Toilet      06/26/2020

Proper sleep with osteochondrosis. On which pillow to sleep with cervical osteochondrosis Filling an anatomical pillow

Osteochondrosis is a disease characterized by complex degenerative-dystrophic processes in articular cartilage. Most often it affects the intervertebral discs. Depending on the area of ​​localization of the disease, several of its types are distinguished. Quite common is osteochondrosis. The progression of this pathology is associated with dangerous consequences, since in this section of the spine through the holes located in the transverse processes of the vertebrae, the most important arteries responsible for the blood supply to the brain pass. Because of this, pinching of the vertebrae is fraught with extremely negative phenomena.

This disease is characterized by manifestations that adversely affect the quality of life and ability to work. Patients turn to doctors with complaints of headaches, pain in the neck and other areas of the body. Moreover, cervical osteochondrosis is also dangerous because, figuratively speaking, it “masquerades” as various other ailments, including diseases of the cardiovascular system. Patients report nausea, dizziness, sudden changes in blood pressure, numbness of the tongue, and even loss of consciousness.

It is essential to prevent complications this disease, has the correct position of the neck and head during sleep. It is known that during a night's rest, the muscles and ligaments of the back, shoulder girdle and neck are relaxed, which reduces their supportive effect on the spine. Moreover, often the wrong posture can continue long time. Doctors often register symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis caused by just the wrong posture during sleep.

The correct position of the head and neck during a night's rest primarily depends on such an element. bed like a pillow. It should be noted that such a device as, by itself, the full range of problems will not fix. To treat this disease, complex treatment is needed under the supervision of a qualified doctor - physiotherapy exercises, drug exposure and other measures. However, the elimination of errors in the organization of the bed, and in particular the choice of a suitable pillow, provides a very noticeable improvement in the patient's condition. The manifestations of the disease gradually decrease and subsequently rarely reappear.

What pillow is better to buy for cervical osteochondrosis?

Now many suppliers are working on the production of such a device as an orthopedic pillow for osteochondrosis cervical.

The most common products, the upper surface of which has a wave shape with one or a pair of rollers. This design pillows take into account the natural anatomical contours of the head and neck, so that they are in a physiologically correct position. This provides the required relaxation of the muscular-ligamentous apparatus of the cervical region, promotes normal blood flow in the vertebral arteries. Some pillows also have a special shoulder notch, which provides additional convenience when sleeping on the side.



The head and neck when sleeping in this position are not in an anatomically correct position. Proper relaxation of muscles and ligaments is not ensured, in addition, a negative effect on blood flow in the vertebral arteries is possible. All these circumstances are extremely unfavorable for people who have problems with the spine.

In some cases, for people who are used to sleeping on regular pillows, this form may not seem quite familiar. However, reviews of orthopedic pillows for cervical osteochondrosis indicate that possible discomfort passes quickly and then there is an increase in the quality of sleep and overall well-being.

These products can be made from different materials both natural and artificial. Modern fillers give orthopedic pillows a number of advantages compared to traditional feather and down pillows. These materials are hypoallergenic, in addition, they do not create a favorable environment for the reproduction of bed mites.

One of the materials from which it can be made is polyurethane foam ("foam rubber"). Also, a fairly common filler is foamed latex. This is a natural material, the foamed juice of the hevea (rubber tree). It is characterized by optimal elasticity, provides high-quality moisture and air exchange. The latex orthopedic pillow is resistant to dirt and has a long service life.

Now you can, which has a "memory effect". The filler of such products under the influence of the heat of the human body temporarily changes the plastic characteristics, the surrounding areas of the material continue to remain elastic. Due to this, the pillow accurately repeats the curves of the body due to their "memory".

How to determine the size of an orthopedic pillow?

Before you buy an orthopedic pillow for cervical osteochondrosis, you need to determine the appropriate height of the roller.

There is a way to find out right size cushion when sleeping on the side. To do this, you need to measure the length of the shoulder girdle - the distance from the beginning of the shoulder to the base of the neck. It is required to add 2 cm to this value - this is due to the fact that the mattress sags under the weight of a sleeping person. A small error of about 1 cm will not have a significant effect.

