An unsupportive pillow can cause neck pain in a variety of ways. The pillow plays an important role in maintaining the proper alignment of the head and neck while sleeping, and when it is not supportive enough, it can lead to strain and discomfort.
One of the main causes of neck pain from an unsupportive pillow is not providing enough support for the natural curvature of the neck. When the pillow is too flat or too thick, it can cause the head to be either too high or too low, which can lead to strain on the muscles and joints in the neck. This can result in pain and stiffness, especially in the morning.
Another issue with an unsupportive pillow is that it can cause the neck to be misaligned with the rest of the spine. This can lead to pain and discomfort, as well as long-term damage to the spine. A pillow that is too soft or too firm can also cause the neck to bend in an unnatural position, leading to muscle strain and pain.
Additionally, using the wrong type of pillow can also lead to neck pain. For example, using a feather pillow for someone who is a stomach sleeper can be problematic as it may cause the head to be too high, this can cause the neck to be in a flexed position all night long, leading to pain and discomfort.
To prevent neck pain caused by an unsupportive pillow, it is important to choose a pillow that is the right firmness for your sleeping position and individual needs. It's also important to consider the material of the pillow, as some materials such as memory foam or water-based pillows, can provide better support for the neck and head.
It's also important to consider the pillow height, a pillow that is too high or too low can also cause strain and discomfort. It's recommended to look for a pillow that is able to fill the gap between your head and shoulders, providing the right amount of support for your neck and head.
For people suffering with neck pain as a result of an unsupportive pillow, we recommend the Groove pillow. These pillows are designed to support the natural curvature of the neck and provide proper alignment for the spine. In our testing, the Groove pillow came out as the best solution on a budget to help with neck pain.
