Adequate sleep means good vacation and relaxation. About a third of our life is spent sleeping - we devote 6 hours to this every day, and sometimes more. Let's figure out how to sleep with cervical osteochondrosis so that you don't experience insomnia at night and headaches in the morning along with irritability. After all, osteochondrosis of the cervical spine is much more dangerous than other types of osteochondrosis. It allows for the possibility of malfunctions in the functioning of many body systems, as well as possible violations in the functioning of the brain.
If you want to be healthy, it is advisable to learn how to sleep properly, and also purchase a high-quality orthopedic mattress and orthopedic pillow for cervical osteochondrosis.
How to sleep with osteochondrosis
The rest and health of your back directly depend on the position your body occupies when you sleep. It turns out that not every sleeping position can provide relaxation of all back muscles and reliable support for the spine.
Proper sleep very important for the spine
How to sleep with osteochondrosis:
- On your back with half-bent legs. This way all vertebrae take the correct anatomical position. But with straightened legs, the lower back muscles remain tense.
- On the side. In this case, the shoulder should rest against the mattress, and the head should lie completely on a small pillow.
- In the fetal position. This is the best pose for resting the spine. You need to lie on your side and pull your half-bent legs towards your chest. You can place a pad under the knee of your upper leg for greater comfort.
The advantage of sleeping on the stomach, according to some vertebrologists, is that the internal organs do not put pressure on the spine. However, due to the fact that the head is turned to the side, the joints connecting the first and second vertebrae are constantly under tension. Therefore, it is better to avoid sleeping on your stomach.
Choosing a pillow for osteochondrosis
Headaches and dizziness that regularly occur in the morning indicate poor circulation. The choice of pillow for cervical osteochondrosis should be taken with full responsibility. A properly selected pillow should have the following characteristics:
The pillow should be of medium hardness - Shape: square or rectangular. A bolster pillow in the shape of a horseshoe or log is suitable only for short-term rest on the back, but not for regular sleep.
- Height: 5-9 cm. This height is safe for health and also provides correct location body: shoulders slightly raised, and neck slightly higher than head.
- Size. The width of the pillow for osteochondrosis is selected based on the width of your shoulders: a little more or the same.
- Hardness - medium. The right pillow for cervical osteochondrosis is moderately hard, but not very soft.
In case of frequent exacerbations of osteochondrosis, the parameters of the pillow should be discussed individually with the treating doctor.
Keep in mind that a pillow for cervical osteochondrosis cannot relieve all problems with the spine. Its main purpose is to provide complete rest to the spine, as well as to prevent the development of osteochondrosis.
Types of orthopedic pillows
Orthopedic pillows especially important for osteochondrosis Manufacturers of orthopedic pillows present a variety of various types this product. Standard sizes such pillows: 40x50, 50x70. The form could be like this:
- Crescent or roller. Perfectly secures the neck, but is only suitable for sleeping on the back.
- Rectangular:
- 2 rolls along the edges and a recess in the middle;
- 1 roller in the center.
Functionality does not depend on the location of the rollers. Both variations do not deform during operation. Before you choose best option, you need to try to lie down on each of the pillows.
As for the filler of an orthopedic pillow for osteochondrosis, the most popular are:
- Buckwheat husk. A pillow with this filler not only follows the contours of the head, but also improves blood circulation due to the massaging effect.
- Latex. It is a hypoallergenic and non-toxic material that has antibacterial properties.
- Bamboo fiber. It has a deodorizing effect and does not require special care, does not accumulate dust and does not interfere with air circulation. A pillow for cervical osteochondrosis made of bamboo fiber is perfect for preventing the disease in adults and children.
- Independent mini springs. The pillow supports the spine well, instantly responding to load. Comfortable for sleeping in any position.
- Cooling gel. Thanks to special fluid technology, the load is correctly distributed. This pillow can be of any shape. However, it will take some time to get used to sleeping on it.
Video about choosing the right pillow
How to choose the right orthopedic pillow
An orthopedic pillow for cervical osteochondrosis is quite expensive, but the effectiveness of its use is difficult to overestimate. Let them help you do it right choice our recommendations:
- A high-quality pillow should not be deformed.
- The required bolster height depends on the softness of the mattress.
- The pillow is too low for you, if you really want to put your hand under your head.
- Frequently changing positions during sleep may indicate an incorrectly selected pillow size.