People with very wide shoulders often have difficulty choosing an orthopedic pillow, as a model with a cushion of a suitable height may not be available for sale. However, there is an easy way to solve this problem. To do this, increase the height of the pillow by placing a terry towel under it.

Also, when choosing an orthopedic pillow for osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, the following recommendations should be taken into account:

  • For sleeping on your back, a lower pillow is suitable;
  • If you sleep on a soft mattress that sags a lot, the best choice there will be a pillow with a roller of a slightly higher height;
  • If during sleep there is a desire to put your hand under the pillow, then the pillow cushion is too small;
  • Pay attention to the dimensions of the pillow - it should not be wider than the mattress.

In conclusion, it is necessary to mention some other circumstances that are extremely important for healthy sleep. First of all, you should pay attention to possible defects in the bed. The base must be level, there must be no deformation.

You should be responsible for choosing a mattress. Now on sale are orthopedic mattresses that contribute to the correct position of the spine, comfortable and healthy sleep. If you are choosing a mattress for a person with spinal problems, consult a medical specialist. As a rule, in this case, doctors consider it necessary to have a high or medium degree of rigidity.

Updated: 19.08.2018 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 steps. First of all, choose the right bedding to reduce the load on the spine. We recommend the right pillows, which doctors advise to use in case of cervical osteochondrosis.

A night's rest is important for the recovery of the body, but during sleep, the spine is at risk. We are not able to control the position of our body, so there are curvature and displacement of the disks. Orthopedic pillow fixes the cervical region, 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 are guided by 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 choosing a 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.

An important criterion is the height of the product. High pillows lead to curvature of the spine, and too low pillows cause pain and headaches. People with cervical osteochondrosis should maintain all parts of the spine at the same level. Therapists draw the attention of patients to the sagging of the mattress, due to which there are 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 on the back is less than 9 cm.

    The width and length of the pillow are standard - 70x60 cm, but compact models are also on sale - 50x40 cm.

What form of pillows to choose for cervical osteochondrosis

In a dream, a person completely relaxes the muscles, getting rid of tension. With cervical osteochondrosis, it is important to relax the entire muscular corset, while maintaining the correct position of the head and spine. During wakefulness, the muscles support the spinal column, but at night, support is minimized. The pillow solves the problem without discomfort and discomfort. Otherwise, due to residual tension, a person will not rest, but will wake up with a headache.

Sleeping accessories should solve the main tasks:

    maintain the natural curves of the spine in the cervical region;

    keep the head at the level of the spine;

    give proper support to the vertebrae;

    promote muscle relaxation.

Doctors recommend paying attention to the above conditions when choosing an orthopedic pillow. If you experience discomfort or pain in your back or neck after sleeping, then you may need to choose other 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 of manufacture. They are suitable for different cases diseases and progression of cervical osteochondrosis. But remember that doctors distinguish only two "correct" types of orthopedic pillows:

    in the shape of a crescent;

    rectangular pillows with slightly convex edges.

Products of this type fix the vertebrae in the correct position and support optimal height. The head should be slightly raised so that the usual circulation of blood is maintained, but the spine, at a distance between the back and the neck, should not be bent. A person relaxes and enjoys a good rest.

Crescent-shaped orthopedic pillows

Crescent-shaped cushions wrap around the cervical region and provide soft support for the head in the correct position. Fixation in one position eliminates curvature, even if a person spends a restless night. Due right position and distribution of the load, the muscles rest, so the person does not experience discomfort and pain.

The crescent, due to the shape, fixes the cervical region and prevents the vertebrae from moving. Such a pillow is suitable for prevention and for sleeping with advanced stages of cervical osteochondrosis. Due to wear-resistant and elastic materials, products retain appearance after prolonged use. But a person has to constantly sleep on his back, which not everyone will like.

Advantages

    secure fixation in the correct position;

    effective help for mild and advanced pathologies of the spinal column;

    uniform load distribution;

Flaws

  • only one sleeping position is available - on the back.

The pads are rectangular in shape with convex edges closer to the classic look. 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 bends and load.

