How to Choose a Better Pillow
By Sara Butler
People invest a lot of money in a mattress so that their sleep is as restful and rejuvenating as possible, but pillows almost seem as if they're an afterthought. Pillows are an important part of your sleep health as the chiropractors at The Joint Chiropractic emphasize to many of their patients. But do you know what to look for in a pillow? Here are a few chiropractic tips to help you get the right pillow for your spinal health.
What About Your Current Pillow?
Be honest with yourself: How long have you had your current pillow? If you have to fold your pillow over (and it says that way without any pressure) or place your arm under your pillow for support, then that's a clue that it's not providing adequate support.
What Type of Pillow Do You Need?
It's worth the money to invest in a quality pillow. Consider buying:
- Firmer foam or other materials that can help to support your neck and head appropriately
- Contoured pillows that target support of the neck
How to Get the Most from Your Pillow
How to best use your pillow depends on your sleeping position. The chiropractors at The Joint suggest:
- For side sleepers - You need a pillow that will fill in the space between the bed and your ear, keeping your head and neck in a neutral position to the rest of your body. It's also a good idea to put a pillow between your knees.
- For back sleepers - Again, make sure the pillow fills in the space between the bed and your neck, keeping your head in a neutral position so your ears line up with your shoulders. Also, place a pillow under your knees to help support your lower back.
- For stomach sleepers - Stomach sleeping is terrible for your spine. You should talk to the chiropractor about ways to break this habit so you can take the pressure off your neck and lower back as you sleep.
If you're waking up in the morning in pain or stiff, then it could be due to your pillow. Talk to the chiropractors at The Joint about what you can do to better support your spine as you sleep and then put those suggestions into action!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in San Jose, Calif.