Is Your Pillow Right For You?

Dr Melita Azarcon-OSTEOPATH- B.App.Sc(Osteopathy), B.H.Sc, B.Sc, M.O.A

If you find yourself waking up with neck pain, stiffness and headaches, you may want to look at your pillow. Whether or not you sleep on an old, yellowing, worn-out pillow that is in desperate need of an update, or even a pillow that is brand spanking new, your sleep posture is key to a good night’s sleep. Are you a side sleeper? Do you sleep on your back, or flat on your tummy? We have a few tips you should consider before going all in on the most expensive pillow you can get your hands on!

Time for some pillow talk!

If you are a side sleeper, your shoulders should be off the pillow, and your head and neck should feel well supported on the pillow. If your pillow is too flat, then your neck will squash down onto the shoulder you are sleeping on, but if it’s too high then your neck ends up craning into your other shoulder. If you have broad shoulders, go for something with a higher profile, and if you have narrow shoulders, a low profile pillow would probably suit you better.

If you sleep on your back, your head and neck should still feel well supported on the pillow, but you don’t want something that’s too high as it will cause your neck to flex too far forward. Sometimes if your pillow is too flat, you’ll end up with your neck in too much extension.

If you sleep on your tummy, a flat pillow or no pillow at all will work best as this will avoid putting too much of an angle through the head and neck.

Although a change in pillow can be a big help, coming in to see your friendly neighbourhood osteopath to help address other contributing factors can save you hours of uncomfortable sleep. If you’re unsure about whether or not your pillow is to blame, why not bring your pillow in to your next appointment so your osteopath can give you a proper assessment.

To find out more about how the team at WRH can help with finding you the right pillow, give us a call on 9747 0077.