In a comparative study, the authors noted that "compared to participants using functional pillows, participants who used regular pillows were more likely to experience multiple comfort and support factors (support, comfort, height fit, shape fit) satisfaction. Less head fatigue, less neck fatigue, and less shoulder pain had a significant impact on sleep quality.”
◆ Precautions
Since this pillow has a different structure than regular pillows, it may take a week or two to get used to. Changing positions takes some getting used to because the pillow has specific sections for back and side sleeping. When using this pillow for neck pain, shoulder pain or postural restoration, it's a small compromise between relief and long-term results. They can also be used as a combined pillow strategy for neck pain to help correct forward head posture and straighten the neck.
◆ Material
In general, pillows made of memory foam latex feel more comfortable. However, there are many types of latex, and Talalay is the best. Latex has proven to be the best material for pillows that relieve pain. With memory foam, it's hard to tell if it's soft, medium, or firm. Typically, these types of functional pillows require a medium/firm material to hold their shape. If you want a higher side sleeping height, you don't want it to compress so much that you lose the benefits of a consistent height.
It is good to have a measuring system and different heights for the best fit, such as a therapeutic pillow or a Talalay latex orthopedic pillow. Some memory foams do not vary in size and are inexpensive, usually made in China. You do get what you pay for. Latex lasts longer than memory foam and even longer than standard foam.