About This Blog:
- According to the Journal of Neuroscience, a person's sleeping position may affect their ability to clear waste from their brain and spinal system.
- Clearing waste from the brain and spinal system aids overall health, and this study suggests side sleeping may be best for this process.
- Dr. Mark Giovanini of NeuroMicroSpine explains results from the study and why certain sleep positions may improve spine health.
Researchers from the University of Virginia recently discovered lymphatic vessels can be found in the central nervous system, which comes as a surprise to those who previously believed lymphatic vessel were not located in the brain and spinal cord. From the research study, the team was also able to conclude drainage of the cerebrospinal fluid worked best when the test subjects (mice) were lying on their side, as opposed to their back.
Translation? Side sleeping may improve spinal health because it allows lymphatic vessels from the central nervous system to clear waste more efficiently. This study may also demonstrate the importance of good posture for better spinal health. The brain and spinal cord’s ability to remove waste came from having strong, healthy postures, according to commentators of the study.
Although side sleeping may be beneficial for your overall health, it’s important to consider special modifications if you wish to sleep on your side after spinal surgery. We wrote about some of the best sleeping positions for after spine surgery in our blog. In the article, we listed ways to sleep on the back or side safely. We also mentioned how patients could safely get out of bed if they’re recovering from a spinal surgery.
If you’re suffering from chronic back pain or discomfort while sleeping, standing, or participating in activities, it’s imperative you see a specialist in spine health. Dr. Mark Giovanini of NeuroMicroSpine develops comprehensive treatment plans for patients that may include minimally invasive spine surgery as well as anti-aging medicine and physical conditioning. To learn more, call the number below to schedule an appointment with Dr. Giovanini today!
For more information on minimally invasive spine surgery or to make an appointment with Dr. Giovanini, please call (850) 934-7545 or visit https://www.neuromicrospine.com/request-appointment.
We hope to see you soon!
The advice and information contained in this article is for educational purposes only, and is not intended to replace or counter a physician’s advice or judgment. Please always consult your physician before taking any advice learned here or in any other educational medical material.