Better Sleep With 3 Health Conditions
Snoring, Back Pain, Pregnancy
The Basics
What: Medical view on sleeping position easing snoring, back pain and pregnancy discomfort.
Source: Live Science, Robert Moghim, M.D.
Great For: Dealing with Insomnia, Sleep Improvement, Relaxation, Emotional Health, Anxiety Prevention. Health Improvement, Body Posture, Better Sleep
About
You may believe, like most people, that your sleep posture is just inherent to you and that it can’t be changed. This is not strictly true, but it can be an involved process to train yourself to sleep in a different position. It may take some effort, but if you can achieve a healthier sleep posture that causes you less neck, back or joint pain, it is probably worth it.
However, before you go to all of the pain and trouble of changing your sleep position, you should consider if it is right for you. Yes, some sleep positions have advantages over others, but you should also keep in mind that your sleep quality is a priority. If you sleep longer and feel more rested while sleeping on your back, do you really need to change to a fetal position? You may find that any long-term health benefits you derive from a different sleep posture are outweighed by poorer sleep quality.
Sleeping Positions For Different Conditions
If You Snore
To keep the noise level down at night, side sleeping is best. If you like to sleep on your back, stacking up a few pillows may help. Loud snoring can be a sign that you may have sleep apnea — a condition that stops and restarts your breathing when you sleep. It can lead to stroke, high blood pressure, and heart disease.
If You Have Back Pain
Side sleeping wins for this, too. To take even more pressure off your hips and back, you can put a pillow between your legs. If you’re a back sleeper, you might put one under your knees to keep the natural curve of your back.
If You’re Pregnant
It’s usually more comfortable — and healthier for you and your baby — if you sleep on your side. And the left side may be better, because it may get more blood and nutrients to your baby. If you have back pain, put a pillow under your belly to support the weight. It can also help to bend your knees and put a pillow between your legs.
What About Your Mattress?
A mattress that works with your sleep style and body type can help with many issues. It should be firm enough to support your back and sleep position, but soft enough to fit the shape of your body. This isn’t always easy to figure out.
For the best quality of health, the number of hours you sleep is not the only thing that is important. It is also important to pay attention to your sleeping position. Side sleepers are at the biggest advantage for great sleep and better health, with stomach sleepers being at the biggest disadvantage.
