You may need a new pillow if you are sleeping on your back on a flat pillow that is made from feathers or foam. Why?  Feather pillows tend to bunch up as you sleep and may lose the support of your head and neck. Flat foam pillows tend not to have the proper shape that supports your neck. Some foam pillows are molded better than others. Your pillow should have a neck roll that supports your neck and allows your head to drop back into extension. This type of pillow is called a cervical pillow.

If you sleep on your side, you will need a thicker pillow. A high density foam pillow that is the same thickness as the distance between the side of your head and the outside edge of your shoulder will be the best choice.  If you find yourself sleeping on your side with one hand propped under the pillow, this may be a clue that you’re not getting proper support from that pillow. Also, use a firm pillow between the knees to prevent the upper legs from pulling the spine out of alignment. This will reduce stress on your lower back and hips.

If you are a stomach sleeper, no wonder your neck hurts when you wake up. No pillow in the world is going to make you feel better! You need to learn new sleeping habits. Lying on your stomach with your head rotated to one side all night is going to cause you pain in your neck.

What should you look for when selecting a pillow? At Chait Chiropractic Center located in Sarasota Florida we can explain what to look for when purchasing a new pillow.  We will also provide you with a complimentary posture analysis to see how your pillow is effecting your posture.  Call us today at (941) 371-1070 to schedule an appointment.