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Find out about the best pillows for eliminating neck pain and ensuring the right spine position in case you sleep on your side.
Introduction
If you do not have the right pillow, then sleeping on your side can result in neck pain. In this blog, we will talk about what is the best pillow for neck pain and sleeping on side. We will compare various types of pillows and based on your requirements, we will propose the most suitable one.
The objective is to select a pillow that is not comfortable and has the ability to maintain alignment of one’s neck.
What Causes Neck Pain During Sleeping On Side?
Sleeping on the side can strain neck muscles and ligaments due to poor alignment. Cervical spine loses natural curve leading to muscle tightness. Improper pillow height fails to support head weight (10-12 pounds). This stresses structures like facet joints, nerves, discs.
Sleeping on one side nightly causes uneven pressure distribution. Can aggravate degenerative issues like spinal stenosis, spondylosis. Soft mattresses allow shoulder/neck sink in, overstretching. Firm pillows don’t conform causing contact stress. Sleep wrinkles on face/neck from sheets pull tissues.
Drafts from windows or fans can trigger tense neck muscles. Poor posture sleeping flat on back allows neck hyperextension.
How Does Sleeping on Your Side Affect Neck Pain?
Spinal Alignment
Sleeping on side may cause awkward 7.2-degree cervical spine angles, leading to neck pains. Ideal pillows from the best pillow manufacturer for side sleepers should fill 4.5-inch gaps between heads and mattresses, supporting neutral spine alignment.
They contain memory foams and latex layers providing custom contouring and cradling heads/necks in proper postures. This relieves pressure on cervical nerves/discs/muscles, reducing neck strains.
Muscle Tension
The trapezius and sternocleidomastoid muscles tend to tense up, when side sleeping with insufficient neck support. Stiff necks and muscle cramps often result the next morning.
Orthopedic pillows have ergonomic contours keeping spines straight. This prevents muscle twisting/contraction overnight. Latex and memory foams also relax muscles by evenly distributing body weight.
Pressure Points
Side sleeping applies extra pressure to the shoulders/arms and hips/legs. Using overly soft/hard pillows also strains the neck’s pressure points. The best pillows for side sleepers have medium density memory foam molding to natural curves.
This provides cushioning comfort, while still supporting alignment. They also have zones supporting the head/neck separately from shoulders/spines.
Cervical Support
Insufficient cervical support when sleeping on the side strains neck ligaments/tendons, causing pains. Contour pillows customized for side sleepers provide proper mid-cervical support.
They position necks neutrally, avoiding hyperextension or flexion stresses. Dual-chamber designs stabilize proper alignments all night via separate head and neck compartments.
Neck Strain
The natural side sleeping posture rotates the head up to 90-degrees, over-stretching neck muscles. Misalignment with the shoulders and spine then causes micro-tears in muscle tissues, i.e. strains. The best pillows allow space for the head/neck while keeping spines straight.
Responsive memory foams also reduce tossing/turning motions straining neck muscles overnight.
What Features Should You Look For in a Pillow for Neck Pain and Side Sleeping?
Firmness Level
The ideal pillow for side sleepers with neck pain has a medium density foam core measuring 5-6” thickness for proper spine alignment. Shredded memory foam and latex are preferred materials that conform to head and neck contours without excessive sinking.
Shape Contour
Look for a cervical or orthopedic contour pillow with an arched middle to accommodate the natural curve of the neck vertebrae. An ergonomic curved shape with raised sides keeps the head centrally positioned and provides 4-6” loft to keep the cervicothoracic junction properly elevated.
Material Type
Choose a breathable, hypoallergenic cover material like bamboo-derived rayon or Tencel lyocell for moisture wicking. Inside materials like shredded memory foam, microfiber, buckwheat hulls, and latex provide conforming support. Avoid cheaper poly-fill pillows that compress over time.
Height Adjustment
An adjustable loft pillow with removable foam layers allows customization of thickness and firmness for proper spinal alignment. Side sleepers need a higher loft around 6 inches to keep the head and neck supported in the proper plane as the shoulder.
Support Distribution
Zoned pillow support contours to the head and neck shape with firmer support exactly where needed. Strategically placed cut-outs, gussets, and ergonomic zones cradle the head on a flat plane while providing reinforced support for the cervical curve to prevent torque.
| Feature | Importance for Neck Pain | Importance for Side Sleeping | Recommended Specifications | Terms & Abbreviations | Rating Scale |
| Firmness Level | High | Medium | Medium to Firm (5-7 on ILD) | ILD: Indentation Load Deflection | 1-10 |
| Shape Contour | Essential | High | Cervical Support Design | CNC: Contoured Neck Curve | 1-5 |
| Material Type | Critical | Important | Memory Foam, Latex | HR Foam: High Resilience Foam | A-D |
| Height Adjustment | Moderate | Critical | Adjustable Layers | ALH: Adjustable Layer Height | Yes/No |
| Support Distribution | Key | Significant | Even Pressure Distribution | EPD: Even Pressure Distribution | 1-5 |
Table on What Features Should You Look For in a Pillow for Neck Pain and Side Sleeping!
