Finding the right loft and firmness level may require some trial and error, especially if you are a combination sleeper who regularly utilizes multiple positions. However, very few pillows are designed to specifically target and alleviate shoulder pain. Writers and editors caught stealing content or improperly citing sources are immediately terminated, and we will work to rectify the situation with the original publisher(s). The best pillow materials include memory foam, buckwheat hulls, latex, and other fills that provide sufficient support to keep the head and neck upright and aligned with the spine. What is the most important consideration when choosing a pillow for shoulder pain? This system for shoulder relief eliminates compression while elevating just enough to remove this pressure. The Saatva Latex Pillow features an adjustable design that should appeal to people across different sleep position groups, including combination sleepers who switch between two or more positions over the course of a single night. The shoulder fits in a special recess specifically designed to accommodate the shoulder and maintain comfort while side sleeping. The Saatva Latex Pillow remains our best overall pick for pillows for shoulder pain. 2022 study in Musculoskeletal Science & Practice, 2022 study in the Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. MRI or ultrasound scanning is recommended to direct proper treatment. These include the following: If you experience other symptoms along with the shoulder pain, such as shortness of breath or an uncomfortable tightening sensation in the chest, you should call 911 immediately these could be signs of a more serious condition. Some also feel numbness, tingling, and muscle spasms. The support wedge is constructed with 4 types of medical grade foam, strategically layered and placed to obtain maximum support and comfort. For this reason, we dont recommend stomach sleeping for people with shoulder pain. The outer chamber is cushioned with down-like microdenier fibers that create a plush feel. According to the Mayo Clinic, certain exercises can not only improve posture but also reduce pain in the process. (2019). The cover is also made from a blend of polyester and breathable viscose. The water within the pillow shifts to accommodate the sleepers position, and a person can adjust the amount of water to adjust its firmness. SleepFoundation readers get 20% off. Choose the Right Mattress: As with pillows, a mattress can help reduce shoulder pain or exacerbate your discomfort and again, this usually comes down to support level. Every member of our team brings years of industry experience and knowledge to our hands-on evaluations. People who sleep on their sides may benefit from softer or medium-firm hybrid, gel, or latex mattresses. Queen and king sizes are available for the pillow. The pillow features a notch at the bottom edge where your shoulders can rest comfortably without sacrificing head and neck support. If shoulder pain does not improve with rest and care at home, an individual should seek medical advice. Additionally, the latex carries a GREENGUARD Gold certification, indicating it has been tested for harmful chemicals and emissions. We link primary sources including studies, scientific references, and statistics within each article and also list them in the resources section at the bottom of our articles. The Layla Kapok Pillow contains a blend of shredded memory foam and downy-soft fibers from the kapok tree, so you can expect close contouring. With the sore shoulder upright, place one pillow under that shoulders armpit, another between the legs, and cuddle with a third pressed against your stomach. Inaccurate or unverifiable information will be removed prior to publication. The cover is made of proprietary Ghost Ice fabric that feels cool to the touch. The Avocado Organic Luxury Plush Pillow lives up to its name thanks to its exquisite construction and high-end materials. If you notice soreness or stiffness in one or both shoulders, try placing a pillow in the armpit beneath the shoulder(s). Using a unique design specifically for shoulder problems, the shoulder pillow is three pillows in one. All scientific data and information must be backed up by at least one reputable source. The full-length body pillow can be pulled between your knees for added lower back support. You should only spot clean the cover and fill as needed. The pillow provides deep cushioning, but without trapping too much body heat. These include peer-reviewed journals, government reports, academic and medical associations, and interviews with credentialed medical experts and practitioners. Unless you prefer a softer pillow, a feather-filled model may not keep your head and neck upright. side sleepers who weigh 130 to 230 pounds). There is a full length body pillow that supports the legs and back in a pressure relieving and ergonomically sound posture filled with shredded memory foam. Due to two shoulder surgeries and left with two torn rotator cuff tendons with shoulder strains, and it took 4 years of sleeping in a recliner before I was able to sleep in the bed with a functional pillow. She specializes in hands-on therapy and tailored exercise programs. Silk & Snow