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Slide show

Slide show: Sleeping positions that reduce back pain

By Mayo Clinic staff
 
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Photo of woman sleeping on her back

Sleeping on your back

If you sleep on your back, place a pillow under your knees to help maintain the normal curve of your lower back. You might try a small, rolled towel under the small of your back for additional support. Support your neck with a pillow.

This position may be helpful if you have low back pain.

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References
  1. Shiri R, et al. The association between obesity and low back pain: A meta-analysis. American Journal of Epidemiology. 2010;171:135.
  2. Verhaert V, et al. Ergonomics in bed design: The effect of spinal alignment on sleep parameters. Ergonomics. 2011;54:169.
  3. Gordon S, et al. Sleep position, age, gender, sleep quality and waking cervicothoracic symptoms. Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice. 2007;5:1. http://eprints.jcu.edu.au/2702/1/2702_Gordon_et_al_2007.pdf. Accessed May 27, 2011.
  4. Jacobson BH, et al. Effect of prescribed sleep surfaces on back pain and sleep quality in patients diagnosed with low back and shoulder pain. Applied Ergonomics. 2010;42:91.
  5. Davis S. Changing sleep-related behaviors for better respiratory health. RT: For Decision-makers in Respiratory Care. 2008;2:1. http://www.rtmagazine.com/issues/articles/2008-02_06.asp?frmTagFilePath=%2Fclinical.asp. Accessed May 27, 2011.
LB00003_D June 4, 2011

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