Causes of neck pain and how to deal with it properly

The neck pain can hinder a good night's sleep. Avoid this by choosing a pillow that suits your sleeping style! 

Have you ever woken up with a stiff neck or headache? Or perhaps struggled to find a comfortable sleeping position throughout your rest? If so, then this problem is called the 'neck pain' condition. 

Many people don't realize that having the neck pain has become an obstacle to quality sleep and overall health. Just imagine, a third of your life that should be used for a good night's sleep becomes unattainable due to improper pillow usage. 

Surely, you don't want to let this problem go any longer. To overcome the neck pain, also pay attention to several other factors, one of which is the comfort of the pillow used. From the type, and height, to the filling material, all these aspects help to create the perfect pillow for a comfortable sleep. 

Let's take a look at this article to find out what causes the neck pain and the practical solutions that can be applied. This will help you to sleep well throughout the night. 

Definition of the neck pain and its impact on sleep 

Neck pain is a term that describes the condition when you use a pillow that is not suitable for your needs or posture. A pillow that doesn't support your head, neck, and spine will cause various health problems. 

So, can the neck pain affect sleep quality? Sleeping with a bad pillow will make your neck and back muscles feel tense. You will likely wake up frequently due to uncomfortable sleep. 

As we age, our sleep needs will change too. This is another important reason why you should choose a pillow that suits the different life stages of its users. For example, elderly people need a pillow that can alleviate their joint pain. 

Also read: Tips on finding the nearest mattress store for the most convenient shopping experience 

Signs you have the neck pain 

To know that the pillow you have been using is not suitable and needs to be replaced, pay attention to the following signs 
 

1. Neck and back pain: If you often find yourself waking up with a stiff neck, pain, or even back pain, then most likely the pillow used cannot support the position of the spine while resting in the room. 
2. Headaches: The neck pain can cause headaches, especially when you wake up in the morning. This is due to stiffness and pain in the neck due to a less ergonomic sleeping position. 
3. Numbness or tingling: Have you ever experienced tingling or numbness in some parts of your body, such as your hands, arms, and shoulders when you wake up? If so, then there is a possibility that the pillow you are using has been pressing on the nerves in the neck area throughout the night. 
4. Difficulty falling asleep or waking up frequently: Using an uncomfortable pillow will result in difficulty falling asleep, even waking up frequently in the middle of the night. In addition, this condition also causes restlessness accompanied by constant changes in sleeping position, to find a comfortable place. 
5. Snoring or difficulty breathing:  Snoring or difficulty breathing during sleep can be a sign that the pillow you are using is not supporting your breathing. 

Common causes of pillow misalignment 

Understanding some of the factors that cause pillow misalignment symptoms can be a major step towards finding the right solution. Here are some of the causes that need to be known: 

Wrong sleeping position 

Generally, the neck pain is caused by improper sleeping position. Sleeping without a supportive pillow will result in muscle tension and neck pain.  

Inappropriate pillow type 

Using a pillow that is not suitable for your posture needs can lead to the neck pain. Whether the pillow is too hard or too soft, both can reduce neck support. 

Poor pillow quality 

Ever noticed a change in the shape and strength of a pillow that has been used for a long time? Pillows that are deflated or no longer elastic cannot support the neck and head properly. 

Bad sleeping habits 

Some bad sleeping habits, such as sleeping in the same position without paying attention to neck comfort, will lead to the neck pain. It's a good idea to change your sleeping position regularly to ensure you're always in a comfortable sleeping position. 

Certain health conditions 

Some health conditions, such as arthritis or neck injuries, can increase the risk of the neck pain. If you have any of the above conditions, you must be more careful when choosing the right pillow or sleeping position. 

How to deal with the neck pain easily and effectively

Everyone agrees that having the neck pain will disrupt your daily activities. However, no need to worry. There are several ways to overcome the neck pain that can be done for better sleep. 
 

