Experts explained: Which is the healthiest sleeping position?
In the study, conducted in England with the support of health organization Benenden Health, one in five participants said they did not believe their sleep habits had an impact on their overall health.
However, according to experts, incorrect sleeping positions can lead to serious problems in the spine, joints and nervous system. Dr. Cheryl Lythgoe from Benenden Health states that the most suitable sleeping position, especially for those who snore or have sleep apnea, is to sleep on the side. Also, for those who have heartburn or digestive problems, sleeping on the left side stands out as the healthiest option.
Lying on Your Face Causes Serious Health ProblemsDr. Lythgoe warns that sleeping on your stomach can put excessive pressure on your spine, neck and back, which can lead to chronic pain and respiratory problems. Similarly, sleeping in a very tight fetal position can disrupt the spine’s natural alignment, which can negatively impact sleep quality. The health organization’s chief physiotherapist, Jordan Dehara, also emphasizes the importance of using pillows to reduce pressure on your body while sleeping. Lying in a fetal position with a pillow between your legs or sleeping on your back with a pillow under your knees can reduce the pressure on your waist and hips. It is also emphasized that choosing the right pillow is critical for neck and spine health.
MOST PEOPLE WHO WAKE UP WITH PAIN DO NOT SEEK A SOLUTIONAccording to the study, 40 percent of participants wake up in the morning with complaints of aches, pains and stiffness. The most common complaints include neck stiffness (31 percent), muscle pain (29 percent) and headache (15 percent). However, 70 percent of participants have never sought any treatment or solution for these problems. Of those who sought treatment, 40 percent preferred regular exercise, while 34 percent turned to over-the-counter painkillers. In contrast, only 14 percent had seen a health professional about sleep-related pain.
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