Choosing the right material
When it comes to orthopedic pillows the choice of materials is very important. Asthma and allergies sufferers should approach with caution to the classic goose feather pillows (not orthopedic indeed), comfortable for some but not quite washable and easily colonized by mites.
Standard foam pillows are more hygienic and therefore useful for those suffering from allergic rhinitis however they can result too hot during the summer and may not suit people with neck conditions due to their great rigidity. A good compromise between comfort and hygiene is represented by latex pillows, they are washable and mite-proof however they can still result too rigid for someone.
Microfiber pillows are modern and comfortable. Thanks to the special weaving mesh they allow the redistribution of weights so that they fit the natural curvature of the cervical region. The system is similar to that of a latex mattress that can change the points of pressure to follow the forms of head and neck. In some cases these fibers are equipped with the so-called “anti-mite system”. These synthetic materials are specially designed to repel dust mites, giving more hygienic and restful sleep to those suffering from allergic problems.
Memory foam pillow
Finally the most advanced material on the market is known as memory foam. These pillows, made of a specially designed gel or foam latex, are able to change their shape absorbing the heat emanated by the person using it, moreover they record it for a few seconds, hence memory. When you turn while sleeping, the “memory” is lost in a few seconds and the pillow adapts itself to the new position immediately, so that the pillow fits the head and neck and not vice versa.
Another type of dynamic pillow is the water pillow which conforms to the shape of the head thanks to a special water container within the pillow.
Natural and organic pillows are also very popular, they are usually made with beans or cereals. The presence of biological material helps to make the pillow relaxing and eco-friendly, it is also very cool during the summer.
There isn’t therefore an ideal and universal solution for everyone, the preference of one type over another is purely personal. In general, depending on the products currently available, the best pillow has the following features: easily washable and hypoallergenic, on the top of this, the choice must be dictated by one’s special pain/conditions or sleeping habit. As I will illustrate in the next articles each sleeping habit or pain can be associated to its optimal orthopedic pillow.
