Stiff neck or sore shoulders, have you ever woken up with such problems. Do you know who the culprit is? Sometimes, regular pillows and sometimes long sitting hours. This type of pain or discomfort is where you need cervical pillows.
Now, the question is,
What is a cervical pillow, exactly?
A cervical pillow is a specially designed pillow that aims to support the natural curve of the neck, providing it complete support. This unique shape helps you to get a restful sleep and potentially ease the strain on the neck and shoulder pain. Now, does it really work?
Let’s dive in to understand how these pillows work and how they truly help in supporting the neck.
How Cervical Pillows Are Different from Regular Pillows?
Standard or regular pillows are fluffy, feel cozy yet might not offer the support especially to people who sleep on their back or sides. On the other hand, a cervical pillow has a distinct shape. Many of these pillows have a roll or raised area that cradles the neck and provide support to the head. It’s different shape includes the following:
Contoured pillows - It has dips in the middle for the head and raised edges for neck support.
Roll-shaped pillows - It fits directly under the neck.
Memory foam - It molds as per the shape of your head and neck.
By keeping the neck properly aligned with the spine, cervical pillows reduce strain on neck muscles and joints. This feature makes them a popular choice for people with neck stiffness and shoulder strain.
The Science Behind Neck Alignment and Pain Relief
Our sleeping position plays a key role, how we will feel when we wake up. However, when our neck is not aligned with the spine, while we are sleeping, it stresses our muscles, ligaments, and discs in the spine. The misalignment can also happen if the pillow is too high, flat, or soft to hold the neck in a neutral position.
Research has shown that keeping the neck in alignment with the spine or in a straight position can reduce the stiffness in the neck. This is where people need a cervical pillow. The special design of these pillows support the natural curve of the neck and help in maintaining the spinal alignment, distribute pressure evenly, and reduce muscle tension. This alignment is essential not from a comfort perspective but also for avoiding the neck pain that can build over time.
Can Cervical Pillows Help with Specific Conditions?
Cervical pillows are recommended to people who are suffering from specific neck conditions and spine issues. Here are some conditions that may benefit from using cervical pillow:
1. Neck Pain and Stiffness
Stress, bad posture, and the use of unsupportive pillows are the main causes of neck discomfort for many people. By supporting the neck during sleep, cervical pillows helps ease morning stiffness and strain on the neck muscles.
2. Cervical Spondylosis
The condition comes on by aging or injury to the neck's bones and discs. Neck discomfort, stiffness, and at times even headaches are symptoms of cervical spondylosis. A cervical cushion helps reduce tension in affected areas by providing additional neck support and maintaining the spine in alignment.
3. Tension Headaches and Migraines
Stress on the neck muscles from an uncomfortable sleeping posture can result in headaches and even migraines. A supporting pillow has been shown in certain studies to reduce neck and shoulder strain, which may help reduce the frequency and severity of tension headaches.
4. Sleep Apnea
By keeping airways open, cervical pillows may benefit those with mild sleep apnea. It's important to see a physician before using a cervical pillow for sleep apnea since further therapies may be necessary.
Types of Cervical Pillows: Which One is Right for You?
You might be thinking that there is only one type of cervical pillow to fulfill every need. But what if we told you that you’re wrong. Yes, there are several types of cervical pillows available in the market with their unique functionality. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose:
For Side Sleepers: The cervical pillow must have raised edges to support the neck without lifting the head too high. This helps in keeping the spine and neck aligned while sleeping on your side.
For Back Sleepers: It is a contoured pillow and has a shallow dip in the center. It can keep the head from tilting too far forward or back.
For Stomach Sleepers: People who sleep on their stomachs must use a thin pillow to reduce neck pain.
Memory Foam vs. Fiber-Filled Pillows: These pillows take the shape of the neck and head. However, Fiber-filled pillows are softer and feel more like traditional pillows.
How to Use a Cervical Pillow for Maximum Benefit?
To avail the most benefits of cervical pillow, you should read the tips given below on how to make the most of your cervical pillow.
Instead of your head, the raised portion of the cushion should be beneath your neck.
Avoid bad positions for your head and neck. The cushion should have a supporting, natural feel.
It could take many nights to become used to using a cervical pillow.
Research and Studies on Cervical Pillows
Scientific studies have researched the effects of cervical pillows for neck pain and sleep quality. A study published in the journal Physiotherapy found that people with neck pain feel at ease after switching to a cervical pillow in just a few weeks.
Research suggests that cervical cushions may be helpful, especially for people who suffer from tension headaches or neck pain. However, they might not be a solution that works for everyone, and some people could prefer neck rolls or even adjustable pillows as alternatives.
Do Cervical Pillows Work for Everyone?
Although not everyone agrees, many individuals find cervical pillows to be beneficial. A person with severe neck or spine issues might want to speak with a doctor before choosing a cushion. Additionally, some people first take issue with the cervical cushion's design.
If using a cervical pillow makes you uncomfortable or doesn't improve the quality of your sleep, it's best to explore other options or even consult a healthcare provider. They can recommend the best pillow based on your particular needs and sleeping habits.
Wrap Up
Cervical pillows have been shown to assist in maintaining good neck alignment and ease the neck discomfort. By promoting a good sleeping posture, cervical pillows provide much-needed comfort to people suffering from migraines, neck stiffness, or ailments like cervical spondylosis. So, change your pillow today. Bring home the comfort for a good night's sleep.