- “Wooden shoulders” and pain in the neck in the morning indicate that the height of the pillow is not selected correctly.
Thus, it is possible to determine which pillow is needed for osteochondrosis in a particular case only experimentally.
Finally, we would like to note that if a person does not think about how to sleep properly with osteochondrosis, even a properly selected orthopedic pillow and mattress will not be able to correct the situation.
Cervical osteochondrosis is a common disease that worsens the quality of life. The disease has become dramatically younger and is increasingly affecting young people active age, students and schoolchildren. This is caused by physical inactivity and a sedentary lifestyle. If you have a sedentary job, you are at risk.
The correct body position of a sleeping person has special meaning for patients with cervical osteochondrosis. Doctors advise using an orthopedic pillow for cervical osteochondrosis to relieve and prevent pain symptoms. The right orthopedic pillow helps relax muscles, supports and stabilizes the cervical vertebrae while you sleep. In this article we will tell you how to choose a pillow for osteochondrosis of the neck without getting lost among the abundance of products.
Restoration of human joints and intervertebral discs occurs at night during sleep. An uncomfortable sleeping position leads to pinched nerves, narrowing of blood vessels and oxygen starvation of the brain. When waking up, a person experiences discomfort, stiffness and numbness in the neck, crunching of the vertebrae, and headaches. Constant signs discomfort indicates that the pillow is uncomfortable for the sleeper, and it is better to choose a product with an orthopedic effect.
The purpose of the pillow for cervical osteochondrosis is to slow down the degenerative process that destroys cartilage tissue, to relieve the stress on the joints and ligaments of the resting person as much as possible. Indications for the use of an orthopedic pillow are very extensive:
Thus, an orthopedic pillow is indicated not only for those suffering from osteochondrosis of the neck, but also for many other problems in the neck and head.
When choosing a pillow, you must proceed from individual characteristics body, taking into account the doctor’s recommendations for your specific case.
Advantages of an orthopedic pillow: 
- Maintaining the anatomical posture of the spine during sleep;
- Stably retains its shape (memory effect);
- Variety of shapes and sizes;
- Hypoallergenic;
- Convenient, multifunctional - can be used to relieve other parts of the spine, as a lining for the legs.
Disadvantages of an orthopedic pillow compared to a traditional one:
- High price;
- Inability to wash;
- Limited period of use;
- The need to get used to new form, change of sensations - unusual rigidity, a different resting position.
What types of orthopedic pillows are there?
Many manufacturers are working on creating comfortable sleep accessories. In specialized stores you will be offered big choice products. Types of orthopedic pillows are distinguished by shape, material of manufacture, and degree of rigidity.
The entire variety of orthopedic pillows comes down to three main forms: 
- A bolster pillow is a cylindrical bag with filling. Designed to relieve muscles and joints individual parts body (legs, lower back, knee joints). Not recommended for sleeping as it rarely provides a comfortable neck position.
- The crescent pillow is used exclusively for resting on the back. Most often made from soft materials. These pillows are readily taken on trips and are sometimes used when driving or working at a computer.
- Rectangular pillow is the most common type of product. As a rule, an orthopedic pillow has a recess for the head in the middle and bolsters along the edges. Rectangular pillows are made from a variety of materials.
Orthopedic pillow fillers
Manufacturers offer orthopedic pillows for cervical osteochondrosis, made of various materials: latex, polyurethane foam and polystyrene, gel and buckwheat husk. They all have their advantages and disadvantages.
Latex pillows
Latex foam pillows are popular and widespread. Latex is a natural material that has an antibacterial effect. Dust mites and dust mites will not linger in such a pillow. harmful bacteria. The porous structure of the pillow allows the skin to breathe. An orthopedic latex pillow holds its shape well, the service life of the product reaches up to 15 years. Cons: not suitable for people allergic to latex, high price.
Polyurethane foam
The polyurethane foam filler resembles latex. The surface of such a pillow takes any shape due to its elastic properties, then easily restores its original appearance - the so-called “memory effect”. Polyurethane foam pillows are hygienic and quite durable, keeping their “new” appearance for a long time. appearance. Disadvantage: slight odor at the beginning of use.
