When you switch off the light and curl up to sleep, you instinctively snuggle down on your side, back or front. But, might one sleep position be better than another?
How you sleep is less important when you are young and healthy. However if you are older, or have medical issues, it can become key to physical wellbeing.
By shifting sleep position, you may be able to relieve back pain, help your digestion, turn down the volume on snoring and more.
Back, neck and hip pain
If you suffer from lower back pain, it may help to sleep on your back as this position does the best job of keeping the spine in good alignment.
If your neck is stiff, sleeping face down may make the pain worse a you’ll have to turn your head to one side, which twists your neck and moves it out of alignment. This position may also lead to arm and shoulder pain so it’s wiser to lie on your back.
If you have hip pain, try sleeping on your side with a pillow between your knees to help with hip alignment.
Sleeping on your back also can help to take the pressure off your hips. However, make sure your mattress is firm enough to prevent the hips from sinking in.
Asthma, colds and flu
Asthmatic? Research recommends you sleep on your side, as this position supports your respiratory tract and makes breathing easier. However, make sure you sleep on your left side as leeping on the right increases resistance in the airways of your lungs as you breathe in and out during the night.
Sleeping on your back is also a good choice, but only if you elevate your neck and shoulders with two or more pillows help to open up your airways.
You may want to avoid sleeping on your stomach. While some people find stomach sleeping to be comforting, this position does not allow free airflow into your lungs while you’re asleep.
Snoring and sleep apnea
Snoring may not worry you, but if you have a partner, then it definitely may give them a sleepless night!
Move to sleeping on your side or stomach to help keep the airways open which cuts snoring and alleviates mild sleep apnea. Obstructive sleep apnea causes the airways to collapse during sleep, leading to pauses in breathing, and sometimes waking up with a start.
The side position is also recommended for asthmatics, as it opens up your airways and makes it easier to breathe.
Date Published: 29 August 2022
