Pillow Fact Sheet

Sleep is extremely important as it is the time that the body can rest and replenish its energy stores. In fact we spend most of our time during a lifetime asleep. 

Headaches, Neck Pain, Shoulder Pain, Muscular Pain & Spasm, Pins & Needles in the hands or arms may all be symptoms associated with using the wrong pillow.

What is the function of a pillow?

The role of a good pillow is to support the Cervical spine (the neck) and to fill the gap between the head and the shoulder to alleviate stress otherwise placed on the nerves of the cervical spine and on the shoulder

·       The Cervical spine is made of 7 vertebrae (C1-C7) with 8 accompanying spinal nerves. The role of the cervical spine is to protect the spinal cord, support the head and create movement of the neck.

·       The Cervical nerves have varying roles including innervating the muscles of the neck, shoulders and arms and if irritated they may affect the immune system, allergies, migraines & headaches, sinuses, energy levels and balance.

Quick Tip: when trying a new pillow put it against a wall with your head against it. Your head should be neutral and not be pushed away from the wall or tilting towards the wall.

Why sleep on a Memory Foam/Latex Pillow?

Feather and Down pillows conform to the head and neck. They are usually soft and do not give the spine as much support as is needed.

Memory Foam and Latex pillows are firmer pillows which mould to the contour of the neck whilst still stabilising the spine. The contour pillows also have a ridge which simulates the lordosis (neck curve), thus supporting the neck in the correct alignment.