Polystyrene
Filling in the form of small balls that fill the pillow cover. To ensure correct head position during sleep, the balls are distributed inside the cover. Polystyrene is also durable and hygienic. Provides good neck support. Disadvantage: when you change your body position during sleep, you need to “scrunch” the filler again.
Buckwheat husk
Buckwheat husk filler is the most environmentally friendly, hygroscopic, and provides a pleasant massage effect.
The husk fills the cover of an orthopedic pillow in the same way as balls. When used it does not give greenhouse effect, How previous types fillers. The amount of filler in the case can be adjusted. Disadvantages of the filler: it cannot be washed. In addition, not everyone likes the buckwheat aroma and the rustling of the husks.
Cooling gel
An innovative filler that is gaining popularity. Gel orthopedic pillows have a refreshing and massage effect. The load in the product is distributed evenly.
You can find pillows with other fillings on sale - for example, holofiber or bamboo fiber. To avoid counterfeits, pay attention to the availability registration certificate: it confirms the medical purpose of the product.
Hardness degree
Orthopedic pillows are increased rigidity, medium hard and soft. Most orthopedic pillows for cervical osteochondrosis are designed for medium hardness. This is enough to prevent the disease in an adult. In some cases, doctors recommend hard pillows. Soft orthopedic pillows are used mainly for children starting from 1 year old - newborn children do not need pillows.
How to choose the right orthopedic pillow for sleeping
To choose the right pillow for cervical osteochondrosis, you need to consider the following points:
- The predominant position in which you sleep. If you sleep on your back, the pillow should be about 9 cm high. Not every pillow model allows you to sleep on your stomach - soft fillings and a small thickness are preferable. When lying on your side, the height of the bolster should correspond to the length of the shoulder from the base of the neck to the rounding plus 1-2 cm (taking into account the deflection of the mattress). For patients with cervical osteochondrosis, body positions on the side and back are preferred.
- Mattress hardness. The position of the head during sleep depends on this parameter. If the mattress is soft, the pillow will be pressed down more and the height of the bolster will not be enough. The opposite situation is also undesirable: with a hard mattress and a high bolster, a person wakes up with numbness in the neck and shoulders. The desire to change the position of the body, to roll over from one side to the other also indicates an incorrectly selected size of the orthopedic pillow. An overly soft or hard mattress does not allow you to accept the anatomical position of the body - when the neck continues the straight line of the spine. For spinal pathologies, it is recommended to purchase an orthopedic mattress.
Feel free to ask the seller to test the pillow by placing it under your head for a few minutes. The pillow should provide complete relaxation of the muscles of the cervical spine.
Pay attention to the “little things”: a removable cover that can be washed, strong smell causing discomfort (a sign of a low quality product).
Covers made of cotton and other materials are preferred. natural materials, skin-friendly.
The more guarantee period for a product, the higher the quality of the product. Choose products that have proven themselves in Russian market manufacturers.
Common brands of orthopedic pillows on the Russian market: 
- Ormatek. Introduces a line of pillows made from eco-friendly modern material ormafoam.
- Trives. Wide choose models for children and adults. The manufacturer uses natural fillers, including bamboo and latex.
- Ascona. The company uses the developments of its own laboratory under the leadership of Academician V. Dikul.
- Sissel - orthopedic pillows from a Swedish company, well-thought-out shape and design.
- Rollmatratze - pillows based on a latex mesh of a special structure.
- Luomma is a Russian-Swedish joint production. The filler is mainly polyurethane with a “memory effect”.
- Orthopedic pillows Khoroshev. The manufacturer advertises a heat-sensitive filler, in addition to orthopedic, and claims antibacterial, anti-allergenic, and anti-snoring effects for its products.
- Trelax is a diverse and affordable line of orthopedic products.
conclusions
Orthopedic pillow - effective remedy at complex treatment osteochondrosis. For it to be beneficial, you need to approach the choice of product responsibly, focusing on your own needs and listening to your doctor’s recommendations.
It should be remembered that at first the orthopedic pillow may cause discomfort while the neck muscles get used to the new material. If adaptation does not occur within a week, perhaps the pillow is not suitable for you and you need to use another product.
Much in the development of cervical osteochondrosis depends on the place to sleep and posture, so most patients have to replace accessories and follow the doctor’s recommendations.
A pillow for cervical osteochondrosis must meet certain standards. If your neck hurts, you sleep poorly and suffer from dizziness in the morning, then the correct sleeping position is necessary for your spine.
