PILLOW CHARACTERISTICS AND SLEEPING HABITS AMONG PATIENTS WITH CERVICOGENIC HEADACHE

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Background: Cervicogenic headache is a chronic headache originating from the upper cervical spine and atlanto-occipital joint. It has a prevalence of 2.5–4.1%. Poor pillow support can lead to neck stiffness, fatigue, and radiating neck pain, which may exacerbate cervicogenic headache, scapular pain, or arm pain. Sleep quality plays a vital role in managing these symptoms, yet the relationship between pillow characteristics and sleep quality in this population remains inadequately explored.

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between pillow characteristics and sleep quality in patients with cervicogenic headache.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 61 participants aged 30–45 years with diagnosed cervicogenic headache and symptoms persisting for over six months. Participants were selected using convenience sampling. Patients with comorbidities or previous cervical trauma were excluded. Sleep quality was assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), while pillow height was self-reported. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 21.0 and presented as descriptive statistics in tables and graphs.

Results: The mean age of participants was 35.72 ± 3.625 years, with 85.2% (n=52) being female and 14.8% (n=9) male. Most respondents (91.8%, n=56) used regular pillows, while 8.2% (n=5) used cushions. Participants reported taking an average of 39.91 ± 33.2 minutes to fall asleep and slept for 7.685 ± 1.22 hours daily. Sleeping positions included right side (78.69%, n=48), left side (16.39%, n=10), straight (3.28%, n=2), and belly (1.69%, n=1). The PSQI highlighted moderate dissatisfaction with pillow support, particularly in neck and shoulder areas.

Conclusion: This study underscores the high prevalence of sleep disturbances among patients with cervicogenic headache. It highlights the role of ergonomic pillow design in improving sleep quality and managing symptoms effectively.

Keywords: Cervicogenic headache, fatigue, pillow characteristics, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, sleep disturbances, sleep posture, sleep quality