Study Warns of "Shogun Pillow Syndrome"
A recent study by Japanese researchers has revealed a potential health risk associated with using high pillows and stacked towels during sleep. The study, published in an international medical journal, found that sleeping on a high pillow increases the risk of stroke due to the way it bends the neck during slumber. This condition has been dubbed "shogun pillow syndrome" by the research team from the National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center.
The study focused on cases of spontaneous vertebral artery dissection (sVAD), a rupture of a blood vessel in the back of the neck that causes stroke. The researchers compared the sleeping habits of 53 sVAD patients aged 45-56 with 53 individuals hospitalized for strokes or cerebral hemorrhages from other causes. They found that patients with sVAD were significantly more likely to use high pillows (defined as 12 cm or higher) compared to the control group.
The study concluded that high pillows increase neck flexion, which can damage blood vessels if the neck turns during sleep. The researchers also noted that the higher the pillow, the greater the risk of developing sVAD. They recommend avoiding pillows exceeding 15 cm in height, even if they are soft, as they can still cause significant neck flexion.
The study also delved into the historical context of high pillow use in Japan. Between the 17th and 19th centuries, "shogun pillows" measuring 12-16 cm were widely used to maintain elaborate hairstyles among shoguns, samurai, and geisha. Interestingly, historical essays from the mid-19th century suggest an awareness of the potential link between high pillows and health risks, advocating for lower pillows for longevity.
This study highlights the importance of proper sleep posture and pillow selection for preventing stroke. While further research is needed, the findings suggest that opting for lower pillows and avoiding excessive neck flexion during sleep could significantly reduce the risk of sVAD and its associated health complications.