How to prevent back pain when sleeping: 3 easy tips
Do you know what causes back pain? Many people think that it’s from sleeping in an uncomfortable position, but that isn’t always the case. More often than not, it’s from being overweight or inactive and wearing out your body over time—something we can help prevent with these three easy tips to prevent back pain when sleeping!
How to prevent back pain when sleeping
Sleep on your side, not your stomach
Oftentimes, individuals with chronic back problems find that they can alleviate their discomfort by changing the way they sleep. Many people who have chronic back issues have a difficult time sleeping because of their position, especially those who sleep on their stomachs. Sleeping on your stomach puts too much pressure on your spine, as you are lying flat against the bed, meaning you will often wake up feeling stiff or in pain. You are also more likely to experience breathing difficulties while sleeping this way.
If you are used to sleeping on your stomach, then it will take some getting used to. You may also want to invest in a new mattress if you currently sleep on one that’s lumpy or old. However, there are other ways you can make your current mattress more comfortable and less painful for those who suffer from chronic back problems.
Invest in a good mattress
To start, you want to find a mattress that’s perfect for your needs. This might sound daunting, but there are tons of mattresses available at different price points and with different specifications. But, how do you know which is the best one? There are a few things to keep in mind before deciding on a new mattress, such as comfort level (firmness), type of material (latex or memory foam), height (8-12 inches), and size.
When it comes to choosing the right mattress, you’ll need to think about what will work best for your body weight and sleeping position.
Make your room as dark as possible
First, make your room as dark as possible. This will help your mind and body rest better since it does its own processing in the darkness. Second, if you have a dog or cat who likes to sleep on your bed with you, it is time for them to sleep elsewhere! Third, try sleeping on a different side of the bed. You can start by swapping between which side of the bed you get out of first in the morning and gradually move from one side of the bed completely over to another.
If you have been a side sleeper for your entire life, try swapping over to your other side. Some people don’t notice an improvement until they start using both sides of their beds. If your mattress isn’t supportive enough, don’t be afraid to replace it!