Canada ranks third on the list of most sleep deprived companies. For this reason, it is important that when we do get some sleep, we should be in a proper sleeping position. This is not just so you’d be more relaxed but for your overall well-being. After all, it is when we sleep that our bodies and minds get to reset and recover from all the daily stressful activities we go through.

Having ideal sleep patterns at night can really help in your journey to achieving optimal health. It is not just making sure that you get the recommended six to eight hours of sleep at night, but also ensuring that your position will not cause you any discomfort or pain. There is actually no one specific position that is best for everyone as there are factors to be considered like body types as well as health conditions. Important things like the mattress and pillows used should also be considered. It is always best to ask professionals like Dr. Serrick for advice if you have questions regarding your specific needs.

But to give you an idea, here are some helpful tips for you:

For Back Sleepers

For the average person, the most optimal sleeping position is probably flat on the back. It may sound easy but to be sleeping on the back is actually among the hardest positions to adopt for many, but it’s definitely worth your effort. For one, sleeping in this position distributes your body weight evenly so it minimizes pressure points while increasing surface area at the same time. Your stress level could be decreased by lying flat on your back. It also aligns your entire body.

For Side-Sleepers

The sleep on your side is your second best option. But it is important that you are not excessively bending forward or curving your spine backward. You should use a pillow with adequate height so your neck won’t be side bent too low or too high. Do not use a pillow between your head and your shoulder to achieve height that’s just right. Just use one neck pillow instead of two. Also, you should not sleep on an outstretched shoulder overhead because it can lead to injury. You can try sleeping with a pillow between your knees and another one between your arms. This will help you achieve and maintain optimal alignment of the body. It is better if you can alternate sides to improve balance for joints and muscles. Take care that you do not sleep in the fetal position, however, as this position makes a C-shape of your spine, which puts you at risk of some spinal and shoulder problems.

For Stomach-Sleepers

Of all the sleeping postures, sleeping on your stomach is the worst of all. This is because this position forces the neck into an unnatural rotation, as well as pushes your back to excessively curve. That puts too much stress on your muscles and joints. If you really can’t help sleeping on your stomach, you should at least place a pillow right under the hips. It’s also a good idea to buy a pillow with a face outlet.

Finding the right sleep position can help reduce stress on your joints and those sensitive segments in your hips and shoulders. When you are in an anatomically correct position when you sleep, there would be less tossing and turning and you get to sleep deeper. Remember that the body does its tissue regeneration during sleep and when you are in a proper position, you can expect the best outcomes. If you want to know more about how sleep ergonomics can affect your health and how you can improve your overall back health, schedule an appointment with Dr. Serrick of Back in Balance today!