Chiropractor Warns Against Front Sleeping
Nowadays, most adults spend a significant amount of time streaming content on a variety of online platforms. Especially if the platform features millions of individual contributors – like TikTok or YouTube – it can be difficult to discern whether the information provided in any given piece of content is factually correct. As a result, those who come across interesting claims may be left with more questions than clarity.
Take, for instance, a recent viral piece of content in which a chiropractor warns against sleeping on one’s stomach (also known as front sleeping). In the viral video, the chiropractor in question insists that if the viewer sleeps flat on their stomach that they need to “stop right now.” Yet, for many people, front sleeping is the most comfortable position for their body type. Is this individual correct? Should front sleeping be avoided even if alternative positions lead to a poorer quality of sleep?
Weighing The Pros And Cons
As an experienced chiropractor – including those who practice at AmeriWell Clinics – can confirm, sleeping in any particular position can result in significant impacts on the body. The primary concern tied to front sleeping is how a person’s neck is positioned when turned to one side for so long. That kind of severe angle can stress and strain both the neck and the upper spine. Interestingly, this position can also stress the lower back. And, if a sleeper is particularly heavy, the position could negatively impact their cardiovascular system.
On the other hand, sleeping on one’s stomach can potentially improve snoring and sleep apnea challenges. It may also be the only comfortable way to sleep when one has a large chest. This position can also be helpful when one has a cold.
How A chiropractor Can Help
No matter how you sleep, your body is impacted by your positioning. You may find that your neck, shoulders, or even your knees suffer due to how you sleep. Thankfully, seeing a chiropractor can potentially help you to alleviate sleep-related aches and pains and may help to improve your sleep overall.
The first step a chiropractor would take when addressing sleep-related challenges involves to identify the root cause of the pain. If you’re having trouble, they can assess your spine and posture to determine if your sleeping position is contributing to your discomfort. This might involve looking at spinal alignment, muscle tension, and joint health.
Chiropractors can provide personalized advice on sleeping positions that would best suit your body’s needs. For instance, if you’re experiencing lower back pain, they might suggest sleeping on your side with a pillow between your knees to maintain spinal alignment. They understand that each person’s body is unique and requires a specific approach.
If you need additional assistance, trough spinal adjustments, chiropractors can realign the spine and relieve pressure on nerves. These adjustments can reduce pain, improve flexibility, and enhance overall well-being. They may also use other treatment methods like massage or recommend stretches to help alleviate discomfort. And beyond adjustments, chiropractors can suggest ergonomic changes to your sleep environment. This might include recommendations on the type of mattress or pillows to use, ensuring they support your spine correctly.
At the end of the day, know that if your sleep positioning is causing pain, a chiropractor can offer a holistic approach to alleviate discomfort.