Does the Way You Sleep Affect Your Spinal Wellness? Tips From Your Tracy Chiropractor

When you choose the best sleeping position, you’ll get more (and higher quality) rest – and also avoid a stiff neck. Sleep is one of the foundations of a healthy life and pain-free existence and everyone has a favorite sleep position. For most people however, varying your sleeping position while maintaining a spine-neutral provides the best support for your spine. Our Tracy chiropractor has tips to help you get your best night's rest while keeping your spine healthy.

Expert Advice on Sleep Posture from Your Tracy Chiropractor

Treating patients with back pain on a daily basis, the team here at Valley Chiropractic Center finds that sports and work injuries and car accidents aren’t the only ways that patients experience spinal discomfort. Here are our top tips for healthy sleep postures:

• Back sleepers: This comfortable position is good for the spine, provided that you properly support your neck with a pillow. Add a pillow under your knees if sleeping on your back brings pain. Back sleeping distributes weight evenly without undue pressure on any particular body area.

• Side sleepers: Keep your ear in line with your shoulders (in a neutral position, as though you’re looking straight ahead) rather than tucking your head and chin downward. Avoid the curled fetal position. Switch sides often and use a pillow between your knees to correct the spine’s position. Use a thicker pillow under your head to maintain whole-body alignment through the neck and spine.

• Stomach sleepers: Try to get out of this habit, since it forces the neck out of alignment, interferes with circulation and puts pressure on the spine. Gradually train yourself to sleep on your side by placing a body pillow next to you in front, so that you won’t roll onto your stomach.

At Valley Chiropractic, we specialize in natural, non-invasive and drug-free treatment, planned around your specific needs. We provide advice on the best sleep positions for you and other lifestyle tips to complement our expert chiropractic care. Your initial consultation is free! Contact us at Valley Chiropractic Center in Tracy, also serving Mountain House and Manteca.

Are you choosing the right sleep position?