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Getting deep, refreshing sleep isn’t just about hitting the sack on time—it’s also about having the right sleeping materials that lull you into sleep. And one of the most overlooked material in this pursuit is a quality pillow.
You might not give it much thought, but the pillow you rest your head on plays an important role in whether you wake up feeling refreshed or not. That’s why experts suggest checking in on your pillow timely to ensure it is in perfect shape to support your head and neck. And if it goes bad, don’t think twice about investing in a new one.
But you need to know how to select the best pillow for head and neck pain? This blog will know about choosing the right pillow for yourself.
Table of Contents
Understanding your sleep position
First things first: how do you sleep? Your sleep position plays a key role in guiding you to the perfect neck pillow for sleeping. Whether you curl up like a cat, sprawl out on your back, or nestle face-down into your bed, your sleep style dictates what kind of pillow you should be searching for. Here’s a quick guide for you:
Side Sleepers: If you’re a side sleeper, you need a pillow that’s got your back—well, your neck, actually. Look for something firm with a high loft (that’s pillow talk for thickness). This helps keep your spine aligned and prevents your head from dipping too low. The pillow for neck problems should cradle your head and fill the gap between your shoulder and neck.
Back Sleepers: If you’re the kind who likes to stare at the ceiling before drifting off, a pillow with moderate loft and firmness is your best bet. Your head needs to stay level, not pushed forward or sinking back. Think of it as keeping your spine aligned with your spine in a straight line. If you have acid reflux or often struggle with a similar problem, a pillow that keeps your head slightly forward can work wonders.
Stomach Sleepers: Sleeping on your stomach might be one of the best feelings in the world, but it’s a surefire way to wreck your neck if you don’t have the right pillow. You’ll want something soft and low-profile to keep your spine as straight as possible. It’s very much like giving your face a soft landing pad—no heavy lifting required.
Combination Sleepers: Then comes those who can’t pick a favourite sleep position. They should look for an adaptable pillow, like one that’s adjustable or made from a hybrid of materials. These pillows are perfect to support you no matter how you toss and turn.
Exploring pillow types to find the best neck pillow for sleeping
When it comes to slecting good pillows for neck pain or even comfortable sleep, it’s crucial to understand the different pillow types available on the market. Let’s dive in and see what the market offers:
Nexa foam pillows
Nexa foam pillows are the best pillows you can have to keep your neck in tip-top shape. These pillows mould themselves to the unique contours of your head and neck, providing customised support that eases pressure on critical points. This tailored support encourages proper alignment, making your sleep more relaxing and your mornings less painful.
Whether you’re a side sleeper who needs extra cushioning or a back sleeper looking for firm support, nexa foam pillows do wonders in keeping neck pain at bay, waking you up without a stiff neck.
Cervical pillows
Cervical pillows are designed with a specific mission: to cradle your neck and keep it aligned. These pillows feature a central ridge with side lobes, creating a gentle bed for your neck. The design ensures that your head stays in place, preventing it from rolling off during the night.
Whether you sleep on your side or your back, cervical pillows help maintain the delicate balance of your neck, reducing unnecessary strain and providing relief from chronic neck pain.
Water pillows
For those who like a bit of customisation, water pillows are a fantastic option. These pillows come with adjustable water chambers that let you control the firmness and support level to your liking. Just fill it up to your preferred water level, lie back, and let the water do the work. It conforms to your head and neck, providing support where you need it most. Plus, water pillows stay cool throughout the night, making them perfect for those who struggle with fluctuating temperatures. If you are looking for the best pillow for head and neck pain, they can be your best option.
Buckwheat pillows
Buckwheat pillows are stuffed with buckwheat hulls, which provide excellent breathability and a firm, supportive feel. These pillows are great for back sleepers who need a pillow that won’t sink under pressure.
The natural firmness of the buckwheat hulls offers solid support for your neck and head, helping maintain proper alignment. What’s more, buckwheat is naturally hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites, making these pillows a top choice for allergy sufferers.
Micro pillows
Micro pillows are filled with tiny microfibers or down, offering a lower profile and gentle support. These pillows are ideal for stomach sleepers who need minimal lift to keep their necks aligned. While they might not be as supportive as a high-density nexa foam pillow, they’re a soft and comfy choice if you like a lighter, less bulky feel.
Hybrid pillows
Why settle for one material when you can have the best of both worlds? Hybrid pillows combine materials like nexa foam and down or latex to offer a blend of support and softness. These pillows are considered one of the best pillows for neck pain, thanks to their ability to provide both support and comfort to the neck and head.
Assessing pillow firmness and loft
Pillow loft and firmness aren’t just fancy terms—they’re the keys to aligning your spine and getting that elusive, pain-free sleep. Let’s better understand these terms:
Loft
The loft of a pillow refers to its height or thickness. The right loft keeps your spine in a neutral position, whether you’re on your back, side, or stomach. The importance of choosing the right loft can’t be overlooked. If you go too high, your neck may get strained; too low, and your head may sink. The sweet spot is just right, keeping everything in perfect alignment.
Firmness levels
Soft, medium, and firm—what’s the difference? A soft pillow allows your head to sink in, offering a plush, cosy feel. Medium firmness strikes a balance, providing enough support without feeling like a rock. Firm pillows keep your head elevated and stable, which is great for side sleepers who need extra support.
Experts suggest matching your loft and firmness to your sleep position and personal preference. A side sleeper might want a firm, high-loft pillow, while a back sleeper might opt for medium firmness with moderate loft. Stomach sleepers should stick to low-loft, soft pillows to avoid craning their necks.
Special considerations for specific needs
Sometimes, a little extra attention is needed to address specific sleep issues. Here’s how to tailor your pillow choice to meet those needs:
Neck pain
If you wake up feeling like you’ve been in a headlock, you need the best sleeping pillow for neck pain, one that provides ergonomic support. Nexa pillows and cervical pillows can be your best bet for waking up without a stiff neck.
Hot sleepers
Are you always flipping your pillow to the cool side? Cooling pillows are your new best friend. Made with breathable materials or infused with cooling gel, these pillows help regulate temperature and keep you from overheating. Sleepwell latex plus curve pillow is a great option, as latex is naturally cool and offers exceptional breathability.
Allergy sufferers
If you’re sneezing instead of snoozing, it’s time to switch to a hypoallergenic pillow. These pillows are made from materials that resist allergens like dust mites, mould, and pet dander, so you can breathe easy and sleep soundly. Sleepwell’s nexa curve pillow can be a great option for you as it comes with neem freshe technology that keeps these pesky irritants away.
Pregnancy
Growing a tiny human is hard work, and finding a comfortable sleep position can be even harder. That’s where pregnancy pillows come into the picture, offering full-body support and helping to relieve pressure on your back, hips, and belly. One of the best pillows that also acts as a pregnancy pillow is sleepwell’s latex plus regular pillow, thanks to its nexa foam construction that cradles the curve of the neck while offering the needed support.
In a nutshell
Choosing the right pillow means choosing to wake up feeling ready to take on the day, every day. Whether you’re a side sleeper, back sleeper, or somewhere in between, there’s a perfect pillow out there just waiting for you. So, invest the time (and a little money) to find the best pillow for neck problems and overall sleep health today.
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