We all have a favourite pillow that we can’t seem to let go of and therefore have had it for a little bit longer than we should. However, pillows are something that we need to change somewhat regularly.  Over time our pillows are exposed to dust mites, dead skin, hair, sweat, saliva and body oils and they can develop fungus or mould. These things can build up and become irritating to your body.  The general consensus is to change your pillow every 1-2 years. However, it can be different for each individual based on how much they sweat or if their pillow is cleaned.

Indications that it might be time for a new pillow include if the pillow starts to show signs of small yellow dots, if you

experience an itchy throat, runny nose, watery eyes, rashes or breathing issues when in bed. Another sign can be if you wake up with neck pain, sore muscles at the top of your shoulders or headaches. When you look at your pillow you notice it has lost its shape or feels lumpy, flat or if you can fold it in half it may be time to consider a new pillow. 

The type of pillow you purchase will all depend on your preference to the type of pillow and material it's made of but more importantly the position that you sleep in.

If you want to know what features to look for depending on your sleep positions read more here https://www.osteo4families.com.au/osteopathy-blog-admin/2020/10/19/its-time-for-some-pillow-talk-with-your-osteopath

So you’ve got yourself a new pillow but are still dreaming about the pillow you used to have. Well, here are some top tips on how to get used to a new pillow; 

• Always ‘air’ your new pillow before using it. New pillows can smell of the plastic they are wrapt in. So give it a good air and maybe a spray or eucalyptus
• Each night try to start with the new pillow. If you wake up in the middle of the night and can’t sleep, swap back to your older pillow. Hopefully you will be able to have longer periods with the new pillow until you sleep the whole night through
• Have a look at the pillow and see if it actually is the right pillow for you. Does it support you correctly? Are you sleeping in a different position than before?
• Make sure the pillow isn’t on other pillows or a bed head and increasing the angle at which your head sits on it
• Give yourself time to adjust to the new pillow 
• Make sure you are tired before going to bed 

If you think your pillow is contributing to aches and pains in your body, bring it in to your next Osteo appointment and we will have a look at your body’s position while on the pillow. 

Need some help improving your sleep. Check this

blog out here…https://www.osteo4families.com.au/osteopathy-blog-admin/2019/9/20/sleep-why-its-so-important-to-think-about-sleep-lack-of-sleep-can-affect-healing-how-can-you-get-more-sleep