Before buying, it is important to find out which pillow will fit in the best way. It is necessary to maintain the head at the correct height - slightly raised above the line of the spine. When choosing, pay attention to the materials of manufacture, strength and wear resistance of materials. Orthopedic pillows recommended by doctors do not collapse and retain their original shape.

Rectangular pillows with convex edges - the best choice if you determine the height correctly, you will choose an elastic and wear-resistant product.

Advantages

    the usual form of a pillow for the head;

    optimal neck and head support;

    freedom in choosing a position for sleeping;

Flaws

  • difficulties in choosing the right dimensions, especially height.

Pillow stiffness

The task of an orthopedic pillow for cervical osteochondrosis is correct and uniform support. But orthopedists are advised to select stiffness based on their own preferences. For people who sleep mainly on their backs, pillows of medium firmness are suitable.

The hardest pillow will be needed for people who sleep mostly on their side. In this position, it is more difficult to keep the spine in the correct position. People who spend the night mainly on their stomachs choose soft pillows, because otherwise there is an additional burden on the cervical region.

Material quality

Pillows for cervical osteochondrosis have important properties that depend on the specific material of manufacture and filler. The list of requirements includes:

    form retention;

    hypoallergenicity;

    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 in the lead in popularity.

Bamboo cellulose fiber is made from plant stems by mechanical or chemical processing. It is difficult to find models with pure bamboo fiber on the market, and often a synthetic winterizer 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 with already formed cervical osteochondrosis, you should look for other options.

Advantages

    hypoallergenicity;

    budgeting;

    ease of care;

    light weight;

    lightness, breathability;

    hygiene, environmental cleanliness;

Flaws

    low hygroscopicity (does not absorb moisture, so it becomes wet);

    fragility (short service life);

    increased softness (breaks under heavy load);

Latex

The pillows are filled with synthetic latex. The material is created with characteristics specifically for orthopedic products. If the 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 wrinkle and retain their shape. But you have to put up with a specific smell and high cost.

Advantages

    firmness and elasticity;

    ease of care;

    antibacterial;

    durability;

    noiselessness;

    relieve tension in the cervical region;

Flaws

    allergic reactions in 1% of people;

    high price;

    pungent odor;

Pillows with buckwheat husk relieve pain in cervical osteochondrosis. Products are dense and elastic, so the head is kept at the same level. The filler evenly distributes the load and guarantees a comfortable sleep.

Buckwheat husks are gaining popularity among those who suffer from pain in the neck and spine. Pillows with such a filler in 20-30% really relieve discomfort, and in the rest they help to achieve restful sleep. But 5-10% of people note the stiffness 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 life of one pillow is 2-3 years.

Advantages

    elasticity and even support;

    hypoallergenicity;

    massage effect;

    breathability;

    pain reduction;

Flaws

    noise and rustling of the husk;

    fragility;

  • rigidity;

Cooling Gel

Gel orthopedic pillows for cervical osteochondrosis are advised by doctors and therapists. Products attract with precise anatomical shapes - they follow the curves of the cervical region, providing ideal support during sleep. In terms of its properties, the filler is similar to latex, but the gel has a higher elasticity and a different density.

Gel-filled pillows are 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 the person will enjoy relaxing holiday. Gel unlike latex has no smell 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 the dimensions and shapes individually for each person.

How to choose a pillow for cervical osteochondrosis?

Correct 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 muscular corset relaxes and the spine straightens. If unnatural curves appear, the pillow should be replaced.

Doctors recommend paying attention to the width of the shoulders - the width of the correct 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 exclude displacement of the vertebrae.

The elasticity of the pillow, the service life, the presence or absence of odors, the noise level, etc. depend on the filler. With constant pain, choose pillows of an anatomical shape and with a dense filler, and for prevention, rectangular products with bamboo fiber or husks are suitable.


Attention! This material is the subjective opinion of the authors of the project and is not a guide to buying.

The correct selection of a pillow for cervical osteochondrosis is extremely important thing, which can both positively and negatively affect the course of the disease. The use of an ordinary pillow is fraught with a deterioration in the situation, in particular, an increase in pain neck and dizziness.

With osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, you need to choose only orthopedic corrector pillows, which not only improve sleep, but also prevent the progression of the disease. You can buy such products in almost any pharmacy.

