Side Sleeping Pillows For Shoulder Pain

Ways To Cope With Shoulder Pain

There are many ways to get rid of your shoulder pain relief. You can consult a physical therapist for your injured shoulder or affected arm.

You will find some common causes for your shoulder conditions from them. And they will provide you with the best treatment options to you for further damage.

Ice the shoulder regularly: Apply ice packs to your shoulder twice a day for 20 minutes each time. This will help boost blood flow and reduce inflammation. You can also use a heating pad in the same area.

Get acupuncture: Acupuncture may be effective in treating various types of pain, including those caused by injury or surgery. Some people find that it helps relieve chronic pain as well.

Relax shoulder muscles: As mentioned above, stretching exercises can help relax your shoulder if youre bothered by a muscle strain. And also try to use pillows in a comfortable position on your upper body with a good quality mattress.

Dry needling: Dry needling is a form of acupuncture that uses thin needles instead of the thicker ones used with traditional acupuncture. It often treats pain in and around the shoulders much more quickly than traditional treatments giving it time to build up or move on to another part of the body after only three or four sessions.

Hot & Cold Massage: Self-care techniques such as cold therapy, hot packs, or iced packs, can be very helpful in relieving pain.

Suggested Reviews

What Makes Medclines Shoulder Pain Relief System My Best Choice

Its no coincidence that 95% of MedCline users report better sleep. How are these results achieved? MedCline isnt just a wedge or a pillow, it is a comprehensive sleep system designed to reduce shoulder pain at night. We designed the shoulder relief wedge at just the right angle for the best pain relief results. Plus, our patented arm pocket removes pressure from your downside shoulder and helps to prevent slipping or moving while sleeping for both comfort and results. An insert pillow, included with the system, provides an additional layer of comfort in addition to the also included body pillow that can rest between your knees. We also have a first-in-class customer service team of Sleep Specialists. In fact, we encourage you to reach and ask any questions you may have before trying the MedCline Shoulder Pain Relief System.

What Size Pillows Are Available

The most popular pillow sizes are standard, queen, and king. However, some manufacturers offer additional sizes to accommodate sleepers with different preferences. The following table lists facts and figures for the five most common pillow sizes. For the dimensions column, please note these are average measurements that will differ from brand to brand.

You May Like: What Is A Mattress Cover

Coop Home Goods Premium Adjustable Loft Pillow

Price: $

Customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Many people are mostly side sleepers who also sleep on their backs or stomachs at varying points during the night. If thats you, you might appreciate that this pillow lets you choose the amount of fill youre most comfortable with, allowing you to individualize firmness and height.

It comes stuffed with the amount of fill recommended for side sleepers. It also comes with an extra 1/2-pound bag of hypoallergenic memory foam fill, so you can tailor the pillows loft to whats comfortable for you. You can easily adjust this pillow to accommodate a combination of sleeping positions. This makes it a good choice for stomach sleepers as well.

Its CertiPUR-US and Greenguard Gold certified, meaning it contains no toxins or harmful chemicals. Its also vegan and cruelty-free.

It has a removable outer cover thats easy to machine wash. Plus, it comes with a 5-year warranty.

What Is The Best Way To Sleep If Your Shoulder Hurts

If youre experiencing pain when you sleep on your shoulder, some of these tips may help make sleeping more comfortable:

• Avoid sleeping on the affected shoulder. Adjusting your sleeping position to the opposite side or to your back or stomach may help take pressure off an aching shoulder.
• Utilize a pillow. Most of us change positions in our sleep. If youre concerned about rolling onto your sore shoulder, try placing a pillow in a way that will prevent you from doing so.
• Stay active. Regular exercise can boost your blood flow and circulation. This, in turn, may help the muscles and tendons in your shoulder to heal faster if you have an injury. Additionally, performing gentle shoulder stretches or exercises may help reduce shoulder pain.
• Know your limits. Avoid activities during the day that could lead to further irritation of your shoulder.
• Use OTC pain relievers. Try taking an OTC pain reliever, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, shortly before bed.
• Practice good sleep habits. Keep a regular sleep schedule. Turn off any TVs, computers, phones, or other screens shortly before bed. Avoid caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol in the evening.

Read Also: Do Gel Memory Foam Mattresses Last

The Material Of The Pillow

The material of the pillow also matters when it comes to buying a pillow that alleviates your shoulder pain. The pillows are available in different material types. These types are discussed below in detail so that you may be able to make the best decision for a comfortable sleep.

Buckwheat Pillow

The buckwheat pillows are firmer than the ordinary pillows. They are filled with buckwheat hulls and provide greater support to the side sleepers, especially when they are suffering from shoulder pain. However, sometimes they prove to be too firm and heavy, causing discomfort.

