'Genius' sleep hack that stops back pain is all to do with your pillows

Persistent back pain when you wake up might be down to your - and it turns out that the way we snooze could be causing us more harm than good.

We all know that staying active is key to avoiding those niggly aches, especially since being glued to our seats for hours on end can lead to a of discomfort if we're not careful about our posture. This rings particularly true for desk-bound workers or those who've embraced the work-from-home life, where slumping over a laptop becomes second nature.

But what if the real culprit for that morning stiffness was actually your beloved bedtime pose? Whether you're a fetal position fan or a sprawled-out starfish in bed, certain sleep styles can leave you feeling less than refreshed come sunrise.

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Luckily, there's an easy fix to give your spine the break it needs. A few well-placed pillows could be the secret to a restful night without the aches and pains. user Stace had a lightbulb moment about "optimal sleep" and shared her tips for a comfy night, ensuring your neck, shoulders, and lower back get a break from the strain. It's a simple trick – just three pillows in the right spots, reports .

She said: "I learned a cool fact today about how to sleep properly, and I'm 32 years old. I only learned today how I should be sleeping optimally for my posture and for my back. I'm going to show you, and please let me know if I'm not the only one who didn't know this." And she doesn't stop there.

If you're struggling with lower back pain, the TikTok user shared a quirky but comfy sleeping tip that might just be your saving grace. Stace, who often shares life hacks online, revealed her three-pillow strategy for a pain-free night's sleep.

She suggests using one pillow under your head as usual, then hugging a second folded pillow to stop your shoulders from rolling over too much if you're a side sleeper. But the real game-changer is the third pillow, which should be tucked between your knees to keep your spine aligned and prevent excessive twisting while you snooze.

Stace confessed that although this sleeping setup is "really comfortable," it does look a bit ridiculous, leading her to question: "Who is sleeping like this? " Her followers chimed in, suggesting that a bolster pillow – also known as a body or pillow – could be a simpler solution. This long, cylindrical cushion supports your head, shoulders, and knees all at once and is especially handy for pregnant women to avoid rolling onto their stomachs during sleep.

Experts from endorse the bolster pillow method or the three-pillow approach, stating that either can significantly enhance spinal alignment by supporting its natural curve. They note: "This helps to reduce the strain on your lower back and hips, promoting overall spinal health. If you're a side sleeper, placing a bolster between your legs can also help to maintain proper alignment of your spine, hips, and knees, providing comfort and support throughout the night."