POOR SLEEPING POSTURE CAN LEAD TO A RUDE AWAKENING
by Jodi Rarey, OSCA Director of Public and Legislative Affairs
If you wake up tired, stiff or with a pain in the back or in one of your limbs,
you may be the victim of poor sleeping posture.
Most people are not aware that they have poor sleeping posture and, as a result,
may wake up experiencing aches and pains without knowing the reason behind them.
People spend as much time sleeping each day as they do working. Most people
wouldn't think of sitting or standing in an awkward position for six to nine hours, but
many people do the equivalent or worse by sleeping in an awkward position.
Poor posture habits during sleep are more difficult to break than habits performed
during the waking hours. The Ohio State Chiropractic Association has compiled a list
of helpful tips to attain and maintain good sleeping posture. The suggestions include:
- Pick out a good mattress. The mattress you sleep on should be comfortable, but
should be firm enough to give well-balanced support.
- Don't sleep on your stomach. Low back and neck problems are compounded by
sleeping on your abdomen. The best position for sleeping is on your side with both
knees bent slightly.
- Select a good pillow. It could be the answer to many neck problems. Sleeping without
a pillow is a sure way to develop discomfort in the neck. Pillows that are too thick
are as harmful as pillows that are too thin.
- Don't use your arm for a pillow. People who sleep on their abdomens have a
tendency to use their arms for head support. This cuts off circulation and places a
great deal of stress on the arms, shoulders and upper back. It is not recommended
to sleep with the arms or hands tucked under any part of your body.
- Have periodic spinal examinations. Checkups of the spine and nervous system are
important in order to maintain the structural integrity of your body. Don't let
spinal pain keep you from getting adequate sleep.
- Along with sleeping in the proper positions, the OSCA recommends a daily regimen
of regular exercise and proper diet to enhance and ensure a long satisfying life.
For more information,
contact your local chiropractic physician today.
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