The back and neck are among the most vulnerable parts of the body to pain and thus the main reason people go to massage centers to get therapy to ease sore muscles. More than 80% of the globe’s population suffers from back and neck problems at some point of their lives. While there are many over-the-counter drugs available to treat pain, this type of treatment will not save your pennies.

What is Back and Neck Therapy?

A type of physical treatment and rehabilitation focuses on the body structures that support the spine, namely the back and the neck. With countless causes, neck and back pain can progressively worsen if left untreated. Therapy inhibits the need for surgical intervention. With several sessions of back and neck therapy, acute pain can be managed.

Back and neck therapy:

▪ Strengthens and stretches back muscles

▪ Promotes muscle healing and relaxation

▪ Reduces pain

▪ Restores joint mobility

▪ Manages exacerbations

Back and neck therapy can take the form of physical massage (therapy delivered by hand), cervical and lumbar exercise (patient-specific exercise), or the use of devices (electrical stimulation and heat and cold application).

Is There a Pillow that Relieves Pain?

During a back and neck massage, the most common item used by therapists is a pillow. Pillows found in massage and chiropractic centers are not just the ones commonly seen at home, they are therapeutic. These pillows calm, relax and de-stress muscles of the back and neck.

A neck pillow is contoured for the head and neck and is usually made for people with cervical spine problems. This type has a deeper depression designed to provide extra support under the neck.

On the other hand, a back pillow provides lower back support which is very helpful for those who frequently experience regional pain. Sitting for long periods of time without support can generate pain and muscle tension.A back pillow specifically works by supporting the lumbar curve of the spine.

How to Choose the Right Therapeutic Pillow?

It should be mentioned that pillows for the back and neck wear out over time and may need replacing every two years. How long a pillow lasts entirely depends on the material, frequency of use, and handling.

Choose a pillow made from foam or synthetic fibers. Pillows made from these materials are less allergic and are easier to wash. People who have sensitive skin should avoid feather (down)-filled pillows.

For optimum support, look for orthopedic pillows. They are not similar to conventional pillows. Orthopedic pillows are more effective in relieving muscle tension and supportingbody joints. However, they are pricier.

Whenever your pillow starts to lose its support and shape, it’s time to get a new one.

When finding the right neck pillow, choose one that keeps the neck in a neutral position.

When selecting a back pillow for sitting, choose one that provides lumbar support in particular. This not only gives maximum support and improves posture, but it also absorbs the pulling force of gravity that may hurt the spine.

A donut pillow is beneficial for people suffering from coccyx (the triangular bone located at the base of the spine) pain. It can be a pillow of choice for pregnant mothers.

There are many types of pillows for the back and neck. These cushiony items are not just useful in back and neck therapy centers, but they come in handy anywhere and everywhere - homes, cars, airplanes, etc. A good quality pillow is not necessarily expensive. One has to do some research to select the best pillow that is budget-friendly and can provide the most efficient support.

For more information, please check www.KeyMedSupplies.com

Written by

Dr. Bhanu Voguri, MD

KeyMed Supplies

300 Buckminster dr.

Norwood, MA 02062