I’m always looking for new ways to control my back pain. I use TENS, stretching, heat, ice, injections, exercise, you name it, I have probably tried it.
Growing up, I had feather pillows. I was young, with no muscle pain, and money was tight, so if we could save, all the better.
I remember when I rented my first apartment. Rent took one half of my check, and buying a bed with a good mattress was not in the budget. I bought a cheap sleeping bag and pillow and slept on the cold floor.
Fast forward to age 72. Now, since I have so much arthritis pain, a support pillow is a necessity. It’s made a big difference in my neck and back pain.
Support pillows may cost an arm and a leg, but if you have less pain, you will be glad that you invested.
So, let’s explore how to fight arthritis pain with a support pillow:
Side Sleepers
I have tried sleeping on my side, but I am only comfortable on my back. Side sleeping can help relieve pain from osteoarthritis, spinal stenosis, or a herniated disc. Alternate sides to help prevent muscle imbalances or scoliosis.
You should sleep in the fetal position to open the spaces between the vertebrae. This extra space relieves pressure on the spinal discs. Use these pillows to ease your back pain.
A contour pillow fits the curve of your legs. Placing a pillow between your knees helps align your hips, pelvis, and spine. Better positioning while sleeping can reduce pain.
If the contour pillow is not comfortable, you can try a Tear Drop Pillow. It’s long enough to use as a leg spacer and also works if you want to switch to sleeping on your side.
Back Sleepers
This is the only position I am comfortable in, and it is supposed to be the best for relieving back pain. Your weight is evenly distributed, and you have less strain on pressure points.
A soft pillow roll provides lumbar support to relieve back pain. You can use it if you sleep on your back or side.
A memory foam pillow conforms to your head and neck, helping keep your spine aligned.
Stomach Sleepers
This is the worst sleeping position for controlling back pain, and because your neck is rotated, you may also experience neck and shoulder pain.
If you must sleep on your stomach, place a standard pillow under your pelvis and lower abdomen to avoid putting pressure on your back. Use a thin pillow under your head or no pillow at all.
Test Your Pillow before You Buy
I tried out several pillows before I settled on the one I liked. A good place to get a support pillow is at a bed and mattress store. Try several before deciding, and as a bonus, you get to try it out on different mattresses.
You may feel pressured by the salesperson to make a quick decision, but this is an investment for better health, so tell him to give you time to go over your options.
Summary
No one likes arthritis pain, but the more things you can improve, the happier you will be. Invest in a good quality support pillow, and you’re on your way to a better night’s sleep.
