Which Sleeping Positions Best Protect Your Spine?

Do you feel electric back pain as soon as you wake up each morning? An immediate sense of exhaustion and strain encompasses your body because you know you have had a bad night’s rest. Your sleeping position might be affecting your spine. No, this striking back pain is probably not caused by a serious medical condition. Instead, it may be prompted by stress, strain due to poor posture, or improper sleeping positions.

Here are a few sleeping positions that can help relieve your back pain, leading to an improved night’s sleep.

Sleep on your side with a pillow between your knees

Sleeping on your side alone will not make your back pain go away. Try resting the pillow between your knees. The pillow will keep your hips, pelvis, and spine aligned so that you are not putting pressure on your back.

Sleep on your side in the fetal position

If you have a herniated disc, this position will help you get right to sleep. Lay down on your side and tuck your knees toward your chest. Your torso will be curled toward your knees. When herniation happens, part of a disc pushes out of its normal place, potentially causing nerve pain. Curling your torso will open space between vertebrae.

Sleep on your stomach with a pillow under your abdomen

When sleeping on your stomach, try placing a pillow under your lower abdomen. This position is typically recommended for people who have degenerative disc disease. It can relieve stress that lingers between your discs.

Sleep on your back with a pillow under your knees

Lay on your back and place a pillow under your knees to sustain your lower back’s curvature. When sleeping on your back, your weight will be distributed evenly. Additionally, your spine will be better aligned with your internal organs.

Alignment

Remember that no matter what position you sleep in, keeping the proper alignment of your spine is the most important thing. Try to always keep your ears, shoulders, and hips aligned with each other. Placing pillows beneath these key spots will help maintain your spine’s alignment.

If these tips were not enough to completely eliminate your back pain, you can talk to one of our spine specialists at Spine Solutions. We specialize in laser spine surgery, minimally invasive spinal surgery, disc replacement, and herniated disc repair. Contact our team today to make an appointment.