Osteochondrosis of the cervical spine almost never develops out of the blue, with the exception of congenital pathologies leading to degenerative and dystrophic changes in the spine.

In most cases, the cause of the development of the disease is a sedentary lifestyle, as a result of prolonged static tension in the cervical region and, of course, the wrong position of the head during sleep.

It turns out that if not for a final cure, then at least to stop or slow down the progression of the disease, you should first learn how to sleep properly. Is it that simple?

In fact, the greatest responsibility for healthy sleep lies on a pillow. Incorrect selection of such a product threatens with chronic lack of sleep, headache, and, accordingly, the development of cervical osteochondrosis.

Under the "correct pillows" are meant orthopedic. The layman should not be frightened by this definition of the product, since orthopedic does not mean medical and quite healthy people can use it. For example, to prevent the development of diseases of the spinal column.

With an existing disease, you can’t do without an orthopedic pillow at all. Even powerful therapy against the background of an incorrect position of the head during sleep may not bring results, since during the day we treat, and at night we cripple (to put it metaphorically).

What should be a pillow for osteochondrosis?

Choosing an orthopedic pillow for the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis specifically for you is not an easy task. In most cases, pharmacies and rehabilitation centers sell "template", one might say "universal" products of this type.

They will suit one, for others they will be meaningless, and for the third they will do harm. Moreover, the third point should be especially noted, since the patient can purchase an inappropriate orthopedic pillow and constantly use it.

The very definition of the product (orthopedic!) in such patients causes a strong feeling that everything works as it should. And this is a very serious problem, a person is sure that since an orthopedic pillow is being treated, but in fact, due to the wrong choice, the disease only progresses.

How, then, to choose an orthopedic pillow for the treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine for yourself? First of all, you need to pay attention to those products that:

  1. Keep during sleep the natural curves (lordosis, kyphosis) of the spine.
  2. When lying on which the head is on the same level with the spinal column.
  3. When lying on which the vertebrae have a comfortable and moderately firm support.
  4. Muscles during sleep on such a pillow should be relaxed (the patient can easily feel this pleasant feeling).

When purchasing a product that meets the criteria described above, use it for two weeks and keep a close eye on changes. If you began to get enough sleep, your head doesn’t hurt in the morning, your neck muscles are not constrained - the choice is right, if not, you should choose another product.

Pillow for cervical osteochondrosis (video)

How to choose a pillow for osteochondrosis?

If from the first time it was not possible to choose an orthopedic pillow individually for yourself, you will have to spend a little time on selecting the “same one”. Choose similar products specifically for the treatment and prevention of cervical osteochondrosis, three criteria are needed:

  • the degree of rigidity (too hard or too soft products should be ignored, they are harmful even to healthy people);
  • form (despite non-obviousness - the most important criterion);
  • dimensions (not so much the width of the product as its height is important here).

Choose a product according to its rigidity based on how you sleep: on your back or on your side. If on the back, it is best to choose a pillow with medium hardness, if on the side - hard, when sleeping on the stomach, preferably softer.

Choosing a pillow according to the shape should also be guided by the posture during sleep. If you sleep on your back, it is best to choose a product in the form of a roller or crescent (the roller is also suitable for sleeping on your side). When purchasing a rectangular pillow, make sure that the neck and head are on it while sleeping, while the shoulders are slightly lower.

It should go like this: there should be a pillow under the head (a characteristic dent forms), and a roller under the neck (to support the spine strictly along the physiological curve).

With the choice of a particular product, consultants who are available in every store with similar products can help you. Naturally, you should not rely only on them, but we strongly recommend that you listen to their opinion.

How to choose a mattress for osteochondrosis?

With the choice of a mattress, the story is about the same as with pillows - it will take time to find a product that is suitable specifically for you.

The first thing to consider is that you should not choose a mattress according to the length of your body. It is advisable to choose a model with a length exceeding your height (10 centimeters of length from the side of the legs and head is enough).

The width is simpler, classic models with a width of 80 centimeters or more (but not exceeding 90 centimeters) are suitable here. When choosing double mattress note that its width should be no less than 140 centimeters.

