We spend a third our life asleep… How do I know my pillow is right for me?

Having the right pillow is particularly important for those of us that suffer neck or back pain, or headaches. With the amount of different pillows available, it is no wonder that this is a difficult choice.

What position do you sleep in?

The right pillow should support your natural spinal curves regardless of the position you are sleeping in.

Back sleepers:

A low to medium height is ideal. A pillow too high will reduce the curve of the neck and make it more round, where as a pillow too low will exaggerate the curve such as when you are looking up.

Side sleepers:

The pillow should be high enough to keep your neck in the same position it is in as when you are upright, with no space between the pillow and your neck. A pillow to high or low will angle the neck upwards or downwards.

Tummy sleepers:

This position is generally not recommended due to the prolonged rotation of the neck during the night.

How hard or soft do you prefer your pillow to be?

The hardness or softness of a pillow is influenced in some way by personal preference, however, there are a few things to consider.

• The pillow should be firm enough that it supports the position of your head throughout the night.
• If you have a larger frame/broad shoulders then a harder pillow is recommended compared to those of a smaller frame.
• Consider pillows with adjustable heights, to allow greater freedom when working out which pillow is the most comfortable for you.

Is your pillow too old?

Regardless of how supportive your pillow was initially; they should be replaced every 12-18 months.

Do you need a new pillow?

Do you suffer from neck or back pain, or headaches?

Call the clinic today to be fitted by one of our physiotherapists. 03 9686 2373

Photo: http://www.skyhdwallpaper.com/cute-dog-hd-wallpapers