Did you know that your sleeping position has some health effects? Health researchers and doctors claim that sleeping positions are essential since they do affect your health.
Each sleeping style, whether on your stomach, back or side, have effects such as neck pain, back pain, snoring, symptoms of sleep apnea, and other medical conditions. Exploring the effects of different sleeping positions on your health might provide you with an ideal sleeping position.
What Effects Do Sleep Positions Have on Your Health
Sleeping on Your Side
This is the most preferred sleeping position due to the comfort it gives. Fortunately, sleeping on your side does not result in severe health issues. Most sleep therapists recommend this lateral posture as it prevents back, neck, and shoulder pain. If you sleep in this position and experience chronic neck or upper back pain, it’s time to get a pillow or a more supportive mattress.
If you are struggling with Sleep apnea, sleep on your side; this way, you won’t restrict your airway, and your body will relax, giving you a peaceful sleep. To a pregnant woman, during the second and the third trimester, sleeping on your side will improve your kidney function and improve blood circulation to the placenta and the entire body, preventing your feet and legs from swelling. Also, if you have arthritis, GERD, back and neck complications, sleep on your side.
When sleeping on your side, straighten your legs and chest relatively and ensure your spine is elongated in a natural alignment. A firm pillow for neck and head support comes in handy. To ease the pressure on your lower back, place a pillow between your legs to support your hips, pelvic and lower back.
Sleeping on Your Stomach
Despite some studies indicating that sleeping on your stomach might prevent sleep apnea and ease digestion, it remains the worst sleeping position. When your head is raised, your spine strains. Sleeping on your stomach exerts pressure on your lower back, forcing your neck to turn at an unnatural angle, risking your spine.
If you sleep on your stomach frequently, you risk your nerve system. You might experience numbness, tingling sensation, or extreme pains. Your blood circulation might also reduce since the size of your airway might be reduced.
Sleeping on Your Back
Sleeping on your back is a common sleeping position. Although it has risks, such as obstructive sleep apnea, this is due to the relaxation of the tongue and soft tissues in the throat, which are likely to pull down the airway. Obstructive sleep apnea is expected to affect overweights or those with ineptitude to attain restorative sleep.
Sleeping on your back allows the spine to maintain a natural position; this prevents shoulder, back, and neck pain. If you want to avoid acid reflux in this position, elevate your head using a pillow.
To eliminate chances of experiencing lower back pains, prop up your knees using a medium-sized pillow or a soft pillow to support your neck. This will reduce the strain and discomfort on your lower back.
Sleeping in a Fetal Position
Although people have normalized sleeping in a fetal position, it is highly discouraged. The extreme curvature required to sleep in this position causes discomfort and strain in the back and neck. Curling limits the diaphragm’s space which will restrict your breathing which is unhealthy.
Adopt a Sleep Position That is Good For Your Health
As much as the number of hours you sleep is essential, your sleeping position is equally crucial since it plays a significant role in achieving quality health. You have probably noticed that sleeping on your side is substantial for great sleep and better health through the article. Make a better choice on your sleeping position and avoid regrets later.
