If you wake up with soreness in your neck and shoulders you may want to consider a special pillow for better neck support. There are multiple pillows on the market that advertise claims of the best support available but the type of support each person needs is a varied as there are individuals. When looking for the perfect neck support pillow you need to consider which attributes of the pillow will best benefit you and your needs.
Consider Special Needs You May Have
Do you have any special medical conditions which may require certain support? Sleep apnea patients who sleep with a C-Pap or Bi-Pap machine may have different requirements. Those who have had cervical damage or surgery in the cervical region may also need special considerations. Keep any conditions in the forethought of your mind when considering the purchase of a neck support pillow.
Test the Neck Support Pillow for Comfort and Support
If you purchase a pillow to support your neck that is not comfortable for you to get adequate rest you will not be solving your problem but instead you will be adding another problem. Any pillow you consider should be comfortable for you to sleep on.
Proper support of the neck and head are important. The neck is curved to support the head. The amount of support necessary for each individual may vary. The shape and length of the neck and head of a female versus that of a male varies greatly. Check the potential pillow to see if it fits the length of your neck, the height of the pillow should be approximate to the width of the neck to the shoulder and the area in which the head rests should be adequate. If these areas are too large or too small the pillow will not be comfortable for you to sleep on and it will not adequately support your neck and head.
Consider the Firmness of the Pillow and If It Can Be Adjusted
Some of the pillows on the market are available in varying sizes and levels of firmness. Try the pillow out and see if it is suitable for you. If you are unsure which level of firmness you need you may want to consider getting one that allows for adjustment of the level of firmness. May air or water based neck support pillows offer the ability to customize the amount of support you receive.