Sleeping
The average person spends about one-third of his/her life asleep, so sleeping posture is just as important as sitting and standing postures. It is important to make sure that your back is well supported on the mattress.
Sleeping on your back or side are the preferred sleeping positions, because sleeping on your stomach can put stress on your neck and lower back. If you must sleep on your stomach, placing a pillow under your stomach can help prevent overextension of your lower back.
Whether you sleep on your back or on your side, make sure your pillow supports your head and neck properly so that they are aligned with the rest of your spine.
If you sleep on your back, place a small pillow under your knees to help reduce the stress on your lower back.
If you sleep on your side, place a small pillow between your knees to help keep your lower back in proper alignment.
Your choice of pillow and mattress can affect your sleeping posture.
Tips for choosing a pillow:
- Your pillow should fill the space created by the natural curve of your neck.
- Cervical pillows are often a good choice, because they conform to the shape of the head and neck, and they provide good support.
Tips for choosing a mattress:
- Select a moderately firm mattress rather than one that is very hard or very soft. A mattress that is too firm will not support your body evenly, and one that is too soft will sag and won’t permit your spine to maintain proper posture.
- When shopping for a mattress, take the time to try it out. Spend at least ten minutes lying down in the position you usually sleep in before deciding that the mattress is comfortable for you.