Down Pillows

The down feather pillows are filled with the soft and lofty feathers of duck and geese. They are soft, lightweight, and ventilated. However, they are not firm like the former one. The firmness is adjustable, and after a certain period of time, they become flat. Such a pillow is suitable for those who are back sleepers or stomach sleepers.

Down Alternatives

Alternative down pillows are filled with polyester or fiber that feels like down. The filing is super-lofty and lightweight. They are quite inexpensive, so you can easily buy one if you have a budget constraint. However, it is suggested to buy a high-quality down alternative pillow because the cheap fiber has a very short lifespan and breaks down in some time.

Feather Pillows

Latex Pillows

Polyester Pillows

Sleeping Under The Arm Can Cause Shoulder Pain

The shoulder capsule is the part of your upper arm bone that connects to the shoulder. Holds energy when lifting groceries.

When you push off from the ground with your feet, the lower part of your back pain contract first and then release quickening the movement of your arms forward. This movement is known as the deltoid muscle. This action also helps to refine and extend your shoulders during normal breathing movements, such as when you take a deep breath out.

Some people carry their pillows under their arms because they are more comfortable doing so, but it may lead to shoulder injuries.

If you decide not to sleep with an arm under the pillow for any reason, there are alternatives that can offer better support, such as the Wedge Pillow or a U-shaped pillow.

Don’t Miss: How To Soften A Firm Memory Foam Mattress

Problems With Side Sleeper Pillows

Separate section pillows must be used correctly. Waking on your side with your head in the back sleeping section or waking on your back with your head on the side sleeping section defeats the the purpose of the pillow and can cause pain and problems. Usually, when in pain, it is not difficult to position yourself in a conscious and purposeful manner. These type of pillows are often used a therapy pillows using the pillow when in pain, then switching to another single surface pillow or a back and side sleeping pillow. So, these side sleeping pillows can be used temporarily for increased levels of pain or inflammation. This is almost like taking a pain pill when the pain is gone, there is no longer a reason to take one. So, when getting a specialty pillow, dont throw your old one out. Sometimes it takes combining 2 types of pillows to get the best results.

The single surface cut out memory foam pillows one has a cut out for the shoulder, the other for airway management. These are soft pillows and can be used for short periods of back sleeping. If you find yourself back sleeping more or unconsciously fall asleep on your side and then turn on your back, the increased height can keep the head to far forward, causing neck problems as well as increase snoring.

So, these are some things to keep in mind when using a specially designed pillow for side sleeping.

How Do I Stop My Shoulder From Hurting When I Sleep On My Side

If you arent able to transition to back sleeping, the ideal sleeping position for those with shoulder pain, there are a couple of things you can do to help ease discomfort. Ensure youre sleeping on the side thats not giving you pain. Avoid keeping your arm under your pillow while sleeping, and avoid sleeping with your arms above your head. Purchasing a new, lofty pillow or even going so far as to purchase a new mattress can be a real game-changer.

Also Check: How Do I Know What Firmness Of Mattress I Need

How Does The Medcline Pillow Work

Our Shoulder Relief System is constructed with all of the best features for effective shoulder pain relief. Not only is our shoulder relief pillow made with durable, medical-grade materials that maintain its shape over time, but each component comes with its own case for care made simple. When it comes to positioning your pillow for shoulder pain relief, our Sleep System uses three components for proven results:

• Shoulder Relief Wedge
• Therapeutic Body Pillow

Why We Love The Brooklyn Bedding Latex Pillow

• This pillow comes with a machine-washable cover.
• Eco-friendly shoppers should love this pillow, which contains sustainably sourced and hypoallergenic materials.
• Talalay latex foam is naturally breathable, making it a nice choice for hot sleepers, too.

Price: $89$99, with a three-year warranty and 30-night trial.

Recommended Reading: Is The Nectar Mattress Cover Washable

Why Does Side Sleeping Cause Shoulder Pain And Neck Pain

Side sleeping pain occurs when your pillow and mattress cant support your spine, shoulder and neck alignment. When you sleep on your side on an unsupportive mattress and pillow, two issues inevitably occur. The first is that your spine will sink out of its neutral position and begin to bend, arch and curve. The second is that your shoulders, stacked one above the other, will misalign and slip, crumpling into each other.

These joint misalignments occur subtly. Being fast asleep, you might not even notice them. But youll end up holding these stress positions for hours youll feel them in the morning, as you well know.

Side sleepers need pillows that can help maintain neck, shoulder and spinal alignment to provide shoulder relief and alleviate neck pain.

Is side sleeping good or should you choose a different sleeping style?

If sleeping on your side is causing you chronic neck pain, shoulder pain or back pain, you might think its time to just try something else maybe stomach sleepers know the secret to shoulder pain relief, and what if those back sleepers know how to avoid a sore neck?

