The way you sleep can impact your health and sleep quality, according to sleep scientist Dr. Kat Lederle. She explains that some people may not have a preferred sleep position, while others do, and this can change over time.
Sleeping in certain positions can cause or worsen health issues. For instance, sleeping on your front can lead to neck, hip, or back pain due to misalignment of the spine. This position can also cause tension on the neck as the head is usually turned to one side. Additionally, sleeping on your back can worsen sleep apnoea, a condition that causes breathing difficulties during sleep.
Dr. Lederle suggests that those who experience shoulder pain from sleeping on their side could use special pillows placed between the knees to keep the body aligned and reduce pressure on the shoulder. For those with neck pain, a flatter pillow might be beneficial to keep the neck, spine, and hip aligned.
Sleeping on your stomach all night can lead to neck pain and potentially stomach issues like acid reflux. People with chronic pain can have restless sleep as they try to find a comfortable position. This restlessness can reduce the amount of deep, restorative sleep they get, leading to a cycle of poor sleep and increased pain sensitivity.
Pregnant people may find it more comfortable to sleep on their left side, as this can relieve tension and pressure. This position is also recommended for people with acid reflux.
However, Dr. Lederle emphasizes that there are no strict rules about sleep positions. What’s important is not to stress about it, as this can lead to poor sleep. She also notes that there’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to mattresses, duvets, and pillows, as everyone has different body shapes and preferences. She recommends trying out a mattress before buying to ensure it’s the right fit.
