Spine problems have become increasingly common, especially among today’s generation. In a technology-driven world, a sedentary lifestyle and prolonged sitting can affect our overall health, particularly our neck and spine.
Also read | Worried about weakening spine? Orthopaedic surgeon shares how to maintain spine health with age While these habits can take a toll on our posture, our sleeping position may also play a role in spinal health. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Arjun Dhawale, Additional Director, Orthopaedic Spine Surgery, Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital, explains the benefits of sleeping on your back versus your side to help you make an informed choice. This also depends on individual habits and preferences, and whether any preexisting medical conditions exist. If lying on the back is preferred, then keeping a pillow below the knees may be more comfortable. It’s important to avoid twisting the back when changing positions, as that may aggravate spinal pain if preexisting; it’s better to log roll with the shoulders and hips moving simultaneously to keep the back straight. Dr Arjun Dhawale practices at Sir H.N. Reliance Foundation Hospital in Girgaon, Mumbai. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
The important part is to get enough rest and sleep for at least 7 hours. Dr Arjun Dhawale is an Orthopedic surgeon and Spine Surgeon in Girgaon, Mumbai and has an experience of 21 years in these fields. He completed MBBS from the University of Mumbai, Mumbai, in 2000, MS – Orthopaedics from the University of Mumbai, Mumbai, in 2001, and DNB – Orthopedics Surgery from the University of British Columbia – UBS, Canada, in 2005.
Both side and back positions are good, according to Dr Arjun. “If pre-existing medical spinal conditions like lumbar disc disease or spinal stenosis are present, then sleeping on the sides may provide a more comfortable position for rest, as the area for the nerves is more open with the spine flexed, as it is when lying on the side versus lying on the back,” highlighted Dr Arjun.
