Is Sleeping in a Reclined Position Good for You?

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After a long day, many of us crave the comfort of our favourite spot at home, whether it is the bed, couch, or recliner. For some, a recliner isn’t just for lounging or watching TV. It becomes the ultimate place to nap or even spend a full night’s sleep.

While it might sound unusual, sleeping in a recliner chair is more common than you’d think. In fact, some people report better rest in a reclined position than in a traditional bed. But is it actually good for you? 

Let’s explore the benefits, potential drawbacks, and how La-Z-Boy recliners can support healthy rest.

Key Takeaways

• Sleeping in a reclined position can improve circulation, reduce snoring and sleep apnea symptoms, and ease acid reflux.
• Recliners are especially helpful for those recovering from surgery, chronic pain, or mobility challenges.
• While comfortable, recliners are not meant to completely replace a bed long-term.
• La-Z-Boy recliners with zero gravity positioning, adjustable lumbar support, and lift features are designed with health and comfort in mind.
• Recliners create a calming environment that promotes relaxation, reduces stress, and facilitates easier sleep onset.

In This Article...

1. Is Sleeping in a Reclined Position Good?
2. Is It Okay To Sleep in a Recliner Every Night?
3. Benefits of Sleeping in a Reclined Position
4. FAQs About Sleeping in a Recliner

Is Sleeping in a Reclined Position Good?

Yes, sleeping in a reclined position can offer several health benefits. According to the Sleep Foundation and Harvard Health, elevating your upper body can reduce airway obstruction, improve circulation, and ease symptoms of conditions like sleep apnea and acid reflux.

However, most sleep experts caution that recliners are not a substitute for a bed every night. Over time, improper posture in a recliner can cause stiffness or limit spinal support. That said, for short-term use, naps, or recovery from surgery, a recliner can be an excellent choice.

Is It Okay To Sleep in a Recliner Every Night?

Occasional recliner sleep is perfectly safe, but it should not replace a supportive mattress for long-term spinal alignment. A bed is still the gold standard for restorative sleep.

That said, if you are someone with chronic back pain, sleep apnea, or mobility issues, a La-Z-Boy recliner with zero gravity positioning and power-adjustable lumbar support can provide a safer, more comfortable alternative.

You can learn more about other Exclusive Features that La-Z-Boy Recliners Have with this article.

Benefits of Sleeping in a Reclined Position

1. Increased Blood Circulation

Sleeping with your legs elevated encourages blood flow and reduces swelling. This is particularly helpful for people with circulation issues or those who sit for long periods during the day. Elevating the legs helps prevent pooling of blood, which can lower the risk of blood clots and reduce pressure in the veins.

At La-Z-Boy, our recliners offer zero gravity positioning, enabling you to sleep in a position where your head aligns with your feet, just like in a regular bed.

By keeping the body aligned and supported, a recliner can also reduce strain on the heart, which may benefit people with cardiovascular concerns. When used properly, this sleeping position can enhance overall comfort while promoting healthier circulation.

2. Improves Sleep Apnea and Snoring

Elevating the upper body keeps airways open, reducing snoring and breathing interruptions at night. According to the National Library of Medicine, even a semi-reclined position can reduce apnea episodes. This makes recliners an excellent option for those who struggle to get restful sleep due to airway obstruction.

Many people also find that sleeping at an incline helps create a quieter, more peaceful environment for both themselves and their partners. By improving airflow, a reclined position can lead to longer periods of uninterrupted rest, which is critical for overall health and energy levels.

3. Reduces Acid Reflux and Heartburn

When lying flat, stomach acid can creep into the esophagus and cause heartburn. Sleeping at an incline helps gravity keep acid down, providing relief from discomfort. This simple shift in position can help minimize nightly flare-ups that may disrupt sleep.

For those who experience chronic acid reflux, using a recliner instead of stacking pillows on a bed can provide more consistent and stable elevation. Not only does this reduce reflux symptoms, but it also makes it easier to fall back asleep if you do wake during the night.

4. Eases Chronic Pain

A recliner can relieve pressure on the spine, neck, and joints, reducing pain from arthritis, sciatica, or postural strain. Features like adjustable headrests, lumbar support, and heat and massage upgrades can further aid pain management.

By providing customizable support, recliners allow individuals to position their bodies in ways that beds may not always accommodate. For example, someone with lower back pain may find that being slightly upright eases pressure on the spine. This flexibility makes recliners a valuable option for managing chronic pain and improving comfort throughout the night.

5. Supports Surgery Recovery

Patients recovering from hip replacements, shoulder surgery, or C-sections often find recliners more comfortable than beds. Elevation reduces swelling, while cushioned support minimizes movement-related pain.

A recliner also allows patients to get in and out of their seat more easily, which can be a major benefit during recovery. Many customer reviews highlight how La-Z-Boy recliners provided essential comfort during post-surgical healing. This makes them a popular recommendation for people preparing for major procedures.

6. Enhances Relaxation and Comfort

Recliners are designed for comfort, and many people report falling asleep faster while reclining. The act of leaning back into a supportive chair creates a sense of relaxation that helps the body wind down before sleep.

For those with limited mobility, La-Z-Boy lift chairs make it easier to get in and out safely, providing peace of mind along with comfort. Recliners also help reduce stress and anxiety, which are two common factors that interfere with sleep.

By promoting calmness and relaxation, recliners can become a reliable part of a nightly sleep routine. To learn more about our Top Selling La-Z-Boy Lift Chairs, take a look at this article.

FAQs About Sleeping in a Recliner

Do doctors recommend sleeping in a recliner?
Yes, for short-term relief of breathing issues, acid reflux, or recovery. But most doctors recommend a supportive bed for long-term sleep health.

Is sleeping upright good for your lungs?
Sleeping at an incline can reduce fluid buildup in the lungs and ease breathing, especially for people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Can sleeping in a recliner cause back problems?
If your recliner lacks lumbar support or if you sleep in it nightly without adjusting posture, you may develop stiffness. Choosing a recliner with adjustable support, like La-Z-Boy Power Recliners, helps prevent this.

What recliners are best for sleeping?
Look for zero gravity recliners, power recliners with lumbar support, and lift chairs. La-Z-Boy recliners in Ottawa and Kingston offer all these options.

What's Next?

After reading this article, you could probably use a good nap right about now. I don’t know about you, but I certainly need one.

Before you close your device, however, why not take a look at our Best-Selling Recliners? Who knows, maybe one of these recliners may be your next “second bed!”

If you’re interested in checking out our furniture selection in person, you can visit any of our local furniture stores in Ottawa, Gatineau & Kingston locations. You can also book an appointment online before coming in!

You might also feel like taking advantage of our complimentary interior design services to see how your living room can become your next sleeping oasis. To learn more about our Lift Chair selection,  or our La-Z-Boy Recliner Selection, take a look at these comprehensive buyer’s guides.

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• Best Selling La-Z-Boy Sofa Beds
• Review of La-Z-Boy’s Sofa Bed Mattress Selection