Before we begin discussing pillow options for back pain, it’s important patients understandthere is no one “best” pillow that can/will alleviate all of your back pain problems and/or symptoms. Finding a pillow to minimize or reduce back pain symptoms, however, is achievable, but also varies from person-to-person.
Not every person suffers from the same kind of back pain, so taking a friend or family member’s suggestions on his or her “favorite pillows” should be done with a grain of salt. That being said, the pain management specialists at Southwest Spine and Pain Center want to help you find a pillow that is right for you, and you alone. After discussing your concerns with one of the physicians, you should have a better idea of what pillow could relieve some of your back pain.
Pillows are meant to provide comfort, and most importantly, support. You want your pillow to support your neck and spine so that you can feel well rested and comfortable when you wake up. Choosing a pillow that is designed to keep the spine in a neutral alignment (straight) will help relieve back pain—you don’t want a pillow that is going to position your neck too high or too low, leading to a malalignment of the spine.
Unique pillows like full-body pillows, knee pillows and/or cervical pillows can also support the alignment of the spine. Knee pillows placed in between the legs can straighten the lumbar spine in the lower-region of your back. Additionally, body pillows that are positioned under the body can create total spine alignment. Of course, these pillows may be best for those who prefer to sleep on their side.
If you like to sleep on your back, cervical or contoured neck pillows may be best for you. Again, these pillows help the alignment of your spine by keeping the head, neck and shoulders flat and straight. If you’re a frequent flyer/traveler, the “U” shaped pillows used to keep the neck straight and help people sleep on planes may also help your back. These pillows are designed to take stress off of the neck and promote your seated and upright positioning. This helps the spine immensely and can relieve pain in other parts of your body, i.e. neck, shoulders, hips.
When searching for the right pillow in a store, comfort should always trump commercial claims. Many companies may claim to have the “best” back pain pillow on the market, but your comfort is the only claim that matters. Don’t be afraid to test a few different kinds out in the store. The whole process could require a lot of trial and error, so be sure to know the store’s return policy before purchasing a pillow you may not end up not liking.
Lastly, if your back pain is pretty severe, occurs frequently and lasts for more than 3 months, you could be suffering from chronic back pain. Seek the help of a specialist at Southwest Spine and Pain Center if your experiencing this kind of pain.
If chronic pain is impacting your life, don't wait to schedule an appointment at Southwest Spine and Pain Center. With three locations and growing, the pain management specialists at Southwest Spine and Pain Center are dedicated to helping those who suffer from chronic pain live the life they want to! To schedule an appointment, visit our locations tab!
The advice and information contained in this article is for educational purposes only, and is not intended to replace or counter a physician’s advice or judgment. Please always consult your physician before taking any advice learned here or in any other educational medical material.
©Southwest Spine and Pain Center, 2014
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