Sleeping Posture Advice
Hey all, so TLDR - I herniated 2 discs in the lumbar spine about 15 months ago. After some PT and strength training (and using a standing desk alongside other movement related changes), I’ve been fortunate to be mostly back to my normal day to day.
The one lingering thing though, is more prominent numbness in areas of the S1 path on my foot depending on my seated posture (usually the heel and a toe or two) and first thing in the morning when I wake up. (Disclaimer: this numbness has not expanded total area since the initial injury, so not immediately of concern).
I am most curious about the morning numbness, it’s usually in my heel and a toe or two, but then decreases after some movement and a morning walk. I notice this numbness happen when I lay down in bed in the evenings, and think my position/posture may be compressing/pinching certain areas to cause this.
I have a relatively firm mattress, and have noticed more discomfort when using softer mattresses when traveling etc. I’m also a side sleeper who tosses/turns and usually sleep with my knees pulled a little closer to my stomach/chest.
My hunch is that adjusting my sleeping posture and/or mattress could be a huge help here, but really would appreciate any other experiences!