offers free shipping to the contiguous U.S. and all Canadian provinces. Functional pillows can relieve shoulder pain while sleeping with shoulder cutouts, however, the shoulder still rests on the surface. If not treated properly, it can lead to tendonosis. Can a mattress topper help with shoulder pain? Buckwheat pillows are filled with hulls, the hard outer casings of buckwheat kernels. Absolutely. Any medical information published on this website is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional. SleepFoundation.org does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment options. It provides gentle contouring and wont conform as closely as memory foam, but latex is also highly durable and wont flatten as easily. Price: The Ecosa Memory Foam Pillow has a list price of $100. This is a molded memory foam pillow with a head cradle for back-sleepers and a wedge for upper back support. Queen and king sizes are available. People can add or remove filling to reach their desired loft. The pillows profile is on the thicker side, so side sleepers should receive enough cushioning between the head and shoulders to optimize their alignment and reduce pressure in the neck. It is usually caused by overuse of the tendon, trauma, or too aggressive physical therapy after tendon repair. Back sleepers should also find the pillow comfortable especially if they need a lofty surface to help prevent snoring. Price: The Scrumptious Side Sleeper Pillow has a list price of around $100. Plagiarism is never tolerated. Practice Good Posture: Slouching while sitting can greatly exacerbate shoulder pain. This best pillow for neck and shoulder pain guide also discusses causes and treatments for different types of shoulder pain, pillow options for people with shoulder discomfort, and some frequent questions from first-time pillow buyers. Although Sleep Foundation maintains affiliate partnerships with brands and e-commerce portals, these relationships never have any bearing on our product reviews or recommendations. Back with Pillow in Armpit: Since back sleeping promotes even spinal alignment without putting added pressure on either shoulder, this is often the best position for people with shoulder pain. However, certain angles and pillow configurations may reduce some types of shoulder pain better than others, depending on specific condition and symptoms. However, they dont offer many advantages over regular down for sleepers with shoulder pain. Its maker claims that this pillow will rebound into its original shape after each sleep. The pillow is available in various sizes and two firmness levels. This pillow features adjustable firmness, which means people can adjust its fill for more support for their neck and shoulders. The Zoey Curve Pillow is a standout adjustable model for a few reasons. It is exceptionally soft and light, so resting your head and neck on a down pillow can alleviate tension and pressure to some degree. The shredded foam fill shouldnt retain too much heat especially compared to solid foam. While best suited to side sleeping, our tests showed the pillow is compatible with all sleep positions. This pillow consists of a sealed water pouch and a layer of resilient polyester fiber. Shipping is free for U.S. orders, as well. The shoulder is a complex joint consisting of bone, cartilage, tendons, and ligaments. For one, the pillows ergonomic half-moon shape is designed to cushion the head and neck without causing uneven spinal alignment a common culprit of stiffness or soreness in the neck and shoulders. It also has adjustable pads that allow for varying heights. Some people with shoulder pain require surgery, physical therapy, and other forms of formal treatment to address their condition. It also comes with a 5-year warranty. Other back sleepers as well as stomach sleepers will likely prefer the lower 4.5-inch profile. Without proper alignment, aches and pressure points can build where your shoulders make contact with the pillow. Stomach sleeping is generally associated with more aches and pains than back or side sleeping. Use this SleepFoundation.org link for the most current discount on Silk & Snow pillows. Our guide will showcase some of the top options, Choosing the best CPAP pillow is more complicated than it looks, but well walk you through everything you need to, Once your child is old enough, it might be time to introduce a toddler pillow. Learn More. The pillow comes with a 45-night sleep trial that includes complimentary shipping on all returns, and those who keep it receive a 1-year warranty. Use this SleepFoundation.org link for the most current discount on GhostBed pillows. It employs medical grade materials for superior quality, support and durability. Its fill which consists of shredded latex and plush polyester fibers can be added or removed to adjust the loft, making the pillow optimal for most people regardless of their preferred thickness. Many pillows sold today are specifically designed to support the head and neck in order to reduce pain and pressure in the shoulders and surrounding areas. Thicker pillows that provide more cushioning for the head and neck may improve spinal alignment and help you wake up without achiness or soreness in your shoulders.