Your spine “hates” two very common sleeping positions, according to a specialist in spine alignment. A chiropractor has identified stomach sleeping and the tight fetal position as the two worst ways to rest, explaining that they can lead to chronic pain. He emphasized that sleep is when your body is meant to recover, but these postures can create uneven pressure, misalign the spine, and strain nerves.
The specialist warned that this is not just a temporary issue. “If one continues to sleep in poor posture for longer periods,” he stated, “it may… result in chronic back and neck pain and even a posture imbalance.” This highlights the importance of choosing a healthy sleeping posture.
The first position your spine “hates” is stomach sleeping. The specialist explained that this forces you to twist your neck to one side for hours. This strains neck muscles and can compress nerves, leading to stiffness or tingling. He also noted that this “unnatural” position causes the lower back to arch, stressing the lumbar region.
The second is the tight fetal pose. The expert noted that while it “feels super comfortable,” tucking your knees tightly to your chest “rounds the spine too much.” This over-stretches the back muscles, tightens the hip flexors, and restricts deep breathing, a combination that can lead to chronic mid-back pain.
The best way to make your spine “happy,” according to the expert, is to maintain its natural curve. He recommends lying on your back with a small pillow under your knees, or on your side with a supportive pillow between your legs. These positions distribute weight evenly, prevent strain, and allow for a truly restorative night’s sleep.