Sleep Ergonomics – When discussing “sleep ergonomics”, we are referring to your position and posture while sleeping. Unfortunately, few people consider it until they start experiencing regular neck and/or back pain as soon as they wake up in the morning.
A poor night’s sleep affects everyone in a very negative way, so it is important to fix this problem as soon as possible to ensure not only a good night’s rest, but also future health problems.
What Is the Best Sleeping Position?
Many people roll over on their stomachs when they are trying to relax. This is one of the worst sleeping positions for several reasons. The biggest problem is that your back is more likely to ache and your head and neck area are up.
This puts a tremendous amount of pressure on your spine, leading to problems such as muscle pain and nerve compression. The most beneficial sleeping position is actually on your side.
This takes all the pressure off your back and allows you to rest comfortably. For the most benefit, draw your knees in toward your chest to form a fetal position.
For added benefits, place a pillow between your knees. Body pillows are also extremely beneficial, as they help you maintain your balance throughout the night.
Sleeping on the back is also beneficial. If you prefer to sleep this way, place a pillow just below your knees to reduce any pressure on your back. For added relief, roll up a soft towel and place it under the small of your back.
Choosing the Right Pillow and Mattress
When it comes to pillows, orthopedic pillows are at the fore. These pillows are specially designed to help you maintain the natural curve of your neck while sleeping. The downside of this product is the price, as they are often almost twice the price of a standard pillow.
But, considering how often you buy pillows and the health benefits, it is a very wise decision. Today, consumers have more options than ever when it comes to choosing a quality mattress that helps ease back pain.
Adjustable beds work great for couples who have different sleeping habits and needs. Each person is able to firmly and “set” his side of the bed into the position he wants. Again, the downfall is that these beds are very expensive.
One option would be to purchase a memory foam bed or add memory foam to your existing bed. With this option, you’ll want to check the mattress or cushion regularly to make sure it’s still providing the support you need.
