Chiropractic for Back Sleepers
By Amy Silva
If you ask people what the best position for sleeping is, you're likely to hear that sleeping on your back is the best. While that may be true for some, it isn't true for everyone. Being comfortable is important for a restful night to feel refreshed in the morning, but even if one part of your body benefits from sleeping on your back, another part may suffer. Trying different techniques may help, as well as seeking the help of a chiropractor to help with your posture, including sleep posture.
Benefits and Risks of Sleeping on Your Back
One benefit of sleeping on your back is it lowers the pressure put on the spine, whereas other positions can cause compression resulting in more back pain. For some, such as stomach sleepers who are used to having their heads turned while they sleep, it may help reduce or eliminate neck pain. It's possible it can help lower the frequency of certain types of headaches.
As for the downsides to sleeping on your back, there are a few. If you experience pain in your neck or spine upon waking in the morning, lying on your back while sleeping could be part of the problem. Other risks of back sleeping are that it can cause snoring and isn't the best option for those who have sleep apnea, as it can make breathing more difficult due to the neck being bent.
Tips for Making Sleeping on Your Back Comfortable
- Positions - Try putting your limbs in different positions. If your legs are typically straight, bend them and put a pillow under your knees.
- Support - Consider replacing your mattress if it's older and be sure your pillow is made for back sleepers and isn't too flat. Use more than one pillow if necessary.
- Chiropractic - Seeking chiropractic care for neck and back pain could allow for more restful evenings.
How Chiropractic Care Can Help
If you suffer from pain due to your positions while sleeping, seeking chiropractic care may reduce or even eliminate your pain. An assessment will provide more insight as to whether it's from sleeping or another issue. They can provide additional tips, use manual manipulation or other techniques to get you back to sleeping like a baby.
Sleeping on your back can cause pain in the neck, back or other areas for some people. See the chiropractors at The Joint for an assessment. It could help ease your pain and prevent it from coming back. They're open evenings and weekends for your convenience and no appointment is necessary.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Reno, Nev.