We as humans need to have a good healthy sleep. Without sleep, we would not be able to think clearly, function appropriately, and attend to our responsibilities aptly. If we don’t sleep, we deprive our body the right to recover from exhaustion and regain the energy that we have lost from strenuous activities. Through sleeping, we become more productive and healthy individuals. That is why, the best thing that we could do to satisfy our innate appetite for sleep is to have a sleeping aid that guarantees us the slumber that we deserve. And in the realm of medical technology, what could be more beneficial to our sleep than the comfort given by orthopedic pillows?

Orthopedic pillows are sleeping aids that cradle our body (or just specific parts of our body) when we lie down on any surface. They correct our posture thus providing us a more comfortable and healthier sleep. There are also claims that orthopedic pillows help in reducing symptoms of sleep disorders like insomnia, snoring, and sleep apnea. They are also believed to improve one’s blood circulation and breathing, and lessen pains in different areas of the body. That is why these pillows are also called ‘therapeutic’.

An ordinary pillow is different from an orthopedic pillow. The latter is made from fiber or foam which enables it to conform to the contours of the body. For instance, foam orthopedic pillows are usually used as a cervical support. Consequently, orthopedic pillows made from fiber are best for people who typically sleep on their side.

There are different kinds of orthopedic pillows available nowadays. The most common are:
• Cervical pillow – This pillow adapts to the head, neck, and shoulders. It can be used by both side and back sleepers.
• Neck pillow - Shaped like a horseshoe, neck pillows conform to the contours of the neck. They can be used in the office or while traveling. That is why they are also called travel pillows.
• Wedge pillow - This pillow is best for sleepers who want to reduce the symptoms of acid reflux and GERD during sleep. Unlike the neck pillow, wedge pillows are shaped like an isosceles triangle.
• Lumbar pillow – As the name implies, lumbar pillows are used to give relief to the lower back. They are mostly used by people who usually sleep on a sitting-down position.

In choosing an orthopedic pillow, what you should always keep in mind is the extent of comfort that the pillow will give you. Always remember that a body that experiences more comfort will also most likely be healthier.