Can an Orthopedic Pillow Cause Neck Pain?

Are you experiencing neck pain after using your orthopedic pillow?

If you’re experiencing neck pain, it’s natural to wonder if something you’re doing is causing it.

Neck pain is widespread; one study found that 34.4% of responders had experienced neck pain within the last year. A total of 13.8% reported neck pain lasting more than six months.

In this post, we’ll explore the possibility that an orthopedic pillow could be the source of your neck pain. We’ll also discuss some steps you can take to alleviate the discomfort. Keep reading to learn more!

As a general rule, orthopedic pillows reduce neck pain, not cause neck pain. A pillow must provide support and pressure relief for pillows to be effective. By relieving muscle tension throughout the body, orthopedic pillows help to improve sleep quality and reduce neck pain symptoms.

My name is Dr. Lawrence Woods, DC, and I have been designing orthopedic pillows for over 20 years. As a chiropractor, my goal has always focused on improving the health of my patients by optimizing their sleep. My designs have been nominated for numerous awards, and I continue to be at the forefront of this industry, helping people get the best night’s sleep possible.

Good Orthopedic Pillow Improve Neck Pain

While there are many potential treatments for neck pain, a straightforward way to improve the condition is to invest in an excellent orthopedic pillow.

Studies have shown that pillows with good shape, consistency, and firm support for cervical lordosis can help alleviate neck pain.

In addition, orthopedic pillows can help to prevent neck pain by providing proper support for the head and neck, keeping the spine in alignment. As such, they are an essential part of any treatment plan for neck pain.

However, not all orthopedic pillows are created equal. As a chiropractor who has been designing orthopedic pillows for decades, I have found that the overwhelming majority of orthopedic pillows on the market are made from cheap polyurethane foams (memory foam) cause more harm than good.

An example of a cheap orthopedic pillow found online could cause neck pain from poor design.

Orthopedic Pillow Firmness Causing Neck Pain

Having a pillow that gives you the right amount of support while you sleep is essential.

Too Firm

If you experience neck pain, it may be due to your pillow being too firm. A firm pillow can cause your neck to feel strained and prevent you from getting the necessary pressure relief. In addition, a firm pillow can make it difficult to get comfortable.

Too Soft

One common cause of neck pain is using a pillow that is too soft. When your head sinks into a soft pillow, it can cause your neck to bend at an unnatural angle, resulting in pain and stiffness. If you often wake up with a sore neck, it’s worth trying a firmer pillow.

The best way to find the perfect firmness is to experiment until you find a pillow that provides the proper support and comfort. Don’t be afraid to try out different pillows until you find one that suits you.

Orthopedic Pillow Types

If you’ve ever woken up with a sore neck, you may have been tempted to blame your pillow. After all, it’s the one thing you’re using all night long, so it makes sense that it could be the culprit. However, the material your pillow is made of can play a role in neck pain.

Memory Foam

Many people experience neck pain, and various factors can cause it.

One common cause of neck pain is sleeping on the wrong pillow type.

Memory foam orthopedic pillows are designed to support the neck and spine but can do more harm than good. The problem with these pillows is that they are too soft and lack the necessary support for the neck.

As a result, the neck cannot maintain its natural alignment and is forced into an unnatural position. This can lead to muscle strain and pain.

In addition, memory foam orthopedic pillows often retain heat, which can cause sweating and further discomfort. A good pillow is very personal; however, if you experience these problems with memory foam pillows, it is best to avoid these types of pillows if you suffer from neck pain.

Natural Latex Foam

When choosing the right pillow, there are many factors to consider. Firmness, fluffiness, and size are all necessary, but for me, one of the essential qualities is responsiveness.

I want my pillows to mold to my head and neck, providing support and comfort while I sleep. That’s why I love natural latex foam.

Unlike other foams, latex responds quickly to pressure, contouring to the shape of my head and giving me the support I need. It also bounces back quickly when pressure releases, providing a consistently comfortable surface.

Best of all, natural latex foam is highly durable, so I know my pillows will continue to provide lasting comfort night after night.

The Right Pillow Height

A good night’s sleep is essential for overall health and well-being, but getting the rest you need is difficult d if your pillow is not the right height.

If a pillow is too high, your neck will be tilted upwards at an uncomfortable angle. Conversely, if a pillow is too low, your head will be pushed forward, putting strain on your neck and shoulders.

The ideal pillow height keeps your neck in alignment with your spine. This allows your muscles to relax and prevents pain and stiffness in the morning. If you frequently wake up with a sore neck, it may be time to invest in an adjustable orthopedic pillow. With a little trial and error, you’ll be able to find a pillow that provides the perfect amount of support and helps you get a good night’s sleep.

How to Properly Use an Orthopedic Pillow

An orthopedic pillow can help improve your sleeping posture and alleviate pain in your neck, shoulders, and back.

To use an orthopedic pillow correctly, place it under your head and neck while sleeping on your back or side. You may need to experiment with different positions to find the one most comfortable for you.

Additionally, it is essential to choose a pillow that is the right size for your body. A pillow that is too big or too small can cause discomfort and worsen your condition.

Preexisting Condition Causing Neck Pain

Neck pain is a common problem caused by various factors, including poor posture, muscle strain, and arthritis.

However, if you experience neck pain that is severe or persistent, it could be a sign of a more serious condition. For example, cervical spine disorders, such as herniated discs and degenerative disc disease, can cause neck pain.

If you have a preexisting condition that is causing your neck pain, it is essential to seek medical attention. In some cases, such as when there is nerve damage or inflammation, proper medical treatment can help to relieve the pain.

In this case, a pillow might help support your neck, but it should not be considered a solution.

How Your Mattress Could Be to Blame

Neck pain is a common problem caused by various factors, including poor posture, muscle strain, and arthritis. However, one often-overlooked cause of neck pain is a mattress that is too soft or hard.

If you are on your third or fourth orthopedic pillow, you should strongly consider how your mattress is a possible cause of your neck pain.

Too Soft

A mattress that is too soft will allow your shoulders and thus sink into the bed, causing the neck and head to fall out of alignment. This can strain the muscles and ligaments, resulting in pain.

Too Hard

A mattress that is too hard place strain and pressure on your shoulders and neck. The ideal mattress should be firm enough to support the spine but not so hard that it causes discomfort. . A bed that is too hard can place strain and pressure on your shoulders and neck, leading to discomfort and even pain. By choosing the right mattress, you can help to prevent neck pain.

Just Right

The ideal mattress should be firm enough to support the spine but not so hard that it causes discomfort. By choosing the right mattress, you can help to prevent neck pain.

Conclusion

If you’re experiencing neck pain after using your orthopedic pillow, don’t worry – you can do a few things to ease the discomfort. First, ensure that the pillow supports your head and neck in a neutral position. Second, try elevating your head with an extra pillow or two. Finally, if the pain persists for more than a week, it might be time to see a doctor. Orthopedic pillows are great for reducing neck pain, but only when they’re used correctly. By following these tips, you should be able to get the most out of your orthopedic pillow and alleviate any associated neck pain.