
The thickness of your pillow should match the distance from the side of your head to the tip of your shoulder - a good rule of thumb to keep your neck aligned while sleeping. You should consider changing mattresses every eight to 10 years. Memory foam top covers may also be helpful. For most people, firm mattresses are the best strategy in order to provide the necessary support for their spine. You likely spend at least 1/3 of your life in your bed, so pay a little more attention to the quality of your mattress and how you sleep on it.

WikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. There are 13 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. Karen is a member of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) and is an official spokesperson for the APTA as a member of their media corps. Karen holds a Master of Science in Physical Therapy and a Doctor of Physical Therapy from Misericordia University.
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With over 20 years of experience, she specializes in a comprehensive approach to practicing physical therapy utilizing therapeutic exercises, manual therapy, pain education, and home exercise programs.

Karen Litzy, PT, DPT is a licensed physical therapist, international speaker, owner of Karen Litzy Physical Therapy, PLLC, and the host of the Healthy Wealthy & Smart podcast. This article was co-authored by Karen Litzy, PT, DPT.
