How To Use Pillows For Comfort & Pain Relief

The “Why” Behind Pillow Use

I’ve put together this post, because many of us struggle with daily pain and sleeplessness. Pillows in various sizes, and shapes can make a world of difference to our pain levels, ability to relax, and our ability to get a good night’s sleep. Keeping our body in good alignment allows muscles to relax, so healing can take place. Pillows can also elevate injured limbs to improve circulation, and decrease swelling.

Both personally, and as a nurse, I have felt and seen the relief that proper body positioning can provide.

The second reason that I put together this resource for you, is that pillows can be an inexpensive tool to help you manage your pain. You may need to experiment, but there is bound to be a pillow out there that meets your needs.

It is also possible to use a folded or rolled up towel or blanket if buying extra pillows isn’t in your budget right now. A folded towel inside a pillow case makes a good pillow substitute.

A Physical Therapist Demonstrates Correct Pillow Placement

I cannot sleep at night without my pillows. They have been my nightly companions for years. This video by Physical Therapist Rebecca Kern Steiner beautifully illustrates the use of pillows while lying down to alleviate back and shoulder pain.

Pillows For Neck Pain

The following article covers neck pain, and which pillow to try for relief. It provides information on many of the neck pillows on the market today.

https://paindoctor.com/best-pillow-for-neck-pain/

Proper Pillow Placement for Any Sleeping Position

The following article shows where to put your pillow whether you sleep on your back, stomach, or side. My son suffers from back pain, and I shared this article with him, because it suggests putting a pillow under your hips if you sleep on your stomach.

https://youmemindbody.com/disease-illness/Pillow_Placement

Types of Pillows

If you’ve gone pillow shopping lately, you’ve probably been overwhelmed by all the different types of pillows out there. The following article does a great job of providing the pros and cons for common pillow types to help you decide which one to purchase.

Wrap Up

I hope this little resource about pillows adds to your pain relief tool box. My next post is going to cover my favorite pain relief tools. Stay tuned! If you don’t want to miss it, you can provide your email address below, and get an email when it’s ready.

I’d love to hear from you! What’s your favorite pillow and why? Comment below, and I’ll reply back promptly. Same thing with any questions. Till next time, Kathy