Back pain is a common ailment that affects millions of people worldwide. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including poor posture, muscle strain, injury, and spinal abnormalities. While there are many treatments for back pain, one simple solution is to choose the right pillow. Almost everyone owns a pillow, but not everyone has the suitable one. In particular, if you suffer from back or neck pain, a well-suited pillow for back pain can aid in not just getting sleep, but quality sleep. As a full night’s rest can impact everything from eating habits to mood, having the right pillows can be crucial in ensuring you wake up feeling refreshed and without any neck pain that can ruin the rest of your day.
The right pillow can help align your spine and alleviate pressure on your back muscles, reducing pain and discomfort. All shoppers should keep in mind the following factors that impact a pillow’s quality and performance when making a purchase. With plenty of choices available in the market, it’s not unusual for companies to exaggerate certain features to attract customers, which can be overwhelming.
To simplify the pillow-shopping process, it’s important to prioritize the most significant factor: the level of support and comfort offered. By focusing on these key features, shoppers can avoid being swayed by unnecessary marketing jargon or exaggerated claims, and instead, find the perfect pillow that meets their needs. People experiencing back pain should take into account their sleeping position, as well as the size of their head and shoulders, and the type of back pain when evaluating these factors. In this article, we will discuss what to look for in pillows to alleviate back pain.
Firmness Level
The degree of firmness of a pillow is typically assessed on a spectrum ranging from soft to firm. When it comes to selecting the ideal pillow firmness to alleviate back pain, several factors, including sleeping position and weight, need to be considered. It is important to strike a balance between comfort and support to achieve the most effective outcome. Individuals who sleep on their stomachs often find a soft pillow more comfortable, whereas back and side sleepers may prefer a pillow with a medium to firm level of support. Since comfort and firmness are subjective, it is recommended that shoppers consider their personal preferences when selecting a pillow.
Material
The material of a pillow is another important factor to consider when looking for a pillow to alleviate back pain. Different materials have different properties that can affect how well a pillow supports your neck and spine. Memory foam pillows are a popular choice for people with back pain. Memory foam conforms to the shape of your neck and head, providing customized support. It also distributes weight evenly, reducing pressure points and alleviating pain.
Rose tree pillows are another good choice for people with back pain. Like memory foam, rose tree conforms to your body, providing customized support. It is also naturally hypoallergenic, making it an ideal choice for people with allergies. Feather and down pillows are comfortable and fluffy, but they do not provide adequate support for people with back pain. They tend to flatten over time, which can lead to inadequate support and discomfort.
Pressure Relief
The degree to which a pillow conforms to the contours of the head and neck is important in determining the level of pressure relief it can offer. Undue pressure on the neck and shoulders can exacerbate back pain. This is frequently the result of a pillow that is excessively firm or positioned at an uncomfortable angle for the head and neck. A pressure-relieving pillow can provide support and reduce tension in the head and neck by cradling them. However, placing a pillow under the lumbar region can alleviate pressure in the lower back.
Size
The size of a pillow is another important factor to consider when looking for a pillow to alleviate back pain. The right size pillow will provide adequate support to your neck and spine, while the wrong size pillow can exacerbate pain and discomfort.
The size of a pillow you choose will depend on your body size and sleeping position. If you are a side sleeper, you may need a thicker pillow to keep your spine aligned. If you are a back sleeper, a thinner pillow may be more comfortable.
Support
The degree of support directly correlates with the spine’s proper alignment. As the spine extends into the neck, the pillow’s support must reduce pressure on the neck and shoulders adequately. Certain materials provide better support than others by maintaining their shape throughout the night and resisting flattening.
Shape
The shape of a pillow can also affect how well it supports your neck and spine. Different pillow shapes can provide different levels of support, depending on your sleeping position. A contour pillow is a good choice for people with back pain. Contour pillows have a curved shape that conforms to the natural curvature of your neck and spine. They provide customized support to your neck and shoulders, reducing pressure points and alleviating pain.
Loft
When selecting a pillow for back pain, one of the important factors to consider is the loft, which refers to the pillow’s height. The loft determines the angle of the head and neck, and it also affects the alignment of the spine. Pillows come in a range of lofts, from low to high. Certain pillows offer adjustable loft options which allow people to modify the pillow’s height by adding or removing fill according to their preference. For those who sleep on their stomachs, a low loft pillow is typically more suitable as it can maintain a comfortable angle for the head and neck. People who sleep with their backs often prefer a pillow with a medium loft that supports the head and neck, whereas people who sleep on their side may prefer a pillow with a medium to the high loft to provide adequate support for the space between their neck and shoulders.
Durability
The durability of a pillow is an important factor to consider when looking for a pillow to alleviate back pain. A pillow that loses its shape and support over time can exacerbate pain and discomfort. Memory foam pillows and latex pillows are both known for their durability. They are designed to maintain their shape and support over time, reducing the need for frequent pillow replacements.
Feather and down pillows, on the other hand, tend to flatten and lose support over time. They may need to be replaced more frequently to ensure adequate support and comfort.