Therefore, below we will talk about what it should be and which is better, as well as how much it costs and what doctors’ reviews say.
What should it be like?
For osteochondrosis of the cervical spine The patient is susceptible to the following problems:
- Dizziness;
- Heaviness and stiffness of muscles;
- Spasms;
- Muscle tension;
- Headache;
- Anemia;
- Difficulty breathing;
- Pain syndrome;
- Feeling of goosebumps on the skin.
Therefore, when choosing a pillow for osteochondrosis, you need to take into account the anatomical structure of the human body and the repetition of curves by the pillow. Before choosing a pillow for sleeping, you need to understand what size and shape it should be.
There are pillows different shapes and from different fillers
It is the height that is the determining factor in this matter, because it should be no more than 9-10 cm, otherwise the pain after sleep will only intensify.
To maintain the correct position of the head during sleep without a special cushion, you can fold a towel or blanket. Also consider the filling, quality, orthopedic properties and shape.
Varieties
To select and buy a neck pillow, you need to take into account that there are several types of it:
- Crescent pillow Suitable for sleeping only in a position on your back. Its peculiarity is that it allows you to capture all parts of the neck and secure the body throughout the night. Also, these pillows do not lose their shape for a long time, do not wear out, and allow the neck muscles to relax. But they are not suitable for those who are not ready to sleep on their back all night.
- Rectangular with convex edges allows you to sleep in any position comfortably. But incorrect height and shape can worsen existing symptoms.
- Orthopedic roller for the neck is used only in the car, at work or on vacation, and sleeping on it in bed is not recommended. They are usually placed only between the legs for osteochondrosis of the lumbar region.
Photo gallery:
Crescent
Rectangular orthopedic
Orthopedic roller
What content can there be?
The filling is no less important when choosing a pillow for sleeping. It is important that the pillow restores its shape, which is called the “memory effect”.
- Latex will appeal to those who prefer to sleep on their back, because it is elastic and durable;
- Latex springs support the shape of the head, helps muscles relax, hypoallergenic;
- Mini springs very quickly restore shape, support not only the neck, but also the spine;
- Cooling gel has a relaxing, cooling effect, massage properties and uniform distribution of the load from the spine.
Photos on the topic:
Cooling gel
With memory effect
You can find out what a proper pillow for osteochondrosis looks like in a video on the Internet.
But always keep one thing in mind: the pillow takes some getting used to, no matter how comfortable it may seem. Therefore, do not change the product after one or two nights.
What should you focus on?
There are a few more points to consider when choosing a pillow for osteochondrosis.
This is not only the correct sleeping position, height and filling, but also:
- Maintaining the body with a pillow in a state where all muscles relax and the person does not feel tension;
- The height of the pillow, which should not exceed more than two centimeters from the width of a person’s shoulders;
- Material external design pillows;
- Using additional bolsters for those who sleep in different positions. For those sleeping on their back, the classic option is also suitable;
- Little or no shoulder elevation.
What should you not use?
To ensure that your neck maintains the correct posture during sleep, you should not use a surface that is too hard or soft. Then the intervertebral discs sag, which leads to their deformation. Against this background, pinched vertebrae, hernia and inflammation of the nerves develop.
Correct sleeping position
A surface that is too hard will prevent the muscles from relaxing, which will worsen the condition of the blood vessels, leading to blood clots, tension and spasms.
Speaking of bolsters, they do not allow the neck to take the desired anatomical shape, so when choosing them, it is better to consult a doctor.
Sleep rules
Incorrect and correct position during sleep
It is very important to understand how to sleep correctly on a pillow with cervical osteochondrosis, because if this is not followed, it will develop:
- Dizziness and pain syndrome;
- Pain syndrome;
- Spasms and tension in the muscles;
- Restrictions in neck movement.
To avoid this, before choosing a pillow, Consider replacing your mattress, which must meet the following criteria:
- Orthopedic basis;
- No springs;
- Medium hardness;
- Size for human body.
Photos of mattresses:
Springless block mattress
Orthopedic mattress
Size for human body
The following poses are worth paying attention to:
- On your side with your arm under the pillow;
- On the stomach, but face down;
- On your side with knees bent;
- On your back with knees bent;
- On the stomach with the face turned to the side;
Much in this matter depends on the stage of osteochondrosis, clinical picture and pillows for sleeping.
