Introduction
Wedge pillow is the kind of pillow that is significantly helpful in ensuring quality sleep. While wrong pillows cannot just cause back and neck pain but also leaves you restless and tired even after a long sleep because it drastically affects the quality of sleep. Let us take a look at what these pillows actually are and how they help restore sound sleeping patterns.
What is a wedge pillow?
Wedge Pillow, as the name suggests, is a wedge-shaped orthopedic pillow that enables the back and neck to be slightly elevated than the rest of the body to relieve stress and back pain. So doctors often recomment them to treat and target various medical conditions.
The wedge pillow sets a person in a position that relieves stress and is comfortable for most of the body shapes and sizes. It is triangular in shape and is mostly made up of memory foam or polyfoam.
Physicians often recommend wedge pillows sinus pressure, acid reflux, or sleep apnea. It ensures the right body posture and brings long peaceful sleep to develop better immunity and boost mental health. You can fit yourself on top of it without getting displaced each time you move during your sleep.
These are available in different heights and angles, where the wedge of the pillow is angled differently to target various medical conditions. A certain shape and angle of such pillows are also recommended for women to be used during pregnancy.
The usual height of these wedge pillows is somewhere between 7 to 12 inches, and the choice of the height depends on the condition it is used for.
These wedge pillows are mostly made up of memory foam, which gives additional firm support and keeps them stay in place. It is the memory foam that makes them stay in shape and not get flat until a certain time period of continuous use.
What are Wedge Pillows Used For?
Wedge pillows are particularly important in improving blood circulation throughout the body by keeping it in the right position throughout sleep. When your body is at rest, the functions and systems inside it start working.
Therefore, it is essential for the body to be in a supportive shape and position to boost the functioning of these systems inside. You can reap these benefits with an elevated position using a wedge pillow:
- the circulation of blood improves throughout the sleep,
- reduce snoring
- Relieve pressure from the neck and other sensitive areas, which is otherwise caused due to wrong body postures and positions.
These wedge pillows can also elevate the lower part of the body like the leg or feet in case of any fractures. Since the basic idea is to control the circulation of blood in a particular fashion, this can be done to treat problems like injuries and fractures in feet, legs, or buttocks.
Not just for treating medical conditions or ensuring sound sleep, wedge pillows are also used to sit up at a certain angle to watch television, read a book or work on laptops, for instance.
It allows you to sit up by comfortably fitting the pillow behind your back so you can sit up for long hours without hurting your back. People with issues like back pain or neck strain are recommended to use these pillows not just for sleeping but for such long sitting as well, particularly if they are sitting on flat surfaces like a bed or on the floor of their living rooms.
The two most common places for the commercial purchase of wedge pillows are hospitals and beauty salons. We all see beds with elevations with such angled mattresses and pillows in hospitals as well as salons.
Since these pillows are not just utilized for treating medical conditions but are used for relaxing the body muscles and providing firm support, they are used in beauty salons to provide comfort to the client during body massages and other services.
How to Choose a Wedge Pillow?
Buying a wedge pillow is not as easy as any other pillow. There are some particular aspects you need to keep in mind before you finally invest in one.
1. Identify the Purpose
The first thing you should be clear about is the purpose you want this wedge pillow for. Do you want to treat a specific medical condition like back pain or pregnancy? Do you want to use it during sleep or for reading a book or using your laptop in bed?
Once you are sure of the purpose you want the pillow to serve, you will be able to know which one exactly you want to buy.
2. Know the Angle you Want
Once the objective has been clearly understood, the next thing you need to decide is the angle that you want on the edge of the pillow. Has your doctor recommended you a certain angle, or you want to determine one according to your own comfort position? Whatever it is, make sure you know what angle and how much elevation you are looking for in your wedge pillow when you are buying one.
While shopping for the wedge pillows online, make sure that the description of the product mentions this angle so you can have an idea you are making the right purchase.
3. The Price Range
As a general phenomenon, the higher price mostly indicates higher quality in wedge pillows as well. These pillows are usually priced between $50 to $100.
4. The Quality
The quality of these wedge pillows can be determined by the material used and their weight. Different weight ranges are available in these pillows. Lighter ones are easier to lift and carry around while the heavier ones are more reliable at staying in place and not getting displaced, thus providing firm support.
Users generally prefer lightweight ones for personal use. The ones you will find at hospitals will mostly be the heavier ones because they are not as frequently moved as the ones in homes.
Look for the high-quality foam in your wedge pillow, as the lower-quality ones will get de-shaped or sagged after consistent use.
5. Size and Shape
Wedge pillows are available in various sizes and shapes that you can choose from according to your preferences. Since all of us are of unique sizes, so we need to find a suitable size in wedge pillow that fits our back or wherever we need its support.
While the height of most pillows is between 7 to 12 inches, the pillow itself ranges between 20 to 24 inches. In addition to your own size, the size of your mattress and bed must also be considered when deciding the right size for your wedge pillow.
