Have you been finding yourself falling asleep on a recliner? Then you’d definitely might ask yourself “why do I sleep better in a recliner than a bed?”. Well, That is common because it is much comfy for the patients of health problems, particularly back pain. Because a good night’s sleep is essential for a healthy lifestyle, it can be difficult to get through daily activities without sufficient sleep.
Do you ever wonder why you sleep better in an inclined position than in a standard pose? Then you’ve come to the right place. We’ll help you clarify your confusion and share some useful information.
Sleeping on a recliner can be comfortable and convenient, allowing you to fall asleep faster and in a more comfortable position. Of course, it has some health benefits, but it also has some drawbacks. In this article, we will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of sleeping on a recliner so that you are aware of the positive and negative effects on your health. So, without further ado, let’s get down to business!
7 Benefits Of Using a recliner
We understand that people’s ability to stand and sit is becoming increasingly difficult, whether due to changing lifestyles, medical conditions, or temporary injuries.
Various tools have been developed to assist those who require help with their daily living needs; recliner chairs are one of those tools. Many people with medical conditions are offered recliner chairs to help them, whether through an occupational therapist or directly from a retailer.
Here are some of the health benefits of using a recliner-
1. Improve Circulation
Blood circulation means the cardiovascular system keeps blood flowing throughout the entire body. There’s a reason why inclining your feet up at the end of a long day feels so good. Blood rushes to your thighs and feet when you sit or stand for long periods of time throughout the day. Elevating your feet above heart level can provide relief for your lower body. Gravity can thus naturally reduce stress and inflammation. Reclining your legs increases the body’s circulation and aids recovery from daily tiredness. It’s also great for your back!
2. Back Pain Relief
Back pain is a common disorder that almost everyone will experience at some point in their lives. Our back and core muscles are constantly working to keep our upper and lower bodies in balance. We can relieve back pain by reclining and elevating our feet. Our spine is relieved when we recline. as well as allowing our core muscles to relax. This allows these overworked muscles to rest.
Elevating your feet allows gravity to send blood to your lower back muscles and tendons. Our backs will heal and become stronger as a result. Sleeping in your recliner can help treat and prevent lower back pain by resting your muscles and allowing them to recover.
3. Breathe Easier
Sleeping in your recliner relaxes your diaphragm and allows you to breathe more easily. This position has been shown to relieve the following symptoms:
-Sleep Apnea
-Heartburn
-Acid Reflux
-Gastroesophageal Reflux -Disease (GERD)
Heartburn, acid reflux, and GERD sufferers find relief in their recliners because sleeping upright allows gravity to keep stomach acid down. You’ll be able to get a full night’s sleep by breathing easier and keeping your stomach acid where it belongs.
4. Calm Your Nerves
Elevating your feet improves blood circulation, relieves back pain, and makes it easier to breathe. It also has a positive effect on your nervous system. Blood from your nerves is constantly flowing and attempting to move your body and accomplish tasks. You’re giving your nervous system a much-needed break by reclining and allowing your body to heal. Allowing your nervous system to relax can help you have a calmer and clearer mind.
5. Better Digestion
Deep, slow breathing while reclining will put your body in “rest and digest” mode. In this state, your body actively digests whatever you’ve eaten while also working to heal and repair your body. This allows your digestive system to process your food completely. Allowing your body to rest and digest before bed improves your overall sleep quality.
6. Saving Space
Another advantage is that recliners take up less space than beds. Beds are enormous and nearly impossible to move on your own. Recliners are far more adaptable. Suppose you have a fireplace at home. Your bed cannot be moved next to it, but your recliner can. You can start reading a book next to a crackling fire and fall asleep. Beds aren’t exactly easy to relocate, so you’re stuck with where you put yours.
7. Better Sleep
Another issue that recliners can help with is sleep apnea because they keep your airways open while you sleep, lowering your risk of developing sleep apnea. Because it is impossible to sleep on your back while sitting up, sleeping in a recliner may help you avoid snoring. Sleeping on our backs is the most natural way to sleep, and studies have shown that it is the best way to maintain healthy blood circulation. Furthermore, recliners force you to sleep on your back.
4 Disadvantages of Using a Recliner
The benefits of using a recliner are immense. But improper use of any product can lead to problems. So you should consider the cases mentioned below before buying one.
