Sleeping Positions That Could Be Causing Your Back Pain

If you wake up with back pain, your sleeping position might be to blame. The way you sleep can have a significant impact on your spinal health. Here's a breakdown of common sleep positions and how they might be affecting your back—plus some tips from Tullahoma Spine and Wellness to wake up pain-free.

The Culprits: Problematic Sleep Positions

Stomach Sleeping: Sleeping on your stomach can strain your neck and spine, leading to misalignment. This position forces your neck into an awkward twist and flattens the natural curve of your spine.

Curling up: While curling up with your legs near your stomach might feel cozy, an exaggerated infant-like position can round your back, causing stiffness and discomfort. It's best to keep your spine as straight as possible while sleeping.

Sleep Positions That Help Your Back

Back Sleeping: Sleeping on your back is often considered the best position for spinal alignment. Adding a small pillow under your knees can help maintain the natural curve of your lower back.

Side Sleeping: Sleeping on your side with a pillow between your knees can reduce strain on your lower back and hips. Make sure your head pillow supports your neck and keeps your spine aligned.

To improve your sleep posture, start by investing in a supportive mattress and pillows that are tailored to your specific sleeping position. If you're unsure about your posture or have persistent discomfort, consider booking a visit with us. Our team can help identify and address any imbalances, ensuring better alignment and a more restful night's sleep.

If back pain is keeping you up at night, our team is here to help with personalized care and advice.