The Effect of the Air Massage Pillow for Individuals with Neck Pain: a Randomized Double-blind, Cross-over Study.

Background: Sleep is necessary for the proper function of the human body and is usually compromised in individuals with neck pain. Neck pain relief may be achieved by utilizing an appropriate pillow to promote optimal spinal alignment.

Aim: To evaluate the effectiveness of air massage pillows regarding clinical and biomechanical outcome measures in individuals with neck pain.

Design: A randomized, double-blind, crossover study.

Methods: Two pillows (air massage or contour pillow) of different orders were randomly assigned, while their current pillow was used during the washout period. Changes in outcome variables, including subjective pain intensity, mechanical pain sensitivity, neck pain-related disability, muscle properties, and cervical range of motion after sleeping with air massage or contour pillow relative to the baseline or washout period, were calculated.

Results: Significant improvements in subjective pain intensity (p < 0.01), mechanical pain sensitivity (p < 0.01), and neck pain-related disability (p = 0.013) after sleeping with an air massage pillow compared to a contour pillow. There were no significant differences between sleeping, cervical range, and properties of the upper trapezius muscle.

Conclusion: This study provides evidence to support the recommendation of an air massage pillow as an adjunct intervention for individuals with neck pain.