10 Best Pillows for Neck Pain in 2024

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Our best pillow for neck pain is the TEMPUR-Neck Pillow. Other top picks include the Avocado Green Pillow and the Belly Sleep Pillow. Read on for more pillows that may relieve neck pain.
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Pillows play an essential role in restorative sleep. A supportive pillow can keep the neck in line with the spine, helping relieve neck pain and allowing the muscles to relax.
In this article, we examine 10 of the best pillows for neck pain, compare them on key features, and advise on how to choose the best pillow for you.
A quick look at the best pillows for neck pain
Best pillow for neck pain: Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Neck Pillow | Skip to review
Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Neck Pillow
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Best pillow for combination sleepers with neck pain: Core Products Tri-Core Cervical Support Pillow | Skip to review
Core Products Tri-Core Cervical Support Pillow
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Best pillow for side sleepers with neck pain: Sleep Artisan Luxury Side Sleeper Pillow | Skip to review
Sleep Artisan Luxury Side Sleeper Pillow
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Best organic pillow for neck pain: Avocado Green Pillow | Skip to review
Avocado Green Pillow
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Best cooling pillow for neck pain: Slumber Cloud UltraCool Pillow | Skip to review
Slumber Cloud UltraCool Pillow
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Best adjustable pillow for neck pain: Hullo Buckwheat Pillow | Skip to review
Hullo Buckwheat Pillow
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Best pillow for stomach sleepers with neck pain: The Belly Sleep Pillow | Skip to review
The Belly Sleep Pillow
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Best wedge pillow for neck pain: Brentwood Home Zuma Foam Wedge Pillow | Skip to review
Brentwood Home Zuma Foam Wedge Pillow
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Best water pillow for neck pain: Mediflow Water Pillow | Skip to review
Mediflow Water Pillow
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Best travel pillow for neck pain: Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR Neck Pillow — Travel | Skip to review
Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR Neck Pillow — Travel
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The best pillows for neck pain
Medical News Today has tested some of the products below. Reviewers may have received some products from the manufacturers for free, which does not influence their review. All opinions are the reviewers’ own.

Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Neck Pillow

Available sizes: small, medium, large
Dimensions: all sizes: 20 x 12.5 in
Thickness: small: 3.5 in medium: 4 in, large: 4.75 in
Fill material: memory foam
Cover material: polyester
Adjustable: no
Sleeping position: side, back
$129.00 AT TEMPUR-PEDIC
*Price may vary.

We chose the TEMPUR-Neck Pillow as our best pillow for neck pain. This is because Tempur-Pedic designed it to support proper neck and spine alignment with its curved shape and extra-firm material.
You may like this pillow if standard rectangular pillows have not been supportive enough, or you prefer very firm pillows.
Read our roundup of the best firm pillows.
roundup of the best firm pillows
If you prefer plush pillows, consider the Avocado Green or Slumber Cloud.
Avocado Green
Slumber Cloud
The TEMPUR-Neck Pillow itself is made from extra-firm TEMPUR material, which helps support the neck and keep the head aligned while a person is sleeping on their side or back.

However, the company does not clearly state what TEMPUR material consists of.
Due to its curved shape, this pillow is not suitable for stomach sleepers. For a pillow that is suitable for stomach sleepers with neck pain, consider the Belly Pillow.
Belly Pillow

The TEMPUR-Neck Pillow comes in thicknesses ranging from 3 inches (in) to 4.75 in to accommodate the needs of different sleepers and body sizes. It is also available in small, medium, or large.

The pillow also features a removable, washable, and hypoallergenic polyester knit cover.
We have also included a small travel version in our list as the best travel pillow for neck pain.
travel version

Read our in-depth review of all Tempur-Pedic pillows.
in-depth review of all Tempur-Pedic pillows

unique shape designed to esnure proper neck and spine alignment
extra-firm feel provides reliable support
suitable for side or back sleepers
no sleep trial or returns
unclear information on materials
unique shape designed to esnure proper neck and spine alignment
extra-firm feel provides reliable support
suitable for side or back sleepers
no sleep trial or returns
unclear information on materials
Removable cover: yes
Machine washable: cover only
Warranty: 5 years
Returns: no returns or refunds
Shipping: free shipping in the contiguous United States
Removable cover: yes
Machine washable: cover only
Warranty: 5 years
Returns: no returns or refunds
Shipping: free shipping in the contiguous United States

Core Products Tri-Core Cervical Support Pillow

Available sizes: standard
Dimensions: 24 x 16 in
Removable cover: 3 in
Fill material: fiber fill
Cover material: cotton
Adjustable: no
$47.75 AT AMAZON
*Price may vary.

We chose the Tri-Core Cervical Support as the best pillow for back and side sleepers with neck pain. This is because it is designed with a sturdy cervical roll to support the neck while the head rests in the contour.
One side of the pillow has a larger neck roll for more support, while the other has a smaller neck roll for less support.
You may like this pillow if you are a combination sleeper, as it keeps the head level for proper spinal alignment in both back and side sleeping positions. It is not suitable for stomach sleepers. Stomach sleepers with neck pain may consider the The Belly Sleep Pillow.
The Belly Sleep Pillow

Adjusting to this pillow can take time because it requires changes in sleep posture. The manufacturer recommends that people alternate between this pillow and a standard pillow while adjusting to a new one. This will help their body adjust to the new sleeping posture.
sleep posture
The manufacturer describes the Tri-Core Cervical Support Pillow as very firm. It has a polyester fiber fill and a cotton-polyester blend cover.
The pillow is available in three sizes: full-size, mid-size, and petite.

Learn more about the best pillows for back sleepers.
the best pillows for back sleepers
suitable for back and side sleepers
fits into standard pillowcases
uses nonallergenic materials
may require several weeks of adjustment, according to the company
not suitable for stomach sleepers
suitable for back and side sleepers
fits into standard pillowcases
uses nonallergenic materials
may require several weeks of adjustment, according to the company
not suitable for stomach sleepers
Returns: free returns for Prime members
Shipping: free shipping for Prime members
Returns: free returns for Prime members
Shipping: free shipping for Prime members

Sleep Artisan Luxury Side Sleeper Pillow

Available sizes: queen
Dimensions: 28 x 18 x 6 in
Fill material: latex foam
Cover material: cotton blend
Adjustable: yes
Sleeping position: side and back
SHOP NOW AT AMAZON
We chose the Sleep Artisan Luxury Side Sleeper Pillow as best for side sleepers with neck pain because it is uniquely curved to support proper neck and spine alignment in the side sleeping position.
You may like this pillow if you are a side sleeper and find rectangular pillows unsupportive or uncomfortable.
The Sleep Artisan Luxury Side Sleeper is also adjustable. You can add or remove the filling to adjust the loft and firmness to your preferences.
This pillow is soft, and though the fill is adjustable, some may find it hard to create a very firm feel. If you prefer an adjustable pillow that is firmer, consider the Hullo Buckwheat Pillow.
Hullo Buckwheat Pillow
The fill is natural Talalay latex, and the cover is a hemp cotton blend. It is hypoallergenic and machine washable.
For other options that suit side sleepers, consider the TEMPUR-Neck or Tri-Core Cervical Support Pillow. These are both suitable for combination sleepers.
TEMPUR-Neck
Tri-Core Cervical Support Pillow
Learn about more of the best pillows for side sleepers.
the best pillows for side sleepers
curved design to support side sleepers
adjustable fill to customize loft and firmness
natural materials
may not suit stomach sleepers
only one size available
curved design to support side sleepers
adjustable fill to customize loft and firmness
natural materials
may not suit stomach sleepers
only one size available
Warranty: 3 years
Returns: free returns for Prime members
Shipping: free shipping for Prime members
Warranty: 3 years
Returns: free returns for Prime members
Shipping: free shipping for Prime members

Avocado Green Pillow

Available sizes: standard, queen, king
Dimensions: standard: 19 x 25 in, queen: 19 x 29 in, king: 19 x 35 in
Thickness: not available
Removable cover: yes
Fill material: latex foam, kapok fiber
Cover material: cotton
Trial period: 100 days
Sleeping position: combination, side, stomach, back
Use code “SAVE10” for 10% off.
$109.00 AT AVOCADO
*Price may vary.

We chose the Avocado Green Pillow as the best organic pillow for neck pain because it has numerous certifications proving that the materials used have been harvested and manufactured in environmentally friendly ways.
This pillow provides medium-plush firmness for neck support and pressure relief. It may suit you if you prefer a softer, more airy pillow. Another medium-plush option for neck pain is Slumber Cloud UltraCool Pillow.
Slumber Cloud UltraCool Pillow
If you prefer higher firmness levels, consider TEMPUR-Neck Pillow or Tri-Core Cervical Support Pillow.
TEMPUR-Neck Pillow
Tri-Core Cervical Support Pillow
This nontoxic pillow contains a mix of organic latex and organic kapok. The latex is Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS) certified, and the kapok fill and cotton cover is certified by Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS).
Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS)
Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS)

Learn about the best eco-friendly mattresses.
best eco-friendly mattresses

The Avocado Green Pillow holds Greenguard Gold certification, which indicates that it has been tested and found to be low in chemical emissions that could pose health risks.
Greenguard Gold

Learn about nontoxic mattresses.
nontoxic mattresses

The cotton cover is machine washable, and the pillow comes with an extra fill bag so a person can adjust the loft to their preferences. As a result, the manufacturer claims this pillow suits all sleep positions. It may suit you if you want an adjustable pillow. The Hullo Buckwheat is another organic and natural adjustable pillow.
Hullo Buckwheat

Avocado describes its latex core as durable and able to regulate temperature. The kapok fill is hypoallergenic, and the company claims it is softer and lighter than down.
Read our review of Avocado mattresses.
review of Avocado mattresses

“I was dealing with neck pain at night, which is what prompted me to switch pillows. This pillow hasn’t necessarily taken my neck pain away, but it hasn’t caused it to get worse like my old pillow did.

“It works great for side and back sleeping. When I sleep on my stomach, I prefer not to use a pillow.

“It’s pretty neutral as far as temperature goes. [There was also] no off-gas smell at all.”

— Chelsea Logan, Senior Editor

“I was dealing with neck pain at night, which is what prompted me to switch pillows. This pillow hasn’t necessarily taken my neck pain away, but it hasn’t caused it to get worse like my old pillow did.

“It works great for side and back sleeping. When I sleep on my stomach, I prefer not to use a pillow.

“It’s pretty neutral as far as temperature goes. [There was also] no off-gas smell at all.”

— Chelsea Logan, Senior Editor

organic, non-toxic, and sustainable option
10-year warranty
suitable for people with allergies
some reviewers state that the pillow is loses its supportiveness within a few months
only two sizes available
organic, non-toxic, and sustainable option
10-year warranty
suitable for people with allergies
some reviewers state that the pillow is loses its supportiveness within a few months
only two sizes available
Machine washable: yes
Warranty: 1 year warranty
Returns: free returns within 100 night trial period
Shipping: shipping calculated at checkout
Machine washable: yes
Warranty: 1 year warranty
Returns: free returns within 100 night trial period
Shipping: shipping calculated at checkout

Slumber Cloud UltraCool Pillow

Available sizes: standard, king
Dimensions: standard: 20 x 26 in, king: 20 x 36 in
Removable cover: no
Fill material: down alternative fiber-fill
Cover material: Outlast fabric
Adjustable: no
Sleeping position: stomach, back, side, combination
Trial period: 60 nights
$69.00 AT SLUMBER CLOUD
*Price may vary.

We chose the Slumber Cloud UltraCool as the best cooling pillow for neck pain because it is designed with breathable materials that dissipate body heat. It also has two firmness options that support proper neck and spine alignment.
You may like this pillow if you experience night sweats or hot flashes or are prone to overheating at night. Overheating can disrupt sleep and exacerbate discomfort, such as neck pain.
night sweats
hot flashes
The materials in the Slumber Cloud UltraCool include Polysilk down alternative fiberfill and NASA-approved Outlast fabric on both sides. These materials help regulate heat to prevent sweating and overheating.
This pillow is completely machine-washable, an advantage over many other pillows that cannot be machine-washed.

You can choose between two firmness options: soft-medium and medium-firm. Slumber Cloud recommends soft-medium for stomach sleepers and medium-firm for side or back sleepers. The pillow is available in standard or king size.

Learn about more of the best cooling pillows in our roundup.
the best cooling pillows in our roundup

60-night trial
pillow is machine washable
two firmness levels: soft-medium and medium-firm.
not adjustable
only two sizes available
60-night trial
pillow is machine washable
two firmness levels: soft-medium and medium-firm.
not adjustable
only two sizes available
Machine washable: yes
Warranty: 180 days
Returns: free returns within 60 days
Shipping: free shipping
Machine washable: yes
Warranty: 180 days
Returns: free returns within 60 days
Shipping: free shipping

Hullo Buckwheat Pillow

Available sizes: king
Dimensions: 20 x 36 in
Thickness: adjustable
Fill material: buckwheat hull
Cover material: cotton
Adjustable: yes
Sleeping position: stomach, back, side, combination
$169.00 AT AMAZON
*Price may vary.

We chose the Hullo Buckwheat pillow as the best adjustable pillow for neck pain because the buckwheat hull fill is customizable to suit your loft and firmness preference.
You may want to try a buckwheat pillow if you want a highly adjustable pillow that is easy to customize or a pillow made with organic and natural materials.
For other adjustable pillows in this list consider the Avocado Green Pillow or Mediflow Water Pillow.
Avocado Green Pillow
Mediflow Water Pillow

The pillow contains thousands of buckwheat hulls instead of foam or fibers. By adding or removing hulls, people can adjust this buckwheat pillow to suit their sleeping style and comfort preferences.
Hullo describes buckwheat hulls as firm but malleable and breathable. However, this may not suit you if you want a plush pillow. For softer options, consider the Sleep Artisan Side Sleeper Pillow.
Sleep Artisan Side Sleeper Pillow

The cotton case is certified organic, and the buckwheat hulls are natural and not processed.
Learn more about buckwheat pillows and other options.
buckwheat pillows and other options

60-night money-back guarantee
highly customizable and adjustable
plant-based materials
user reports of buckwheat filling being noisy
may be too hard, according to some users
60-night money-back guarantee
highly customizable and adjustable
plant-based materials
user reports of buckwheat filling being noisy
may be too hard, according to some users
Machine washable: yes
Returns: free returns for Prime members
Shipping: free shipping for Prime members
Machine washable: yes
Returns: free returns for Prime members
Shipping: free shipping for Prime members

The Belly Sleep Pillow

Available sizes: mini, queen
Dimensions: 28 x 16 x 2.5 in
Fill material: memory foam
Cover material: bamboo and polyester
Adjustable: no
Sleeping position: stomach
SHOP NOW AT AMAZON
We chose the Belly Sleep Pillow as the best pillow for stomach sleepers with neck pain because it is designed to support proper head, neck, and spine alignment while lying on your front.
It is thinner than standard pillows to prevent the head rising above the neck and spine. This pillow is a good choice if you are a frequent stomach sleeper or prefer slimmer pillows.
Learn about other pillow options for stomach sleepers.
other pillow options for stomach sleepers
The Belly Sleep Pillow has a memory foam filling infused with cooling gel and a bamboo cover with moisture-wicking properties. This may help if you are prone to night sweats or overheating. The medium-soft Slumber Cloud UltraCool is a good option if you want a cooling pillow.
Slumber Cloud UltraCool
This pillow is available in a mini or a standard size. Due to the slim profile, it may be easy to travel with. Some travel pillows for neck pain, such as the TEMPUR-Neck Travel, are unsuitable for stomach sleepers.
TEMPUR-Neck Travel
slim and lightweight, useful for travel
cooling properties may help with night sweats or overheating
lower cost than many other pillows
thin fill and firmness may not suit some
may not suit back or combination sleepers
slim and lightweight, useful for travel
cooling properties may help with night sweats or overheating
lower cost than many other pillows
thin fill and firmness may not suit some
may not suit back or combination sleepers
Machine washable: no
Warranty: lifetime
Returns: free returns for Prime members
Shipping: free shipping for Prime members
Machine washable: no
Warranty: lifetime
Returns: free returns for Prime members
Shipping: free shipping for Prime members

Brentwood Home Zuma Foam Wedge Pillow

Available sizes: 7 in, 10 in, 12 in
Dimensions: 24 L x 24 W in
Thickness: 7 in, 10 in, 12 in
Removable cover: yes
Fill material: foam
Cover material: bamboo-derived rayon
Sleeping position: back
$54.00 AT BRENTWOOD HOME
*Price may vary.
We chose the Zuma Foam Wedge Pillow as the best wedge pillow for neck pain as it is a cost-effective option that can ease back and neck and shoulder by keeping the body at a gradual incline.
If you experience sleep apnea, snoring, or other breathing issues that affect sleep quality, a wedge pillow may help. It can keep the body at an inclined angle, keeping the airways clear and allowing for comfortable sleep. This can also help with reflux and hiatal hernia.
sleep apnea
snoring
reflux
hiatal hernia
Learn about more of the best wedge pillows in our roundup.
best wedge pillows in our roundup
A wedge pillow may not suit stomach sleepers. For stomach sleeper-friendly pillows, consider the soft-medium Slumber Cloud UltraCool Pillow.
Slumber Cloud UltraCool Pillow
This pillow is available in three sizes. The removable cover is machine washable, and replacement covers are available.
The wedge pillow is lower cost than most other types of pillows and is one of the most affordable pillows on this list. Other affordable options include Core Products Tri-Core Cervical Support Pillow and The Belly Sleep Pillow.
Core Products Tri-Core Cervical Support Pillow
The Belly Sleep Pillow
may help ease a range of conditions, such as sleep apnea
low cost in comparison to other types of pillows
CertiPUR-US certified
wedge shape may not suit some, for example if you have lower back pain
not suitable for stomach sleepers
may help ease a range of conditions, such as sleep apnea
low cost in comparison to other types of pillows
CertiPUR-US certified
wedge shape may not suit some, for example if you have lower back pain
not suitable for stomach sleepers
Machine washable: yes
Warranty: 1 year warranty
Trial period: 30 days
Returns: free returns within 30 days
Shipping: free shipping
Machine washable: yes
Warranty: 1 year warranty
Trial period: 30 days
Returns: free returns within 30 days
Shipping: free shipping

Mediflow Water Pillow

Dimensions: 20 x 28 in
Thickness: adjustable
Fill material: fiber fill and water
Cover material: cotton
Adjustable: yes
Sleeping position: stomach, back, side, combination
$70.00 AT AMAZON
*Price may vary.

The Water Pillow by Mediflow combines pillow fiber with a supportive layer of water. Mediflow claims that this water-based technology improves sleep quality by reducing neck pain.
sleep quality
If foam or down pillows aren’t adjustable or supportive enough, you may like a water pillow. The water layer is responsive to movement, which may suit you if you turn frequently during sleep.

Adding or removing water from the membrane can adjust The Water Pillow to suit your loft and firmness preference.

This technology may also help reduce the need to readjust the pillow during use, as the water inside the pillow instantly adjusts to the head’s movements.

It is important to note that some reviewers mention the heavy weight of the pillow when filled, and the need for regular maintenance and cleaning.
The original Water Pillow uses hypoallergenic fibers, but Mediflow also offers pillows using either down or memory foam layers for different comfort levels.

suitable for sleepers in all positions
adjustable water level
responsive and provides pressure relief
may be heavy and noisy, according to some reviewers
some reports of leaks and mold developing after use
suitable for sleepers in all positions
adjustable water level
responsive and provides pressure relief
may be heavy and noisy, according to some reviewers
some reports of leaks and mold developing after use
Returns: free returns for Prime members
Shipping: free shipping for Prime members
Returns: free returns for Prime members
Shipping: free shipping for Prime members

Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR Neck Pillow — Travel

Available sizes: one size
Dimensions: 10 x 12 in
Thickness: 4 in
Removable cover: yes
Fill material: TEMPUR material
Adjustable: no
Sleeping position: side
SHOP NOW AT TEMPUR-PEDIC

This pillow is a travel version of our top pick, the TEMPUR-Neck Pillow. It is smaller and comes with a storage pouch. TEMPUR-Pedic states that it can fit conveniently in luggage.
TEMPUR-Neck Pillow
If you travel frequently or are planning a trip, this pillow may prevent neck pain from unsupportive or unfamiliar pillows. Traveling with a pillow that suits your preferences can ensure quality sleep away from home.
The dimensions are 10 x 12 x 4 in. It is important to note that this pillow’s smaller size may not suit you if you roll over or move frequently while sleeping.
Like the standard size version, this extra-firm pillow is suitable for side or back sleepers with neck pain, but will not suit stomach sleepers. It is also made of the proprietary TEMPUR material, with a polyester cover.

small enough to travel with and pack in luggage
5 year warranty
storage pouch and machine washable cover
size may be too small for some to sleep comfortably
not suitable for stomach sleepers
small enough to travel with and pack in luggage
5 year warranty
storage pouch and machine washable cover
size may be too small for some to sleep comfortably
not suitable for stomach sleepers
Returns: no returns unless damaged at delivery or there are defects
Shipping: free shipping
Returns: no returns unless damaged at delivery or there are defects
Shipping: free shipping
Comparing the best pillows for neck pain
The table below compares the pillows in this article on important features:
TEMPUR
Core
Sleep Artisan
Slumber Cloud
Avocado
Belly Sleep
Hullo
Brentwood Home
Mediflow
TEMPUR Travel
How we chose the best pillows for neck pain
Medical News Today chooses mattresses, sheets, pillows, and other bedding that meet the following criteria:
Certifications: Where possible, MNT will choose products that have CertiPUR-US or other certifications. This means the products are low in pollutants and free from heavy metals and volatile organic compounds.
Size: MNT chooses products that are available in various sizes.
Materials and fill: MNT selects products made from different materials and fills, such as memory foam and latex, to suit a range of sleep styles and lifestyles.
Budget: MNT features products that are available at a wide range of budgets.
Sleep trials: Where possible, MNT chooses companies that offer a sleep trial.
Shipping: MNT will include shipping information, such as where the company delivers to and whether shipping is free.
Warranties and return policies: MNT will include products that carry warranties and clear return policies.
What to consider in a pillow for neck pain
There are many factors to consider when choosing the best pillow for you:
Whichever pillow you choose, it should promote neutral spinal alignment. If your head and neck are too high or low, it can cause or worsen neck pain and discomfort.
Pillows typically have a low, medium, or high loft:
Low loft: These pillows are around 3 inches (in) or less in height and might be most suitable for stomach sleepers.
Medium loft: These pillows have a height of around 3 in to 6 in and might suit back sleepers best.
High loft: These pillows have a height of over 5 in and might suit combination and side sleepers best.
It is important to note that researchers have not proven the above guidelines. A 2021 review suggests that there is not yet enough evidence to determine the optimal pillow height for different sleeping styles.
2021 review
However, some studies the authors looked at suggested that males may require slighter thicker pillows than females.
Shape retention is an important consideration when buying a pillow. Certain materials may hold their shape better for longer, increasing the amount of time before a person has to buy a new pillow.
Memory foam and latex pillows are denser materials that may hold their shape better than cheaper materials such as microfill and polyester.
Memory foam
People with neck pain may find that denser materials are a better purchase because they are more durable. Many companies offer adjustable fills that you can add to or remove from the pillowcase, allowing you to create the optimal pillow height.
Just like mattresses, pillows come in different firmness feels. People can choose between soft, medium, or firm pillows.
There is very limited modern research into how pillow firmness affects neck pain. People should try out different pillows where possible, ensuring that they provide enough support.
For example, side sleepers may prefer a medium or firm pillow because a soft pillow may allow their head to sink in too much, bringing their spine out of alignment.
Types of pillows available for neck pain
Many types of pillows are available. Some that may suit those with neck pain include:
Contoured pillows: With these pillows, your head will rest in a specially designed contour, with elevated areas to keep the neck and back in good alignment.
V-shaped pillows: A V-shaped pillow elevates the head and keeps the spine straight. This may help alleviate neck and back pain by improving sleep posture.
Memory foam pillows: Memory foam molds precisely to a person’s shape to provide support in the appropriate areas.
Memory foam
Latex pillows: Latex is a responsive material that can support the body, including the head and neck. It is sometimes more expensive than other materials but is more durable.
Latex
Water pillows: Water can adapt to your movements and support the head and neck. However, there may be more convenient types of pillow to use than a water pillow as they require careful maintenance.
Buckwheat pillows: A pillow that contains buckwheat is an environmentally friendly option that can be comfortable while providing appropriate support.
The table below details standard U.S. pillow sizes. The pillows in this article may come in these standard sizes but may also come in unconventional shapes and sizes.
How can a pillow help with neck pain?
Your sleep posture is important. One function of a pillow is to keep the neck in correct alignment with the rest of the spine to ensure that the muscles relax properly.
A 2021 research review states that pillow height and shape are important factors in reducing neck pain and promoting spinal alignment.
2021 research review
Each sleeper will benefit from a different kind of pillow to promote the correct neck posture while sleeping. This is essential, as incorrect neck posture can cause or worsen neck pain and prevent the neck from resting during the night.
You may experience neck pain due to everyday stressors, such as work or poor posture. Sitting for long hours in front of a computer or mobile device may cause additional neck strain.
neck pain
poor posture
Frequently asked questions about the best pillows for neck pain
The type of pillow that is best for neck pain will depend on your sleeping style and preferences.
Side sleepers may find that a medium-firm pillow with a higher loft offers more support, whereas stomach sleepers may find that a soft and low pillow reduces aches and pains.
Wedge, cervical, and adjustable pillows are all common types of pillows for neck pain.
The type of pillow that is best for neck pain will depend on your sleeping style and preferences.
Side sleepers may find that a medium-firm pillow with a higher loft offers more support, whereas stomach sleepers may find that a soft and low pillow reduces aches and pains.
Wedge, cervical, and adjustable pillows are all common types of pillows for neck pain.
You may experience neck pain after sleeping in an unusual position or if you have an unsupportive pillow. Replacing a pillow with a more supportive one may help reduce neck pain from sleeping.
If you often get neck pain, you should contact a doctor to make sure there are no underlying causes.
You may experience neck pain after sleeping in an unusual position or if you have an unsupportive pillow. Replacing a pillow with a more supportive one may help reduce neck pain from sleeping.
If you often get neck pain, you should contact a doctor to make sure there are no underlying causes.
Memory foam pillows tend to be denser than polyester pillows and may keep their shape for longer.
One of the main benefits of memory foam is that the pillow “remembers” your head shape and position, which may help promote neutral spinal alignment and reduce pain.
Memory foam pillows tend to be denser than polyester pillows and may keep their shape for longer.
One of the main benefits of memory foam is that the pillow “remembers” your head shape and position, which may help promote neutral spinal alignment and reduce pain.
Firmness is subjective, and what one person may find soft, another may feel is medium.
There is very limited research on pillow firmness and neck pain. Generally, if you sleep on your side, you may prefer a firmer pillow, whereas stomach sleepers may prefer a soft pillow.
Firmness is subjective, and what one person may find soft, another may feel is medium.
There is very limited research on pillow firmness and neck pain. Generally, if you sleep on your side, you may prefer a firmer pillow, whereas stomach sleepers may prefer a soft pillow.
Summary
Our best picks for pillows for neck pain include the TEMPUR-Neck Pillow, Tri-Core Cervical Support Pillow, and The Belly Sleep Pillow. Our list also includes a wedge pillow, adjustable pillows, and a travel pillow, all of which may help prevent and manage neck pain.
TEMPUR-Neck Pillow
Tri-Core Cervical Support Pillow
The Belly Sleep Pillow
The best pillow for your neck pain will suit your unique sleep preferences. For example, consider which position you sleep in most, what firmness level you prefer, and whether you want features such as adjustability or organic materials.
It may be best to look for companies that offer trial periods or find a way to try different pillows or pillow types before purchasing them.
If you understand your sleep needs, you can make the correct purchase the first time and find lasting relief from neck pain.