In the last post here on Neck Pain Support Blog, I wrote about how the Forward Head Posture can cause not only neck pain, but also pain in the mid and lower back.
So should you use a pillow with this type of neck posture? Is it healthy? Some might think that using no pillow might be the best solution for this.
Using no pillow is not the answer - it is not only uncomfortable, but it can make your situation and pain worse.
I recommend using a contoured neck pillow. Your head and neck needs to be properly supported especially with this type of neck posture. It is important to get the right size of pillow. Because your head and neck are already naturally pushed forward, you don’t want to get a pillow size that is too big. A pillow that is too big will exaggerate your forward head posture. It can make your neck and back pain worse.
In the meantime do neck traction and postural exercises to help improve the forward head posture. This type of posture puts a lot of pressure on the head, neck and shoulder area.
Check out Part I: Forward Head Posture Post here on Neck Pain Support Blog: How FHP Can cause midback and low back pain too.
Additional Reading Resources:
- Exercises you can do for forward head posture
- How to Help Neck Pain and Headaches from Work
- Solutions for A Stiff Neck
- Improve Your Neck Posture with the right pillow
- Travel Neck Pillow for a Person with Existing Neck and Shoulder Pain
