Out-of-state? Free MRI review4.9 ★ · 630 Google reviewsBoard-certified spine surgeonSame-day spine surgeryCall (424) 217-7463
Out-of-state? Free MRI review + telehealth consult before you travel 4.9 ★ · 630 Google reviews Board-certified — American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery Minimally invasive, same-day spine surgery in Beverly Hills Call (424) 217-7463
Spine Health

Which Sleeping Position is Best for Your Spine?

Although they might be comfortable, there are some sleeping positions that can cause a lot of damage to your spine and the surrounding support muscles over time. On a brighter note, there are ways to…

A smiling man asleep on his side on a white pillow

Although they might be comfortable, there are some sleeping positions that can cause a lot of damage to your spine and the surrounding support muscles over time. On a brighter note, there are ways to decrease the chances of doing so and have a more productive slumber. Your Los Angeles Spine Surgery specialist brings you the best sleeping positions to avoid the morning aches and pains.

On Your Side

To take the weight of your body off your spine, sleep on your side; this position is the best to support the natural curvature of your spine and is an alternative to sleeping flat on your back. To make this sleeping position a little bit more comfortable for you, curl your legs up toward your upper body and place a pillow between your knees, this will maximize the support you feel when you’re trying to doze off.

On Your Back

Sleeping on your back is another way to take the weight off your body. Some people might find this position uncomfortable, but the good news is that there is a trick you can use to change that. Try putting a pillow under your knees; this will maintain the curvature of your spine and hopefully make it easier for you to fall asleep.

On Your Stomach, But with a Twist

Sleeping on your stomach is actually one of the worst positions for your spine because it pushes your hips forward, putting all the strain on your lower back. For those that just have to sleep on their stomach, put a pillow underneath your abdomen, this can help to reduce the strain on your back by supporting the natural curve of your spine as much as possible.

Without a Pillow

The fewer pillows you have, the less strain there will be on your spine. In fact, sleeping without any pillows is the best option because that maintains the natural curvature of your spine. If you absolutely cannot sleep without one, choose one that’s not too firm.

Los Angeles Spine Surgery

Want more information on how to maintain a healthy spine? Contact your Los Angeles Spine Surgery pro online at thespinepro.com, or by phone (424) 217-7463.

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4.9 630 Google reviews
  • Renee Smith
    Rated 5 out of 5.

    Dr. Melemed is truly the best! He genuinely cares about his patients, and it shows in every aspect of the care he provides. I recently had an outpatient procedure, and I cannot say enough about how impressed I was with the surgery center. …

  • Melina Rodriguez
    Rated 5 out of 5.

    Dr. Melamed is an exceptional physician. I initially came to him for my spine concerns, but he took the time to look at the bigger picture, truly listen, and help me find the right resources and specialists for a separate, complex medical condition outside his specialty. …

  • Mark Myers
    Rated 5 out of 5.

    I was incapacitated, couldn’t stand, sit or walk. The pain was excruciating. I’ll spare you the diagnosis, but it was serious. I could only lie down with my foot up to reduce the pain. It required EMERGENCY surgery. …

  • Eric Nepomnaschy
    Rated 5 out of 5.

    I want to thank Dr. Melamed for taking great care of me. Dr. Melamed performed a minimally invasive microdiscectomy to free nerve that was being pinched and causing pain in my back and in my leg. Dr. Melamed’s approach is a very conservative, which I very much appreciate. …

  • Salvador Duran
    Rated 5 out of 5.

    Dr. Hooman Melamed: An Outstanding Surgeon and a Blessing to Our Family If you or a loved one are suffering from severe back pain and feel like you have run out of options, please read our story. For a long time, my wife lived in a state of constant agony. …

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