
Have you ever woken up with strange marks, bruised-looking patches, or even numbness in your legs or arms? Many people shrug it off as nothing, but your sleeping position can have surprising consequences on your circulation, skin, and overall health. What you see on your body in the morning might be more than just “sleep lines.”
Poor Circulation While You Sleep
One of the most common issues caused by certain sleeping positions is restricted blood flow. When you sleep with pressure on your legs or arms—like crossing them, tucking them under your body, or lying on one side for too long—you can limit circulation. This can cause:
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Purplish, blotchy patches on the skin
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Tingling or “pins and needles” sensation
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Temporary numbness
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Coldness in the extremities
Over time, consistently poor circulation can increase the risk of varicose veins, swelling, or even blood clots.
Pressure Marks and Skin Changes
When you sleep with part of your body pressed against a hard surface (like a mattress or even another leg), small blood vessels can get compressed. This can leave behind: