The Best Pillow for Neck Pain of 2021 – Live Pain-Free

Chronic neck pain sufferers are always on the lookout for the best possible pillow for neck pain.  The best pillows for neck pains are ones that provide ample support and pressure relief that allows for better sleep quality, fewer disruptions in sleep and are extremely comfortable.  If you’re sleeping with the wrong kind of pillow, it can leave you feeling less than refreshed and can even worsen pains and aches you have. 

4 Common Reasons People Suffer From Neck Pain

There are two primary reasons in which people don’t sleep well – neck and back pain. According to some new studies, one in four people will have some type of neck problem in their lifetime, and over 50 percent of people will complain to have neck pain upon waking up at least one time in a year. 

Neck pain is the result of several issues – some problems easier to contend with than others. Poor posture neck pain after resolves itself and goes away after several days – caused by three things typically:

• Bending over a computer
• Sitting on a hard surface for a long time 
• Improper neck support while sleeping

Again, these issues are temporary because you can correct the alignment of your spine, so neck gets more support. 

Of course, accidents that lead to damaged vertebrae, inflammation, nerve compression and arthritis should be watched carefully by a doctor. Injuries often need time (or surgery) to begin healing. However, it’s not uncommon for those injuries to become chronic and lead to long-term pain. 

If the neck pain you have is not the result of an injury, consider what in the environment is causing the neck pain.

Old Pillows

The number one culprit of neck pain is old pillows. Much as you may like your favorite pillow, time is not your friend. A pillow that has lost its durability won’t give your neck the kind of support it needs. It may be too soft, especially in the middle where a bow and indention where your head laid. 

Old pillows are often floppy with dead spots that have no support to them any longer. You need to find a replacement pillow if this sounds like the shape your pillow is in right now.   With a new pillow on your bed, you may find immediate relief in neck pain and sleep quality. 

Old Mattress 

Your mattress is another culprit of neck pain. Once there is no more support for your shoulders and back, the spine will begin to suffer because there is more pressure on the muscles. This increase in pressure will result in strains of the neck and spine.  You want a mattress that will allow the pillow and mattress to align the spine up, so there is no shoulder and neck pain. 

If you have a really old mattress (eight years or more) or you notice sagging in the middle, it’s time to purchase a new one.

Sleep Position

Your sleep position could also have a role in neck pain. While the primary contributors are the pillows and mattress, how you sleep does have an effect on the pain you wake up with. Everybody prefers one or two sleep positions, but you need to consider what that position is when buying your pillow.  

• A stomach sleeper should not purchase a memory foam contour pillow because of the high loft and firmness. 
• A back sleeper does not need to use a soft pillow because there is no loft and support. 

The best pillow for neck pain needs to be based on the preferred sleeping position. 

Constant Travel 

Frequent travelers are often complaining of neck pain, and that’s not that big of a surprise. With the ability to travel for long distances, people are falling asleep on planes, cars and buses with no real support for the neck.  If you are traveling for a long period of time, you want to use a travel pillow (is U-shaped travel pillow) which will keep your head from flopping about and avoid the neck pain.

What To Consider In Your Next Pillow

There are several types of pillows available on the market. Which one is right for you?  

• Consider the thickness and thinness. Too thin of pillows will leave the head to fall far back too much, straining the neck and shoulders. Too thick of a pillow can affect the alignment of the neck and spine.  
• Consider the material composition of a pillow – some put too much pressure on the area while others don’t provide enough. 
• Consider the noise level of the pillow. Is it made of something that makes it difficult to get to sleep?
• Consider the pillow temperature – Many pillows that are now designed to maintain a cooler temperature, which is ideal for good quality sleep.

What Are The Best Pillows For Neck Pain?

There are several pillow manufacturers in the market – each one creating pillows of all types. With so many to choose from, you may have a hard time determining which pillows are best for neck pain. Don’t wonder any longer. Here’s a list of the best pillows for neck pain currently on the market. 

The Best Pillows For Neck Pain

Hullo Buckwheat Pillow Review

There are so many great things about buckwheat pillows, which are extremely popular in Asia. Firm, yet breathable, they conform to the body and offer the user comfortable natural support while also staying cool. This kind of pillow is ideal for people who have neck pain due to its ability to contour and alleviate the pressure around the head and neck.

There are about nine pounds of natural buckwheat hulls in the Hullo Buckwheat Pillow. You can take the hulls out through the organic cotton twill cover to adjust the loft. By making adjustments to the thickness and shape, you give yourself better neck and head support. However, no matter what the volume is, the pillow will stay firm. You can also buy more hulls from Hullo when you need to.

Another great aspect of the Hullo Buckwheat Pillow is its breathable cotton cover, which keeps the surface cool. Most pillows lock in body heat, which can make you feel extremely uncomfortable, especially in the warmer months. However, buckwheat hulls allow air to move in and out of the pillow freely, so there is no uncomfortable heat build-up.

Coop Home Goods Premium Adjustable Loft Pillow Review

When you want ultimate comfort and flexibility, then look no further than the Coop Home Goods Premium Adjustable Loft Pillow. It can cradle the neck while you sleep thanks to the medium-firm mixture of microfiber and shredded foam. Side, stomach, and back sleepers can get the benefits this product provides.

This neck pain pillow remains cool throughout the night due to the airflow between the foam pieces. The cover fabric is made of polyester, and bamboo-derived viscose rayon, which means moisture won't be absorbed and the surface will stay cool.

The inner foam material is superior to latex or down because the springy foam will stay molded to your body ad maintain its shape even when you move to give you the best support all night long. All materials are dust-mite resistant and hypoallergenic, which helps to foster a clean environment conducive for sleep.

Most pillows lose their shape, flatten, and fail to maintain the neck in the proper position. This may lead to a stiff neck when you wake up. The unique adjustable design of the Coop Home Goods Premium Adjustable Loft Pillow allows you to add or remove the memory foam to suit your size, shape, and sleep position. What's more, the company offers a five-year guarantee, meaning it stands by the products it creates.

Mediflow Original Water Pillow Review

When it comes to pillows for neck pain, a waterbase pillow provides amazing comfort and support for the head, neck, and back while sleeping. Johns Hopkins University researchers carried out a clinical study where participants were given the Mediflow Original Water Pillow and found sleep quality improvement.

The inner chamber of the Mediflow can be filled with water and customized to your liking so you can make it softer or firmer. The water moves with your head, so you will never have to adjust or fluff this pillow.

The Mediflow Original Water Pillow comprises of highly-durable yet soft polyester fiber that you can easily clean. Just remove the outer cover and throw it in the washer and dryer. Wipe the inner water chamber down using a damp cloth. Within minutes, the pillow is clean and ready for use once again.

Nature's Guest Adjustable Cervical Pillow Review

You may feel uneasy about the Nature's Guest Adjustable Cervical Pillow since it's unlike any pillow you have seen previously. This unique design was created specifically to support the neck in all sleep positions. A deep depression in the middle and the different thickness of the sides allows any user to get the sleep they need without waking up to aches and pains.

Back sleepers can place their head comfortably in the center depression with the neck lifted by the outer rim, so the spine is aligned properly with the back all night. Both side and stomach sleepers can enjoy the thick padding along the edges that offer neck support without the padding being pushed into the face. And, if you move from back to side sleeping or vice versa, you can do so without waking up.

The Nature's Guest Adjustable Cervical Pillow features a dual zipper design, giving you complete access to the filling. You can easily make adjustments to the firmness in the back and side sleeping areas. The materials of this product are extremely durable and easy to take care of. With the premium cotton fabric cover and microfiber filling, there is no build-up in heat, ensuring cool, restful sleep all night long.

Sleep Innovations Cooling Contour Memory Foam Pillow Review

The Sleep Innovations Cooling Contour Memory Foam Pillow is the most-go-to for neck pain sufferers. The pillow is contoured to cradle the neck and offers amazing comfort for back and side sleepers. Side and back sleepers can choose between the higher and lower contours for the support that feels best. Since it's five inches high, it's not best for people who sleep on their stomach.

The Sleep Innovations Cooling Contour Memory Foam Pillow comes with a cooling gel foam on the top layer, which means comfortable temperature and deep muscle relaxation all night long. A blended 25% polyester and 75% cotton removable and washable cover is perfect for staying hygienic.

Sleep Innovations provides a five-year limited warranty for its hypoallergenic pillow that's also made in the U.S. – for individuals looking for such products.

Ka Ua Neck Roll Pillow Review

The Ka Ua Neck Roll Pillow isn't your average pillow. It's not the usual rectangle, but long and round in shape – which makes it perfect for ultimate neck comfort. A single piece of memory foam has been molded to create the pillow cores. Do not go for cheap or shredded foam sponges for your support needs, as these can get too comfortable and soft. You want a solid, supportive construction that will never lose its shape or settle.

The neck roll can be used in various ways. If used under the neck and head, the memory foam will mold to your body. You can also put it between your legs, under the knees and anywhere additional support is necessary. At just three inches, the pillow offers just the right amount of elevation. Some users keep the Ka Ua in their car for effective lumbar support.

The Ka Ua Neck Roll Pillow measures 4 by 17 inches and has a soft bamboo polyester blend cover that can be removed and washed in the machine. It has a low-profile zipper that ensures convenience for users. If you have allergies, you can easily use this as it is hypoallergenic.

If you don't like your neck roll pillow, the company gives you a 30-day return policy for a full refund. However, customers have raved that the product is a wonderful option for side and back sleepers, and due to its size, can easily fit into a carry-on and won't take up a lot of space on the bed.

J-Pillow Chin Supporting Travel Pillow Review

It doesn't matter if you're traveling by plane, car or train, you're liable to be falling asleep if you're going long distances. Sleeping sitting up often leads to a sore neck, but the J-Pillow Chin Supporting Travel Pillow is the answer to that problem.

What makes the J-Pillow unique is that it wraps completely around the neck and folds under the chin to keep the head from flopping forward. You'll feel a lot more rejuvenated when you wake up – no aches and pains the neck or shoulders. The pillow will twist to different positions – a design that's ideal for full support while sleeping upright, so you don't get a stiff neck. And, with a handy snap-loop fastener, you can attach it to your travel bags.

The J-Pillow Chin Supporting Travel Pillow not only useful for sleeping but also for watching TV and reading, so the muscles in the neck and head can relax, especially for individuals who need some support staying in the straight position.

What Are The Best Sleeping Positions For People With Neck Pain

When it comes to sleeping, you want a neutral spinal position – meaning you want the pillow to allow your spine to stay straight rather than overly-supported or under-supported. Your sleep position is going to dictate if you need a thick or thin pillow. Your bed partner can help you to determine what your sleeping position is like since it can be hard to know this yourself. 

Stomach Sleepers

Sleeping on the stomach has been tied to both back and neck problems because the back tends to arch. Stomach sleepers also turn their necks to the side, causing muscle strains. While it can be hard to overcome a sleeping position, people who have neck pain are encouraged to sleep on their back or sides instead. 

Side Sleepers 

People who love to sleep on their side must keep their spine as aligned as possible. This means keeping the spine level to the mattress surface. A pillow that elevates under the neck and below the head is ideal. 

Back Sleepers

People who sleep lying on their back need to invest in a dual pillow system. They need to have a rounded pillow that will support their neck while a flatter one will give the head some cushioning. You can do this by tucking a rounder, smaller pillow into the pillowcase of a flatter pillow or buying a specialized pillow with elevated neck support and indentation for head support.

You want the pillow to allow the chin and nose to be level with each other – your head should not be too low or high. 

Combo Sleepers 

These are individuals who sleep in all kinds of positions but don’t realize they are doing it. Most people suffer neck pain because their pillow is not made to fit more than one position unless you’re going from back to stomach sleeping.  

The key issue is when you go from side sleeping to another position or the other way around. Side sleeping calls for a thicker pillow than when you sleep on your stomach or back.  Some pillow manufacturers have created contoured pillows that can handle the back and side sleeping positions, but in most cases, you’ll need to awaken yourself to get back into a proper position. 

14 Considerations To Purchase The Best Pillow For Neck Pain

When you’re in the market for the best pillow for neck pain, there is a multitude of considerations you need to factor in. From there, you need to consider which factors are the most important for you so you can decide which pillow will best meet your needs. 

Size 

When it comes to pillow size, you want pillows that will fit the bed. Pillows are often listed as Standard, King or Queen, although cervical support pillows will have specialty sizes. 

Shape

The shape of the pillow is just as important as the size. People who have neck problems need to consider two key pillow shapes – even surface or curved surface. 

• Even Surface – While the even surface is the pillow’s standard shape, neck pain sufferers don’t tend to get the kind of support they need. In saying that, even surface pillows with shredded memory foam or feathers work, as they will contour to the head and neck, offering the most support feel. Pillows with an interlocking polyester fill also provide a fuller shape even with the even surface. 

• Curved Surface – This pillow type (also called an orthopedic or cervical pillow) typically comprise of memory foam. The neck receives support while the head is recessed. People who need additional support and comfort can get it when they put the pillow upside down. 

The key is to find a pillow shape that’s ideal for you. Most neck pain sufferers find relief in pillows that are comprised of contouring materials or have been shaped to offer elevated neck support. 

Fill Material

The inner part of the pillow is called the fill, and the kind of fill your pillow has will determine how much or little support your neck gets. 

• Buckwheat Fill – This type of pillow contains thousands of husks that is responsive to the body, can be shaped and will not cause overheating. There are three reasons people overlook this option – cost, noise and weight. 

• Down – This type of pillow comprises of soft feathers from geese or ducks. It’s often very soft and moldable to all kinds of shapes. However, it’s expensive and has more loft to it. Feather pillows will use exterior feathers, which means they’re not near as soft.  Another issue for some individuals is allergies, which can happen with both down and feather pillows.  This type of pillow will need to be replaced once a year. 

• Down-Alternative – These pillows use synthetics such as polyester to create the feel-like impression but without the expensive and allergy issue. The material is very plush and can be molded. 

• Latex – Latex is also springier than memory foam and very responsive. You can find it in one-piece or shredded. Keep in mind that it’s a bit more expensive and can cause allergies in some individuals. 

• Memory Foam – Memory foam cushion pillows are ideal because of the responsiveness it provides. While you can get one-piece foam pillows to give your neck the support it needs, the shredded memory foam won’t lock in heat and is for lighter. You can also purchase gel-infused foam to decrease the chance for heat while sleeping. 

• Polyester Fiber Fill – This is pillow material will keep its softness and is highly affordable. While it’s not as contour compared to other materials, it’s still ideal for people who are concerned with hypoallergenic products.

• Water Chamber – This pillow type has become an extremely popular option with neck pain sufferers. You can fill the water chamber to fit your needs, and the malleable surface ensures the pillow fits your head. The majority of water chamber pillows have additional padding made out of foam or polyester to give it some additional cushioning. 

The best options for neck pain sufferers is memory foam, water or feather pillows. That means you should count out other options. For example, buckwheat and latex pillows are also worthwhile but do cost more and are not always suited for everybody. People who have neck problems should avoid using polyester, down or down alternative pillows. 

Cover Material

Since most people use a pillowcase with their pillows, the cover material isn’t near as important as the pillow fill. Some materials are better in terms of breathability and keeping you cool. 

For example, cotton is soft and breathable – often seen in pillow covers. Polyester, on the other hand, doesn’t allow for air to flow easily. Some manufacturers will intertwine this material with a blend such as bamboo-rayon, which improves the airflow quality. 

Loft (Thickness) 

When it comes to the loft of your pillow, it can vary from one manufacturer to another. However, there are three basic loft options:

• Low-Loft – three inches or less of thickness
• Mid-Loft – three to five inches’ worth of thickness 
• High-Loft – six or more inches of thickness

The loft has a direct impact on how supportive a pillow will be and how comfortable it feels.  If you don’t have the appropriate loft, you could suffer from neck pain. There are many variables to consider here when trying to find the best pillow for neck pain:

• Sleep position
• Mattress type
• Pillow position
• Shoulder width
• Head size
• Bodyweight 

Pillow Position

People who like their pillow to sleep under their head entirely will need to use a low-or mid-loft pillow since there’s not a lot of space to it. People who want to have a pillow that’s slightly under their head should go with a mid-to-high-loft pillow. 

Mattress Type 

If you have a mattress that sinks below your body, you want to use a low-loft pillow (latex or memory foam pillows). These ensure that there’s less between the sleep surface and the head/neck. People who don’t have a very responsive mattress (hybrids or innerspring) need to consider a mid-to-high-loft pillow to give them the extra space. 

Body Weight 

People who weigh more than 230 pounds will sink deep into the mattress no matter what it’s made out of. For them, it’s best to use a low-to-mid-loft pillow. People who weigh less than this should use a mid-to-high-loft pillow to fill in the gaps.

Head Size 

As expected, people with heavy and large heads will need to use high-loft pillows to handle the sinking into of the pillow. People with a lighter and smaller head can use a low-to-mid-loft pillow.

Shoulder Width 

Wide shoulders increase the space between the pillow and a person’s head and neck. For that reason, they need to use a high-loft pillow. People who have narrow shoulders will find that low-to-mid-loft pillows will do just fine. 

Neck pain sufferers looking for the best pillows for neck pain may want one with an adjustable loft. With this kind of pillow, a person can add or take out the fill as they need. They’re ideal for people who don’t suffer from neck pain regularly or tend to sleep positions often during the night.  There are some pillow types that can adjust the loft automatically. 

Maintenance 

After six months, you need to see if the pillow you bought is still giving you the right support. If you’re experiencing neck pain again or the support isn’t as efficient as it was previously, it’s time to get another pillow. 

Allergies 

If you suffer from allergies, you need to be mindful of the fill in the pillow. You need to have pillows that have feathers or use latex since these can cause allergic reactions. 

Cost 

The best pillows for neck pain often cost more, but the material type, size, durability and brand will affect the pillow’s price.  If you want a pillow that reduces or eliminates your neck pain, you want a high-quality pillow from a brand you can trust. 

Warranty and Return Policy 

Many pillow manufacturers offer a limited time, try before you buy option (sleep trial). After several weeks of using the pillow, you can decide if it’s right for you. They may also offer a warranty option that will safeguards you in the event of material or crafting defects. If the pillow breaks down before it’s supposed to, then you may be eligible for a replacement. 

3 Questions You Should Ask Yourself Before Buying A Pillow

There are a host of benefits these pillows can provide, but the biggest claim is the ability to alleviate neck pain by supporting spine alignment.  And, some manufacturers focus solely on designing pillows that contend with neck pain and cervical spine needs.  What you need to remember is that your choice in pillows will come down to two things:

• Support
• Personal comfort 

Everybody’s needs are different, which means there is no one-size-fits-all option out there… even if that’s what is being claimed. 

Are You Suffering From Other Bodily Aches and Pains?

If you wake up constantly with aches and pains and don’t have arthritis or inflammation, chances are you have a spinal alignment issue. The body’s soft tissue is always under stress, as they have to keep the spine up. This is why choosing your sleep products is so important. Pillows should be placed strategically – under your hips and needs as well as your head – to reduce the strain the spine is put under.

