Is It Ok to Sleep on The Floor?

Many people make one of the huge investments of buying a mattress for a good night’s sleep while some get rid of the bed to sleep on the floor. Sleeping on the floor is a culture in many countries, and it is becoming common in the United States as well. A few people say they get relief from back pain while some find it more comfortable. There are no researched facts about the benefits of sleeping on the floor. It has helped some, and so it may be beneficial to you as well. To know whether it is good to sleep on the floor, continue reading.

Is It Good or Bad to Sleep on The Floor?

There is a long history of sleeping on the floor and despite this fact, there is little research about its benefits and drawbacks. Let us have a look at different scenarios.

Is Sleeping on The Floor Is Good for Your Back?

There is no scientific proof that sleeping on the floor helps you get relief from back pain. Yet, many people say that it provides relief. This makes sense because a soft mattress does not provide enough support. It makes your body sink, which causes spine curvature, which leads to back pain.

Harvard Medical School suggests people placing a plywood sheet if their mattress is too soft or keeping the mattress on the floor. Scientists recommend getting rid of the mattress altogether. There is no denying that a firmer surface can ease back pain, but it is dependent on various factors such as:

• Sleeping position
• Cause of the pain

In an article published in the journal Sleep Health, researchers analyzed 24 articles to find out a connection between the mattress types and sleep. They found out that a medium-firm mattress is the best to get relief from back pain.

Does Sleeping on The Floor Prevent Sciatica?

Sciatica is the pain that occurs in your sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back to the hips and legs. Just like back pain, sciatica can also be improved by sleeping on the firmer surface. A soft mattress can worsen the condition as it rounds the back and stresses more on the joints. There is no evidence that you can get relief from sciatica if you sleep on the floor. The benefits are not proven. If you are suffering from sciatica, it is better to talk to a doctor or a health practitioner before sleeping on the floor.

Does Sleeping on the Floor Help Improve Posture?

Another benefit of sleeping on the floor is improved posture, though it is not a proven scientific fact. But there is merit to the claim. Hard surfaces provide support to your spine, and soft surfaces make it curve. Thus, the firmness of the floor helps the spine be straight. If you have any spine problems, it is wise to consult a doctor before you sleep on the floor.

Who Should Avoid Sleeping on The Floor?

You can try sleeping on the floor only if you are physically capable of it. Some people should avoid it, while some should consult a doctor before experimenting.

Elders

Senior citizens should rarely try sleeping on the floor. Thin skin, muscle, and fat loss mean that they are vulnerable to pressure sores due to the hard floor. Joints also become susceptible, thus increasing the risk of injuries from pressure.

People Who Cannot Sit Properly

Those who cannot sit comfortably on the floor and stand up without any help should avoid sleeping on the floor. Falling can be injurious to people of any age and sitting on the floor and not being able to stand up again is a nightmare.

Cold Sleepers

These people find it difficult to sleep on the floor uncomfortably, especially without a mattress. Hard flooring stays cold throughout the night. If you are a cold sleeper and wish to try sleeping on the floor, ensure to wear warm clothes and have a warm padding base. Cold sleepers can usually sleep well if the floor is heated.

Serious Medical Condition

Anyone having a severe medical condition should talk to their doctor before sleeping on the floor. This is compulsory for those having muscular issues because it is always better to be safe than sorry.

Sleeping on The Floor During Pregnancy or With the Baby

It is usually safe to sleep on the floor while pregnant. Many pregnant women feel comfortable sleeping on the floor. You can consider the floor sleeping if you feel good. Ensure that it is comfortable for you to stand up after getting down on the floor. If you are uncomfortable, avoid sleeping on the floor. It is safe for babies to sleep on the floor as well, especially if you wish to co-sleep contrary to beds.

Co-sleeping on the bed increases the chances of:

• Sudden Infant Death Syndrome
• Falls
• Suffocation

Pillows and blankets on the bed also increase the risk of SIDS because they block the baby’s airways. If you prefer sleeping on the floor, then co-sleeping with your baby can reduce the risk of SIDS. In some countries, people even sleep on firm mats on the floor. They do not use any soft items that could lead to SIDS. Before you co-sleep with your sleep, ensure to talk to the pediatrician.

What Is the Right Way to Sleep on the Floor?

If you wish to sleep on the floor, follow these steps:

• Find a clutter-free space on the floor. Put a mat, blanket, or a sleeping bag on the floor.
• Use a thin pillow, do not stack pillow because that can increase strain on your neck
  Lie down on the floor.
• Try different sleeping positions like back, stomach, or side and find out which position you are comfortable with.
• If you sleep on the back or stomach, use an extra pillow under your knees for support. If you sleep on the side, put a pillow between your knees.
• Instead of sleeping the whole night try taking short naps. Give yourself time to adjust to floor-sleeping. Gradually, you can increase the duration.

Sleeping on the Floor Frequently Asked Questions

Is It Better on Your Back to Sleep on the Floor?

Sleeping on the floor helps keep your spine in a neutral position along because it evenly applies pressure and reduces cushioning, which may obstruct the regular sleep movements. Sleeping on the floor provides a good night’s sleep and promotes tissue growth.

Are There Any Benefits of Sleeping on The Floor?

There are multiple advantages of sleeping on the floor like:

• Improved blood circulation
• Perfectly aligned posture
• Reduced neck and back pain

Is Sleeping on the Floor Is Good for Your Back?

Sleeping on the floor can realign the back and helps your body’s relationship with gravity. Some claim that you can have a good night’s sleep on the floor.

Should You Use a Pillow While Sleeping on the Floor?

Some people do not use a pillow while sleeping on the floor. Instead, to elevate their heads, they use their arm. While some people use a thin pillow that just elevates their head a little to provide support to the neck and back.

We hope to have helped you provide insight into why you should sleep on the floor. If you face any condition, it is wise to consult a doctor before sleeping on the hard surface.