Cervical neck pillow

A cervical neck pillow is a special pillow that is contoured to correctly support the head and neck during sleep or rest.

These pillows are rather strange in appearance as they tend to have a “T” shape. They also allow for two different sleeping postures. Namely, back sleeping and side sleeping and this contributes to their unusual profile.

The shape of these pillows often incorporates a projecting wedge like support for the neck and a central arced cradle area for the head. This design is ideal for those who sleep on their backs.

Some orthopedic neck pillow designs will include a separate area of the pillow (usually to one side) for people who sleep on their sides, or who change positions during the night. This again contributes to a strange appearance, but one that is based on function.

You can see an example of this type of pillow on http://www.necksolutions.com/cervical-neck-pillow.html.

The reasons for using these types of pillow are obvious. Sleep and comfort in the bed are enhanced and the neck and spine are retained in the most natural and healthy of alignments.

The cradle shape of these pillows also prevents the head from rocking or rolling and the alignment of the spine from the neck to the base of the back is kept straight.

The alternative to this type of pre-shaped pillow is a memory foam pillow where the weight and warmth of the head and neck should, ideally, create this cradle effect for anyone using one.