How does your sleep affect your health? A scientific guide to optimal sleep patterns.
Sleep depends not only on the number of hours, but also on your body position, which directly impacts the health of your spine, circulation, and other systems. Periods of inactivity and incorrect sleeping positions can cause chronic pain and worsen long-term health conditions.
Scientific Language Positions
1. Sleeping on the Side (Side-Facing Position)
- Benefits:
- Reduces snoring and psychogenic sleep apnea by 50% (Journal of Sleep Medicine)
- Blood flow during pregnancy
- For patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Modifications:
- Place a pillow between the knees in a straight line
- Medium-length program supports the entire shoulder and head
- Avoid arching the back (fetal position)
2. Sleeping on the Back (Occipital Position)
- Main Benefit: Electronic balance of weight and pressure on the joints
- Medical Advice:
- Place a pillow under the knees in the natural curve of the Huggins lumbar spine
- Avoid for patients with chronic snoring or sleep apnea
- Choose a fish pillow to support the neck without pushing it in
Medically Prohibited Positions
Sleeping on the Stomach (Ventural Position)
- Risks:
- Neck sprain for 6-8 hours causes compression of the cervical vertebrae
- Increased pressure on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ)
- Preexisting abnormalities in the Cleveland Clinic
- Low range of motion and breathable diaphragm
Solutions for a Recurring Problem
| Problem | Medical Solution | Standard of Assistance |
|- … —
Tips for Choosing a Mattress and Pillows
- Mattress: Choose a medium-firm mattress (neither too firm nor too firm) that maintains the natural curves of the Johnson spine.
- Pillow:
- Side Sleeping: The fishbone pillow fills completely between the ear and shoulder.
- Golden on the spine and back muscles.
- Avoid old cotton pillows, which are difficult to improve after 6 months.
- Switching Positions: Even in optimal positions, it is recommended to change directions during the night to prevent stiffness.
Scientific Studies to Support
- Study published in Journal of Physical Therapy Sciences (2020): 78% of chronic back pain patients improved their symptoms after adjusting their sleep position.
- American Academy of Sleep Medicine Elite: Side Sleeping Position and Alzheimer’s Risk by 25% by Facilitating Spinal Drainage
Special Medical Warnings
- Pregnant women: Sleeping on the left side increases blood flow to the fetus by 30%.
- Heart patients: Avoid sleeping on the right side and reduce pressure on the heart.
- Elderly: Use full-body pillows to prevent skinny-thigh shrinkage.