Are you having trouble finding sleep positions for sciatica? Our physicians and physical therapists at SOC are sciatica pain specialists. Our physical therapists have put together an article on the best pillows and sleeping positions for someone living with sciatica. 

Also, see 5 Things You Need to Know About Sciatica

Sciatica can be extremely uncomfortable, especially with the stabbing and burning pain experienced with this condition. When someone experiences this type of pain, it can lower the quality of sleep. And even affect productivity at work. However, there are certain types of pillows or pillow arrangements that can help you sleep better.

How to sleep well with sciatica:

Find Firm Sleep Positions for Sciatica Relief

Before you buy a new pillow, first check your sleeping surface. When sleeping with sciatica, you should lie on a firm surface. And this is important because the firm surface offers positive spinal alignment benefits.

Create a Reclining Position for Maximum Support

Add a two-piece wedged cushion. Therefore, allowing you to achieve a reclining position. It props up the back while elevating your legs. Plus, it relieves pressure on the lumbar spine’s nerve roots. Therefore, it can help you fall asleep peacefully and sleep throughout the night.

Use Plump Pillows

Unfortunately, this two-piece wedge cushion can be a bit costly. However, you can also consider using two plump and flat pillows. Place the plump pillows behind your shoulders. Then one or both of the flat pillows under your knees. By doing so will raise your legs and give you sciatica relief.

Pillows on the Side

It is common for sciatica to cause excruciating pain. Specifically, when sleeping on your side. To avoid this, put pillows around you. And this will ensure you lie on the back throughout the night. These pillows will prevent any accidental turning while sleeping.

Contoured Pillow between the Knees at Night

Another option for you if you are a side sleeper is to use a nicely contoured pillow between the knees. This pillow offers reduced pressure on your lumbar spine by keeping the body aligned.

Large, Customizable Pillow

Not everyone can have the luxury of this next one but, if you are considering this as an option, it is a great one. Now, place the pillow under your head and against the chest to keep you comfortable as you sleep. A customizable pillow is the best as it allows you to change the density and height until you feel comfortable.

A Pillow below the Hips

If you are a stomach sleeper, it is better to attempt to sleep in a different position. However, if you always end up on your stomach or if you find that you can not fall asleep in this position, use a flat, firm pillow under the hips to help align the spine. For the head, avoid the use of a pillow altogether, or use a flat one to prevent straining the neck.

Sciatica Pain is Manageable

Sciatica pain is manageable, and taking care of how you sleep can help relieve discomfort. Using the right pillows and positions can help you get a better night’s rest. Hopefully, the above article helped you decide on the right pillow and sleep positions for sciatica relief. 

It’s important to note that most people think sciatica is a condition. However, this is not correct. Sciatica is a cause of an underlying condition, such as a herniated disc. If the pain worsens or does not subside within a few weeks, contact a specialist, such as an orthopedic, to find the condition causing your pinched nerve.

Also, see Prevent Sciatica from a Herniated Disc

Now, if back pain persists after lifestyle changes, contact Spine & Orthopedic Center. To schedule an appointment or to learn more about our doctors, call us at 888-409-8006.