, just under your knees. Also, look for a pillow that supports your head without propping it up too high to keep the spine neutral and prevent neck pain. 

2. On the side

If you find sleeping on your back uncomfortable, side sleeping is a favorable alternative – with some modifications. Traditional side sleeping can cause discomfort because the top leg pulls and stresses the lower back and hips. Fortunately, this issue can be easily remedied with a pillow. Consider placing a pillow with medium firmness between your knees to keep the low back and hips in a neutral position.

3. In the Fetal Position

Laying in the fetal position the spine and muscles are stretched, which could help people with back pain. This option is similar to side sleeping, but the legs are drawn in, opening up the back joints more, taking pressure off of the nerves. If you find this position comfortable, just be sure to use a pillow with medium firmness to support your head to avoid neck pain. Also put a pillow between your legs, same as side sleeping position.

Sleep is only one factor that can cause or aggravate back and neck pain. For a comprehensive approach to managing your discomfort, turn to Heartland Family Chiropractic, PLLC. Located in Elizabethtown, KY, this trusted practice has been serving the community for two decades. They offer personalized treatment programs to help patients minimize pain and improve their quality of life. Learn more about their approach online or call (270) 234-8880 to schedule an appointment.