I'm referring to sleeping position. Most of us have woken up with a stiff neck or lower back. Fortunately, the pain usually resolves in a day or two.
However, have you thought about the structural changes in the spine that can result from “funky” sleeping positions (arthritis, disc herniations, and the much-feared neck hump)?
The vertebra in the neck has a curvature called the cervical lordosis. Developmentally it takes shape at infancy when babies learn how to hold up their head. Unfortunately, most of us lose this curve over time due to postural abnormalities.
The good news is that there are numerous ways to restore and maintain the natural curve of our neck. Sleeping is one of them.
Supporting The Curve
The yellow dotted line in the picture above illustrates the cervical curve that is supported by the bolster I'm lying on.
Pillow
I highly recommend NOT sleeping with a thick pillow when on your back. They tend to jack your head into a flexed position, which can lead to problems.
What To Do
Pillow: Purchase a cervical pillow. They provide a dip in the middle to support your neck better. Throw out your thick pillow ;)
Stomach Sleepers: Do not do this!!
Side Sleepers: Neck needs to straight (not tilted). This will be for another email.
Exercises: Strengthening neck rotators and flexors can help. On our YouTube Channel
Dr. Steve Muscari
Contact Me
