# @science on Instagram

- **Type:** Image
- **Original URL:** https://www.instagram.com/p/DX7saoMnH-S
- **Gondola URL:** https://gondola.cc/posts/64957431-science-instagram
- **Thumbnail:** https://img.gondola.cc/tr:w-,h-,fo-auto/postThumbnails/03a5691f2b.jpg
- **Posted:** 2026-05-04T22:00:14.000+00:00
- **Account Owner:** Science 🧬 (@science) — https://gondola.cc/science

## Caption

Pillows are meant to keep your spine in a neutral position. They align your neck with the rest of your body, which supports good posture.⁠
As such, research has only focused on the best type of pillow for posture. Scientists haven’t studied how sleeping without a pillow specifically affects the spine.⁠
But stomach sleepers may benefit from ditching the pillow.⁠
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According to the University of Rochester Medical Center, sleeping on your stomach puts your spine in an unnatural position. That’s because the majority of your weight is in the middle of your body. It adds stress on your back and neck, making it hard for your spine to maintain its natural curve.⁠
Sleeping without a pillow can keep your head flat. This may reduce some stress on your neck and promote better alignment.⁠
But this doesn’t apply to other sleeping positions. If you sleep on your back or side, sleeping without a pillow may do more harm than good. It’s best to use a pillow to keep your spine neutral.⁠
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If you’re a stomach sleeper, sleeping without a pillow may also reduce neck pain.⁠
When you’re on your stomach, your head is turned to the side. Your neck is also extended backward. This puts it at an awkward angle, causing pain and discomfort.⁠
In this position, using a pillow would only increase the awkward angle of your neck. But sleeping without one can minimize the unnatural position while decreasing strain on the spine.⁠
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Despite this potential benefit, research is lacking. Most studies on pillows and neck pain focus on the best type of pillow for pain relief. If your neck hurts after sleeping, talk to a doctor before going pillowless.⁠
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#sleep #sleeping #healthtips #health #science #biology

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## Tags

health, sleep, healthtips, science, sleeping, biology

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