Are You Suffering From A Disability Of Some Type?

If you have a health problem already and need some relief, you want to find the best pillows for neck pain. Before you make any kind of purchase, it’s best to talk to your doctor and get some suggestions from him/her. You want to find a pillow that can not only relieve your neck pain but is comfortable for your whole body.  Doctors can often provide guidance on which pillow products to go with and which ones to avoid. 

Are You A Snorer or Experienced Bad Headaches or Migraines?

The headaches, migraines and snoring problems you have are the result of poor blood flow, airway blockage, oxygen reduction and other problems that point back to sleep posture. The key way to address them is to find the best pillow for neck pain and will open the airway back up. 

5 FAQ People Have For Finding The Best Pillow For Neck Pain

What Kind of Pillows Should Side Sleepers To Alleviate Neck Pain

People who sleep on their side and have neck pain need to pay special mind to the pillow’s thickness. This is especially true if a person has broad shoulders. If you fall into this category, you want to find a pillow that allows for neutral spinal alignment.  Every person is different, just like every pillow is different. 

What you consider as the best pillow for neck pain is based on what you like.  

Besides getting the right thickness, you need to consider the material being used. According to an Australian study that looked at pillow material for side sleepers, latex pillows were very effective at decreasing headaches, arm pain and neck stiffness compared to foam regular, foam contour and feather materials.

Should You Use A Soft Pillow For Your Neck Pain?

A pillow’s firmness is going to be based on your particular sleeping position and the ability to have a neutral spinal alignment. The heavier a person’s head is, the more firm the pillow needs to be. People who have a smaller and lighter head don’t need to use a firm pillow. The average head is roughly 12 pounds, so keep this in mind when considering what the best pillow for neck pain is. 

What Pillow Should You Use For Your Shoulder and Neck Pain?

How you sleep is going to affect the pain you feel in your shoulder. A pillow can make a positive impact, but sleeping on your back offers the best relief for pains in the shoulder. When it comes to buying the best pillows for neck pain, you want one that will align the spine naturally and alleviate pressure on the neck and shoulder muscles. 

When Should You Replace Your Pillow?

If you notice an increase in neck or back pain or going to sleep is difficult, it may be the pillow causing you aggravation. Older pillows often go flat and don’t provide your body with the support it needs. Though high-quality pillows can last for many years, it’s always good to look at your pillow every year to ensure it’s still working as it should. If your sleep quality isn’t what it used to be, your pillow may need replacing. 

Why Is There Pain If Your Sleep Position Is Fine?

You could do everything right in the book – for sleep position, pillow and mattress – but a 2008 Swedish study found that there is a link between real quality of sleep, aches and pains, and issues in falling asleep. 

Your sleep quality could need improvement in other ways, such as getting exercise, eliminating alcohol, curbing caffeine intake, etc. While sleeping positions are the largest culprit to poor sleep quality, it’s not always their fault. Look at what you’re doing in your life, if there are medical conditions and other issues that could have a negative impact on your sleep health. 

What You Need To Keep In Mind…

When it comes to the best pillows for neck pain, the ones on the list are definitely the best.  They can help alleviate neck pain while also assuring your ultimate comfort. Pillows are certainly one of the most important bedroom purchases you will need to make, and if you wake up with neck pain, stiffness or any other head pain, you need to find the right pillow for your situation.   If you’re tired of waking up feeling like you didn’t sleep or waking up to pain, then you need to consider changing your pillow. 

A poor choice in pillows will only exacerbate the problem, leading to even more pain. When choosing the best pillow for neck pain, stick to ones that meet the following:

• Filing preference
• Size
• Sleep position 

When in the market for a new pillow for your bed, check out the above-mentioned pillow options. Each one is tailored to help alleviate neck pain and assure you a better night’s rest. Always look at the reviews to see what people are saying and never just choose on price alone. Your health is well worth the cost of the best pillow for neck pain.