Pillows for Shoulder Pain

Many of us will have struggled with shoulder pain at some point and will most likely have lost sleep from pain and discomfort.

Sleep should be a time for your body to repair itself, but sleeping on a pillow that doesn’t offer the support you need will exacerbate your symptoms.

We’re confident that our pillows for shoulder pain can offer you the shoulder support you need for a great night's sleep. However, if the pain persists, make sure to consult your doctor.

Frequently asked questions about pillows for shoulder pain

Can a pillow give you shoulder pain?

Absolutely. Choosing a pillow that doesn’t provide the head and neck support you need is likely to give you new or worsened shoulder or neck pain.

If your pillow has flattened or lost shape over time, you might consider purchasing a new pillow that will assist with pain relief.

The best pillows for shoulder pain will support the back and head, promote proper spinal alignment and stabilise the shoulders.

How do you arrange pillows for shoulder pain?

Certain sleeping angles and pillow configurations may help to alleviate shoulder pain.

Side sleeping with a pillow under your armpit - This involves resting on the pain-free shoulder and elevating the affected one. Place another pillow between your legs and a third pillow pressed against your stomach. A pillow for side sleepers should be placed beneath the head. This configuration for side sleepers will promote spine alignment and alleviate shoulder pain.

Back sleeping with a pillow under your armpit - This is often the best sleeping position for shoulder pain as it promotes spinal support without added pressure on your shoulders.

Side sleeping with a pillow under your back - If you’re a side sleeper with broad shoulders, you may experience uneven body alignment as the hips and back aren’t receiving enough cushioning. Placing a thin pillow under your back and hips can support the spine and alleviate pain across the body, including your shoulders.

Stomach sleepers may find increased alleviation from alternate sleeping positions, such as those mentioned above. Stomach sleeping is generally associated with neck and shoulder pain from craning the neck.

What helps shoulder pain while sleeping?

Find a sleep position that doesn’t apply pressure to the affected shoulder. Direct pressure can exacerbate the symptoms.
Try different sleeping and pillow positions that will allow you to rest comfortably.
Make sure you have a supportive pillow, mattress or mattress topper.
Practice good sleeping habits and stick to a sleeping schedule. Having a bedtime routine that can help you unwind before sleep can help reduce stress and tension, as well as shoulder pain relief.

What pillow materials are best for shoulder pain?

The best pillow for shoulder pain should provide proper spinal alignment and alleviate shoulder pain. If the pillow sinks too much or loses shape quickly, this won’t offer the support you need for a good night’s sleep.

Some pillow materials will suit your condition better than others, so it’s important to choose a pillow suitable for you.

Memory foam pillow - By contouring close to the head and neck, memory foam pillows provide optimal support. Memory foam is often considered the best pillow filling for those seeking pain alleviation.

Down pillow - Down may not provide the support and firmness that you may require for shoulder pain relief, but it is an exceptionally soft and airy pillow that can alleviate tension when resting your head. You can choose between duck down pillows and goose down pillows.

Hollowfibre - These pillows make an excellent choice for those looking for a soft and airy pillow which is also non-allergenic.