
How Your Sleeping Position Can Affect Your Health: Benefits, Risks, and Simple Adjustments for Better Sleep
Sleeping on Your Back
This position promotes neutral spinal alignment, which can relieve back and neck pain for some. However, it often worsens snoring and sleep apnea by causing the tongue to fall backward.
Decreased oxygen levels at night due to sleep apnea attacks can lead to fatigue and increased long-term health risks. Many people find sleeping on their back comfortable, but it disrupts the quality of their sleep.
Stomach Sleeping
Stomach sleeping flattens the natural curve of the spine and requires the head to be turned, putting strain on the neck. This sleeping position compresses the internal organs and restricts deep breathing.
Over time, it can contribute to chronic pain in the neck, shoulders, and lower back. Most experts consider it the least supportive option.
Sleeping on your right side
Sleeping on your right side is better than sleeping on your stomach, but it may not offer the same digestive benefits as sleeping on your left side. It can sometimes worsen reflux or put slight pressure on the liver.
Nevertheless, it’s an excellent choice for many who want to avoid the problems of sleeping on their back.