Sleeping on a mattress
Most people with osteochondrosis try to sleep on a mattress without bolsters, but do not understand what effect this will have on the neck and the disease. They note that sleeping without a pillow does more harm than good.
We wrote about how to sleep properly with spinal osteochondrosis in this article.
There are several reasons for this:
- The formation of space between the head and the bed, when not all muscles relax;
- Uncontrolled behavior and sleeping positions that lead to pinched vertebrae.
As a result, some patients suffer from the following problems the morning after sleeping on a bare mattress:
- Numbness of the neck and facial skin;
- Pain syndrome, dizziness;
Perfect option
When choosing a pillow for sleeping with spinal pathology, it is recommended to focus on the following positions:
- Climb;
- Size;
- Outer case;
- Filler;
- The softness of the seams.
Acceptable - this is 50 by 70 cm, with synthetic and hypoallergenic filling, without feathers and external seams, with a height of up to 10 cm. Cruelty should be moderate, especially with cervical osteochondrosis.
It will be useful to view:
What to consider?
Each person has his own characteristics that need to be taken into account when choosing a pillow for sleeping, and below in the table we will consider this issue:
| Peculiarities | Description |
|---|---|
| Feeling of lightness and fullness of energy after sleep | This state indicates that you have chosen correct option for the cervical region. Otherwise, you need to urgently look for a replacement. |
| Wrong pillow height | If the pillow is too low, the person will put their hand under the pillow. If it is too high, then in the morning you will feel pain and stiffness in your shoulders. |
| Cervical osteochondrosis in chronic or acute form | Choose only an orthopedic sleeping pillow to prevent further deformation of the vertebrae. |
| Form and parameters | Consider your height, habits, and sleeping positions before purchasing a pillow. |
It is better to choose a case with a natural base so as not to encounter allergies.
Price policy
The price of pillows for the treatment of osteochondrosis will depend on the type of product, purpose of purchase and materials. Below we will look at each option:
Remember that you need to make purchases in certified stores, where there are documents for pillows, a guarantee and an experienced consultant. It’s better to pay extra for a natural and orthopedic product than to aggravate osteochondrosis in the neck because of Chinese counterfeit.
conclusions
Turning to the reviews of doctors and their recommendations, they note that the most comfortable and effective pillows are made of latex or with a cooling effect in the shape of a crescent.
Because they allow the muscles to relax and the spine to be in the desired anatomical shape.
Although we should not forget that the question is individual. And before making a purchase, you need to understand what kind of pillow you need, so it is better to consult a doctor and also try several options.
Only then will you be able to make the right choice, waking up rested and invigorated every morning. Only you are responsible for own health, and you make a choice!
One of the most common problems is considered to be disorders associated with the spinal column. A well-chosen orthopedic pillow for cervical osteochondrosis, which is used quite widely, copes well with the existing problem. At night, it is imperative to ensure quality rest and complete relaxation for the whole body.
High-quality normal rest and sleep is accompanied by the presence of certain factors, in particular it is important to ensure free access of oxygen. This can only be achieved with a natural location spinal column. An indispensable assistant in this case, a correctly selected pillow and mattress are considered, since they allow you to take an anatomically natural position.
If you have osteochondrosis, you must make sure that the body can relax well, which will eliminate muscle tension. An orthopedic pillow for cervical osteochondrosis should be selected so that the position of the head during night sleep or just rest is as comfortable as possible.
The back muscles maintain the spinal column in an active state, protecting it from various types of vibrations and displacement individual elements. At night, the muscles relax, and thus the spinal column loses its protection. If there is a predisposition to osteochondrosis, then a person may feel quite strong pain and discomfort.
Important! If you have osteochondrosis, orthopedic products are not a solution, so if the first signs of the disease appear, you should definitely consult a doctor for comprehensive treatment.
The vertebrae can sometimes shift during sleep, which leads to compression of the cervical artery and oxygen starvation, which can provoke quite dangerous and unpleasant consequences. A pillow for osteochondrosis of the cervical spine should be selected as correctly as possible, as this will allow:
- support all curves of the spinal column;
- provide the vertebrae with the necessary support;
- help muscles relax.
The right pillow for cervical osteochondrosis will help comfortable rest. Completely healthy people also need to pay attention to the choice of orthopedic products, as this will prevent the occurrence of diseases of the spinal column.
