Pillows are such a part of our lives, from resting our heads on at night to decorating our living space. Whether sleeping or waking, we're frequently reaching for a pillow to rest an elbow, to put behind a tired back, or indignant hip, or to get a good night's sleep after an exhausting day. It is a very comforting feeling to have just the right pillow to rest an achy, tired body on. In addition to providing comfort, the right pillows can also provide the necessary support for the neck and spine-alleviating or preventing many common forms of back pain and neck pain. People of all ages and sizes sigh with relief at finding comfort or alleviating pain from the use of a pillow.

Use of a pillow while sleeping has two main functions. Support, from a physical perspective, pillows prop up the head, neck and shoulders - keeping them in alignment, relieving pressure and counterbalancing the points in the body. Comfort, from a more subjective perspective, pillows create a feeling of comfort, which aids in getting a good night's sleep and feeling well rested.

A pillow is designed to keep the spine in natural alignment. The human neck curves slightly forward (to sustain the weight of the head when upright), and it is important to maintain this curve when in a resting position. If the height of the pillow is too high when sleeping sideways or on the back, the neck is bent abnormally forward or to the side, causing muscle strain on the back of the neck and shoulders. This type of position may also cause narrowing of the air pipe, resulting in obstructed breathing, and sometimes snoring, which can hinder sleep. Conversely, if the height of the pillow is too low, the neck muscles can also be strained.

To help the pillow conform to various sleep positions, it is best if the pillow can be adjusted to fit the unique shape, curves and sleeping position of the user. A pillow should mold to one's individual shape and alleviate any pressure points.

Back Sleeper - When lying on the back, a pillow should support the natural curvature of the cervical spine, with adequate support under the head, neck, and shoulders. When sleeping on the back, the height of the pillow should be lower than in the sideways position. Placing a pillow or two beneath the knees further alleviates any back strain, and is the gentlest position on the back.

Side Sleeper - When lying on one's side, a pillow should support the head and neck such that the spine maintains a straight and natural horizontal line. Weight should be evenly distributed so as not to create unnatural bending or pressure. Some people may prefer placing a small pillow or rolled up towel under their waist while lying on the side for additional support.

Stomach Sleeper - If sleeping or resting on the stomach is preferred, the pillow should be relatively flat, or the head should rest directly on the mattress, so that the head and neck are not turned unnaturally to either side. In this position, it is often best to place another relatively flat pillow under the stomach to help the spine keep its natural alignment.

Over time, most pillows will begin to lose their firmness and no longer support the neck adequately. When the pillow has reached this stage, it should be replaced. Source: Spine-Health.com.