Reading a pressure map
What a Pillow Pressure Map Can and Can't Show
A pillow pressure map shows where your head and neck press into a pillow and how that pattern changes when you change the setup. It doesn't show what's happening inside your body, and it isn't a medical test. It's a way to observe, visualize and compare.
What a pressure map can show
- Where the pillow is carrying the weight of your head and neck
- How a different pillow, height or position changes that pattern
- A side-by-side comparison you can look at and think about
- A visual to bring to a conversation with your care team or an advisor
What a pressure map can't show
- It can't diagnose a condition or explain pain
- It can't show your spine, muscles or anything inside the body
- It can't tell you which pillow is medically right for you
- It can't predict how you will sleep or recover
Why we say patterns, not numbers
The mat gives raw, uncalibrated readings. That's useful for comparing one setup with another on the same day, but it isn't a precise measurement of pressure in absolute terms. So we look at how the picture changes, not at a single reading.
If you have a medical condition or care instructions
Follow your care team's guidance on sleep position and pillows. Pillow Mapping doesn't change your restrictions. If you'd like to bring your report to a provider, you're welcome to. Providers can learn more about Pillow Mapping for healthcare providers.