Wedge Pillows

So You Can Get Comfortable and Sleep

What’s in a pillow? Apparently a lot, from materials to shape. Sleeping can be tough sometimes, and when you’re bothered by insomnia – that frustrating inability to fall asleep, stay asleep or sleep through to morning – life is not so enjoyable on a day-to-day basis. What if a pillow could make all the difference?

Wedge pillows are a popular item in the sleep industry and for obvious reasons: they can help many people sleep more comfortably, relax, and ultimately get a good night’s rest.

Types of Wedge Pillows

A “wedge” pillow is exactly as it sounds, a wedge-shaped sleep aid that comes in a variety of materials—foam, memory foam, and inflatable—in a variety of sizes, and is designed to remedy a slew of sleep problems, including: pain and discomfort from pregnancy, relief for loud snoring, pain associated with neck or back problems, and relief for heart-burn and sinus problems.

• For Pregnancy: Pregnancy wedge pillows provide support for your growing belly and your lower back. Many pregnant women begin to have trouble sleeping as pregnancy progresses. Restless legs syndrome and other insomnia sleep disturbances are common. Hormones wreak havoc on your sleep patterns, aches and pains can keep you awake as can a restless baby. Many women find comfort with pregnancy pillows, including the wedge styles.
• For Snoring: Anti-snoring wedge pillows may be used to keep a bed partner on his or her side, sleeping more soundly and quietly. Snoring is most common in back-sleepers and among the obese. When you sleep on your back your tongue and jaw-bone tend to naturally relax backwards, possibly contributing to an obstructed airway, which can lead to loud snoring. It’s not uncommon to hear snorers sound as though they are choking and this can lead to sleep disturbances for them, as well, though they may rarely wake fully. Placing a wedge-pillow behind your bed partner can help keep him or her on their side during the night, calming snoring.
• For Pain: Wedge pillows also have a purpose in helping you ease painful lower back problems or neck problems. Many travelers take wedge pillows on the road and use them while on airplanes or riding in cars. Wedges can strategically fill space to support you anatomically and make for greater sleep comfort. Use them behind your back, to support your neck or support your knees while you sleep or relax.
• For Acid Reflux, Heartburn, and Hiatal Hernias: Suffer from acid reflux or regular heart-burn? When lying flat creates a problem, a wedge pillow can prop you more upright in the bed AND let you get a comfortable night’s sleep. Shop for a pillow that provides a complete upper torso lift. You can use this, too, to provide night-time relief from coughs, colds and allergies.