If we talk about the internal component of the mattress, then products on springs are best suited. They are good for both single and double mattresses. At the same time, we recommend choosing products with independent springs, they better support the body during sleep, preventing “falling through”.

Do not buy soft models of orthopedic mattresses, they are good for lumbar osteochondrosis, but not suitable for cervical. It is much better to buy a rigid model that is suitable not only for cervical osteochondrosis, but also for diseases of the pelvic region of the spinal column.

Manufacturers, models and prices

There are literally a thousand different models of orthopedic pillows, and it is very difficult for a person who first encountered osteochondrosis of the cervical spine to choose a quality product on their own.

What orthopedic pillows are considered the best and at the same time not biting for the price? We recommend to pay attention to the following models:

  1. Fleece 310N. Size 50x70 centimeters, silicone filler, bleached calico fabric (100% cotton). Price: 320 rubles.
  2. Bilerbeck Comfort. Size 40x60 cm, filled with 70% anti-allergic fiber and 30% lambswool (combed). Price: 1000 rubles.
  3. MirSon DeLuxe Thinsulate+EcoSilk. Size 50x70 centimeters, filler - EcoSilk and Thinsulate. Price: 1100 rubles.
  4. PROF MISHLE. Size: 70x(20+30) centimeters, made of polyester balls and cotton. Price: 1900 rubles.
  5. SOFT MEDICAL. Size: 40x60x12 centimeters, made of fluff, feathers, ethereal balls and cotton. Price: 1890 rubles.
  6. Royal DeLuxe No. 1 (elastic). Size: 50x70 centimeters, made of EcoSilk and Thinsulate materials. Price: 1050 rubles.
  7. MEDI RELAX R Size: 60x43x11/10 centimeters. Made from polyester and lurex. Price: 4100 rubles.

Where can you buy?

You can buy orthopedic mattresses and pillows for the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis at any large store of related products. The problem is that in such stores they sell products of a general type, in fact - universal models.

We have already described their problems, but how then to be? Doctors advise to contact specialized stores or pharmacies. For example, large stores will be able to choose a mattress or pillow as accurately as possible for the characteristics of your body. medical technology or in rehabilitation centers.

Please note that when going to specialized stores, you should expect high prices for such orthopedic products. And this is quite obvious, since such outlets sell products made from high-quality materials and specifically for the treatment of diseases of the musculoskeletal system.

But we do not recommend buying such goods in transitions, at flea markets or from hands. And it's not even so much that the goods bought in this way are often of poor quality and have defects. But the fact is that in this way you with a very small degree of probability will be able to choose a product specifically for you.

Is it worth spending your time, money and health (after all, while you select the necessary model, the disease progresses) for such activities? The question is rhetorical.

Cervical osteochondrosis is a common disease that worsens the quality of life. The disease has dramatically “younger” and is increasingly affecting young people of active age, students and schoolchildren. This is caused by physical inactivity, a sedentary lifestyle. If you are engaged in sedentary work, you are at risk.

The correct position of the body of a sleeping person is of particular importance for patients with cervical osteochondrosis. Doctors advise using an orthopedic pillow for cervical osteochondrosis to alleviate and prevent pain symptoms. The right orthopedic pillow helps to relax the muscles, supports and stabilizes the cervical vertebrae during sleep. How to choose a pillow for osteochondrosis of the neck, without getting lost among the abundance of goods, we will tell you in the article.

Restoration of the joints and intervertebral discs of a person occurs at night during sleep. An uncomfortable posture in a dream leads to pinching of the nerves, vasoconstriction and oxygen starvation of the brain. Waking up, a person experiences discomfort, stiffness and numbness of the neck, crunching of the vertebrae, headaches. Constant signs of discomfort signal 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 dystrophic process that destroys cartilaginous tissues, to relieve the joints and ligaments of a resting person as much as possible. Indications for the use of an orthopedic pillow are very extensive:

Thus, the orthopedic pillow is indicated not only for patients with 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 recommendations of the doctor for your particular case.

Benefits of an orthopedic pillow:

  • Maintaining the anatomical posture of the spine during sleep;
  • Keeps its shape stably (memory effect);
  • Variety of shapes and sizes;
  • Hypoallergenic;
  • Convenience, versatility - can be used to unload other parts of the spine, as a lining for the legs.