Types of orthopedic pillows
Orthopedic pillows for cervical osteochondrosis are simple necessary measure since they have a certain form, which allows the patient to take a natural position during sleep. To choose the right product, you first need to decide on its shape. In particular they can be:
- rectangular or square;
- semicircular;
- rollers and hemispheres;
- round.
There are pillows for sleeping and just for short rest. Orthopedic pillows also vary in size. There are even models that have the ability to provide height adjustment due to the presence of removable elements.
The roller-shaped model is not suitable for everyone, since its peculiarity is that it is intended only for sleeping on the back. The loose ends are designed to go around the neck, as can be seen in the photo.
Rectangular models are considered the most popular. There are two rollers at their edges, and in the center there is a recess for the head. Such an orthopedic product is selected purely individually for each person, taking into account the existing characteristics of the person.
Manufacturing materials
The choice of a pillow for cervical osteochondrosis should be deliberate and it is advisable to first consult a doctor. To choose the right product, you need to know what kind of filler there is. Many people believe that it is best to choose models with feather filling, however, this is absolutely not true, because down and feathers are the main cause of complex allergic reactions and do not hold their shape well.
Orthopedic pillows for osteochondrosis can be made with various fillers, in particular such as:
- buckwheat husk;
- bamboo fiber;
- latex;
- cooling gel;
- mini springs.
It is very pleasant to sleep on a pillow with buckwheat husk, as it exactly follows all the curves of the neck and head. Latex has good antibacterial properties and is completely hypoallergenic.
Bamboo fiber has excellent deodorizing effect and does not require additional care, dust does not accumulate in it. Models with bamboo fiber are simply ideal for sleeping adults and children. In addition, they promote complete relaxation of the neck and are used as a preventive measure for osteochondrosis.
A pillow with mini springs also provides a good effect, as it ideally supports the spinal column in the most correct natural position, instantly responding to changes in posture and the load exerted. Comfortable for sleeping in absolutely any position.
Orthopedic products filled with cooling gel are also considered an interesting option. Thanks to the special function of the supporting fluid, the applied load is distributed fairly evenly. Such a product can be of absolutely any shape, however, over the course of some time you will have to get used to this type of product.
Features of choice
Many people wonder how to choose an orthopedic pillow so that they can use it comfortably and prevent the occurrence of pathological conditions.
Before choosing a pillow, it is important to determine optimal height. During daytime rest and sleep, the neck and head must certainly be on the pillow, and the shoulders must be on the mattress. When choosing the height of the pillow, it is necessary to take into account the person’s build. For complete and tall man the pillow should be 50x70 or even larger if necessary. A pillow of 50x40 cm is suitable for a person of average build, and for a child it is no more than 20x30 cm.
If cervical osteochondrosis is observed, then you need to regularly sleep on an orthopedic pillow. If in morning time the person feels quite well, the muscles are not overstrained and there is no headache, this means that the orthopedic product has been chosen correctly.
Why do you need an orthopedic pillow?
It is advisable to sleep with cervical osteochondrosis on an orthopedic pillow, as it contributes to:
- the neck and head are in a natural position;
- blood supply to the brain improves;
- muscle tension decreases;
- fatigue goes away.
To ensure proper rest, you need to know how to choose the right pillow and why it is needed. There are certain indications for the use of this product, in particular the following:
- pain in the neck;
- dizziness;
- fatigue;
- diseases of the spine;
- post-traumatic conditions.
In order for rest and sleep to bring only benefits, you must know what the pillow should be like and take into account the rules of healthy sleep. Sleeping on your back can be very dangerous, as in such a position blood vessels can be significantly pinched and muscles overstrained. It is better if the surface is hard or semi-hard. In addition, it is advisable to supplement it orthopedic mattress, as this will help ensure a full, comfortable sleep.
Updated: 08/19/2018 17:25:39
With cervical osteochondrosis, degenerative damage to the tissues of the cervical spine occurs, which leads to discomfort, pain and even a threat to the health of the body. A person needs to take the right measures. First of all, choose suitable bedding that will reduce the load on the spine. We recommend the right pillows, which doctors advise to use for cervical osteochondrosis.
