Buying a pillow is like buying a mattress in that what could work and feel comfortable for you, may not be the same for someone else.  Just like mattress buying, the same effort and conscientious buying power must be excercised — one has to try and test the item first before deciding on the purchase.

When you’re on a pillow hunt, look for ones that will give you support and comfort. “The biggest thing about pillows is to not hyperextend the neck when they’re sleeping,” Jones says.

Terra Wellington, a health and wellness expert in Burbank, Calif., for www.ClubMom.com, agrees. “If you have the wrong pillow, a few things will happen,” says Wellington, who also is a member of Tempur-Pedic International’s Wellness Advisory Board.

“Extra pressure can be put on your spine because the neck is at the wrong angle. Your neck should be aligned with your spine. If you’re (sleeping on your back), you don’t want your neck to be pushing into your spine.”

Look for pillows that will give you enough support where your head is 4 to 6 inches above the bed, she says. “For most people, it’ll be about 4 inches.”

Via Freep