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Can an orthopedic pillow be harmful?

30 września 2024
can an orthopedic pillow be harmful, spine pillows, pillow fillings
Many specialists recommend orthopedic pillows as a remedy for back, head, or shoulder pain. These anatomical pillows, designed to maintain the body's natural curves, do indeed provide relief from pain. However, not every orthopedic pillow is genuinely effective; some are only labeled as such.

Choosing the wrong sleeping pillow can cause more harm than good. What is meant to improve posture during sleep may actually exacerbate discomfort. Therefore, it is essential to select a ergonomic pillow tailored to the anatomy of the spine.

The primary criterion for the effectiveness of an orthopedic pillow is its shape. Those models of sleeping pillows with improper forms, such as the very popular waves or soap dishes, adversely affect spinal alignment. Such pillows typically do not conform to the body's natural curves. Therefore, instead of improving posture and reducing pain, they may actually worsen it.

It is also important to remember that an anatomical pillow must be designed to align with human anatomy. Thus, when choosing a new sleeping pillow, this factor should be considered. Only a pillow selected this way can truly support the spine in its natural position. Only a properly chosen orthopedic pillow will help relieve strain on the muscles and spine.
ergonomic pillows, spine pillow, shapes of orthopedic pillows

The anatomical shape is key

A good design of a pillow for neck pain must be such that it perfectly adapts to the physiological curves of the spine. However, most sleep pillows available on the market, although described as orthopedic pillows, do not have an anatomical shape. Although at first glance wave-shaped pillows may seem comfortable, they are cut using a string, which means they lack shoulder profiles and other important shapes.

The proper shape of an orthopedic pillow must provide users with even support for the neck and head, adapting to the user's body shape. It is crucial that the pillow gently supports the head, preventing the flattening of the cervical lordosis. It should also allow for free airflow, without causing the head to be pulled down towards the chest. A properly designed orthopedic pillow provides a balance between support and comfort.

Using a poorly shaped orthopedic pillow can therefore lead to opposite effects. Such pillows may not help in reducing pain and tension, but may actually increase them. Therefore, it is essential to thoroughly check before purchasing whether the pillow's shape is genuinely adapted to anatomical shapes, rather than relying solely on promises.
anatomical pillows, pillow for neck pain, head support at night

Pillows for children and adolescents

A serious mistake is buying orthopedic pillows for children, as those under 16-18 years old should not use them. At this age, the spine is still developing, and introducing orthopedic pillows will generally disrupt the natural process of shaping the spinal curves. The natural lordosis and kyphosis of young people are not yet fully formed, and forcing body positions with an orthopedic pillow can only lead to negative effects.

Therefore, premature use of orthopedic pillows by these individuals can lead to postural difficulties in adulthood. Children and adolescents should rather sleep on relatively low pillows that do not impose a specific body position. In particular, infant pillows should be avoided, as infants should sleep on a flat surface.

Worldwide, orthopedists and physiotherapists almost unanimously confirm that orthopedic pillows are generally not suitable for children, and their use can contribute to improper spinal development, leading to unwanted ailments. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid purchasing orthopedic pillows for individuals below about 16-18 years of age, and instead focus on healthy and natural support for the spine during sleep.
pillow for children, pillows for infants, spine development

Incorrect pillow selection

Similarly, in the case of adults, orthopedic pillows can be harmful if they are not properly matched to individual needs and body structure. Every person has a different body shape, so it is very important for the pillow to be well-fitted to the specific individual. This requires considering its shape, height, and firmness, as well as being made from good foam.

A pillow that is too high will cause an unnatural forward bending of the neck, which blocks the airways and also increases muscle tension around it. Conversely, a too low pillow does not provide adequate support, which can also lead to neck pain, especially in the long run.

Just like with a comfortable mattress, choosing the right pillow for sleep is crucial for maintaining daily health and comfort during sleep. An orthopedic pillow must be selected in such a way that it meets the user's needs whether sleeping on their back or side. Its main function should be supporting the natural curves of the spine, which also means it cannot be either too hard or too soft.
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Contraindications for pillows

Everything has its contraindications, and pillows are no exception. It should be noted that orthopedic pillows are helpful for most people, but there is also a relatively small percentage of individuals for whom they will be uncomfortable. In some cases of spine disorders, they may even exacerbate symptoms.

These products are intended for general use after familiarizing oneself with the instructions. Their use does not require training, but it is important to remember that they are not recommended for cervical vertebra instability, as this could aggravate discomfort. Caution should also be exercised in the case of inflammatory spinal conditions, which sometimes require specific positions.

Importantly, getting accustomed to an orthopedic pillow may sometimes take several weeks, especially when dealing with spine disorders that cause unnatural positioning. Introducing advanced support into the bedroom can lead to a reduction in various spinal issues, which may initially cause discomfort.
spinal inflammation, cervical spine instability, spine diseases

Make a wise choice

Although in general orthopedic pillows can be a blessing for individuals with back problems, they are not a solution for everyone, which is important to keep in mind. Poor selection of a pillow, as well as its use by inappropriate individuals, can lead to exacerbation of issues. The key to the effectiveness of an orthopedic pillow is its anatomical shape, which provides support.

It is important to consider ONSen® pillows, which have the right shape and height. They are made from high-resilience foam, which is the optimal material for pillow production. A pillow should support the spine in a natural way, without forcing unnatural positions.

We also encourage you to explore other articles on the best sleep and health blog, as well as the Encyclopedia of Healthy Sleep prepared by the ONSEN® team of specialists. For those who care about spine health, we recommend a set of spine exercises prepared by our physiotherapist.
orthopedic sleeping pillows, foam pillow, pillow manufacturer

FAQ: The harmfulness of orthopedic pillows

How to choose an orthopedic pillow to avoid harm?

To ensure an orthopedic pillow is safe and beneficial for your health, you should select a model that meets your specific needs. It is important that the pillow is suited for sleeping on your back and side. Keep in mind that no pillows should be used for stomach sleeping. Additionally, consider your body structure (weight, height, shoulder width) and the firmness of your mattress when choosing a pillow. The pillow must properly support the natural curves of your spine, especially the cervical section.

What causes an orthopedic pillow to be harmful?

An orthopedic pillow can be harmful if it is poorly chosen, meaning it does not consider the user?s body structure and preferred sleeping position. A pillow that is too high will cause excessive tension in the neck muscles and block airways, while one that is too low will fail to support the cervical spine. Additionally, inappropriate materials, especially memory foam, can lead to discomfort and improper body alignment during sleep.

What damages can a poorly chosen orthopedic pillow cause?

A poorly chosen orthopedic pillow can cause headaches, neck and back pain, and sleep disturbances. It can also worsen posture and contribute to other cervical spine issues.

How should an orthopedic pillow be constructed?

An orthopedic pillow should be properly designed to support the spine and ensure an optimal position for the head, neck, and shoulders during sleep. It should have a truly ergonomic shape that slightly adapts to the natural curvature of the spine while providing solid support. The material is also crucial?a good pillow should be made of high-resilience foam, which provides the right level of support. It must be breathable to prevent overheating of the head during sleep, so it should not be made of memory foam.

How do you know if an orthopedic pillow is good?

A good orthopedic pillow alleviates neck and back pain and helps you achieve proper posture during sleep. It?s these characteristics, not the name alone, that make it orthopedic. To check if a pillow is suitable, see if it properly supports your head and neck without causing muscle tension. The material should be high-quality, flexible, and slightly contouring to the user?s body. High-resilience foam (HR) is best, as it offers the right level of responsiveness.

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