Night rest is important for the body's recovery, but during sleep the spine is at risk. We are unable to control the position of our body, which is why disc distortions and displacements occur. An orthopedic pillow fixes the cervical spine, reducing discomfort for people suffering from osteochondrosis. Do not forget that the neck is an important part of the body, on which blood circulation in the brain and the functioning of the nervous system depend.
Pillow sizes
People rely on their own preferences when choosing bedding. But with cervical osteochondrosis, it is necessary to take into account the recommendations of specialists. The dimensions of the pillow are selected taking into account the width of the shoulders - it should not be significantly wider.
When selecting suitable model You should measure the distance from the beginning of the neck to the end of the shoulder. The dimensions of the optimal pillow correspond to the parameters of the human body, otherwise inconvenience occurs.
The height of the product becomes an important criterion. High pillows lead to curvature of the spine, and too low cause pain and headaches. People with cervical osteochondrosis should maintain all parts of the spine at the same level. Therapists draw patients' attention to the compression of the mattress, which causes level differences.
the height of the pillow for sleeping on the side is at least 10 cm;
The height of the pillow for sleeping on the stomach and back is less than 9 cm.
The width and length of the pillow are standard - 70x60 cm, but compact models - 50x40 cm - are also available for sale.
What shape of pillows to choose for cervical osteochondrosis
In sleep, a person completely relaxes his muscles, getting rid of tension. With cervical osteochondrosis, it is important to relax the entire muscular corset, maintaining the correct position of the head and spine. During wakefulness, the muscles support the spinal column, but at night the support is reduced to a minimum. The pillow solves the problem without discomfort or unpleasant sensations. Otherwise, due to residual tension, a person will not rest, but will wake up with a headache.
Bedding should solve the main problems:
maintain the natural curves of the spine in the cervical region;
support the head at the level of the spine;
give proper support to the vertebrae;
promote muscle relaxation.
Doctors recommend paying attention to the conditions described above when choosing an orthopedic pillow. If you experience discomfort or pain in your back or neck after sleeping, you may want to consider different bed accessories. Orthopedic pillows are used not only by patients with osteochondrosis, but also by healthy people for prevention purposes.
Pillow models differ in size, shape and materials. They are suitable for different cases diseases and degree of progression of cervical osteochondrosis. But remember that doctors identify only two “correct” types of orthopedic pillows:
crescent shaped;
rectangular pillows with slightly convex edges.
Products of this type fix the vertebrae in the correct position and maintain optimal height. The head should be slightly raised to maintain normal blood circulation, but the spine should not bend at the distance between the back and neck. A person relaxes and enjoys a good rest.
Orthopedic pillows in the shape of a crescent
The crescent-shaped pads hug the neck and provide gentle support for the head in the correct position. Fixation in one position eliminates curvature, even if a person spends a restless night. Due to the correct position and distribution of the load, the muscles rest, so the person does not experience discomfort and pain.
The crescent shape fixes the cervical spine and prevents the vertebrae from moving. This pillow is suitable for prevention and for sleeping with advanced stages of cervical osteochondrosis. Due to wear-resistant and elastic materials, products retain their appearance after long-term use. But a person has to constantly sleep on his back, which not everyone likes.
Advantages
reliable fixation in the correct position;
effective assistance for mild and advanced pathologies of the spinal column;
uniform load distribution;
Flaws
- There is only one sleeping position available - on your back.
pads rectangular shape with convex edges closer to classic look. The products do not limit a person in choosing a suitable sleeping position - on the back, on the side. During the night, the position of the body changes, which eliminates muscle numbness and normalizes blood circulation. Despite this freedom, the spine remains straight, without bending or stress.
Before purchasing, it is important to find out which pillow will suit you best. You need to support your head correct height– slightly raised above the line of the spine. When choosing, pay attention to the materials used, the strength and wear resistance of the materials. Orthopedic pillows recommended by doctors do not sag and retain their original shape.
Rectangular pillows with convex edges - the best choice, if you determine the height correctly, you will select an elastic and wear-resistant product.
Advantages
the usual shape of a head pillow;
optimal support for the neck and head;
freedom in choosing a sleeping position;
Flaws
- difficulties in choosing the right dimensions, especially height.
Pillow hardness
The task of an orthopedic pillow for cervical osteochondrosis is correct and uniform support. But orthopedists advise choosing stiffness based on your own preferences. For people who sleep primarily on their back, medium-firm pillows are suitable.
