Do you often wake up with a stiff neck and soaring back pain? This feeling can be frustrating, especially when you're looking for a good start to the day. The fact is many people experience something similar, and the culprit behind this pain is right under your head- your pillow(s). Resting your head on the right pillow matters significantly as it influences your head and neck's alignment with the sternum.
The right pillow makes it easier to rest your head in a neutral position that can prevent neck soreness and back pain. It even facilitates sound sleep, ensuring you don't experience discomfort, pain, or misalignment as you have a restful night of relaxing sleep. The ideal pillows make it easier to sleep peacefully and wake up fresh the following morning. But how do you find such a pillow that aids sound sleep and alleviates neck & back pain?
To help you pick the perfect pillow(s), we have shared some practical tips below that can make all the difference. So let's quickly explore the tips shared below.
1. Consider Your Sleeping Position
A crucial factor determining whether you should get a plush , gel pillow, or something else depends on your sleeping position. For example, if you're a side sleeper, you should invest in a firm pillow featuring a higher loft. It will help maintain proper spinal alignment that alleviates any strain on your neck. A firm pillow will also help align the head with the entire body.
If you're a back sleeper, look for medium-firm pillows that support the neck's natural curve, preventing it from being too flat or elevated. On the other hand, stomach sleepers can benefit more from a soft and flat pillow that prevents strain exerted on the neck while keeping the spine in a neutral position.
2. Assess Pillow Materials
The material used in a pillow significantly impacts the support and comfort it provides, so look for pillows made using the finest and most comfortable materials. If you want pillows that provide excellent support and pressure relief, search for memory foam pillows, as they easily conform to your neck and head's shape. These pillows distribute weight evenly so individuals experiencing chronic neck and back pain can get some relief.
An organic cotton pillow will be perfect if you're primarily seeking comfort. Pillows made using organic cotton feel soft to the touch and help facilitate sound sleep. You can consider buying latex pillows if you're looking for durable options. These pillows offer a contouring effect and are allergen resistant.
3. Determine Pillow Loft
Whether you choose to buy organic cotton pillow or feather pillow, or any other option, you must assess the shortlisted pillows based on their loft. For the uninitiated, pillow loft refers to its thickness or height. A pillow's optimal loft will depend on factors like one's personal preference, sleep position, and body size. People with broad shoulders should look for pillows with higher lofts to help maintain proper alignment by seamlessly filling the gap between your mattress and neck.
But if your body size is petite, or you're someone who sleeps on their stomach, pillows with a lower loft are better. They feel more comfortable than others and prevent your head from being elevated too much. A pillow with the right loft is crucial to maintain healthy alignment between the neck, head, and the rest of your body. It will also help you avoid any discomfort or strain.
4. Look for Adequate Neck Support
You must look for a pillow that promotes spinal alignment and helps relieve neck pain. The market offers plenty of options where the design is exclusively chosen to support the neck's natural curvature. Start searching for an organic cotton pillow that will support your head without straining your neck muscles.
Such pillows are popularly known as cervical pillows or contoured pillows. They are designed in a way that seamlessly supports your neck's curve and ensures your head's weight is evenly distributed. It also assists in reducing pain points and evenly distributes pressure points to prevent stiffness and pain.
5. Consider the Pillow's Breathability and Allergy Resistance
If you suffer from asthma or any allergies, it becomes crucial to buy a hypoallergenic pillow. Such pillows are designed to repel mold, dust mites, and other allergens. You can find pillows made using your favorite materials that are also hypoallergenic. For example, you can search for a hypoallergenic organic cotton pillow or a hypoallergenic latex pillow, depending on your preference.
These pillows help create a healthier sleep environment and are incredibly breathable. Good ventilation in pillows is also desirable as it prevents heat buildup, allowing for better body temperature regulation. You can find plenty of pillows offering these characteristics in the online and offline market, so search accordingly.
Sleep Pain-Free and Comfortably with the Right Pillows
Investing in the right pillow is crucial as it influences your sleep quality. The right option provides comfort while alleviating pain from your back and neck. Since the market is flooded with pillows of different designs, brands, and materials, it is easy to get overwhelmed with the options.
If you're willing to get the best pillows, be it an organic cotton pillow or memory foam pillow, we recommend evaluating all the shortlisted options against the points discussed in this article. It might be time-consuming and tedious, but it will help you find the best pillow that supports your neck, back, and entire body, helping you get a restful sleep.