Dr. Caren Fortin, BHK, DC - Doctor of Chiropractic Proper sleep hygiene is essential for keeping the spine aligned and reducing stress on muscles and joints. Sleep is when the body repairs itself, especially the spine and surrounding tissues that support posture during the day. Poor sleep habits can lead to stiffness, back or neck pain, and even long-term discomfort. Research shows that both the quality of sleep and the environment you sleep in play a major role in how well y