Thekabarnews.com—Pillows are often considered a necessity for optimal sleep. However, experts say some may do better without one, especially those sleeping on their stomachs.

The primary function of a pillow is to help keep the neck aligned with the rest of the body in support of a neutral spine. Proper alignment helps posture, reduces muscle tension, and prevents neck and back pain.

But the researchers have studied the effects of sleeping without a pillow more than those of the best pillow for spinal support. That is something stomach sleepers can be susceptible to.

Most of your weight is concentrated in your midsection, so sleeping on your stomach puts your spine in an unnatural position, says the University of Rochester Medical Center.

This position is hard on the back and neck. In addition, it makes it difficult for the spine to maintain its natural curve.

Usually, when you are on your stomach with a pillow, your head is higher, which puts your neck in a more uncomfortable backward position. As a result, this position can cause discomfort, stress, and long-term neck problems.

Sleeping without a pillow might provide more even support for the head on the mattress. This might lower pressure on the neck and help maintain the spine’s alignment.

Experts also recommend a pillowless sleeping position for stomach sleepers who frequently wake up with neck pain.

Lying on your stomach automatically turns your head to one side, which already strains the neck.

You can reduce this exaggerated stretch by removing the pillow and relieving strain on your cervical spine. But not everyone can follow this advice.

If you sleep on your back or side, you will generally require a pillow. This helps support the natural curve of the neck and maintain proper spinal alignment.

If you sleep on your back or on your side and do not use a cushion, you will develop poor sleeping posture and shoulder pain. You may also experience stress in the neck and even migraines.

If you sleep on your side, you want a pillow high enough to fill the space between your shoulder and your head.

Stomach sleepers will be happy to hear the news, but researchers say that limited science supports this subject.

Most previous studies focus on the design and materials of cushions, such as memory foam, latex, or ortho pillows. However, they do not relate to the total absence of a cushion.

The best thing to do is listen to your body and note how you feel after sleep.

If you have ongoing neck pain, stiffness, or trouble sleeping, seek advice from a health professional before making significant changes to your sleep setup.

According to experts, the best sleep setting will depend on your posture, sleeping position, and physical condition.

There are some people who feel better if you remove the pillow. It might create new problems for some.

Ultimately the goal is the same—keeping a strong, aligned spine for better sleep and better long-term health.

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