“How should you sleep if you have a stiff neck?”
My 11 year old son has a stiff neck. How should you sleep if you have a stiff neck?
9 Answers
NECK PAIN OR SPASM OR STIFFNESS IS VERY COMMON. ICE THERAPY IS VERY GOOD, ON THE BACK OF HE NECK, FOR 30 M BEFORE BED; THEN USE A SUPPORTIVE PILLOW, ON YOUR BACK SLEEPING. SIDE SLEEPING IS OK,ONLY IF THE NECK IS SUPPORTED; NEVER SLEEP ON THE STOMACH
When sleeping with a stiff neck it is important to keep the natural curve of the neck supported. Sleeping on his back with a well supported pillow keep the neck adequately aligned with the shoulders. Make sure there is not to much support that keeps the neck in a flexed position or to little support that that puts the neck into an extension position.
Sleep in the most comfortable position. Even if the position is not mechanically ideal, you want to get him in a position that he is in the least amount of pain so he can sleep.
Side or back.
Sleeping on your stomach is probably the worst if you have a stiff neck. Sleeping face up and on your side will be better as long as your pillow supports your neck properly to keep your spine neutral in alignment. So make sure your neck lace straight weather on your side or on your back.
Best sleeping position is on your back or alternating sides. Proper pillows help with stiff neck issues. Chiropractic adjustments can also address the stiff neck and help with the mobility.
Sleep is very important. It is important to get appropriate evaluation of your condition and this can be done by a licensed Doctor of Chiropractic (DC).
Whichever position gives him relief and allows him to sleep is the immediate answer. I recommend taking him to a Chiropractor to realign his spine and relax the muscles of the neck.
Avoid using too high or stiff a pillow, which keeps the neck flexed overnight and can result in morning pain and stiffness. If you sleep on your side, keep your spine straight by using a pillow that is higher under your neck than your head.
