Night after night, your body gets into the same sleep position for hours. And how you slumber really does make a difference. Why is that? If your neck is strained or your spine isn’t properly supported, you may wake up with headaches, back pain, or even long-term posture issues.
Sleep on Your Side? Be Sure to Do It Right
“Sleeping on your side can be great for your spine – if done correctly. Use a pillow that keeps your head level with your shoulders, so your neck stays in line with the rest of your spine. A pillow between your knees can prevent hip rotation and ease pressure on your lower back,” says Dr Sam Dona (Chiropractor). Body pillows also offer added comfort and help you stay in place throughout the night.
Staying Neutral Is Key for Back Sleepers
If you’re a back sleeper, aim for a neutral posture. That means your head isn’t tilted too far forward or back. A low, supportive pillow under your neck – and sometimes one under your knees – helps maintain a healthy curve in your spine. Avoid stacking multiple pillows, which can strain your neck and disrupt your slumber.
Shut-eye Positions to Avoid
While snoozing on your stomach may feel comfortable initially, it forces your neck into an awkward twist and flattens the spine’s natural curves. If you regularly wake up with pain or discomfort, your mattress or pillow could also be to blame. Look for signs like sagging, uneven support, or neck strain.
Small Helpful Habits
There are some simple and easy ways to improve your sleep posture. Try changing one thing at a time – like replacing your pillow or altering your snoozing position – and give your body time to adapt to the change. Even those little adjustments can make a massive difference in how you feel each morning.
Get the Restorative Rest You Need
Wondering if your sleep setup could use some fine-tuning? The best way to find out is to book a posture check or ask us about personalised tips during your next visit to Back2Health Chiropractic.