Sleeping is an essential part of life and our over well being. Our bodies need sleep to recharge, grow muscle and repair tissue. Sleep also allows our bodies a chance to process and retain information and ultimately perform better. Researchers say adults need on average between 7-9 hours of sleep to be able to function optimally.
A lack of sleep can lead to a weakened immune system, concentration issues, and increased anxiety. There are many reasons you might not be getting enough sleep including stress, anxiety, medical issues, environmental issues or physical issues like chronic pain. If you are experiencing pain in your neck and shoulders, you won’t be able to sleep soundly.
A common cause of neck pain after sleeping is using the wrong pillow. Pillows that are too firm or too high for you will result in neck and shoulder pain. The best neck pillow is one that supports your neck and shoulders. Another one of the common remedies for neck pain while sleeping is to change the position you sleep in. Physiotherapists and other medical professionals suggest the proper way to sleep to avoid neck pain is to sleep on your back with a cervical pillow.
Finding the best pillow for neck pain is like hitting the jackpot. Not only will you wake up pain-free but you will also be getting your 7-9 hours of recommended sleep. We have put together a list of pillows that will help with your neck and shoulder pain.
Let’s have a look at some of the options for neck pillows.
Therapeutic Design
If you sleep on your side, then consider the Elite Rest Contour Sleeper. The therapeutic design of this pillow conforms to the natural curve of your body, supporting your head and neck. In doing so it provides just the right kind of gentle alignment. Ideally designed for both back and side sleepers this pillow offers sleepers both comfort and support. The memory foam used in this pillow is safe, long-lasting, anti-fungal and hypoallergenic.
Spinal Alignment
For the best spinal alignment, the luxury Royal Therapy Pillow is a great option. It is an adjustable foam pillow that allows for uniform pressure on all areas of the head and neck. This pillow reduces tossing and turning during the night, allowing you to sleep deeper for longer periods. When you sleep on this pillow, your muscles relax properly and adjust to your unique shape. You will find relief from both neck and shoulder pain when you sleep on this pillow. It is also a hygienic, hypoallergenic, dust-mite resistant pillow with a bamboo cover that promotes cooling while you sleep.
Luxury Pillow
Just because a pillow is therapeutic doesn’t mean it compromises on luxury. This uniquely shaped EPABO Contour neck pillow has been ergonomically designed to support and align your neck and shoulders. Once you have adjusted to this pillow you will experience a new level of comfort and sleep. The material used in this pillow is breathable and provides better circulation, keeping you cool while you sleep. The cover is super soft and is made from hypoallergenic material and is chemical-free and dust-mite resistant.
Cervical Pillow
Cervical pillows are pillows that have been designed with the correct support for your neck and spine. Cervical pillows also relieve tension and pain associated with a range of medical conditions, like headaches, pinched nerves, herniated discs, and jaw joint pain. It might not look like much but this lightweight pillow promises to soothe pain away while correcting your posture and resetting the spine to its neutral setting. This is not just a sleeping pillow but it can support your neck while you are sitting in bed, watching TV or while you are at your desk.
Medium Support
If you are looking for a neck pillow, you don’t want a pillow that is too hard as this will further aggravate any pain you are experiencing. A medium support pillow like the Xtreme Comforts Slim Pillow is recommended if you are struggling with chronic neck pain. Migraine sufferers will also find relief from this pillow as it promotes proper alignment for your back, neck, and spine. Adding to the experience, this pillow has micro-vented kool-flow technology providing superior air circulation to keep the surface of the pillow cool and leaving you to sleep comfortably all night long. The bamboo cover is hypoallergenic, machine washable and a great option for your entire family.
Back Sleepers
The position you sleep in can contribute to aches and pains in your neck and back. If you are waking up with neck pain, try sleeping on your back instead. If you are already a back sleeper, this Pacific Coast Feather Pillow is a good choice. Down pillows offer your neck a fluffy, soft place to lay your head, providing your neck with comfortable, luxurious support. This pillow comes with an allergen-free warranty and a 500 thread count cotton cover.
Contour Pillow
The Perform Pillow uses special density foam and an orthopedic design offering you unparalleled comfort and support while you sleep. There are two profiles of this pillow, the lower one is ideal for back sleepers while the higher-profile works well for back sleepers. This is an eco-friendly pillow and contains no mercury, lead or other heavy metals. No harmful chemicals are used in the manufacturing of this pillow and it is recommended for people with allergies as it is hypoallergenic.
The best sleeping position for upper back and neck pain is to sleep on your back but we don’t all find that comfortable. Sleeping on a neck pillow will help to prevent neck and shoulder pain, whatever position you prefer.