• Recognize your sleeping position: The first step is to recognize your dominant sleeping position. Whether you are a side sleeper, back sleeper, or stomach sleeper, each position requires different types of pillows for optimal support. 
• Consider the pillow material: It is also important to consider the material that the pillow is made of for maximum comfort and support. From memory foam, latex, down, to microgel, customize your choice according to the support you need. 
• Consider the height of the pillow: Make sure the pillow height is suitable for your sleeping position and preferences. Try to explore pillows of different heights to find the most comfortable option. 
• Replace the pillow periodically: Over time, pillows that have been used for a long time may not be able to support your posture adequately. Replace these pillows every 1-2 years or in due course when they appear damaged. 
• Keep the pillow clean: Wash your pillowcase regularly according to its care instructions. A clean and fresh pillow will support better sleep and minimize health risks, such as allergies. 
• Try an additional support pillow: When experiencing neck or back pain, you should consider using an additional support pillow that will improve sleep comfort. 
• Consult an expert: When having trouble choosing the right pillow or have certain health issues, it's best to consult a healthcare professional or physical therapist. You will be given some useful advice regarding pillow recommendations that suit your needs. 

Also read: Wake Up! It’s time to sleep 

Choosing the right pillow to prevent the neck pain 

Now that we've gotten to know the causes and solutions to the problem, it's time to talk about how to choose the right pillow. A good pillow can provide optimal support to our body parts, reducing the risk of neck and back pain. 

Here is a guide to choosing a pillow that suits your sleeping position and personal preferences. 

Back sleeping position 

If the dominant sleeping position is on your back, then you should choose a pillow that is medium thickness and provides good support for the neck and head. Try to use a memory foam or latex pillow that can adjust to the shape of your neck and head. 

Prone sleeping position 

For someone who likes to sleep on their stomach, you should use a thin pillow or even not use a pillow at all. This will prevent the appearance of neck pain when you wake up due to the condition that is too raised. In addition, you can also use soft down or microfiber pillows. 

Side sleeping position 

If you sleep on your side, choose a thick and firm pillow to fill the space between your neck and shoulders, thus keeping your spine straight. Contour pillows or memory foam pillows that have additional neck support are perfect for side sleepers. 

The habit of sleeping in multiple positions 

What about people who change sleeping positions frequently? A pillow with medium thickness and density is the perfect solution. This makes it easier to customize, either by increasing or decreasing its filling. 

Allergy considerations and material preferences 

For people with certain allergies, use hypoallergenic pillows made from materials that are not allergy triggers. Also, choose a material that suits your personal preference and comfort. 

IKEA products that can help with the neck pain 

Seeing how complicated the neck pain can be to one's sleep comfort, IKEA has come up with some quality pillows that are designed to offer optimal support and comfort. That way, a better night's sleep isn't a hard thing to achieve. 

1. Ergonomic pillows 

IKEA presents ergonomic pillows that can follow the contours of the user's head and neck naturally. These pillows provide proper support and reduce excess pressure on sensitive points in the body. Some of these pillows even come with a cooling system for a comfortable temperature throughout the night. 

2. Memory foam pillow 

Next up is the memory foam pillow, which is known for its ability to adjust to the user's body shape. This pillow can provide optimal support and reduce pressure on the neck and shoulders. Use this pillow as the main solution to relieve neck and shoulder pain when you wake up. 

3. Feather pillow 

This last option is perfect for those of you who are fans of soft and luxurious pillows. This feather pillow is perfect because it can provide unrivaled comfort, and can even be adjusted to all sleeping positions. 

The importance of paying attention to pillows for quality sleep

Through this article, you now realize that neck pains can be caused by various factors, one of which is using the neck pain. Therefore, use a pillow with the right size and materials according to your needs and sleeping position for good posture support. 

Looking for a quality pillow for a more comfortable sleep? Browse through our collection of quality pillows designed to support better sleep. 

Ranging from minimalist to elegant, all these pillows are designed with functionality, affordability, and aesthetics in mind for an attractive and inviting sleeping space.  

In addition to prioritizing the quality of products produced, we also ensure easy access to all IKEA products by providing IKEA Free of Charge Pick Up Point services and Indomaret Pick Up Points available in various locations in Indonesia. 

What are you waiting for?  Visit the nearest IKEA store or our official web page. Realize a better sleeping experience and Build Your Good Sleep #HanyadiIKEA”.