Cons of an orthopedic pillow in comparison with the traditional one:

  • High price;
  • Impossibility of washing;
  • Limited period of use;
  • The need to get used to a new form, a change in sensations - an unusual rigidity, a different posture of rest.

What are orthopedic pillows

Many manufacturers are working on the creation of comfortable accessories for sleeping. In specialized stores you will be offered a large selection of products. Types of orthopedic pillows are distinguished by shape, material of manufacture, degree of rigidity.

The whole variety of orthopedic pillows come down to three main forms:

  1. Pillow-roller is a cylindrical bag with filler. Designed to unload the muscles and joints of individual parts of the body (legs, lower back, knee joints). It is not recommended for sleeping, as it rarely provides a comfortable position for the neck.
  2. The half-moon pillow is used exclusively for back rest. Most often made from soft materials. Such pillows are willingly taken on a trip, sometimes used when driving or working at a computer.
  3. Rectangular pillow - the most common type of goods. As a rule, an orthopedic pillow has a recess for the head in the middle and rollers along the edges. Rectangular pillows are made from a variety of materials.

Fillers for orthopedic pillows

Manufacturers offer orthopedic pillows for cervical osteochondrosis, made of various materials: latex, polyurethane foam and polystyrene, gel and buckwheat husks. All of them 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 harmful bacteria will not linger in such a pillow. The porous structure of the pillow allows the skin to breathe. The latex orthopedic pillow keeps its shape well, the service life of the product reaches 15 years. Cons: not suitable for people allergic to latex, high price.

polyurethane foam

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". Pillows made of polyurethane foam are hygienic and quite durable, retaining their “new” appearance for a long time. The disadvantage is a slight smell at the beginning of operation.

Polysterol

Filler in the form of small balls filling the pillow cover. To adopt the correct head position during sleep, the balls are distributed inside the cover. Polystyrene is also durable and hygienic. Provides good neck support. Minus: when changing the position of the body in a dream, you need to “crumple” the filler again.

Buckwheat husk

Buckwheat husk filler is the most environmentally friendly, hygroscopic, and has a pleasant massage effect.

The husk fills the cover of the orthopedic pillow in the same way as balls. When used, it does not give a greenhouse effect, like previous types of 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 flavor and the rustling of 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 on sale pillows with other fillers - for example, holofiber or bamboo fiber. To avoid fakes, pay attention to the presence of a registration certificate: it confirms the medical purpose of the product.

Degree of hardness

Orthopedic pillows are of increased rigidity, medium rigidity 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 mainly used for children from 1 year old - newborns 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:

  1. 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 fillers and a small thickness are preferred. When positioned on the side, the height of the roller 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 on the back are preferable.
  2. Mattress firmness. The position of the head during sleep depends on this parameter. If the mattress is soft, the pillow will push harder and the height of the roller will not be enough. The opposite situation is also undesirable, when, with a hard mattress and a high roller, a person wakes up with numbness of the neck and shoulders. The desire to change the position of the body, roll over from one side to another also indicates an incorrectly selected size of the orthopedic pillow. An excessively soft or hard mattress does not allow you to take the anatomical position of the body - when the neck continues the straight line of the spine. With pathologies of the spine, it is recommended to purchase an orthopedic mattress.

Feel free to ask the seller to test the pillow by putting 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, a strong smell that causes discomfort (a sign of a poor quality product).

Covers made of cotton and others are preferred natural materials skin-friendly faces.

The longer the warranty period for the product, the higher the quality of the product. Choose products that have proven themselves on Russian market manufacturers.

