Best Pillow Recommendations from a Chiropractor in The Hague

What’s the Best Pillow?

*(The answer might surprise you.)*

One of the most common questions people ask in the clinic is:

What pillow do you recommend?"

Most people expect there to be one perfect pillow that fixes neck pain, headaches, or poor sleep.

The truth is… there probably isn’t.

In chiropractic school, we didn’t take a “Perfect Pillow” course where they revealed the magical pillow everyone should buy. And honestly, that’s because neck problems are usually more about the condition and function of your neck than the brand of pillow you sleep on.

That said, your pillow *does* matter.

The Main Goal: Keep Your Head Neutral

The best pillow is usually the one that keeps your head and neck in as neutral a position as possible while you sleep.

That means:

* Your head shouldn’t be pushed too far forward

* It shouldn’t be tilted sharply backward

* It shouldn’t drop too low toward the mattress

* It shouldn’t be cranked too high toward the ceiling

Think about standing upright with good posture. Ideally, your sleeping position should keep your neck close to that same natural alignment.

Too High vs Too Low

A pillow that is **too high** can place your neck in a bent position for hours at a time. This can irritate joints, tighten muscles, and sometimes contribute to morning stiffness or headaches.

A pillow that is **too low** may let your head fall backward or sideways excessively, which can also strain the neck.

Your shoulder width, mattress firmness, and sleeping position all influence what pillow height works best for you.

Side Sleepers vs Back Sleepers

Side Sleepers

Usually need a slightly thicker pillow to fill the space between the shoulder and the head so the neck stays level.

Back Sleepers

Generally do better with a more moderate pillow height that supports the natural curve of the neck without pushing the head too far forward.

Stomach Sleepers

Often experience the most neck irritation because the neck stays rotated for long periods. If you sleep on your stomach, using a very thin pillow — or sometimes none under the head — may reduce strain.

Memory Foam? Feather? Orthopedic?

People often ask whether memory foam or “orthopedic” pillows are best.

There’s no universal winner.

A good pillow is less about marketing and more about whether:

* it keeps your neck neutral,

* feels comfortable,

* and allows you to wake up without stiffness or strain.

Sometimes expensive pillows help. Sometimes they don’t.

If Your Neck Hurts, the Pillow May Not Be the Real Problem

This is the important part.

Many people keep changing pillows trying to “fix” neck pain when the real issue is:

* restricted neck movement,

* joint irritation,

* muscle tension,

* posture,

* stress,

* or poor spinal function.

If your neck is already irritated, even a decent pillow may suddenly feel uncomfortable.

That’s why pillow changes alone often don’t fully solve the problem.

A Simple Recommendation

Instead of hunting for the “perfect” pillow, focus on:

* keeping your head in a neutral position,

* avoiding extremes in pillow height,

* and paying attention to how your neck feels in the morning.

And if you’re waking up regularly with neck pain, headaches, or stiffness, it may be worth looking at the function of the neck itself — not just what’s underneath it.

Your neck spends roughly a third of your life on a pillow.

It makes sense to make sure both are working well together.

Are You Looking For A Great Chiropractor Near You? Our practice offers a holistic approach to healthcare with a strong focus on education.

Essential Chiropractic is conveniently located in the vibrant Statenkwartier neighbourhood of The Hague right near the Museon-Omniversum.

Parking is available on the street as well as limited availability in our private lot.

We are conveniently located minutes from The Hague City Center and the Scheveningen Beach by both Tram Lines 11 & 17 and Bus 24/28