Healthy days are a direct result of healthy nights, and the position in which you sleep can have a dramatic effect on your well-being, mood and productivity.

You spend about eight hours a night on your mattress, so it’s bound to have an effect one way or another. Let’s explore the pros and cons of each sleeping position and help you find the best sleeping position for a perfect night’s sleep.

Back Sleepers

Pros: Sleeping on your back can be great for spinal alignment; it keeps the head and neck in a generally neutral position which can prevent neck pain. Sleeping on your back can also help reduce face wrinkles since you are not pressing your face against a pillow all night.

Cons: For people who snore or suffer from sleep apnea, sleeping on your back can exacerbate these.   When we sleep on our backs, gravity forces the base of the tongue to collapse into the airway, which obstructs breathing and creates oh-so-pleasant snoring noises that keeps the neighbors up at night.

Side Sleepers

Pros: Side sleeping is by far the most common sleeping position.  Whether it’s curled up in the fetal position or stretched out in log position there are many benefits from side sleeping.   Sleeping on your left side is recommended as it can boost digestion and alleviate acid reflux.  Pregnant women are encouraged to sleep on their left side. 

Cons:  One of the downsides of side sleeping is the dreaded arm numbness.  Placing the arm behind the head is a common position but it can adversely affect muscles and nerves.  Left side sleeping can put strain on the heart and lungs so it is recommended that you alternate sides throughout the night.

Stomach Sleepers

Pros: Stomach sleeping alleviates snoring and some cases of sleep apnea but that’s the only benefit.

Cons: Sleeping on your stomach is probably the worst sleeping position, especially if you have back problems. It flattens the natural curve of the spine, which can lead to lower back pain. Plus, sleeping all night with your head turned to one side will strain the neck. If you do prefer this position, try sticking a pillow under the hips and lower abdomen to give the bottom of the spine a lift. 

The Bottom Line

Sleeping positions are personal preference.  Listen to your body as to what position is best for you.  Always remember your pillow and mattress should not be overlooked and be sure you are sleeping on the best mattress and pillow for your body.  Come by or call our office at (910) 246-0606 and checkout our Pillowise pillows.  We can measure you to find the right pillow for you and your sleeping position!!

Posted in Common Conditions

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