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Neck pain is a common symptom many people experience and it
can most frequently be associated with cervical spine complications that make an
individual’s lifestyle difficult, unfortunately including their sleep. During
those nights when the painful neck symptoms flare up, getting a full night’s
rest can be nearly impossible, leaving a person feeling tired and completely
unprepared to face the day. In addition, an individual’s sleeping position can
further aggravate their neck pain.
For an individual with neck pain, the hardships that come
with a deep sleep are not unusual, however, choosing a proper pillow can help
ease the symptoms of neck pain. The only requirement is, taking careful
considerations of your own sleeping habits to purchase a pillow that will
benefit your overall health in the long run.
There are numerous varieties of pillows to choose from but
beforehand, you must first determine the primary position you sleep in. Pillows
come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and firmness, and, depending on your
sleeping position, some pillows can support the head and neck more comfortably
than others. When shopping for a new pillow, consider the following tips and
avoid settling for an improper pillow choice.
First, before selecting a new pillow, make sure to consult
your chiropractor for suggestions. Chiropractors understand the cause of neck
pain better than many and they may give you valuable information and recommendations
on which type of pillow would be most beneficial for your sleeping posture and
source of neck symptoms.
Then, consider doing some research in terms of a pillow’s
filling before purchasing one. Pillows are filled with a variety of material
which is also important when considering which type of pillow will be the best
choice for you. Feather pillows, for example, may offer significant neck
comfort but for individuals who may be allergic to them, this is an improper
choice. Pillows made using memory foam are frequently preferred because the
material is designed to contour to the shape of the body.
Also, it’s important to consider the size of the pillow. Pillows
typically range between 4 to 6 inches in height in order to help relieve
pressure points around the neck and shoulders. Pillows which tend to be thicker
or flatter then the average height are most often improper choices for the
majority of people. An individuals size in relation to their pillow should also
be considered. A larger individual needs a bigger pillow, while a smaller, more
petite individual, should use a smaller pillow. The function of a pillow is to
provide comfort and support as well as hold the neck in a neutral position while
sleeping. If your current pillow is not doing this for you, it could be one
source for your neck pain.
Keep in mind, when choosing a proper pillow for you, don’t
choose the cheaper alternatives. Pillows designed to reduce neck pain symptoms
may be a little pricier than usual but if you choose to make the expense, your
body will thank you.
Symptoms of neck pain can often be a result of an injury or
possible underlying condition. Although finding a proper pillow may allow an individual
to experience relief from their neck pain when sleeping through the night, it’s
essential to first seek immediate medical attention to diagnose and determine
any possible cervical spine complications. Addressing your symptoms with a
chiropractor and following chiropractic care along with finding the right
pillow to sleep in can ultimately help improve your neck problems and restore
your full nights of rest.
By Dr. Alex Jimenez