5 Health Benefits of Sleeping in Your Recliner
La-Z-Boy Southeast | December 17, 2025
Ever wondered why you feel so refreshed after dozing off in your recliner? It’s not just the comfort—there are real health benefits at play. Research shows that sleeping in a reclined position can help with several common health concerns.
Quick benefits of recliner sleeping:
- Reduces acid reflux and heartburn symptoms
- Eases back pain by decompressing the spine
- Improves breathing for those with sleep apnea or COPD
- Enhances circulation and reduces leg swelling
- Supports easier digestion
The Science Behind Recliner Comfort
When you recline with your feet elevated, you’re working with gravity rather than against it. This simple position shift can create measurable health improvements, according to research published in the National Library of Medicine.
Better Breathing and Reduced Reflux
Sleeping upright keeps your head elevated above your stomach, which helps prevent stomach acid from flowing back into your esophagus. A 2012 study found that 65% of participants with nighttime acid reflux experienced fewer sleep disturbances when sleeping with their heads elevated.
For those with sleep apnea or COPD, the inclined position helps keep airways open. Research indicates that a 30-degree recline can decrease sleep apnea events by nearly two-thirds, according to Healthline’s review of sleep studies.
Circulation and Back Relief
Elevating your legs reduces pressure on your veins and allows gravity to assist blood flow back to your heart. Stanford Health Care recommends leg elevation for 15 minutes, three to four times daily, to help manage varicose veins and reduce swelling.
Meanwhile, reclining takes pressure off your spine and allows your core muscles to relax. This decompression gives overworked back muscles a chance to recover—which is why so many people with chronic back pain find relief in their recliners.
Improved Sleep Quality
A 2021 study in the National Library of Medicine examined sleep patterns in recliners with rocking mechanisms. Researchers found that participants experienced increased deep sleep stages and improved overall sleep efficiency—even those with diagnosed sleep disorders.
Choosing the Right Recliner Matters
Not all recliners offer the same health benefits. To maximize comfort and avoid unnecessary neck or leg pain, look for:
- Proper fit for your body type – Your feet should reach the footrest comfortably when reclined
- Adequate lumbar support – Adjustable support helps maintain healthy spinal alignment
- Multiple recline positions – This flexibility lets you find your optimal angle for different needs
At La-Z-Boy Southeast, we help customers find recliners that fit their unique body types and health needs across our locations in NC, SC, and GA.
When to Consider Recliner Sleeping
Recliner sleeping can be particularly helpful for:
- Recovery after certain surgeries (chest, abdominal, or back procedures)
- Managing chronic conditions like GERD or sleep apnea
- Pregnant individuals experiencing back pain or reflux
- Temporary relief during respiratory infections
Most medical professionals recommend recliner sleeping as a short-term solution or for specific conditions rather than a permanent bed replacement. If you find yourself needing a recliner for sleep regularly, discuss your options with your healthcare provider—they may recommend an adjustable bed for long-term use.
DISCLAIMER: The information and content provided by Furniture Academy, or in any linked materials are for educational and informational purposes only. This information should not be construed as medical advice, nor should it be a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment. If you or any other person has a medical concern, you should consult with your health care provider or seek other professional medical treatment. The opinions and views expressed on this blog and website have no relation to those of any academic, hospital, health practice, or other institution.
Ready to experience the comfort difference? Visit any of our showroom locations to get fitted for a recliner, or download our free recliner buying guide to learn more about finding your perfect match.
