When it comes to finding a comfortable sleeping position, people have various preferences.
Some might choose to curl up on their side in a fetal position, while others may spread out on their back like a starfish, potentially annoying a bedmate.
Another position that’s been gaining attention on social media is the ‘T-Rex,’ though this isn’t a term used by medical professionals.
In this position, one bends their arms and tucks them close to the chest while sleeping.
The name is inspired by the dinosaur’s small forelimbs, resembling someone playfully mimicking a T-Rex.
However, a doctor has cautioned that adopting this position might lead to health issues.
Dr. Raj Dasgupta, a sleep medicine specialist and chief medical advisor for Sleepopolis, shared insights with HuffPost.
He explained, “When you sleep with your arms bent and tucked in, you can press on the nerves in your elbows or wrists.
“This can slow blood flow and make your arms feel numb or tingly. If you do it often, it can also strain your shoulders and make them stiff or sore.”
But what signs indicate this sleeping habit might be problematic?
According to Dr. Matthew Bennett, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon, pressure on the nerves in your arms could cause wrist irritation.
Symptoms may include shooting pain down your arm, frequently dropping objects like phones, or difficulty gripping items.
While these might be brushed off as clumsiness, they could indicate worsening nerve damage.
Dr. Dasgupta mentioned, “If your arms or hands go numb every night, stay numb for a while after waking up, or start to feel weak during the day, it’s time to see a doctor.”
Is there a way to prevent this?
Fortunately, if symptoms are detected early, simply altering your sleeping position might be sufficient.
Dr. Dasgupta stated, “It’s usually temporary and goes away once you change your sleeping position.”
Nonetheless, he warned that prolonged pressure on the nerves could result in lasting damage if persistent over weeks or months.