We suggest you wait. The problem likely isnt the position, so dont give up on side sleeping just yet. Besides, sleeping on your side has a number of unique benefits:

What Causes Shoulder Pain While You Sleep

Shoulder pain felt while you sleep or after you sleep, is usually caused by a lack of support or improper spinal alignment. Improper spinal alignment can be caused by factors such as a sagging, old mattress or poor sleep position.

Can pillows make your shoulder hurt? Yes, particularly if youre using neck pillows that arent appropriate for your sleeping position. Using the right pillow is one of the easiest ways to relieve neck and shoulder pain.

How should you sleep if your shoulder hurts? While no one sleep position can totally eliminate shoulder pain, sleeping on your back or stomach relieves shoulder pressure, resulting in less pain. Is there hope for someone who likes sleeping on his or her side? Certainly. Using a pillow with the right level of support significantly reduces neck and shoulder pain.

Recommended Reading: How Do You Recycle A Mattress

Can A Bad Pillow Cause Shoulder Pain

Yes, choosing the right pillow is important. If you dont choose the right pillow, you may end up increasing your pain rather than alleviating it. For example, if you are a side sleeper and buy a firm pillow that is not contoured, then it would cause more strain to your shoulders, worsening the pain.

Can Sleeping On My Side Cause Shoulder Pain

Also Check: Which Mattress Is Better Puffy Or Purple

Best Pillow For Shoulder Pain Side Sleeper

Pillows for shoulder pain side sleepers are designed to provide support and comfort for those who suffer from shoulder pain when sleeping on their side. There are a variety of different pillow designs and materials available, so it is important to choose one that best suits your needs.

Many pillows for shoulder pain side sleepers are made from memory foam, which contours to your body and provides support where it is needed. Other pillow designs may include an inflatable air chamber or a water-filled bladder, which can also be effective in relieving shoulder pain.

In Summary: What Is The Best Type Of Pillow For A Side Sleeper

The best pillow to help side sleepers overcome their back and neck pain:

• has a medium/firm feel to support the neck, shoulders and spine in a neutral position
• has a wide, flat surface to evenly support the head, or is contoured for added neck support
• is the right height to keep the shoulders comfortable stacked
• is breathable and sleeps cool
• is hypoallergenic

With a pillow that meets these criteria, a side sleeper is well on their way to a better nights sleep and pain-free morning.

Our recommendation is the Sleep Republic memory foam pillow. It has a medium/firm feel and comes in two heights for side sleepers to choose from. Plus, it has a 6-year warranty and a 100-night trial. Give it a try and say adieu to shoulder and neck pain.

Read Also: How To Dispose Mattress Nj

What Pillow Materials Are Best For Shoulder Pain

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. If a pillow sinks too much or loses shape quickly, the potential for more shoulder pain increases.

Memory Foam

Viscoelastic polyurethane foam memory foam for short is engineered to soften when exposed to body heat and return to its former shape when the heat is removed. By contouring close to the body, memory foam can alleviate pain and pressure around the neck and shoulders.

Solid memory foam is used to construct many wedge and specialty pillows for neck pain, including a few of our top picks listed above. Shredded memory foam does not provide the same level of support, but many models with this fill offer adjustable loft.

Buckwheat:

Buckwheat pillows are filled with hulls, the hard outer casings of buckwheat kernels. They tend to be quite firm but also highly supportive, so your head and neck wont sink too deeply into the surface. Buckwheat pillows also offer adjustable loft. By adding or removing the hulls, you can make the pillow more comfortable for different sleep positions.

Latex

Latex is a naturally resilient material derived from the sappy extract of rubber trees. It provides gentle contouring and wont conform as closely as memory foam, but latex is also highly durable and wont flatten as easily.

Down

Down Alternative

Feather

Polyfoam

What Type Of Pillow Is Best For Shoulder Pain

When it comes to pillows, neck and head support is the key if you dont want to wake up with debilitating pain. Achieving the proper level of support and proper spinal alignment in bed often relies on three things: pillow shape, the filling material, and the loft of the pillow.

Pillow Shape

The shape of your pillow goes a long way when it comes to relieving shoulder or neck pain. This is why we have so many uniquely shaped, ergonomic, and cervical pillows on our list. Sleeping on your side places a lot of weight and pressure on your neck and shoulders. And if you dont have the right bedding, this causes chronic pain and discomfort.

Using a pillow with the right shape provides enough support for your neck and ample room for your shoulders. This facilitates natural spinal alignment and prevents unnecessary compression, resulting in pain relief.

Filling Material

A pillows filling determines the base level of support it provides. For example, down is super soft and malleable. Memory foam, on the other hand, is firm yet contouring and stays in place unless it is shredded.

Most of the products we recommend use memory foam filling. Memory foam is known to provide pressure relief, support, and contour without feeling overly hard. While this doesnt mean a softer pillow wont work for you, we recommend a medium-firm pillow to achieve the desired support needed to reduce aches and pains.

Loft

You May Like: How Long Is A Mattress Supposed To Last