We all know that everyone has their own favorite sleeping position. The hard reality is that some positions are safer than others. Below, Drs. Marco and Paolo De Ciantis will discuss the 3 most common sleep positions and how they can affect you!
Stomach Sleeping:
In general, sleeping on your stomach is the worst position. In order to breathe, your head has to be placed in a rotated and possibly extended position (if you’re using a pillow while sleeping) for a prolonged period. Over time, this rotated and extended position can result in muscle-tendon or even ligament injury resulting in a strain or sprain, respectively. In extreme scenarios, this position can even result in neck, upper back and even shoulder joint irritation or injury. While some may love to sleep on their stomach, it should be avoided.
Back Sleeping:
This is one of the safest sleeping position! In this position the body is allowed to maintain a natural anatomical position with the head being supported by a pillow and the back (upper and lower) supported by the mattress.
Side Sleeping:
Side sleeping is a double-edged sword having good and bad qualities. Sideline sleeping is great for individuals who are suffering from low back or pelvic pain. If you’re suffering from either, sleeping on your side (painful side up) with a small pillow placed between your knees (hips and knees flexed) can facilitate sleep and may alleviate some pain. This position can even assist those suffering from shoulder pain. Sleeping with the painful shoulder up and a small pillow between your elbow and rib cage can help. Over time, this position could also lead to joint or muscular discomfort so, if performed, it should be alternated with back sleeping in order to reduce the likelihood of injury.
If you should have any questions regarding sleeping positions, feel free to e-mail or call Drs. Marco and Paolo De Ciantis. Happy sleeping!