The neck pain can hinder a good night's sleep. Avoid this by choosing a pillow that suits your sleeping style!
Have you ever woken up with a stiff neck or headache? Or perhaps struggled to find a comfortable sleeping position throughout your rest? If so, then this problem is called the 'neck pain' condition.
Many people don't realize that having the neck pain has become an obstacle to quality sleep and overall health. Just imagine, a third of your life that should be used for a good night's sleep becomes unattainable due to improper pillow usage.
Surely, you don't want to let this problem go any longer. To overcome the neck pain, also pay attention to several other factors, one of which is the comfort of the pillow used. From the type, and height, to the filling material, all these aspects help to create the perfect pillow for a comfortable sleep.
Let's take a look at this article to find out what causes the neck pain and the practical solutions that can be applied. This will help you to sleep well throughout the night.
Definition of the neck pain and its impact on sleep
Neck pain is a term that describes the condition when you use a pillow that is not suitable for your needs or posture. A pillow that doesn't support your head, neck, and spine will cause various health problems.
So, can the neck pain affect sleep quality? Sleeping with a bad pillow will make your neck and back muscles feel tense. You will likely wake up frequently due to uncomfortable sleep.
As we age, our sleep needs will change too. This is another important reason why you should choose a pillow that suits the different life stages of its users. For example, elderly people need a pillow that can alleviate their joint pain.
Also read: Tips on finding the nearest mattress store for the most convenient shopping experience
Signs you have the neck pain
To know that the pillow you have been using is not suitable and needs to be replaced, pay attention to the following signs
- Neck and back pain: If you often find yourself waking up with a stiff neck, pain, or even back pain, then most likely the pillow used cannot support the position of the spine while resting in the room.
- Headaches: The neck pain can cause headaches, especially when you wake up in the morning. This is due to stiffness and pain in the neck due to a less ergonomic sleeping position.
- Numbness or tingling: Have you ever experienced tingling or numbness in some parts of your body, such as your hands, arms, and shoulders when you wake up? If so, then there is a possibility that the pillow you are using has been pressing on the nerves in the neck area throughout the night.
- Difficulty falling asleep or waking up frequently: Using an uncomfortable pillow will result in difficulty falling asleep, even waking up frequently in the middle of the night. In addition, this condition also causes restlessness accompanied by constant changes in sleeping position, to find a comfortable place.
- Snoring or difficulty breathing: Snoring or difficulty breathing during sleep can be a sign that the pillow you are using is not supporting your breathing.
Common causes of pillow misalignment
Understanding some of the factors that cause pillow misalignment symptoms can be a major step towards finding the right solution. Here are some of the causes that need to be known:
Wrong sleeping position
Generally, the neck pain is caused by improper sleeping position. Sleeping without a supportive pillow will result in muscle tension and neck pain.
Inappropriate pillow type
Using a pillow that is not suitable for your posture needs can lead to the neck pain. Whether the pillow is too hard or too soft, both can reduce neck support.
Poor pillow quality
Ever noticed a change in the shape and strength of a pillow that has been used for a long time? Pillows that are deflated or no longer elastic cannot support the neck and head properly.
Bad sleeping habits
Some bad sleeping habits, such as sleeping in the same position without paying attention to neck comfort, will lead to the neck pain. It's a good idea to change your sleeping position regularly to ensure you're always in a comfortable sleeping position.
Certain health conditions
Some health conditions, such as arthritis or neck injuries, can increase the risk of the neck pain. If you have any of the above conditions, you must be more careful when choosing the right pillow or sleeping position.
How to deal with the neck pain easily and effectively