What is the best pillow for my neck and shoulder pain?

If you suffer from neck and or shoulder pain, it is possible your pillow may be contributing to the problem. If your pillow is older than 2 years, is too high or too flat, it can affect your neck and upper body posture during the hours you sleep. Studies have shown that the benefits to maintaining the ideal sleeping posture are improved tissue repair in and around the facet joints, a decrease in tension of associated musculature and better quality sleep.

So, what is the best sleeping position and pillow for helping neck and shoulder pain?

Generally, the ideal positions for sleeping are either on your side or on your back. These positions create more of a neutral alignment of your neck and spine, IF you are sleeping on a good pillow (and supportive mattress) that suits your size. 

Sleeping on your stomach is not ideal, as it creates strain on your neck and back by forcing your neck to one side for long periods while you sleep. This position also tends to extend the neck backwards as well as twisting through your shoulders, pelvis, and hips. If you are also sleeping with your arms up above your head - it compromises the position of your shoulder and elbow joints, therefore leading to possible shoulder, arm and elbow pain and stiffness. This is all made even worse if you sleep on your stomach with a pillow, particularly a high one!

Patients are always asking us what the best pillow is to use, but the answer is not a simple one. A few factors need to be considered because everyone is different!  Therefore, at Elemental Health, we stock a range of pillows for all shapes and sizes as well as preferences for the types of filling. 

We love the sustainable and eco-friendly “Naturelle” natural latex contoured pillow which is sourced from renewable rubber trees grown in Malaysia. They are luxuriously soft as well as being breathable, non-toxic and hypo-allergenic. The natural properties of latex inhibit bacterial and fungal growth and provide an inhospitable environment for dust mites. These pillows come in a range of sizes, never lose their shape, and have a 2cm removable latex layer to give you two height options.

Also, a long-time favourite of ours is the Complete Sleeprrr Range of pillows made from memory foam. Memory foam was designed in the mid-1960s for NASA airplane seats. It is designed to mould to the body in response to heat and pressure, thereby distributing the body’s weight. Once you remove the pressure, it then returns to its original shape.

The complete sleeper pillows are completely customizable as they are designed with a higher and lower side as well as removable foam inserts. This allows you to modify them to your individual preference. In total there are 12 different positions, and you can also change the softness to support your body’s shape and comfort level. They are 100% Australian made and owned.

These a just a couple of examples of what we can source for you if you are wanting to replace your current pillow. Our suppliers have a large range to choose from. 

If you are suffering from neck, shoulder or back pain you can make an appointment with our osteopath, Vanessa, via our website, or if you would like more information on choosing a pillow please be in touch with her by calling 8084 0081 or emailing maloneosteo@gmail.com