Your Body Will Suffer the Consequences if You Fall Asleep on the Couch

Getting an adequate amount of quality sleep is crucial for good health and wellness. However, who hasn’t fallen asleep on your couch while watching your favorite TV show? Although it may seem harmless, repeated episodes could harm your body. According to orthopedic surgeon Brian A. Cole, MD, FAAOS, “Everyone loves to sleep on the couch, perhaps while watching TV. However, there is a trade-off in terms of support of the neck and low back.” This point is supported by Chester Wu, MD, a psychiatrist and sleep medicine specialist, who agrees that a couch is unlikely to provide the spinal support, pressure-point relief, and temperature support that your mattress delivers.

Dr. Randa Jaafar, a pain management specialist and anesthesiologist, warns that couches lack the proper support needed to maintain a healthy spinal alignment throughout the night. The organization of the spine is like a Yin and Yang, a dynamic balance of opposing but complementary forces, known as chi. One curve leads to the other, and it is critical to maintain this balance by supporting the spine. A couch may feel comfortable, but it no longer supports the curves of your spine, leading to stiffness and physical pain that may be uncomfortable. Though it may feel good to doze off while watching a movie or reading a book, your body may assume awkward sleeping positions and strain your back muscles, leading to pain.

Dr. Sherry McAllister, a chiropractic expert, notes that your spine should not form a “C” shape when resting, as it is formed by the soft fabric of a sofa. Your weight is distributed unevenly, resulting in discomfort when you wake up. It’s essential to find a position that aligns your spine’s natural curves and provides proper head and neck support. Short naps on the couch, lasting no more than 20 to 30 minutes, are recommended. Avoid sleeping in awkward positions, and use strategic pillow placement to improve spinal alignment. Sleeping for less than half-hour or for the entire 90-minute REM cycle is best to avoid sleep intertia or awakening during deep sleep.

Lastly, Dr. Wu warns us not to nap too late in the day, as an extended and laternap can disrupt your sleep quality.

Take care of your spine, and remember to find suitable sleeping arrangements!