Neck pillows can be used both during travel and to help reduce headache by providing extra support. One should buy a pillow keeping in mind how it is going to be used. By K Madhavan
Neck pain is a very common problem among individuals and it increases with age. While some causes such as age-related wear and tear, are not under your control, there are many things you can do to minimise the risks. One key reason that can cause or increase neck pain might be the lack of support or improper sleeping positions. This issue can be easily alleviated with the use of proper pillows for your neck. There are a wide variety of pillows available in the market today in various materials, shapes and sizes.
Orthopedic pillows
These pillows are specially designed to maintain the natural curve of the neck to avoid any neck pain.
Feather pillows
The old-fashioned feather pillow could be a good pick as long as the individual isn’t allergic to down or other feathers. These pillows can be moulded to fit the shape of the head and offer less resistance than foam.
Cervical pillows
These are roll-shaped pillows designed to relieve neck stress and neck pain by maintaining the natural shape of the head and neck while sleeping
Water-filled pillows
Water pillows support the neck by absorbing and redistributing weight. One advantage of the water pillow is that customisation is possible in the amount of support it provides — the more the water is added, the firmer the support, and vice versa.
Travel neck pillows
These pillows are usually U-shaped and help a great deal to get a sound sleep during travel. Individuals who frequently travel would definitely benefit from these pillows that can easily be tucked away in the carry-on luggage. Such pillows can also be fixed on car seats.
There are certain neck pillows that are specifically designed to help reduce headache by providing extra support. This pillow has an added feature of an ice-pocket where in ice packs can be inserted for further relief from pinched nerves, stiffness, sprains, neck injuries or other traumas.
Memory foam pillows
Memory foam pillows provides the required firmness for about two years from the date of purchase. If the pillows aren’t firm enough, chances are that side sleepers would suffer from neck pain. Hence memory foam pillows are considered one of the best for side sleepers.
Feathers and down pillows: This pillow would be apt for back sleepers.The pillow (also in firm) boasts an inner feathers-and-down chamber that’s then wrapped in down, providing ideal support. It would in turn cope up with the neck pain.
Tempur neck pillows
These are made of visco-elastic foam and heats up at the pressure points such as shoulders providing relief to the pain.
latex pillows
This is one of the most popular pillows used today. Compared to the down-filled and feather filled pillows, this provides a greater support for your head and neck. These pillows do not let your head slump down during the sleep. Neck and shoulder strain can be avoided with the use of latex pillows.
Choosing the perfect pillow for your neck is an extremely important part of preventing or managing neck pain. So the next time you are shopping for pillows, do keep in mind the variety of choices you have. You choice today can help you lead a pain-free life tomorrow.
The author is managing director, Peps Industries Pvt ltd