How To Prevent Back Pain When Using a Hammock

The best hammocks are those that you can't help but fall asleep in. There’s nothing quite like a lazy day in the hammock, swinging back and forth with a refreshing drink or a book in hand.

But, for some reason, when you wake up in the morning, your back isn’t feeling quite as relaxed. What gives?

Don’t worry, though – we’re here to help! There are a few things you can do to make sure you get a good night’s sleep in your hammock; here are some ideas:

 

1. Learn how to hang your Hammock properly

This may sound obvious, but you would be surprised how many people are doing it wrong. Not only can it be bad for your hammock, but it can also mess up your spine when you are sleeping in them.

You need to make sure that the angle between the anchors and the straps is 30 degrees, and when you're in the hammock, it should be around 18 inches above the ground.

Read: How to hang your Hammock

 

2. Choose The Right Hammock

When you sleep in a hammock, it’s essential to make sure you use one made for sleeping in. Some camping hammocks might be designed for outdoor use and might not be as comfortable for long-term use. A hammock specifically made for sleeping will have a wider body and a flatter bottom, which will help you avoid getting a bad back.

Check out our buying guide here.

 

3. Use Pillows

Sleeping in a hammock can be great! But, unless you use something to support your neck, you may find that you quickly develop a stiff neck. A pillow or if you're on a budget even some clothes jammed into a pillowcase can work well for this.

 

4. Be Careful How You Position Yourself

The way you position your head and neck will affect the curve of your back and how much pressure is on your body as a whole. Make sure you find a comfortable spot for yourself that will keep you from feeling too cramped or hurting your back!

Most people find that lying diagonally is the most comfortable position, as it gives you more space to stretch out and relax.

 

5. Don't Forget The Hammock Support

One of the most important things you can do to maintain comfort and prevent back pain is to make sure your hammock has a solid foundation. That’s where our wooden hammock stands come in – they’re designed specifically for keeping your bed off the ground and will give you a sturdy place for your hammock to hang.

 

6. Knee Support

When you sleep in a hammock, it's essential to ensure you're getting the right back support. By placing a pillow or blanket (or even a thick jacket) under your knees, you can help ensure that your back is supported correctly.

Having said this, If you have a pre-existing back problem, hammocking is probably not the solution to your sleeping woes. In fact, those with conditions like a pinched spinal nerve or scoliosis are more likely to exacerbate their conditions by using a hammock.

So, as always, be responsible! And if you're not sure about whether or not hammocking is an option for you, consult a doctor before trying it out.

Happy Hammocking!