4 Tips for Choosing the Best Pillow for Your Neck
Do you experience neck pain when you wake up? If so, you might need to invest in a better pillow. The right type of pillow helps your neck remain aligned with the rest of your body, giving it the support it needs while you sleep.
Neck arthritis is a common cause of neck pain, and the best pillows can provide optimal comfort and support.
Read more: What Do You need to Know about Neck Arthritis?
Pillows are the key to mitigating neck pain, but with many types and sizes available, it can take time to make the best choice.
Here are four tips to help you select the perfect pillow for your needs:
1) Check the Right Type of Pillow
Neck pain can occur due to a lack of adequate support while sleeping. Choosing the correct type of pillow is key in providing this support and reducing neck pain. Here are some types of neck pillows:
a) Cervical Pillow:
This pillow is designed to provide extra support for the neck and head. It can also help reduce snoring and relieve pain in the neck and shoulders.
b) Memory Foam Pillow:
This type of pillow is made of a special foam that conforms to your body, providing the proper support and cushioning.
c) Buckwheat Pillow:
These are made with buckwheat hulls and filled with a particular material that contours to your body while providing extra support.
d) Water Pillow:
This type of pillow is filled with water, allowing it to conform to the head and neck for maximum comfort and support.
2) Analyze the Type of Neck Pain
Neck pain can stem from tension, muscle strain, or even arthritis. Depending on the type of neck pain, a different type of pillow might be best for you. For instance, an ergonomic pillow could help reduce discomfort and give your head better support if your neck pain is due to tension headaches.
If your neck pain is due to a muscle strain, then a memory foam pillow could help keep your head and spine aligned while sleeping. And if your neck pain is due to arthritis or another chronic condition, an adjustable pillow may be best to provide customized support.
3) Consider Your Sleep Position
The best pillow for your neck pain will depend on your sleeping position. If you’re a back sleeper, you should look for a thinner and flatter pillow that supports the natural curve of your neck. Stomach sleepers need an even thinner pillow or no pillow, so their head and neck are not twisted unnaturally during the night. Side sleepers should look for a thicker and firmer pillow that appropriately supports the head, neck, and shoulders.
4) Consider Specialty Pillows
There are pillows designed specifically to address neck pain. These pillows are usually made with memory foam or a combination of memory foam and fiber fill. Some specialty pillows have adjustable sides to help you customize the pillow for comfort and support. Specialty pillows also include cooling gel layers to reduce heat buildup or massage rollers to relax muscles.
Call Gateway Spine and Pain Physicians for the best neck pain relief in Chicago. Our team of board-certified physicians specializes in spine and neck pain treatments, so you know you’re getting the best care available.