That “go-to” sleeping position that feels so “comfy” could be a “major risk” for your long-term health. A chiropractor and spine specialist has singled out two very common postures that can lead to chronic pain. The expert explained that sleep is when your body is supposed to recover, but a bad position can put uneven pressure on the spine, disrupting its alignment and straining nerves.
The specialist warned that the consequences of a poor sleep posture are serious. What starts as minor morning stiffness can, over time, develop into chronic back and neck pain and even a lasting posture imbalance. Your energy levels and overall well-being are directly linked to the quality of your rest, which is determined by your posture.
The first “cozy” but costly position is stomach sleeping. The expert described this as “unnatural” because it forces you to twist your neck to one side, straining muscles and compressing nerves. It also causes the lower back to arch excessively, putting undue stress on the lumbar region.
The second is the tight fetal position. The expert noted that while it “feels super comfortable,” tucking your knees tightly to your chest “rounds the spine too much.” This C-shape over-stretches the back muscles, tightens the hip flexors, and restricts deep breathing, which can lead to decreased flexibility and chronic mid-back pain.
The best sleeping position, according to the specialist, is one that maintains the spine’s natural, neutral curve. He recommends lying on your back with a small pillow under your knees to support the lower back, or on your side with a supportive pillow between your legs to align the hips. These positions distribute weight evenly and prevent strain.