How does sleeping position affect your health?

A good night's sleep depends largely on your sleeping position, which can affect your spine alignment and overall body comfort. While there is no "perfect" position for everyone, individual needs and health conditions play a major role in determining the best position.

Most sleeping positions are healthy, but spinal support is still crucial to avoid waking up with neck, shoulder or back pain, explains Miranda McPhillips, a nursing professor at Villanova University in Pennsylvania, according to a report by USA Today.

For some people, a certain sleeping position is essential. For example, people with sleep apnea should avoid sleeping on their backs, as this can cause airway problems and difficulty breathing.

Sleeping on their side is the best option for them, and it is also the same position recommended for pregnant women, as it improves blood flow and reduces pressure on the liver. As for infants, they should sleep on their backs to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome.

Sleeping on your side is generally healthy and can reduce snoring, heartburn, and back pain. However, not having the spine properly supported while sleeping on your side can lead to discomfort. A pillow can be placed between your knees to help align your spine and relieve pressure on your hips.

Sleeping on your back is good for aligning your spine and reducing congestion if your head is slightly elevated, but it's not suitable for people with sleep apnea or during pregnancy. Sleeping on your stomach, while it may reduce snoring, can put strain on your spine and increase neck and back pain.

To find the best sleeping position, McPhillips suggests improving sleep quality by practicing good sleep habits, such as keeping your bedroom temperature cool, avoiding caffeine and electronics before bed, and sticking to a regular sleep schedule. If you continue to have sleep problems, it’s a good idea to consult a medical professional.

Source: American Press