The most hard pillow needed for people who sleep mostly on their sides. In this position, it is more difficult to maintain the spine in the correct position. People who spend the night mainly on their stomachs choose soft pillows, because otherwise there is additional stress on the cervical spine.
Quality of materials
Pillows for cervical osteochondrosis have important properties, which depend on the specific material of manufacture and filler. The list of requirements includes:
maintaining shape;
hypoallergenic;
wear resistance;
easy cleaning.
The first point is the most important, because otherwise the pillow simply will not cope with its tasks. There are a dozen materials to choose from, but only 3-4 from the list are leading in popularity.
Bamboo cellulose fiber made from plant stems by mechanical or chemical processing. It is difficult to find models with pure bamboo fiber on the market, and often padding polyester or holofiber is added inside the pillow. The fiber does not cause allergic reactions, but evenly supports the spinal column.
A pillow with bamboo fiber is suitable for prevention, but if cervical osteochondrosis has already formed, you should look for other options.
Advantages
hypoallergenic;
budget;
ease of care;
light weight;
lightness, breathability;
hygiene, environmental friendliness;
Flaws
low hygroscopicity (does not absorb moisture, so it becomes wet);
fragility (short service life);
increased softness (crinkles under heavy load);
Latex
Synthetic latex is used to fill the pillows. The material is created with characteristics specifically for orthopedic products. If latex foam contains no more than 15% synthetic additives, the filler is labeled as natural “100% Latex Natural”. Such pillows have the correct shape and always return to their original position.
Pillows filled with latex provide the best support, do not sag and retain their shape. But you will have to put up with a specific smell and high cost.
Advantages
firmness and elasticity;
ease of care;
antibacterial;
durability;
noiselessness;
relieving tension in the cervical spine;
Flaws
allergic reactions in 1% of people;
pungent odor;
Pillows with buckwheat husks relieve pain in cervical osteochondrosis. The products are dense and elastic, so the head is supported at the same level. The filler evenly distributes the load and guarantees a comfortable sleep.
Buckwheat husk is gaining popularity among those who suffer from pain in the neck and spine. Pillows with such filling in 20-30% actually relieve discomfort, and in the rest they help achieve a restful sleep. But 5-10% of people note the hardness of the pillow and the noise that makes it difficult to fall asleep peacefully. The average product weighs 4-5 kg. It is important to remember that the husk wears out, so the service life of one pillow is 2-3 years.
Advantages
elasticity and even support;
hypoallergenic;
massage effect;
breathability;
pain reduction;
Flaws
-
rigidity;
noise and rustling of the husk;
fragility;
Cooling gel
Gel orthopedic pillows for cervical osteochondrosis are recommended by doctors and therapists. The products are attractive with their precise anatomical shapes - they follow the curves of the cervical spine, providing ideal support during sleep. The properties of the filler are similar to latex, but the gel has higher elasticity and a different density.
Pillows with gel filler pleasant to the touch, cooling gel refreshes the skin. The average thickness is 10-12 cm, but it is important to choose the right dimensions. If you follow the recommendations, then a person will enjoy relaxing holiday. Gel, unlike latex, has no odor and is usually more durable.
Advantages
hygiene and environmental friendliness;
durability;
“memory effect” of the material;
exact repetition of the curves of the human body;
absence of unpleasant odors;
Flaws
suitable for one specific body position;
you need to accurately select dimensions and shapes individually for each person.
How to choose a pillow for cervical osteochondrosis?
The right pillow makes life easier. Sleeping accessories help with neck pain and are used for prevention. The models presented on the market have a set of characteristics and properties. The pillow holds the head in a position in which the muscle corset relaxes and the spine straightens. If unnatural curves appear, the pillow should be replaced.
Doctors recommend paying attention to the width of your shoulders - the width of a proper pillow is 1-2 cm larger. Manufacturers make the height proportional, so you don’t have to measure it. The shape determines the position of the body during sleep. Anatomical products and crescent-shaped pillows limit movement but prevent vertebral displacement.
The elasticity of the pillow, service life, presence or absence of odors, noise level, etc. depend on the filler. For constant pain, choose pillows of an anatomical shape and with dense filling, and for prevention, rectangular products with bamboo fiber or husk are suitable.
Attention! This material is the subjective opinion of the project’s authors and is not a purchase guide.