The Most Harmful Sleeping Positions: 'Pencil' vs. 'Tyrannosaurus' 0 21

Experts note that sleeping on your side or back is preferable to sleeping on your stomach, as muscles and joints relax better, and the spine maintains its proper alignment. An incorrect sleeping position can lead to pain, digestive issues, and sleep apnea.

Particular attention is given to the so-called 'Tyrannosaurus' position — when a person sleeps on their side with their arms pressed to their chest. While side sleeping is beneficial, such twisting can cause tingling or burning sensations, and prolonged adherence can damage the nerves in the elbows and wrists.

The 'Pencil' position, where the body is stretched out on its side with arms down along the body, is considered natural and beneficial. It reduces strain on the joints, supports proper spinal alignment, and improves circulation.

The fetal position is also popular — lying on the side with legs pulled up to the stomach. It is comfortable for sleeping, reduces snoring, and is suitable for pregnant women, but excessive twisting can restrict breathing and cause joint stiffness.

Sleeping on your back facing the ceiling, especially with arms on the chest, can lead to nerve compression and discomfort in the neck. Experts recommend placing a pillow under the knees to soften the lumbar curve.

The most harmful position is recognized as sleeping on the stomach, which disrupts breathing and distorts the spine, particularly dangerous for people with lower back pain. Variations with one leg raised or a bent arm under the pillow are also not recommended.

The best advice from specialists is to allow the body to move during sleep and change positions. If tingling or numbness occurs in the arms in the morning, it is a signal to reconsider the sleeping position to avoid restricting blood flow and nerve damage.