The Best Sleeping Position for Your Back

In 2003, Professor Chris Idzikowski of the UK Sleep Assessment and Advisory Service conducted a study of 1,000 people to determine the positions that people prefer to sleep in. The results showed that over 50% of people prefer to sleep on their sides, with 13% sleeping on their back and 7% on their fronts. Maintaining a poor posture during the day can lead to headaches, neck ache, back pain and memory loss, so it is only natural that spending a night sleeping in a poor position will have the same effect. So, which is the healthiest position to sleep in for your back?

The Best Sleeping Position for Your Back

Back

Sleeping on your back is great for the back as it is not contorted and the mattress can offer even support along the length of the spine and neck. Sleeping in this position without a pillow helps the neck to stay in a neutral position, which is great for avoiding aches and pains as there is no pressure or strain on the spine. This position also helps to reduce acid reflux. There are downsides, however, because sleeping on your back increases the chances of snoring and sleep apnoea, as gravity pulls the base of the tongue over the airway and obstructs airflow.  

Side

Doctors prescribe side sleeping for those who suffer with sleep apnoea as it keeps the airways open. Side sleeping also eases heartburn and acid reflux and encourages a better quality of rest. Pregnant women are also advised to sleep on their sides due to the improvement of circulation to the heart and decreases any stress on the lower back.  If you have invested in a quality mattress with memory foam included, this will actively respond to your back as you sleep on your side and provide support where needed. Make sure the use the correct number of pillows, though, as side sleeping can cause shoulder pains and put pressure on the lungs. 

Front

While this can be a great position for reducing sleep apnoea and snoring, sleeping on your front flattens the natural curve of the spine and puts a lot of strain on the neck. If you are committed to sleeping in this position, try putting a pillow under your hips to help the natural curvature of the spine and relieve pressure on the back. 



The most important thing to remember is that the quality of your sleep is more important than trying to train your body to sleep in a different position. Investing in a high quality, supportive mattress such as the REM-Fit Sleep 400 will help to reduce any back pains and provide all-round support for your spine and neck. 

If you would like to find out more about how the REM-Fit Sleep 400 can help you to get a better night’s rest, please get in touch with our experienced, knowledgeable staff by calling 020 8731 0020 or email us via sales@rem-fit.co.uk.   

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