Sleeping On The Floor: Does It Have Any Benefits? Who Should Avoid It?

It is commonly believed that sleeping on the floor will allow you to get a better night's sleep, improve your posture, and reduce your back pain. However, is this scientifically valid?

It is quite common in some cultures to sleep on the ground rather than on a bed [1]. However, there has yet to be any research conducted on the potential benefits of sleeping on the ground.

As we examine the potential benefits of sleeping on the floor, we will also examine some of the potential side effects, as well as which individuals should avoid sleeping on the ground.

Sleeping On The Floor: Does It Have Any Benefits?

1. May help with back pain

Many people claim that sleeping on the floor will alleviate back pain, even though there is little research suggesting that doing so will help. Those who advocate for floor sleeping claim it can reduce back pain and result in a more restful night's sleep.

Several studies suggest that medium-firm mattresses increase sleep comfort, improve sleep quality, and improve spinal alignment [2]. It is possible that the firm support it offers the spine may have a similar effect, although the research and scrutiny of sleeping on the floor have not been as thorough.

2. May improve posture

Observational evidence suggests that the softness of the floor can improve posture. Again, there is some validity to this claim. Soft surfaces allow the spine to curve while hard surfaces provide support. People have reported that the firmness of the floor keeps the spine straight [3].

Those with poor posture or spinal disorders such as scoliosis or kyphosis should consult a doctor before sleeping on the floor.

Is Sleeping On The Floor Bad For You?

1. Allergic reactions

Floors often accumulate more dust and dirt than other surfaces in the home, especially if you have carpeting, which can promote allergies such as sneezing, runny noses, itchy, red eyes, wheezing, and coughing [4].

2. Increased back pain

According to some reports, sleeping on the ground reduces back pain. On the other hand, others suggest that it has the opposite effect since the hard surface makes it difficult for the spine to maintain its natural curve.

3. An increased risk of exposure to cold

During the summer, sleeping on a cold floor may feel good, but during the winter, a cold floor can rapidly reduce your body heat, making you feel colder than you normally would [5].

Who Should Avoid Sleeping On The Floor?

In some situations, sleeping on the floor may not be safe for a person, such as a person who feels cold easily, someone who has limited mobility, or an older individual.

Can Pregnant Women Sleep On The Floor?

Sleeping on the floor during pregnancy is generally considered safe. Many pregnant women feel most comfortable when they sleep on the floor. However, it is important to consult your physician prior to floor-sleeping while pregnant [6].

On A Final Note...

Many people believe that floor sleeping can help relieve back pain and posture, although studies have not proven this. Floor sleeping may not be ideal for people with chronic health conditions or limited mobility. Your doctor can help you determine if this practice is safe for you.