Best Pillows for Neck Pain Sufferers

Posted on June 22, 2024

If you suffer from neck pain, achiness or stiffness, getting comfortable at night can be a challenge. You may toss and turn, trying to erase the cringe emanating from your neck and shoulders. Did you know you can help ease your symptoms by simply changing your pillow? While finding the best pillow to support your spinal alignment is based on individual sleeping preferences and positions, many types and styles are designed and manufactured to treat neck pain. The most important thing to remember is to look for a pillow that will keep your head and neck in neutral alignment.

Pillows for neck pain come in many shapes, sizes and materials. A cervical pillow, for example, is highly recommended by chiropractors to treat neck pain. These pillows rise where your neck is and compress where your head lays. Cervical pillows come in various materials, most commonly memory foam and latex, and are easily one of the best options for people experiencing back and neck pain.

Loft is an important detail when looking for neck pain pillows. Loft refers to how much fill is in your pillow. In general, stomach and back sleepers will need a lower loft while side sleepers should opt for a higher loft.

Firmness is another important detail. A firmer pillowis generally recommended for those with neck pain because it keeps its shape better throughout the night and provides better support, which is helpful for side sleepers especially. A firm pillow is also a good choice for those with severe neck pain because it can keep the head and neck in place throughout the night. Softer pillows can compress down and are better for stomach and/or back sleepers.

Your sleeping position should be noted when looking for pillows, too. The goal is to have the pillow at the perfect height to keep your head and neck in neutral alignment with your spine. In general, side sleepers use a medium- to high-loft pillow with medium firmness to keep the head lifted through the night. Back and/or stomach sleepers will want a bit of a thinner pillow, so the head is hardly lifted.

The Blu Sleep Aqua Gel Pillow promotes optimal spinal alignment regardless of your sleep position and is a great choice for all types of sleepers. It offers a superior balance between cushioning and support, so you’ll sleep more comfortably.

If you’re a side sleeper experiencing neck pain, you may benefit from the Blu Sleep Ceramo pillow, which comes in a surround shape. The Ceramo features rapid-response support while also keeping you cooler. The Purecare Soft Cell Chill pillow is a great option for neck pain sufferers with its personalized support for head, neck, and shoulders.

Keep in mind, if you suffer from chronic neck pain, or if it arises from an injury or special medical condition, you should always consult with a doctor, physical therapist, or orthopedic specialist to find out what kind of pillow they would have you sleep on.