Chiropractic for Stomach Sleepers
By Amy Silva
Many stomach sleepers have been sleeping in the same position for such a long time that no other position feels comfortable. Sleeping on the stomach is the worst position for your spine because it makes it bend in an unnatural way but trying a few things to help ease discomfort and seeing a chiropractor may help.
Benefits and Risks of Sleeping on Your Stomach
Sleeping on your stomach doesn't have many benefits, but if you're prone to snoring it could help you stop. This could lead to a happier spouse if that's a complaint of theirs. For those with sleep apnea, sleeping on their stomach is an option that may help, but it's not without risks.
If you must sleep on your stomach because you're just not comfortable on your back or side, you may experience frequent back or neck pain. It's unnatural for the spine to be in the position it's in when someone lies on their stomach to sleep, so it's no wonder it can cause discomfort and pain in many cases. If you also have your head facing the side, you're putting pressure on your neck. It's even possible that sleeping on your stomach can lead to a herniated disk, which is a pain no one wants.
Tips for Sleeping Comfortably on Your Stomach
- Support - If possible, stop using a pillow so your head lies flat, or buy a flat pillow specifically for stomach sleepers as opposed to thicker ones that are made for other positions. This could help reduce or eliminate neck pain. You can also put a pillow under your lower torso which might help with lower back pain.
- Position - Try changing your position by having your legs straight down rather than one bent, which can add pressure to the spine.
- Chiropractic - If you just can't ease the pain, consider seeing a chiropractor who may be able to give additional tips.
How Chiropractic Care Can Help
A chiropractor could help alleviate pain associated with sleeping on your stomach. Stomach sleepers may unknowingly contribute to their spine being out of alignment even if they are mindful of their posture throughout the day. Manual manipulation or other techniques performed by a professional chiropractor may get you feeling better and allow for more restful sleep by easing pain in your back, neck, or other areas of the body.
Sleeping on your stomach isn't the best choice in sleeping positions, but if you must, try switching pillows and sleeping with one underneath of you. See the chiropractors at The Joint for an assessment to find out if they can help the pain you're experiencing due to sleeping on your stomach.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Denver, Colo.