Improve Sleep to Improve Health

By Brandi Swieter 

The way a person sleeps can have a huge impact on health, even if people don’t realize it. There are proper and improper ways to sleep that can determine whether or not someone is getting a good night’s rest. By improving the way you sleep, you can improve your health and well-being.

Sleep on the Side, Not the Stomach

Many people prefer to sleep on their stomachs, touting the position as being the most comfortable. Though it may feel comfortable at the time, stomach sleeping is actually one of the worst for the body. It allows pain in the neck to set in easier, which can travel to the back as well. It’s better to sleep on your side or back to keep the spine aligned.

Don’t Sleep With Too Many Pillows

Some individuals prefer to sleep with at least two pillows under their head or have one large fluffy pillow for comfort. This practice should be avoided. It’s best to use one thin pillow that only elevates the head slightly if on the back, and keeps the head level with the spine if on the side. If the neck and shoulders are raised too high, the spine is no longer aligned. This can lead to neck and upper back pain easily.

Update Your Mattress

Mattresses need to be replaced every five to 10 years, on average. If a person knows their mattress has surpassed that limit, then it’s time to find a new one. It’s also important to update before the time limit is up if there is a large indentation in one spot. Shoulder, hip, and lower back pain are all highly possible in this instance.

Kick the Pet Out of Bed

Studies show that more than half of pet owners allow their furry friends to sleep in bed with them. This practice should be avoided, as most tend to end up in uncomfortable positions when their pets take over the bed. It’s better for people if their pets find somewhere else to sleep so they can remain in the correct, comfortable positions throughout the night.

Improving sleep is one of the first steps toward improving health. Anyone who still finds themselves having difficulty sleeping, or waking up in pain, can visit The Joint Chiropractic for an assessment. With walk-in hours, individuals can head in when they have the time.

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Gold River, Calif.

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