1. Sore Back
A disadvantage of sleeping in a recliner is that it may cause back pain. It’s far too easy to fall asleep in a recliner and stay asleep all night, which can lead to muscle tension if you’re not careful. As a result, trying out different recliner chairs before buying one is important.
You might think you’ve found the deal of a lifetime, but after sleeping in it for 2-3 nights, you’re feeling worse than if you hadn’t slept at all. That’s a sign that the recliner you chose isn’t right for you.
2. Neck Pain
When reclined, reclining chairs appear to work best when you are sitting upright. One of the most dangerous aspects of using a recliner is that your head can hang to one side as it reclines, causing neck pain or other injuries.
3. Difficult To Clean
The fabric on the recliners varies depending on the model. Some models have removable covers that can be machine washed or dry cleaned, while others require professional cleaning.
The fabrics on recliners vary depending on the type and brand, so do your homework before purchasing one. They may not come with removable covers that you can wash at home, but they may require special handling by professionals during washing.
Some modern recliners are very simple to clean and maintain, whereas others require significantly more effort than standard furniture due to their complex structure when compared to simple chairs or couches. There’s nothing wrong with doing extra housework if it means getting rid of allergens like dust or hair.
4. Snoring
Finally, sleeping on your back while sitting up can cause snoring because it puts pressure on your throat muscles. This isn’t necessarily an issue if you live alone, but if you don’t, the noise will disturb someone else’s sleep.
Start by relaxing your throat and jaw as often as possible throughout the day if you want to avoid snoring before bedtime. This can be done by yawning or simply stretching your neck from side to side while sitting at work or watching TV. This will help you ensure that everything is loose and ready for sleep.
FAQ
Can You Sleep In A Recliner Every Night?
You can sleep in your recliner chair. Our bodies are more comfortable in a reclining chair. Thus, blood flow is carried throughout the body. Position your legs on a chair while sleeping to improve circulation. A recliner chair with multiple functions is ideal for eating and sleeping in a movable position.
Does Sleeping In A Recliner Help With Sleep Apnea?
Sleeping in a recliner can help with obstructive sleep apnea. According to one medical report, sleeping with the head elevated at a 7.5-degree angle can reduce sleep apnea by nearly 30%.
Why Should The Elderly Sleep Reclining?
Sleeping in a recliner, especially for the elderly, can make “bed” time much more comfortable. It may even help them sleep better and deeper. Good sleep is essential for happiness, proper cognitive functioning, tissue healing, and hormone regulation. Some studies have even linked a good night’s sleep to a longer life!
Is A Recliner Good For Sciatica Pain?
Yes, in many cases, a recliner can help with sciatica. In fact, many people who suffer from sciatica or back pain while sleeping can only fall asleep in a recliner.
When you sit in a recliner, your hips flex slightly, and you can lean back to relieve pressure on your spine. However, If you lean back TOO far, a recliner can be harmful to your sciatica.
Does Sleeping In A Recliner Help With A Cough?
The coughing caused by bronchitis can interfere with your sleep. Sleeping on your side or back causes mucus to accumulate in your throat, resulting in a cough. The best way to avoid this is to elevate your head on a reclining chair. Just keep in mind that excessive elevation can result in neck pain.
Is It Right To Sit In A Recliner With Lower Back Pain?
The good news is that lying down does not cause back pain. According to studies, reclining seating is more beneficial to the back than upright sitting. In most cases, sleeping in a recliner is safe.
Will Sleeping In A Recliner Help With Hip Pain?
If a recliner is more comfortable for you, you can sleep there. Simply ensure that the recliner fits you and that your knees are not higher than your hips.
Conclusion
For many people, sleeping better in a recliner than a bed is a viable option. It compels you to develop healthy sleeping habits, such as sleeping on your back. It can also help you fight illnesses like GERD because you can sleep with your back raised, which helps your digestive system.
It does, however, present its own set of challenges. Before purchasing a recliner, consider its advantages and disadvantages. Also, always look for one with a generous return policy. You should try sleeping on it for at least 1-2 weeks before making a decision. This is because your body will need time to adjust to your new sleeping arrangement. The first two weeks are likely to be difficult. But you’ll get used to your new reclining chair and be able to make an informed decision.
