When experiencing neck pain on the right side due to a stiff neck, which side should one sleep on?
I woke up in the morning with severe pain in my right neck, and only then did I realize I had a stiff neck. Now I dare not turn my neck大幅度ly, and it's particularly uncomfortable. I would like to know, when experiencing neck pain on the right side due to a stiff neck, which sleeping position is better?
Doctor's answer (1)
It is recommended to sleep on your left side.
Cervical sprain is a common soft tissue injury of the neck, usually caused by improper sleeping posture or tension in the neck muscles. For right-sided neck pain caused by cervical sprain, choosing an appropriate sleeping position to alleviate symptoms can be very helpful. Below are some suggestions for relieving pain:
1. Choice of sleeping posture: If you have a stiff neck on the right side, you can choose to sleep on your left side to reduce pressure on the right side of the neck. However, avoid maintaining the same sleeping posture for a long time, as this may also cause excessive strain on the left neck muscles. Therefore, it is recommended to change sleeping positions适时, such as occasionally sleeping on the right side or sleeping on your back.
2. Pillow height and material: Ensure the pillow height is moderate—not too high or too low—to maintain the natural curve of the cervical spine, thereby reducing tension in the neck muscles. Also, choose a pillow made of soft and breathable material to maintain comfort in the neck area.
3. Preparation before sleep: You can perform appropriate neck stretching exercises before bedtime to help relax the muscles and prevent cervical sprain.
If the pain persists or is accompanied by other uncomfortable symptoms, it is necessary to visit a正规 hospital for examination.
