A member asked:

I've heard it is healthiest to sleep on your back. is this true? if so, how can i train my body to sleep on my back? i've always slept on my side.

2 doctors weighed in across 2 answers
Dr. Paul Grin answered

Specializes in Pain Management

The opposite: Is recommended. Sleeping on your back lets gravity pull on the tissues at the back of your throat and neck. This can make your airway narrow or make it collapse completely. You should train yourself to sleep on you side if any signs of gasping for air occur.

Answered 4/17/2014

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Dr. Hanul Bhandari answered

Specializes in Internal Medicine - Sleep Medicine

See below: Agree with dr. Grin. For a person who does not have sleep apnea, there is not one truly optimum position. All positions are fine to sleep on, whether on your back or side. For people with sleep apnea, sleeping on the back is avoided due to the tongue falling back and obstructing the airway in addition to gravity's role. Thus, if you are healthy, sleeping on your side works great! hope that helps.

Answered 4/18/2014

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