The Hidden Dangers of Stomach Sleeping

Stomach Sleeping Bad for your Health

Sleeping on your stomach might feel cozy for some, but it is a position that can lead to health troubles over time. Many people choose it for comfort, but it puts unnatural pressure on the body, causing short-term discomfort and long-term wear. Sleeping posture is a topic often discussed at Chambers Medical Group as patients are trying to find that magical position for a good night’s sleep. Dr. Aaron Workman, a team member of one of the highest rated car accident medical doctor care organizations in Kentucky, discusses some of the risks of sleeping on your stomach, and why you should avoid it.

1. Neck and Spine Strain
   Stomach sleeping twists your neck to one side for breathing, and puts the spine in an awkward position while straining muscles. If you have suffered trauma following a motor vehicle accident (MVA), you may already have muscles that are strained. Trauma that is combined with this posture can cause more pain and headaches. Over time, it could lead to chronic neck issues and disc degeneration, increasing arthritis risk.

2. Breathing Difficulties
   Lying on your stomach compresses the chest, making deep breaths harder. This reduces oxygen intake, disrupting sleep quality. Short-term, it causes restlessness and fatigue. Long-term, poor oxygen flow can strain the heart and lungs, raising respiratory problems. For those with asthma or sleep apnea, this position worsens symptoms, potentially leading to chronic fatigue.

3. Digestive Problems
   Stomach sleeping presses on your abdomen, pushing stomach acid up and could trigger heartburn. This can cause immediate discomfort like acid reflux. Over time, frequent reflux may lead to esophageal damage or GERD. The position also slows digestion, possibly giving bloating or constipation, which can become chronic issues if not addressed.

4. Wrinkled Faces
   Pressing your face into the pillow creases skin and traps moisture, causing acne or irritation. Short-term, it leads to puffy eyes and red marks. Long-term, repeated pressure can accelerate the formation of wrinkles, especially around your eyes and mouth. A simple switch of position can reduce that pressure on your skin. This reduction of compression can help skin stay smoother longer.

5. Shoulder and Arm Numbness
   Arms tucked under or beside the head compress nerves and blood vessels, causing numbness or tingling. This can wake you with pins and needles. Over time, it risks nerve damage or carpal tunnel-like symptoms, limiting hand function. Poor circulation from the position can also contribute to joint pain in the shoulders.

Stomach sleeping poses risks like increased pressure on the spine, breathing issues, digestive problems, skin damage, and nerve compression. Following acute trauma, your body needs all the help it can get with sleep, and these minor short-term problems can contribute to the larger health issues in healing. Switching to side or back sleeping with a supportive pillow can ease pressure on your body. Start by placing a pillow under your hips to transition gradually. Changes like this can start to improve sleep quality and protect your health for years to come. If you have found it impossible to sleep following an MVA the doctors at Chambers Medical Group can help. If you have slept on your stomach for years and have started noticing problems, then it may be time to talk to your healthcare provider.

— This article is written by Aaron Workman, DC, one of the members of Chambers Medical Group’s team of car accident chiropractors who offer a variety of treatments and therapies ranging from diagnostic testing to various soft tissue therapies for car accidents and injuries in Kentucky.