Common brands of orthopedic pillows in the Russian market:

  1. Ormatek. Introduces a line of pillows made from sustainable modern material ormafoam.
  2. Trives. Wide choose models for children and adults. Manufacturer uses natural fillers including bamboo and latex.
  3. Ascona. The company uses the developments of its own laboratory under the guidance of Academician V. Dikul.
  4. Sissel - orthopedic pillows from a Swedish company, well thought out shape and design.
  5. Rollmatratze - pillows based on a latex mesh with a special structure.
  6. Luomma is a Russian-Swedish co-production. The filler is mainly polyurethane with a "memory effect".
  7. Orthopedic pillows Khoroshev. The manufacturer advertises a heat-sensitive filler, in addition to orthopedic, claims antibacterial, anti-allergic, anti-snoring effects of its products.
  8. Trelax is a diverse and affordable line of orthopedic products.

conclusions

Orthopedic pillow is an effective tool in the complex treatment of osteochondrosis. In order for it to be useful, the choice of product must be approached responsibly, focusing on one's own needs and listening to the doctor's recommendations.

It should be remembered that at first an orthopedic pillow can cause discomfort while the neck muscles get used to the new material. If addiction does not occur within a week, the pillow may not suit you and you need to use another product.

Good sleep means good vacation and relaxation. About a third of our lives are spent in sleep - we allocate 6 hours a day for this, and sometimes more. Let's figure out how to sleep with cervical osteochondrosis so that there is no insomnia at night, and headaches in the morning along with irritability. After all, cervical osteochondrosis is much more dangerous than other types of osteochondrosis. It allows for the likelihood of malfunctions in the functioning of many body systems, as well as possible disorders in 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 an orthopedic pillow for cervical osteochondrosis.

How to sleep with osteochondrosis

Rest and back health are directly related to 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 of the spine.

Proper sleep is very important for the spine

How to sleep with osteochondrosis:

  1. On the back with bent legs. So all the vertebrae take the correct anatomical position. But with straightened legs, the muscles of the lower back remain in tension.
  2. On the side. In this case, the shoulder should rest against the mattress, and the head should lie completely on a small pillow.
  3. In the fetal position. This is the best posture for resting the spine. You need to lie on your side, and pull your half-bent legs to your chest. A pillow can be placed under the knee of the upper leg for greater comfort.

The advantage of sleeping on your stomach, according to some vertebrologists, is that 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 in 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 a violation of blood circulation. The choice of a pillow for cervical osteochondrosis should be taken with all responsibility. A properly selected pillow should have the following characteristics:


The pillow should be of medium firmness
  1. Shape: square or rectangular. A horseshoe or log-shaped pillow is suitable only for short-term rest on the back, but not for regular sleep.
  2. Height: 5-9 cm. This height is safe for health, and also provides correct location body: shoulders slightly raised, and the neck slightly higher than the head.
  3. Size. The width of the pillow for osteochondrosis is selected based on the width of your shoulders: a little more or the same.
  4. Hardness is medium. The right pillow for cervical osteochondrosis is moderately hard, but not very soft.
    With frequent exacerbations of osteochondrosis, the parameters of the pillow should be discussed individually with the attending doctor.

Keep in mind that a pillow for osteochondrosis of the cervical region is not able to get rid of all problems with the spine. Its main purpose is a complete rest of the spine, as well as preventing the development of osteochondrosis.

Varieties of orthopedic pillows


Orthopedic pillows are especially important for osteochondrosis

Manufacturers of orthopedic pillows represent a variety of various kinds this product. Standard sizes such pillows: 40x50, 50x70. The form might look like this:

  1. Crescent or roller. Perfectly fixes the neck, but is only suitable for sleeping on the back.
  2. Rectangular:
    • 2 rollers 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 are not deformed during operation. Before choosing best option, you need to try to lie down on each of the pillows.

As for the filler of the orthopedic pillow for osteochondrosis, the most popular are:

  • Buckwheat husk. The 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 hypoallergenic and non-toxic material that has antibacterial properties.
  • Bamboo fibre. 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 the load. Comfortable for sleeping in any position.
  • Cooling gel. Thanks to the special fluid technology, the load is distributed correctly. Such a 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 make right choice our recommendations:

  • A high-quality pillow should not be deformed.
  • The required cushion height depends on the degree of softness of the mattress.
  • The pillow is too low for you if you really want to put your hand under your head.
  • Frequent changes in positions during sleep may indicate an incorrectly selected pillow size.
  • "Wooden shoulders" and pain in the neck in the morning indicates that the height of the pillow is not correct.

Thus, it is possible to determine which pillow is needed for osteochondrosis in a particular case only empirically.

Finally, we want 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.