Column 🛌 Diagnosed with Lumbar Instability? — What Are the Best Sleeping Positions?🛌
October 7, 2025
Lumbar Spinal Instability (LSI) occurs when the normal connections between the spinal bones (vertebrae) are impaired, causing the bones to move excessively or “wobble.”
In this article, we’ll explain the best sleeping positions for patients who have been diagnosed with lumbar instability.
Symptoms and causes of lumbar instability
Lumbar Spinal Instability (LSI) is a condition where the connections between the bones of the spine are impaired, leading to excessive, “wobbly” movement.
Main symptoms of lumbar instability
The primary symptoms of lumbar instability are lower back pain, buttock or leg pain, and numbness.
Some patients also experience intermittent claudication, in which walking becomes painful and difficult, only to resume after resting for a short while.
Symptoms often worsen when changing posture or arching backward, and pain may be especially noticeable in the morning after waking up.
As the condition progresses, urinary problems such as frequent urination or leakage may occur, and pain may persist even when at rest.
Main causes of lumbar instability
The main cause of lumbar instability is degeneration of the intervertebral discs and ligaments due to aging.
Excessive strain on the lumbar spine from daily activities—such as poor posture, frequent lifting of heavy objects, or sitting or standing for long periods—can damage the discs.
When the discs are damaged, the inner nucleus pulposus may leak out, reducing the disc’s cushioning ability.
As a result, the bones are subjected to greater stress and may begin to deform, leading to an unstable spine.
Recommended sleeping positions for lumbar instability
💤 When sleeping on your back (supine position)
When lying on your back, place a pillow, rolled towel, or cushion under your knees.
This helps maintain the natural curve of your lower back and reduces strain on the lumbar spine.
🤸 When sleeping on your side (lateral position)
When lying on your side, slightly bend your knees and place a cushion or pillow between them.
This reduces twisting of the lower back and eases pressure on the lumbar area.
Placing a small towel under the waistline can also help prevent the lower back from arching excessively, providing better spinal support.
🚫 Sleeping Positions to Avoid
Avoid sleeping on your stomach (prone position), as this posture increases arching of the lower back and can worsen pain.
Also, avoid staying in one position for too long without turning over, as it can place uneven pressure on specific areas and aggravate symptoms.
Try to change positions naturally during sleep when possible.
Consultation and Treatment
If you have been diagnosed with lumbar instability or are struggling with persistent lower back pain, we recommend scheduling a consultation at our clinic for a thorough evaluation and appropriate treatment options.
