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Published on: December 6, 2016
Cervical positioning for reduction of sleep-disordered breathing in mild-to-moderate OSAS
C A Kushida1, C M Sherrill, S C Hong
1Stanford University Sleep Disorders Clinic, Stanford, California 94305-5730, USA. clete@stanford.edu
Sleep & Breathing = Schlaf & Atmung
|February 28, 2002
Summary
A special cervical pillow improved mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) by promoting head extension. This simple, noninvasive method reduced breathing disturbances and arousals during sleep.
Area of Science:
- Sleep Medicine
- Respiratory Physiology
Background:
- Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is a common sleep disorder.
- Mild to moderate OSAS often requires non-pharmacological interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of a custom-fitted cervical pillow in improving OSAS.
- To assess the impact of cervical positioning on upper airway caliber and sleep quality.
Main Methods:
- Eighteen subjects with mild to moderate OSAS participated.
- Polysomnography was conducted with usual pillows (baseline) and a custom cervical pillow.
- Questionnaires and video recordings assessed sleep quality and position.
Main Results:
- A trend toward improved respiratory disturbance indices was observed with the cervical pillow.
- Fewer arousals and awakenings were recorded using the cervical pillow.
- No significant changes in REM sleep or sleep efficiency were noted.
Conclusions:
- Cervical positioning with a custom pillow offers a simple, noninvasive method to reduce sleep-disordered breathing in mild to moderate OSAS.
- Head extension may be a viable strategy for managing OSAS symptoms.
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