Typically a weird and wonderful shape, cervical pillows generally have interesting features like winged sides, indents, and unique contours to ensure even weight distribution. It's worth noting though, that some of the best pillows for neck pain come in regular rectangular shapes – focusing more on what's going on in the inside.
Is side sleeping bad for neck pain?
“For me, side sleeping is actually the best sleeping position for neck pain, but only if it is done in the correct way,” advises James. “If you fall asleep comfortably but always wake up with neck pain, then ask yourself what happens between when you fall asleep and when you wake up. We recommend falling asleep in the ‘dreamer’ position which is when you lie in the semi-foetal position with your knees bent.”
“This is well evidenced to put the least amount of tension through your spine whilst you sleep. If you can, sleep with any pillow in between your knees and ankles. You will feel more stable, and this will support the top leg and avoids internal rotation at hips. Think of a good seating posture – the Dreamer is the same, just on your bed. Remember: your neck is the most delicate part of your spine – so invest in it,” he says.
Which pillow materials are best for neck pain?
When searching for a pillow to alleviate neck pain, it's important to consider the materials, too. Natural components like bamboo and cotton are not only sustainable but also excel in temperature regulation, keeping you cool and comfortable all night long.
It's worth bearing in mind that memory foams are not created equal and can come with various health-boosting properties, such as a cooling gel-infused foam. Latex pillows are similar to memory foam in that they offer excellent support and contouring — but they tend to be a bit firmer and more responsive. They're also naturally hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites, making them a good choice for allergy sufferers.
How firm should my pillow be for neck pain?
It varies from person to person, but generally speaking, the best pillows for those dealing with neck pain are medium-firm — as that provides the perfect balance of response and support. Crucially, your pillow needs to hold your neck in alignment with your head.
Therefore, your typical sleep position is also really important. For example, while stomach sleepers will be best suited to a soft and low loft pillow that keeps their head close to the mattress, side sleepers will need to fill the gap between their neck and shoulder with something as little thicker that helps align the spine. Still not sure? If in doubt, definitely consult your doctor.
What is the best rated pillow for neck pain?
There are so many pillows for neck pain on the market, which can be quite daunting when you don’t know what shape or firmness will benefit you specifically. Our bodies have natural curves, so flat and thin pillows are a no-go when it comes to maintaining the health of our spines, while feather and down pillows offer little in terms of consistency. Ultimately, it’s just down to your personal preferences.
Tempur's Original Medium Firm/ Medium Support Pillow scored highly amongst back and side sleepers due to the targeted support it offers offers the back, neck and shoulders. It’ll cradle you and ensure the correct spinal alignment throughout the night to avoid any pains come the morning.
But it's hard to find anyone who didn't feel instantly less achey after sleeping on the Simba Hybrid Pillow. Supremely comfortable, supportive, and cooling, there seems to be a new review left for it each day from another happy customer who swears that it's cured their neck pain.
How we tested pillows for neck pain
We snoozed our way through a range of pillows over a number of months to see which ones fared best on our neck, and which were the most comfortable. We weighed up effectiveness with affordability, taking into account the full gamut of price points available. To back up our real life testing, we also scoured online customer reviews and feedback as well as taking recommendations from sleep experts in the industry.
After more sleep content? Head this way for low platform bed frames and in this direction for mattress protectors, cooling pillows, the best memory foam pillows, body pillows, duvets, bed sheets and weighted blankets. Phew.
