Waking Up Sore? A Chiropractor Says Your Sleep Habit Is the Likely Culprit

If you consistently wake up feeling sore, stiff, and less than refreshed, your sleeping position might be the main culprit. A chiropractor and specialist in spine alignment recently explained that our nightly habits can have a profound impact on our spinal health. The expert stressed that sleep is supposed to be a time for the body to repair muscles, ligaments, and joints. However, a poor sleeping posture can sabotage this entire process.
When your sleeping position puts uneven pressure on your spine, it can disturb the natural alignment of your vertebrae and place undue strain on your nerves. The specialist warned that this isn’t just a minor issue. “If one continues to sleep in poor posture for longer periods,” he cautioned, “it may… result in chronic back and neck pain and even a posture imbalance.” Your energy levels and overall well-being are directly linked to the quality of your spinal rest.
The first position the expert flagged as dangerous is sleeping on your stomach. While it might feel comfortable initially, this posture forces you to twist your neck to one side for an extended period. This sustained rotation can strain the muscles in your neck and compress the nerves running down your cervical spine, a common cause of stiffness and tingling in the arms.
Furthermore, the specialist described this position as “unnatural” because it also causes the lower back to arch in an unhealthy way. This places significant stress on the lumbar region. The second position to avoid is the tight fetal position. Curling up with your knees tucked tightly to your chest might feel “cozy,” but it “rounds the spine too much,” over-stretching back muscles, tightening hip flexors, and restricting deep breathing.
So, what is the best way to sleep? The specialist stated that the ideal position is one that maintains the spine’s natural “S” curve. He recommends lying on your back with a small pillow under your knees, or on your side with a supportive pillow between your legs. These positions ensure your body weight is evenly spread, preventing strain and allowing for a truly restorative night’s sleep.