Nighttime necking

Muscle & Fitness, Sept, 2005 by Tabatha Elliott

In last issue's Edge Supplement Update, we reminded you of the importance of sleep and how to maximize muscle gains while you're catching Zs. But if you aren't sleeping well, the problem could be your pillow. "In all seriousness, the proper pillow can make a huge difference not only in your restfulness but your neck and back health," confirms Daniel Yaron, DC, Toronto chiropractor and health and education expert at Obus Forme. Yaron adds: "Sleep affects workout performance--motivation, persistence, energy--and recovery due to rest and anabolic hormone release during sleep (such as growth hormone) that encourages tissue repair and mucle growth.

The right pillow should provide good comfort and support so you experience the deeper levels of sleep in which growth hormone is released.

It should also allow muscle tissues to relax and heal during sleep and support proper sleep posture, which can decrease tissue inflammation and lead to increased growth." Consider the Obus Forme 4 in 1 Neck and Neck Cervical Pillow. Its contours support the entire length of the neck, promoting natural spine alignment and relaxation of neck muscles to help relieve neck pain, shoulder tension and even headaches. Obus Forme pillows are available at GNC stores. For more info, visit obusforme.com

REFERENCE

Kamdar, B.B. Sleep Medicine 5(5):441-448, 2004.

RELATED ARTICLE: PILLOW TALK

Having the proper pillow can be critical to the quality of sleep you get and all the benefits adequate sleep provides. Use these pillow guidelines provided by Yaron to ensure that your pillow is all it should be.

* INVEST IN A HIGH-QUALITY PILLOW that provides proper support.

* COMFORT DURING THE NIGHT AND UPON WAKING are the best indicators of a pillow's support. If you experience any discomfort during sleep or upon waking such as neck pain, arm pain or headache, it's time to replace your pillow.

* WHEN YOU SLEEP ON YOUR BACK, a good pillow will support the natural "C"-shape curvature of the neck.

* WHEN YOU SLEEP ON YOUR SIDE, a good pillow will be high enough to keep the neck in line with the rest of the spine.

* ONCE THE OUTER FABRIC COVER OF YOUR PILLOW SHOWS signs of wear or the pillow has gone flat and can't be fluffed, replace it.

* STAINS, HOLES OR BAD ODOR are indicators that your pillow should be replaced. Pillows can harbor microscopic bacteria and bugs such as dust mites. Keep your pillow as clean as possible.

BY TABATHA ELLIOTT, PHD