Pros and Cons of Different Sleep Positions

Do you usually sleep on your side? Or do you prefer to sleep on your stomach or back? Maybe you like to switch up your sleeping position from time to time or even from night to night. While most people regard sleep position as being purely about personal preference, it can actually have a bearing on your health — especially if you suffer from sleep apnea in Melbourne. Let’s talk about the pros and cons of the three most popular sleeping positions.

Side

Doctors often recommend side sleeping because it minimizes apneas (periods of not breathing throughout the night). It can also help to keep acid reflux under control. Sleeping on your left side offers even more benefits than sleeping on your right because it can aid digestion and help to regulate bowel movements.

The few downsides to side sleeping relate to spine and muscle alignment. Sleeping in a fetal position can cause neck and back pain, and some people find that side sleeping causes shoulder aches. To keep your spine in a neutral position, elongate your legs and put a pillow between your knees. Trying out different types of pillows for your head may help you find one that has a positive effect on shoulder discomfort.

Stomach

Sleeping on your stomach can make gravity work in your favor. Just like side sleeping, it can prevent the muscles in the throat from collapsing and causing disruptions in breathing. However, be wary if you choose to sleep on your stomach. It can cause neck pain because you will have to twist your head to breathe properly. Also, because most of your weight is in the middle of your body, stomach sleeping can lead to back pain.

Back

If you have a good mattress and pillow, sleeping on your back can benefit your spinal alignment and help you avoid the shoulder soreness that sometimes comes with side sleeping. However, back sleeping is not recommended for individuals with sleep apnea or who require snoring treatment in Melbourne. When you sleep on your back, the muscles in your throat are more likely to block your upper airway and lead to breathing problems and snoring.

If you are currently a back sleeper, you may be able to train yourself to sleep on your side by attaching a tennis ball to your back every night until you are used to your new sleeping position. Or, if you wish to continue sleeping on your back, you might prop your head up with pillows or invest in an adjustable bed that you can use to elevate your head.

Your sleep position makes a difference! Use the above information to make smart choices about how you arrange your body when you go to bed each night.

About the Author

Dr. Kenneth Mogell is a dentist with decades of experience. He is also a Diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine who specializes in helping patients find relief from obstructive sleep apnea. If you would like to talk with him about how you can enhance the quality of your sleep, contact our Melbourne office at 321-313-5350.