Memory Foam vs. Latex vs. Feather: Which Material is Best for Side Sleepers with Neck Pain?
Density Variation
The Cooling Cervical Memory Foam Pillow from Sleepsdeer.com has 5.5-lb/cu ft density foam that cradles the neck. Its foam cells have an open structure to allow airflow and prevent heat buildup during sleep. This provides proper alignment and support for side sleepers.
Hypoallergenic Properties
The Sleepsdeer cervical pillow has a removable, machine-washable cover made of 300 GSM bamboo fabric. Bamboo rayon is hypoallergenic and resistant to bacteria, mold, and dust mites. This helps side sleepers prone to allergies get undisturbed, restful sleep.
Durability Factor
Our Cooling Cervical Memory Foam Pillow retains its shape and density for over two years with daily use. Its durable structure providing proper neck support can outlast other pillow materials like latex and feathers that compress permanently.
Support Quality
This ergonomic SleepsDeer pillow is contoured to provide optimal support and alignment for the neck and head. Its responsive memory foam filling cradles pressure points, while the ergonomic waves support proper spine positioning for side sleepers.
Comfort Scale
With memory foam contouring to the exact shape of the head and neck and a breathable bamboo cover, the SleepsDeer cervical pillow allows side sleepers to relax into comfortable support. Reviewers rate its combination of customizability and airflow highly for restful sleep.
What Is The Best Pillow For Neck Pain And Sleeping On Side?
The Sleepsdeer Cotton Cervical Memory Foam Neck Pillow (64x36x13/9CM) is an excellent option for side sleepers with neck pain. This height-adjustable pillow features a removable 0.8-inch memory foam insert that allows two firmness options.
The 100% cotton outer cover and CertiPUR-US certified foam provide breathability and support. Key specs include 360° rotation and machine washability. Sleepsdeer designed this mid-range cervical pillow to suit most adults, especially those who wake with stiffness or soreness.
The combination of structured memory foam and soft, quilted cotton suit side and back sleepers seeking pain relief and personalized comfort. Visit SleepsDeer to learn more about this versatile orthopedic pillow.
You can find some sleepsdeer memory foam open box show as follows
The Role of Pillow Height and Shape in Preventing Neck Pain for Side Sleepers!
Optimal Height
The ideal pillow height aligns the neck with the spine when sleeping on the side. A pillow that is too low or too high tilts the head at an angle, straining neck muscles and nerves. The best height reduces pressure while supporting neutral spine alignment.
Ergonomic Design
An ergonomic pillow shape is contoured to cushion the head and neck. The curved channels support the natural curve of the neck, keeping it properly aligned with the spine. This reduces torque on muscles and nerves, preventing next-day neck soreness.
Contour Curvature
The contour of the pillow should match the sleeper’s shoulder width to prevent over extension. It should curve lower in the center to cradle the head. This maintains the neck’s gentle curve rather than over flexing it sideways. Proper contour prevents nerve pinching.
Neck Gap
The pillow should have a curved channel to create a neck gap, so the sleeper’s shoulder does not force the neck forward. This neck space keeps the spine neutrally aligned in the same plane as the mattress without bending. It eases pressure on joints and nerves.
Shape Retention
A shaped pillow made with memory foam conforms closely around the head and neck. Unlike down or fiberfill, it retains the intended ergonomic contours over months of use. The retained shape provides customized support and healthy alignment all night.
FAQs About Pillows for Neck Pain and Side Sleeping!
Q: How do pillow materials impact cervical alignment?
A: Firm pillows like latex or memory foam contour to the neck’s curvature, supporting proper spinal alignment. Softer down or feather options lack adequate support resulting in neck strain.
Q: What pillow height optimizes lateral sleeping posture?
A: The best pillow height for side sleeping aligns your head, neck, and spine. Around 3 to 5 inches suits most people, but adjust to your shoulder width and natural contour.
Q: Can adjustable pillows adapt to varying neck contours?
A: Yes, adjustable pillows with removable inserts or inflatable air chambers allow customization of loft and firmness. This accommodates the neck whether sleeping on the back or side.
Q: How frequently should side sleepers replace their pillows?
A: Replace pillows every 1-2 years or when they no longer provide comfort and support. Side sleepers exert more pressure, accelerating breakdown of pillow materials.
Conclusion
Now you should have a clearer picture of the qualities of the pillow that are the best for side sleepers with neck pain. Most reviews given to the pillows filled with latex, memory foam or water, state that these pillows provide proper support for the curve of the neck. Go to SleepsDeer to buy their range of cervical and orthopedic pillows that are made to relieve pain. The proper pillow will make you wake up rested and not as aching.