We spend one third of our life in bed, therefore it is essential we are comfortable and well supported. We all know we should support our lumbar curve when sitting and not slouch, but did you realise we need also to support the cervical curve (the area of the neck between the base of the head and the shoulders) when sleeping. A pillow or pillows that are too high will over flex the neck, whereas a pillow that is too thin will give no support at all. In general if you have problems with your neck it is best to sleep on your sides or back and not on your front. Front sleeping means the neck has to rotate excessively which can aggravate the facet joints leading to pain. Choose a pillow that allows your spine to be in a natural position whether on your side or back. In some cases a molded orthopaedic pillow can be of use which has a curve to support the cervical spine. Our clinic can advise on pillows and has a stock of orthopaedic pillows for sale.