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Written By Jena Beckett, BScPT, Gunn IMS, CAFCI Vernon, BC
Sleeping on the wrong pillow is like trying to write your best story with a broken pen – it may still work, but it's going to be a lot harder and way less satisfying.
Good sleep matters; it's the secret ingredient that fuels our daily lives, allowing us to function at our best. Without proper sleep, we risk becoming run-down, burned out, and susceptible to various health issues. If you often find yourself tossing and turning, unable to fall asleep, or waking up with a sore neck or back, it might just be your pillow trying to send you a message. Don't underestimate the role your pillow plays in your quest for quality sleep and overall well-being. It's time to listen to what your pillow has to say and make a change for the better.
Selecting the right pillow is a crucial step towards achieving a restful night's sleep, and it can have a profound impact on your overall comfort and sleep quality. As a physiotherapist I am often asked what is the "best" pillow? There is no straight answer; the ideal pillow choice hinges on a few factors such as your sleep position, mattress firmness and your own personal measurements. Let's delve into some valuable pointers that will assist you in making the right decision for your slumber sanctuary.
First and foremost, consider your sleep position. For those who prefer sleeping on their backs, a pillow that cradles the natural curve of the neck and head is typically the way to go. Side sleepers, on the other hand, should opt for a pillow that promotes proper spinal alignment and helps ward off neck discomfort. Meanwhile, stomach sleepers will want a low-profile pillow that minimizes strain on the neck.
Equally important is the choice of pillow fill materials. Memory foam offers exceptional support and conforms to the contours of your head and neck, while latex pillows combine support with hypoallergenic properties. Down and feather pillows are soft and malleable and may start out in a good supportive position but often migrate out from the curve of your neck during the night. If you find that your pillow leaves a gap between your head and shoulder, a supportive curve is needed to help maintain support under your neck.
Your personal measurements affect the amount of supportive curve and the loft or thickness of the pillow that is needed. Your neck length and girth will affect how much of a supportive curve, while the width of your shoulders affect the loft that is adequate to support your head and neck, keeping them aligned with your spine for ultimate comfort. Mattress firmness affects the loft as well; where higher loft is better suited to a firmer mattress less loft with a softer mattress. Pillowise pillows are developed by physical therapists and is one of the first pillows I've seen that allows you to some semblance of customization; we take your personal measurements and match you with a pillow size. Pillowise pillows are 100% premium memory foam, have a 30 night comfort trial where you can exchange or return. It takes around 8-10 nights to fully adjust and get the full feel of whether the pillow is a good fit.
Come in and ask us about a pillow!
Your pillow choice can truly make all the difference in your sleep quality and overall well-being. Prioritize both comfort and proper support to guarantee a good night's sleep, and wake up each morning feeling rejuvenated and free from any aches or pains.
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