We spend a third of our life sleeping and sleep is very important for the body.
We often associate a regenerating rest with the quality and characteristics of the mattress, while we hardly think about the importance that also covers the pillow/pillow. In fact, to sleep better and wake up rested, both the spine and the limbs and, in particular, the cervical tract, it is important that they are well aligned and supported in the right points. For these reasons, the choice of the pillow (high, low, rigid or soft) also covers a very important aspect; in this regard, it is essential to take the position into account which we take mainly during sleep, in addition to any pain during the night or upon waking. Who hasn’t ever woken up and found the pillow on the floor? The reason is very simple: in sleeping, we look for the position that is naturally most comfortable for us; if we remove the pillow, it is evident that this does not allow us to find a correct and natural posture. So it can be deduced that for every sleep there is a more suitable pillow. In this article I will give you some tips on how to choose the best pillow for a good sleep!
What is the best pillow for neck pain?
One of the most common pains is that which affects the neck. This pathology initially manifests itself with slight discomfort in the neck, up to persistent pains. The causes are associated with muscle tension, incorrect posture during the day and at night, as well as a wrong pillow. When sleeping, the spine should assume a natural and relaxed position, especially at the cervical level. The height, texture and material of the pillow they are essential for an ideal sleep and posture. For example, a pillow that is too low forces the neck to accentuate its natural curve, resulting in nocturnal stiffening of the muscles that support the head and the appearance of pain in the neck and shoulders after waking up. The ideal pillow for those suffering from these ailments is available in various materials and shapes.
Among the most used materials there is a latest generation material, Memory Foam. The memory pillow adapts to the shape of both the head and the neck, favoring the relaxation of the muscles. This allows the neck to have the right structural support for each position, as well as a feeling of well-being and relief. It is one of the most popular in the world.
Another material used is latex, which is very elastic, non-deformable and suitable for correctly supporting the neck and head. Those made with ecological polyurethane foam, known for keeping the temperature constant.
Which pillow to choose for children?
According to our grandmothers, children had to sleep with their heads resting directly on the mattress. Never go against grandmothers but, to date, it is always advisable to put something under the baby’s head. It is logical that a low pillow is recommended, with a height between 2 and 5 cm.
As for the materials, typical is the synthetic cushion made of polyester staple or even polyurethane foam. An innovative pillow is then the one made up of memory, not just any memory for adults but a particular and unique memory patented to guarantee breathability, comfort, prevent plagiocephaly and to be anti-suffocation. The memory pillow “Babyhealth” Is the only memory that, thanks to the open cells of the material, can be washed in the washing machine.
Latex pillows should be avoided: this material, in fact, retains moisture, creating the ideal environment for the proliferation of insects. Pillows instead of feathers are usually too soft and dangerous for children, and they can also stimulate allergies. For the pillowcase, it is best to choose the hypoallergenic and anti-mite cotton model to avoid possible allergic reactions, especially if the little one suffers from atopic dermatitis (mites have been shown to worsen skin allergies).
Pillows and positions: find the right pillow for your sleeping position
1. Do you sleep on your back?
The pillow is good to support the natural curvature of the cervical, providing adequate support to the back, neck and shoulders. The ideal pillow has a lower height than that of someone who sleeps sideways.
2. Do you sleep on your side?
The pillow must support the head and neck so that the spine maintains a straight horizontal and natural line. A shaped pillow supports the head and neck in the best possible way.
3. Do you sleep on your stomach?
The perfect pillow is flat or in any case very low as the head must almost rest directly on the mattress to avoid unnatural positions for the head and neck.
How to orient yourself on shape and height?
The pillows are generally of two shapes:
- soap: it is the traditional form of pillows;
- cervical: it is the ideal pillow model to give the right support to our neck.
Regarding the height, there are cushions of different models
There are different types of cushions: high, low, medium. Here are the main features:
- low: they have a maximum height of 10 cm and are particularly suitable for those who rest on their stomach;
- medium: they have a height of 12-13 cm and are usually the most commercialized and suitable for those who rest in any position;
- high: they have a height between 15 cm and 18 cm and are suitable for those who like to sleep on a thick pillow and are suitable both if you sleep on your side or on your stomach. Not recommended for those who sleep in a prone position.