Breathability
The breathability of a pillow is another important factor to consider when looking for a pillow to alleviate back pain. A pillow that traps heat and moisture can lead to discomfort and disrupted sleep.
Memory foam pillows and latex pillows can be less breathable than other pillow materials, which can make them feel hot and stuffy. Look for memory foam and latex pillows that are designed to be breathable, such as those with cooling gel or ventilated designs. Cotton pillows are a good choice for people who prefer a more breathable pillow. Cotton is a natural material that is lightweight and breathable, allowing air to circulate through the pillow and keeping you cool and comfortable throughout the night.
Adjustability
Some pillows are adjustable, allowing you to customize the level of support and firmness to your liking. Adjustable pillows can be a good choice for people with back pain, as they allow you to find the perfect level of support for your neck and spine.
Adjustable pillows typically contain a filling that can be removed or added to adjust the firmness and support. Some adjustable pillows also have removable inserts that allow you to adjust the height and shape of the pillow to suit your sleeping position.
Hypoallergenic
If you have allergies, it’s important to choose a hypoallergenic pillow. Allergens such as dust mites, pet dander, and pollen can accumulate in pillows over time, exacerbating allergy symptoms.
Memory foam and latex pillows are naturally hypoallergenic, as they are resistant to dust mites and other allergens. Some cotton and synthetic pillows are also treated with hypoallergenic materials to reduce the risk of allergen buildup.
Price
Pillows come in a wide range of prices, from budget-friendly options to high-end luxury pillows. While it’s tempting to choose the cheapest option, it’s important to invest in a quality pillow that will provide adequate support and alleviate back pain.
A high-quality pillow can last for several years, making it a worthwhile investment in your health and comfort. Look for pillows with a good warranty and return policy, so you can be sure you’re getting a quality product.
Methodology: How to Pick a Pillow for Back Pain
Back Sleepers
According to experts, people who sleep on their backs should opt for pillows that provide medium-firm support and loft. These pillows should offer adequate cradling for the neck and head while maintaining proper support. The ideal amount of support will ensure that your eyes remain fixed on the ceiling, while excessive support can cause your chin to be pressed toward your chest, a posture that should be avoided. Back sleepers can alleviate pressure on their spine and maintain the natural curve of their lower back by placing a pillow under their knees.
Side Sleepers
If you sleep on your side, it is important to have proper support from your pillow and mattress. You will need a firmer pillow with more height to fill the gap between your head and the mattress. This will help prevent the pillow from compressing too much and provide better support for your head and neck. To achieve this, I suggest opting for a thicker fiber or foam pillow, which can offer greater support. On the other hand, down pillows may not provide sufficient support for side sleepers, so it’s better to avoid them.
Stomach Sleepers
To avoid excessive strain on the neck, stomach sleepers should opt for pillows with a low height, which can prevent their heads from tilting backward. However, it’s challenging to maintain proper spine alignment when sleeping on the stomach in general, as this position can already cause tension buildup in the neck.
The Best Pillows for Back Pain
Norwich Decorative Throw Pillow
The Rose Tree brand is known for its meticulous focus on detail and exquisite craftsmanship that exudes sophistication and refinement. The Norwich collection, in particular, showcases a blend of contemporary and classic design elements that epitomizes modern elegance. As part of the collection, the Norwich Decorative Throw Pillow serves as a complementary piece to the top-of-bed ensemble. For those seeking a supportive and responsive pillow, the Norwich Decorative Throw Pillow is a suitable choice. It boasts a dual-fill material construction that offers a plush yet stable sleeping experience.
While the price tag for this pillow is higher than the average, certain shoppers may deem the superior quality of construction and materials worth the investment. For people seeking pressure relief without compromising support, a latex pillow could be a suitable choice. The Saatva pillow features a shredded Talalay latex core designed to alleviate pressure points and offer a secure foundation for the neck and head.
Harrogate Multi Paisley Breakfast Pillow
The Rose Tree Harrogate collection is an excellent choice for individuals suffering from body aches and pains. This material is designed to conform to your body, offering pressure relief. If you prefer the classic memory foam sensation, the Harrogate Multi Paisley Breakfast Pillow is an ideal choice. It is an adjustable pillow that allows you to customize the amount of shredded foam fill by removing or adding it. However, the company provides an extra bag of fill, which you can use to adjust the pillow’s firmness or height.
Camila Green Embroidered Oblong Decorative Throw Pillow
If you suffer from back pain, you may benefit from a pillow that offers both pressure relief and firm support. The Camila Green Embroidered Oblong Decorative Throw Pillow is crafted from Rose Tree collection foam, which provides gentle support by conforming to the shape of your head and neck. In addition, its adjustable fill allows for customization of the pillow’s loft, ensuring that every user can achieve a comfortable sleeping position.
