Is it Better to Sleep With 1 or 2 Pillows When You Have Neck Pain?

Do you ever toss and turn at night, trying to find a comfortable sleeping position? Finding a good sleeping position can be even more challenging if you have neck pain. Some people recommend sleeping with one pillow, while others suggest using two. So, which is the best way to sleep if you have neck pain? Keep reading to find out!

As a general rule, one pillow is better than two pillows if you suffer from neck pain. Pillows have an average height of 10cm. If you stack two pillows on top of each other, it will result in a pillow that is 20cm in height, resulting in neck pain due to misalignment and overextension.

My name is Dr. Lawrence Woods DC, and I have been designing pillows for over 20 years. As a chiropractor, my goal has always focused on improving the health of my patients by optimizing their sleep. My designs have been nominated for numerous awards, and I continue to be at the forefront of this industry, helping people get the best night’s sleep possible.

Why neck pain is common and how your pillow can aggravate it

Neck pain is a common problem caused by various factors, including poor posture, muscle strain, and arthritis. The pain can range from a mild ache to severe discomfort and can be aggravated by certain activities, such as lying down.

Neck pain is widespread; one study found that 34.4% of responders had experienced neck pain within the last year. A total of 13.8% reported neck pain lasting more than six months.

However, one often-overlooked cause of neck pain is an unsuitable pillow. Most people sleep on polyester or feather and down pillows, which provide no responsiveness, support, or pressure relief. As a result, the neck is constantly forced into an unnatural position, resulting in muscle strain and stiffness. If you suffer from neck pain, it is essential to choose a pillow that will provide the right amount of support and conform to the natural contours of your neck.

The case for two pillows: How two pillows can provide support and comfort

A single pillow can often feel like it isn’t enough – like you need something more to prop up your head and give you the support you need. Two pillows can be even better, providing comfort and support so you can sleep through the night. Having two pillows also allows you to adjust the loft or height you need.

If one pillow isn’t enough, you can add a second pillow to give yourself a little boost. And if two pillows are too much, you can remove one to find the perfect balance. So whether you’re looking for extra support or more comfort, two pillows may be just what you need.

The case for one pillow: How a single pillow can help keep the spine in alignment

A quality pillow is an essential investment in your comfort and health. The right pillow will support your head and neck, keeping your spine in alignment.

As a chiropractor, I firmly believe you should use one pillow and ensure it is the right height instead of two pillows.

In addition, a good pillow will help to relieve pressure on your muscles, promote relaxation and help to prevent pain. Many different types of pillows are available, so choosing one that best suits your needs is essential.

A single pillow may not seem like much, but it can make a big difference in your comfort and wellbeing.

The verdict: Which pillow configuration is best for neck pain?

There are many factors to consider when it comes to finding the perfect pillow. However, there are a few critical essential qualities for neck pain patients. First, the pillow should be responsive, meaning it conforms to the head and neck shape. This provides support without putting unnecessary pressure on the spine. Second, the pillow should be supportive, meaning it helps maintain the natural alignment of the head and neck.

Finally, the pillow should be the right height. This ensures that the head is not tilted too far left/forward or right/backward, which can strain the neck muscles.

A pillow made from natural latex foam with adjustable layers is ideal for those seeking relief from neck pain. By investing in a quality pillow, you can enjoy a restful night’s sleep and wake up feeling refreshed and pain-free.

Tips for choosing the right pillow for your needs

Consider your sleep position.

You’re not alone if you suffer from neck pain—it’s a widespread problem. In fact, according to the American Chiropractic Association (ACA), nearly two-thirds of Americans report experiencing neck pain at some point in their lives. 1

Neck pain can have a variety of causes, ranging from poor posture to degenerative conditions. However, one of the most common causes of neck pain is sleeping in an awkward position.

Find a pillow that promotes side sleeping in alignment with the spine.

While several different pillow configurations can be helpful for neck pain, side sleeping is often considered the best sleep position for people who suffer from this type of pain.

When done correctly, side sleeping can help keep the spine aligned and take pressure off the neck. However, finding a pillow that promotes proper side sleeping posture is essential.

The best pillows for side sleepers will support the head and neck while keeping the spine in alignment. Look for a pillow that is firm enough to provide support but not so thick that it causes your head to be pushed forward out of alignment.

Consider the firmness of your pillow.

When choosing a pillow, many people believe that firmer is better. After all, a firm pillow will provide plenty of support for the neck and head. Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case.

A pillow that is too firm can cause pressure points and neck tension, leading to pain and stiffness. On the other hand, a pillow that is too soft may not provide enough support, resulting in poor alignment and discomfort.

The key is to find a responsive pillow, that is, one that provides more support as more pressure is applied. This way, you’ll be able to find the perfect balance of comfort and support, no matter how you sleep.

Consider the filling of your pillow.

For a great night’s sleep, it is essential to consider the material and filling of your pillow. I am a chiropractor, believing that responsiveness is the key to a great pad. I never recommend memory foam (designed to be as unresponsive as possible).

While memory foam can provide pressure relief and contouring, it is not as responsive as natural latex foam. Natural latex foam is more responsive, meaning it will better conform to your head and neck shape. It also provides excellent contouring and pressure relief while still being responsive.

As a result, natural latex foam is the best material for a pillow if you want a great night’s sleep. Thanks for considering this important factor when choosing a pillow!

Try out different pillow configurations.

Suffering from neck pain can make it challenging to get a good night’s sleep. If you often wake up feeling stiff and sore, it might be time to rethink your pillow configuration.

Instead of using one or two pillows of the same height, try an adjustable pillow that can be adjusted to different heights. This way, you can find the perfect level of support for your neck and head, regardless of your sleeping position. In addition, an adjustable pillow can help to prevent stiffness and pain by keeping your spine in alignment.

As a result, you’ll wake up refreshed and well-rested instead of sore and achy. So if you’re looking for a better night’s sleep, don’t be afraid to experiment with different pillow configurations and types, like an adjustable pillow.

Conclusion: The importance of finding the right pillow for neck pain relief

A good night’s sleep is essential for good health, but for many people, neck pain can make it challenging to get the rest they need.

As a chiropractor, I believe one of the easiest ways to reduce neck pain is to find a pillow that supports the spine’s natural alignment. Side sleeping is often recommended for people with neck pain, as it helps take pressure off the joints.

To ensure proper alignment, choose a high enough pillow to support the neck but not so high that the head is tilted forward.

In addition, look for a pillow with a softer center or neck contour and firmer edges, as this will help provide support without putting pressure on the joints. With a little trial and error, you should be able to find a pillow that helps you get the pain-free sleep you need.