Are Neck Pillows Worth Buying for Air Travel?

Neck pillows are used for travel to help ease the discomfort from sitting for extended periods of time. The neck has seven vertrabrae, commonly known as C-1 to C-7. It may be a good idea to buy a neck pillow if you spend a lot of time on airplanes or have a sensitive neck from a previous injury. If you can sleep with an airline pillow without waking with a stiff or painful neck, then you won't need a special travel neck pillow. If, however, you do experience some discomfort, buying a neck pillow will prove worthwhile.

Identification

Neck pillows come in many variations: some are made from cloth and filled with grains of rice or gel-like substances.
Others may include herbs or essential oils such as lavender or rosemary. The scent is released as the body's heat releases the plant oils from the pillow.
It is a matter of personal preference which one to use. Sample several different types to see which one is best for you.
Some types of pillows can be inflated and, when not in use, deflated and folded flat.

Features

Travel neck pillows tend to be on the smaller size so that they are easily tucked into a carry-on bag or in a purse. See what size is most convenient for you.
Some are made from a "memory foam" that closely conforms to the shape of your neck. Others are filled with grains such as uncooked buckwheat.
Many travel neck pillows range in price from $12 to $35 before taxes and shipping costs.

Significance

Many people sit at desk jobs that require the use of computers. This can create what is called "forward head" where the skull is very forward in front of the rest of the spine. This is also a common occurence on air planes
As a result, the neck is bearing the weight of the skull in a way that can create neck strain and discomfort.
A travel neck pillow sits around the neck and places a small weight on the tops of the shoulders, so that the muscles of the upper back can release downward.
These muscles can relax and help reduce the tension and discomfort in neck bones.
Chiropractors and physical therapists often work with patients to identify "forward head" syndrome and correct it.

Considerations

If you have a history of neck sensitivity or injury from a car accident and whiplash, you may benefit from using a neck pillow.
Consult with your doctor or physical therapist before purchasing a neck pillow.
If you fall asleep with your travel neck pillow and it's not fully supporting you neck, you may find that you awake with a stiff neck.
Be aware that if the travel pillow is filled with a cotton batting or "memory foam" material, it may need to be replaced over time.

Warning

If you have scoliosis or any serious neck injuries, ask your physician or your physical therapist about whether or not a travel neck pillow is appropriate for you.
You might be advised to do some physical therapy exercises prior to your air travel to strengthen specific muscles around the neck to support it.

Resources

• Travel neck pillows, Comfort channel
• Travel neck pillows, Shopping.com

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[sandybandy]

on 5/8/2009 I am a model. I am taller everywhere than normal people. When I travel, I need two pillows sitting on my shoulder to support my head and not end up with stiff neck. Since I need to work right after I get to a new site, puffy eyes are big no no. I have to put a piece of paper over my face when using two pillows. I look really silly. You know what, when I saw the custom made pillow for my condition, I didn�t even think twice about the price. If it can save my job, and a day of rest after a long flight, it is a barging! I found mine at sunshine-pillows.com.