The Ultimate Guide To The Best Body Pillow For Side Sleepers
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There are times when you are lying in bed and you just cannot sleep due to back pain and aches. Many people think the fix is to switch to sleeping on their back or even their stomach.
Back sleeping is often described as proven to be the best sleeping position, but there is no single best position for everyone. Cleveland Clinic notes that stomach sleeping can lead to back, neck and shoulder pain for many people.
If you naturally sleep on your side, you don't have to change. You can use pillows to support your body so your position doesn't take a toll.
If you have back pain at night, a body pillow may help you get more comfortable. Hugging one on your side keeps your knees apart and your top leg supported, which can keep your hips and spine better aligned.
If back pain is severe, lasts more than a few weeks or comes with numbness or weakness, see a doctor. Here are some of the best body pillows to help you sleep.
1. Leachco Back 'N Belly Contoured Body Pillow
This is one of the best body pillows for side sleepers because of its U shape.
The pillow itself is also contoured in an hourglass shape so you can hug it.
It helps side sleepers keep their spine in a more natural position, and the U shape supports both your front and back.
If you have acid reflux, a body pillow alone won't solve it. The NIDDK suggests raising your head 6 to 8 inches with a foam wedge or extra pillows so your upper body is tilted.
2. Ultra Soft Body Pillow By Utopia Bedding
The Utopia Bedding body pillow doesn't have the same U-shape as the Leachco pillow. It actually looks more like a giant traditional rectangular pillow.
The shape means you can hug it just like a body pillow or you can rest your head on it like a regular pillow.
It's 20 by 54 inches, which makes it a great size for positioning yourself for a better night’s sleep. If you're looking for a pillow for occasional back discomfort, this one is a flexible choice.
You can use it as a body pillow when you have problems, and then as a regular pillow when you're doing better.
3. Snuggle-Pedic Shredded Bamboo Combination Memory Foam Body Pillow with Kool-Flow Cover
Compared to the previous two pillows, the Snuggle-Pedic pillow seems like a mouthful. Like the Utopia Bedding pillow, it comes in a rectangular shape and with similar dimensions.
The company says this pillow is made in the USA.
The filling is a mix of shredded memory foam and polyester fiber that shapes to your body.
The maker says the Kool-Flow cover, made with bamboo-derived fabric, increases airflow to help the pillow stay cool.
4. Leachco Snoogle Total Body Pillow
This is another body pillow by Leachco that comes in an interesting shape. Leachco itself calls the shape a “snoogle.” It's similar to an L shape with a crook at the top.
This body pillow is great for side sleepers, especially during pregnancy, when many providers suggest sleeping on your side in later months. Ask your provider what's right for you. You're meant to sleep facing the opening, using the upper crook for your head and the bottom crook for your legs.
The gap in the middle gives your belly more room and reduces pressure.
This shape is great for pregnant women. However, it might be a bit inconvenient for those who are looking for a pillow to hug.
5. PharMeDoc Total Body Pillow
The final pillow really makes a lasting impression because it utilizes most of the benefits of the above non-traditionally shaped pillows.
Leachco’s snoogle’s shape is improved upon by PharMeDoc’s C shaped pillow. This body pillow is basically the same as Leachco’s. However, it can be used as a great pillow to provide support while pregnant or afterwards because its C shape can close the gap to be similar to the U shaped pillow.
This makes it one of the best body pillows because it is versatile and comfortable.
Conclusion
These are just five of the best body pillows for side sleepers. These pillows are designed to help you sleep at night by providing support for your hips and spine.
That can mean better sleep and less soreness in the morning. A body pillow can make pregnancy and minor aches more comfortable, but see a doctor for pain that keeps you up.
As shown by the above pillows, you can even choose a specific shape to cater to your needs. You can go with the traditional rectangular shape for occasional back pain, or a U shape for full front-and-back support.
The versatility of body pillows will make them an excellent addition to any bedroom.
Sources
- What's the Best Sleep Position for You?, Cleveland Clinic
- Treatment for GER & GERD, NIDDK, National Institutes of Health
