If a pillow is too large, instead of putting a curve in the neck it will flex your head forward. This is a problem because you lose that vital curve when you flex forward.
You see, we need about a 40 degree curve back there. If we are constantly flexed forwarded it starts to straighten the spine.
"I thought our spine was supposed to be straight?"
No, that is when looking from the front or back, or A-P view. When we look at the spine from the side we want smooth flowing curves. A "C" curve of the neck with the opening facing toward your back or posterior. (A-P = Anterior-Posterior).
That is why, not only is a neck pillow a good idea to use, but the right size is very important too. You wouldn't wear shoes that were two sizes to big would you? No, your pillow is much the same. Using the wrong size may have its repercussions.
Additional Reading Resources:
- A Review of Fiber Pillows that Work
- Neck Pillows to Work to Stop Neck Pain. Here are 3 studies to Prove it
- Improve your posture with a Brace
- Helping a pinched nerve in the neck
- The Dreaded Unwanted Muscle Spasm
