Best Pillow For Back Sleepers

Matching sleepers and the best pillow for their position

It isn’t just a pillow it is the final piece of the puzzle in completing the ideal sleep system. Everyone knows they need a great mattress but when it comes down to the pillow often time’s people are making due with the very same pillow they grew up with or have had for the last 20 years. We’ve talked in our previous 2 articles about sleeping on our stomachs and on our sides and discussed the pros and the cons to the various types of pillows that work best for the respective sleep positions. Today we cover the best pillow for back sleepers.

Advantages of Sleeping on Your Back with the Proper Pillow

The majority of physicians and chiropractors like the positions of side sleeping and back sleeping. The advantage goes to the latter in the great debate of best sleeping positions. Sleeping on your back with the correct pillow properly distributes body weight most evenly and most effectively by maximizing blood flow to the entire body. This is a huge factor as to why people toss and turn slowing and restricting blood circulation caused by pressure points.  Neutralizing pressure on the spine is the key.

This can be done by slightly elevating the knees with an adjustable bed, a rolled up towel, or pillow. Sleeping in this healthy position also relaxes pressure on the hips and the buttocks taking pressure off the sciatic nerve. The change in position lowers the small of the back into the mattress for better supporting contact and comfort and some people a benefit felt by some people that have severe back pain and are looking for some level of relief. This should be done in consultation with their physician or turn to a side position. Additionally this is not a great position for snorers.

Finding the Best Pillow for Back Sleepers

Whatever kind of pillow the back sleeper chooses he or she should not choose one that is too big or too small. Larger pillows that are too tall can lift and tilt the head forward too much while a smaller shorter profile pillow, especially those that are softer and mushy which can extend the neck letting the head fall back.   What is the best pillow for back sleepers

There really is no shortage of great pillows that can do the job and cost can fit any budget.  Down, feather, cotton, buckwheat, and fiber fill pillows in a medium firmness seem to fit the bill for average sized sleepers.  Multi position pillows like contour pillows made of memory foam, latex rubber, and even polyurethane foam can also be excellent choices. Choosy pillow shoppers who have a tough time finding just the right pillow may want to consider adjustable firmness pillows where filling can be added or removed for more precise control helping to regulate comfort and support.

If you find yourself sleeping in more than one position and your pillow is not serving all of your comfort and support needs consider expanding your pillow inventory. Think about including pillows that can take care of your sleeping position needs; call it a pillow toolbox if you will. Inside this toolbox is the tools (pillows) needed for a great night of sleep and optimal support for your head, neck, and spine.