Proper sleeping positions

Lying flat on your back forces your spine into an unnatural position, which can strain your muscles, joints and nerves. Your spine isn’t meant to be straight – it has three natural curves: one in your lower back, one in the middle of your back and one near your neck. Following this advice may help:

• Lie on your side in the foetal position with your knees bent and a pillow tucked between your legs. This will take the most stress off your back. 

• If you must sleep on your back, prop a big, fluffy pillow under your knees to reduce the pressure on the sciatic nerve in your lower back.

• Use a small pillow or a rolled-up towel under your neck as long as it doesn’t push your chin too far forward.

• Don’t sleep on your stomach. Sleeping face down can exaggerate the arch at the base of your spine and cause strain. Try sewing or taping a tennis ball to the front of your nightdress or pyjama top. It will put an end to your stomachsleeping days.