Charlotte NC Chiropractor expounds on sleeping positions

Sleep is essential by Charlotte NC Chiropractor

Charlotte NC chiropractor knows that sleeping positions are a common reason that people suffer with back pain. Sleep is just as essential for survival as eating and drinking. Every living being has to get rest through sleep. For most of us, our body needs 6-8 hours of uninterrupted sleep every day. Most neck Poor sleeping habits and an improper sleeping position is a sure ticket for neck pain and back pain. This also means that you should be sleeping on the right type of bed, and using a supportive pillow.

If possible, you should purchase a new mattress every seven to ten years. Sleeping on the proper mattress will reduce unnecessary pressure or compression, allowing you to fall asleep faster, and to get a restful night of sleep. The general rule is that you want your spine in a neutral position, and there are some sleeping positions that can provide better overall alignment than others. The goal is to get plenty of uninterrupted rest, and to wake up without pain in the morning. Consider our take on various sleeping positions:

Sleeping on your back

Sleeping on your back is the best position for obtaining a neutral position for your spine. This will allow your head, neck and spine to rest in a natural position, allowing each joint to provide support, and to hold the proper curvature of the spinal cord. If you sleep on your back, you should also place a pillow or a rolled up towel under your knees and under the small curvature of your lower back.

Sleeping on your side

Sleeping on your side is an excellent sleeping position. This will also allow you to maintain the natural curvature of the spine, while at the same tile, keeping the spine elongated. Surveys have revealed that most people prefer sleeping on your side to every other position. In fact, it has been documented that at least 60 percent of us start out falling asleep in this position. If you sleep on your side, it is important to keep your knees slightly bent and to place a pillow between your legs. The use of a pillow helps to reduce stress on your hips. In addition, if you have been experiencing shoulder pain, it is best to avoid sleeping on the side with the painful shoulder. Keep your arms in front of you, and not under your head or under your pillow. This will only cause you to experience numbness and tingling from cutting off circulation, or irritating nerves in your hands. Ask your Charlotte NC Chiropractor to recommend a proper pillow for you, in order to avoid developing pain in the neck and shoulders.

Sleeping on your stomach

Sleeping on your stomach is easily the worst position. It places undue stress on your spine and will give you problems with your back and neck. This position flattens the natural curve of the spine and lower back. Constantly sleep this way, and it will only be a matter of time before you experience chronic pain and stiffness.

Care You Can Count On from Charlotte NC Chiropractor

The doctors at ChiroCarolina™ are experts at the diagnosis and treatment of adults and for children of all ages. Patients visit from all over North Carolina, South Carolina, and from as far as Georgia, Florida and Virginia. ChiroCarolina provides numerous treatment modalities to aid in their healing and optimal health. Chiropractic care should be an integral part of you and your family’s life. Do not hesitate to drop in or to call ChiroCarolina™, one of Charlotte’s top chiropractic centers providing top chiropractic care for the uptown, NoDa, and University area, located conveniently off North Tryon Street.