A specialist in spine alignment has come out strongly against stomach sleeping, explaining that it “strains the neck” and “arches the back” in ways that are highly detrimental to your health. A chiropractor and osteopathic specialist identified this as one of the two worst positions for your spine.
The expert detailed the problem, stating that stomach sleeping “makes you have to twist your neck to one side for an extended period.” This prolonged rotation can strain neck muscles and compress the nerves in the cervical spine, leading to stiffness, pain, or tingling in the arms.
Furthermore, the specialist elaborated that this “unnatural” position causes “the lower back to arch in an unnatural direction.” This puts undue stress on the lumbar region, and “many people who sleep in such a position develop stiffness in the neck and lower back.”
The specialist also warned against the tight fetal position, noting that it “rounds the spine too much.” This posture over-stretches back muscles, tightens hip flexors, and restricts deep breathing, leading to its own set of problems, including chronic mid-back pain.
The best way to sleep, the specialist advised, is to maintain the spine’s 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 neutral positions distribute weight evenly and prevent the strain caused by these “bad” postures.
“Strains the Neck, Arches the Back”: Expert Slams Stomach Sleeping
