One of the most common phrases we hear in our Rochester, NY chiropractic office is “I woke up this way” or “I must have slept funny”. Usually there is a different perpetuating factor that caused the pain and discomfort but sometimes it can truly be from “sleeping funny”.
When it comes to waking up with pain, we need to take a look at your sleeping position. Sleeping on your back is ideal but sleeping on your side is also fine. Stomach sleepers have a higher incidence of low back pain due to the pressure that the position places on the spine.
Due to the majority of our body weight being in the trunk and torso, sleeping on your stomach causes your stomach to sink into the mattress which then extends your spine, causing compression to the joints. Stomach sleeping also forces you to turn your head to the side; this position places stress on the joints and muscles of the neck and upper back.
Sleeping on your side is fine as long as you have a pillow that is supportive yet comfortable and keeps your head in a neutral position (like the Tri-Core pillows we have in our Rochester, NY office). Keeping your head as straight and neutral as possible keeps the joints in line and muscles relaxed. Placing a pillow between your knees can help to alleviate pressure on your hips and lower back as well.
Back sleeping is the ideal sleeping position. If you have a pillow like our Tri-Core pillow that has a crevice for your head and a support for under your neck, your neck is in the optimal position. The support under your neck helps to keep your neck in its natural slightly curved position. Placing a pillow under your knees also helps to rotate your pelvis and take the pressure off the lower back.
If you are having trouble positioning yourself while sleeping, waking up with pain, or are interested in our Tri-Core pillows, give our office a call! Your Rochester, NY chiropractor, Rush-Henrietta Family Chiropractic has all the tools you need to get a good night’s sleep!
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