How to Choose the Best Pillow for Neck Pain

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Neck pain is one of the most common reasons why people visit the doctor frequently. The problem of neck pain is more prevalent among people whose jobs involve working on a computer. Using the right pillow can help decrease the pain.

Most cases of neck pain aren't serious enough to attract medical attention. However, depending upon the nature of the symptoms, it might indicate something seriously amiss in the body. Medical care must be sought immediately if the pain is accompanied by numbness in the arms or hands, or if there is a change in bowel habits.

Also, if the neck pain seems to radiate through the shoulder or down the arm, or keeps you from touching your chin to your chest, then you must consider getting medical help.

Options to Consider

Memory Foam Pillow

Also known as viscoelastic polyurethane foam, this material is not only extensively used for manufacturing pillows, but for various other products, as well.

These pillows perfectly adjust to the shape of the neck, thus giving users maximum comfort. It is such that, when pressure is exerted on the pillow, air is released to the other cells of the material, and this builds a perfect support for the neck and the head, too.

Buckwheat Pillow

For most people, this is known to be the best kind of pillow for neck pain. As the name suggests, these pillows are made up of buckwheat hulls.

Once you place your head on it, the hulls shift into the right position, so that the pillow gets adjusted to the shape of the neck and head. Due to this, any existing neck pain is reduced and also prevented from flaring up during slumber. Apart from these benefit, they are also less expensive, making them the best buy for a lot of people.

How to Choose a Neck Pillow

Using a pillow that is as long as the body is beneficial, especially for side sleepers. It helps in alleviating pressure caused on the shoulders, ankles, knees, and hips, apart from the neck and head.

The pillow should support the head in a similar way that it does for the neck while the person is sitting or standing. The ideal height of the pillow to reduce and prevent neck pain and other muscle strains is 4-6 inches.

It takes a while for the neck muscles to get adjusted to the contours of a new pillow. However, if you experience pain for a long time, then it might be a good idea to get the pillow changed.

The position or the height of the pillow should be such that it does not cause the head to tilt forward while lying on the back.

Also, while side sleeping, the head of the sleeper should be aligned with the body. Even in this position, the pillow should not cause the head to tilt upwards or downwards. It should occupy the space between the sleeper's ear and the mattress

Most people benefit by using orthopedic pillows. These are specially designed for the neck; that is why they are also known as cervical pillows. They allow the head to remain aligned with the spine, thus, keeping neck pain from aggravating.

When it comes to choosing a pillow that could help manage neck pain, then do not compromise on comfort and quality. After all, it's a painless sleep that you wish after a long day at work.