Many people wake up stiff or with back pain without realising their sleep posture may be contributing. Fatema Contractor, consultant osteopath and director at The Health Suite Leicester, explains that some common sleeping positions can place unnecessary strain on the spine.
“Sleeping on your stomach is particularly problematic,” Contractor says. “It flattens the natural curve of your spine and twists your neck to breathe, which can lead to stiffness and long-term discomfort.”
She highlights other risky positions:
Tightly curled fetal positions or uneven side sleeping can twist the spine and pelvis, creating pressure on the lower back and hips.
Flat back sleeping without support — lying on your back with no pillow under your knees or with a high pillow under your head — can increase lumbar strain.
Contractor advises simple adjustments to protect spinal alignment: “For side sleepers, place a pillow between your knees. For back sleepers, a pillow under your knees helps maintain the natural curve of your lower back. Small changes can make a big difference in reducing morning stiffness and chronic back issues.”
By being mindful of sleeping posture and using supportive bedding, patients can often prevent or alleviate back discomfort without invasive interventions.
Click here to read the original article in Huffington Post.