The Camila Green Embroidered pillow offers a cost-effective option for those seeking value. In addition to the foam layer, the pillow features a separate section filled with down alternative microfiber that adds a touch of softness and maintains a light and airy feel. The combination of foam and fiber creates a medium firmness, making it ideal for back and stomach sleepers. However, side sleepers can adjust the fill to achieve the maximum loft level.
Norwich Pewter Oblong Decorative Throw Pillow
The majority of down alternative pillows utilize synthetic materials such as polyester or viscose from bamboo for their filling. However, the Norwich Pewter Oblong Decorative Throw Pillow sets itself apart by utilizing plush clusters derived from plant matter for its fill. This natural material replicates the lightness and softness of authentic down while avoiding the use of synthetic fabrics. However, it is a suitable option for individuals with down allergies, and those who prefer to avoid animal-based materials in their purchases.
During LatestBedding product tests, it was observed that people who sleep on their backs are well-suited for this pillow. With a mid-range loft and adequate support, back sleepers can comfortably rest without experiencing excessive sinking around their head, neck, or shoulders. However, the pillow’s cover is crafted from smooth natural 100% Polyester, which promotes high breathability. The fill of the pillow also doesn’t retain much heat, resulting in a cool sleeping experience in most climates. The pillow is also easy to clean, as it can be washed and dried in standard household appliances.
How Common is Back Pain?
It is a widely prevalent issue that approximately 80% of the population will encounter back pain symptoms at some point in their lives. The severity and frequency of back pain can vary greatly, with a tendency to impact the working population significantly. Those affected by back pain may need to take time off work or experience reduced mobility while performing their job duties.
Consulting with a doctor is important in identifying the root cause of back pain and establishing an effective treatment plan. Several contributing factors can lead to back pain, including injuries sustained during physical activities such as exercising, playing sports, or lifting heavy objects. Such activities can result in muscle and ligament strain in the back, leading to discomfort and pain.
Back Pain and Sleep
People with chronic pain understand the challenge of obtaining uninterrupted sleep every night. The connection between sleep and back pain is intricate, as those who suffer from back pain frequently experience a vicious cycle: back pain impairs sleep, and inadequate sleep quality can exacerbate pain. The adverse impacts of poor sleep and chronic pain extend to mood, physical functioning, and overall quality of life.
Back pain can cause discomfort and pain, making it difficult for individuals to have uninterrupted sleep, leading to a restless sleep pattern with frequent waking up throughout the night. The average adult requires seven to nine hours of uninterrupted sleep to function properly, which can be challenging for those experiencing back pain. It’s important to acknowledge that the quality of your sleep and the management of pain can be influenced by your choice of pillow and mattress. These factors impact your sleep posture, which can either alleviate or worsen back pain symptoms. Ideally, the perfect combination of mattress and pillow should encourage a neutral posture, maintaining proper alignment of the spine.
The use of pillows can provide support for the head, neck, and shoulders, as well as alleviate pressure on the spine when placed under the lumbar region and legs. To select the appropriate pillow for back pain, there are several factors to consider as we have mentioned before.
How to Choose the Best Pillows for Back Pain
If you are experiencing persistent or severe back pain, it is important to seek guidance from your doctor. When seeking ways to relieve back pain, a pillow may not be the initial solution that comes to mind. However, occasionally, discomfort in the neck can spread to the spine and lead to the development of discomfort and discomfort throughout the back.
If you’re looking to alleviate back pain with a suitable pillow, start by identifying the location of the discomfort. In case of upper back pain concentrated around your neck and shoulders, selecting a pillow with appropriate height for your sleeping position could be an easy fix. To maintain proper spinal alignment during sleep, back sleepers typically require a pillow that is approximately 4 to 5 inches tall, while side sleepers may benefit from a pillow that is around 5 to 6 inches tall. On the other hand, stomach sleepers should use a pillow no taller than 3 inches. Using pillows of these heights can help ensure that most sleepers maintain proper spinal alignment in their preferred sleep positions.
For side sleepers, it is particularly important to keep the head elevated, and firm pillows can be more effective in achieving this as they prevent excessive sinking into the pillow.
Pillow Position for Back Pain
When it comes to relieving back pain with the help of a pillow, the placement of the pillow is as important as selecting the appropriate pillow type. For those experiencing shoulder and upper back discomfort, a standard pillow may suffice, provided that the correct pillow is chosen according to your sleeping position. Consider the pillow’s loft, check whether it is an adjustable pillow, and proceed accordingly.
Regarding the lumbar area and lower back pain, body pillows are better suited to assist. When a body pillow can encircle your shoulder and extend along your back, it can offer exceptional back support. The rose tree pillow, specifically, envelops your entire body, allowing you to experiment with various positions to find the most comfortable one.
However, Choosing the right pillow is an important step in alleviating back pain. Look for a pillow that is firm enough to provide support but not too firm that it causes discomfort. Consider the material, size, shape, and breathability of the pillow, as well as any adjustable or hypoallergenic features. Finally, invest in a quality pillow that will provide long-term support and comfort. By taking the time to choose the right pillow, you can reduce back pain and improve your overall sleep quality.