Sleeping in the fetal position is quite common for people who prefer to sleep with their body rolled up. Many people choose this position to feel more comfortable and tight. Sleeping in the fetal position can improve sleep quality, reduce stress, and have a relaxing effect. However, sleeping in a fetal position can also have some adverse effects, and it may be important to change body position during sleep.
What is the fetal position?
The fetal position got its name from its resemblance to the position of a fetus in the mother’s womb. This position refers to the body positioned in a bent state, with the knees drawn to the abdomen while sleeping. While lying on the bed, the person turns their body sideways and bends, pulling their knees towards their chest. The head is usually tilted forward a little and the hands are also placed in various ways of the body.
Is it beneficial to sleep in the fetal position?
The fetal position is one of many people’s sleeping habits and is found by many to be comforting. Here are some potential benefits of the fetal position:
- Feeling of relaxation and confidence: Sleeping in the fetal position gives many people a sense of relaxation and security. Sleeping with your stomach bent can help reduce stress by providing relaxation.
- Reduction of back and neck pain: The fetal position can provide relief for those suffering from back and neck pain. Sleeping with your back in a natural curve can reduce stress on the spine and help relax the back and neck muscles.
- Relief of snoring and sleep apnea: Sleeping in the fetal position may be beneficial for people with respiratory problems such as snoring and sleep apnea. This position can improve airflow by keeping the airway open.
- Support for the digestive system: Sleeping in the fetal position can reduce the reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus and help relieve reflux symptoms. However, for some people with reflux or digestive issues, this position can worsen symptoms, so it’s important for everyone to pay attention to their individual experiences.
- Relief for pregnant women: The fetal position can be particularly comforting for pregnant women. Sleeping in the fetal position can provide relief and support and relieve pain during pregnancy.
Although sleeping in the fetal position has its benefits, it can also have some disadvantages. Sleeping with a tight tuck can harm the health of the spine and aggravate back and neck pain in some people. Also, sleeping in a bent position can limit breathing and cause shortness of breath or sleep apnea in some people.
What are the good things for lumbar hernia?
In people with herniated discs, the gel-like substance inside the discs may leak from the spine and press on the nerves, causing symptoms such as pain, numbness and muscle weakness. The following things may be helpful for people with herniated discs to relax and heal:
- Rest: It is important to rest and rest if herniated disc pain is severe. Reducing pressure on the spine and discs by taking a suitable position in bed can help relieve pain.
- Hot or cold application: Hot or cold applications can be used to relieve herniated disc pain. Warming can increase blood flow, relax muscles and reduce pain. Cold application can reduce swelling and inflammation.
- Exercise and physical therapy: Appropriate exercises and physical therapy programs can be effective in relieving pain and strengthening the lower back in people with herniated disc. Specially designed exercises can strengthen the muscles that support the spine, improve posture and reduce pain.
- Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs: For herniated disc pain, doctor-prescribed pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs can be used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
- Correction of posture and movement habits: Improper posture and movement can contribute to a herniated disc or increase pain. Precautions such as maintaining an upright posture, lifting heavy loads correctly, and using a waist-supporting corset or waistband can reduce pain and pressure by maintaining the correct alignment of the spine.