Many people have no idea that their sleep habits are straining their spine, joints, and muscles for hours at a time. Over weeks and months, that adds up.
Here are the top three things to avoid:
- Sleeping on your stomach – forces your neck into a rotated position, which places stress on the spine and surrounding muscles
- Using multiple pillows – while this may feel plush, stacking pillows can over-flex your neck and jam spinal joints together
- Sleeping twisted – lying half on your side and half on your stomach puts your spine in an awkward, uneven position that increases tension and disrupts deep rest
Small Changes That Can Make a Big Difference
Supporting your spine through the night helps improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and ease physical stress. That’s why chiropractor Dr Brian Peterson at Cactus Chiropractic Lifestyle Centre emphasises alignment as a foundation for restful, healing sleep.
Try these helpful adjustments – For side sleepers, it’s important to use a pillow that keeps your head in line with your spine; too high or too low, and you’ll wake up with tension. Placing a second pillow between your knees can also reduce hip rotation and keep your lower back more relaxed. Back sleepers should try putting a pillow beneath their knees to ease pressure on the lumbar spine and support the body’s natural curve.
No matter how you sleep, don’t overlook your nighttime setup! Dr Brian recommends replacing pillows every one to two years and updating your mattress every eight to ten years to maintain proper support and alignment throughout the night.
“Sleep isn’t passive. It’s one of the most powerful things you can do to support your health, and when your spine is aligned, everything works better,” Dr Brian shares.
This Month Only: Sleep Better, Save More
Mention this blog or video anytime in June to get 50% off your new patient consultation with our ‘Sleep Better’ package. Contact Cactus Chiropractic Lifestyle Centre today to schedule your visit.