Many patients ask us what type of pillow do
we recommend for sleeping.
Optimally a back sleeping is best with the
cervical or neck curve supported. The second best position for sleep is side
lying with the neck in a neutral position and a pillow between the knees to
keep the spine in a neutral position. The least optimal sleeping position is on
the stomach, this position hyperextends the low back causing sacroiliac and
back pain as well as causing rotational stress on the neck and upper back which
may cause neck pain and headaches.
There are many great options for cervical
/neck pillows for sleeping, and at our office, we recommend the Normalizer
pillows. These pillows have two curves on either side, the smaller is for back
sleeping, and the thicker side is for side sleeping. The thicker side should be
the depth of the shoulder tip to the ear, keeping the neck in a neutral side
position.
I will often recommend our petite
normalizer pillow for women who have a smaller neck structure than males.
Children who are at puberty need to use the petite pillow in this rapid growth
time to support the cervical spine. Younger children need a proper support
pillow as well, and the adult curve is not the correct height and may cause
flexion and thus neck issues, always use the appropriate pillow for the age and
body composition of the person. If you have any questions on if the pillow is
the correct one for your child ask the doctor at our clinic and we will be
happy to help fit you for the right pillow.
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