6. The Incline
Wedge pillows are available with elevations at different angles to target different concerns. The most common elevations available are between 30 to 45 degrees. The choice of this elevation depends on where you need the support and whether the support is needed during sleep or in a sitting position.
Those who prefer to keep a pillow under their legs may find a lower incline more comfortable, while those with sinus issues may opt for the higher elevations.
15 Best Wedge pillows
1. Brentwood Home Zuma Therapeutic Wedge Pillow (Helps with Sleep & Acid Reflux)
This hand knit wedge pillow provides a healthy, sound, and comfortable sleep and is also equally perfect to be used while watching television or reading a book. 100% made in USA, this product has been made to relieve the problems related to the respiratory system, and the gradual slope of it relieves neck and back pain.
Just as promised by any high-quality wedge pillow, it helps people who snore to have a more deep, peaceful sleep, thus minimizing the snores. It also helps in acid reflux, breathing problems, hiatal hernia, or poor blood circulation.
Remove and wash the bamboo cover as needed. Also, the dimensions of the pillow are 10 x 24 x 24 inches, weighing 3 pounds total, which is suitable to relieve the backache and provide adequate support. It is also available in 7 inch and 12-inch options instead of 10 inches.
Since this wedge pillow can be used to get support in a sitting position, it can be used on a full stomach position to help your digestion process work faster and more efficiently. You can also use it to elevate legs to promote blood circulation throughout the body.
This particular product has also been recommended by doctors for patients after shoulder surgery because it provides firm and stable support.
Pros
- 4.4 stars out of 5 ratings by the users.
- Washable Bamboo cover
- Available in three different size options
- Therapeutic base foam
- Can be used in sleeping as well as in sitting
- Suitable for side sleepers as well
- Low volatility foam used
Cons
- Some customers had a complaint of slippage because of the bamboo cover
- The product does not come with multiple covers, which is disappointing for the customers with a more peculiar aesthetic sense.
2. Cushy Form Bed Wedge Pillow
This wedge pillow has been ergonomically designed to provide firm support to the back during sleep. The 25 x 24 x 12 inches size provides a suitable elevation for comfortable sleeping. Made from high-quality memory foam, the product is considered reliable and long-lasting.
The white cover that this wedge pillow comes with is removable and washable. This wedge pillow can convert your bed into a recliner by providing the perfect slope under your neck and behind your back.
The perfect elevation improves your overall health by regulating blood pressure levels and providing relief against back pain. It is also adjustable according to your preferred body posture, which means you can set it wherever you find the most comfort.
The high-quality foam not just provides firm support but is extremely comfortable and long-lasting as well. The contours of your neck, shoulders, and back have been carefully considered while designing the shape of this wedge pillow. Also, an additional layer has been added for increased comfort. Those who have had neck surgery are often recommended to use this.
Pros
- Ergonomically designed considering the contours of neck and shoulders
- Removable and washable cover
- Can be easily adjusted according to your preferred position
- High quality, long-lasting foam
- The cover maintains the temperature and is not too hot on the skin touching it.
- Completely risk-free manufacturing
- Helps fix the bad sleeping postures as well, providing relief against pressure
Cons
- It looks like it has been made from TEMPUR material which is not very long-lasting.
- Some customers complained that the angle was a little high for a good night’s sleep, which means that it may not be suitable for regular use.
3. 5-in-1 Memory Foam Bed Wedge Pillow
This 9 x 12 inches wedge pillow has been made from memory foam. It is a 1.5” high-density foam that ensures the quality and durability of the pillow. The elevation is adjustable, and the cover is removable.
This particular product is suitable for post-surgery patients and is known to relieve back pain, sleeping disorders, and snoring issues. The best thing about this product is that it can be folded and is adjustable. The cover can also be removed and washed.
This wedge pillow can be folded and has a special 5 in 1 design. This means that you can use it while lying down, sleeping, resting, or while sitting up. The elevation of this pillow provides sound, peaceful sleep and restores your health. The elevation can be adjusted from 30 to 60 degrees according to the support needed from it.
All in all, this product is a total treat that may want to give yourself after a long hectic day. Get long, good night’s sleep with this amazing product and see the positive changes it brings to your physical and mental health. It keeps your posture right during your long deep sleep, thus relieving the neck, shoulder, and back pain issues.
Pros
- Since the pillow is foldable, it is easy to be stored and carried around as well.
- The high-density foam increases the overall life span of the pillow.
- Elevation can be adjusted from 30 to 60 degrees.
- The shape of it has been ergonomically designed to fit the contours of your body
- Comes with a 100 percent money-back guarantee
- Absolutely no risk in the purchase.
Cons
- This wedge pillow is available in just one color
- It also does not come with replacement cases even if the customer wants them.
- Suitable for adults only and not recommended for kids.
- Not comfortable for obese people
4. MedCline Shoulder Relief Wedge and Body Pillow System
This particular product is one of the most advanced forms of wedge pillows available. This incline pillow is specifically designed for the side sleepers and comes in different shapes for the right and left side sleepers. This is usually recommended by physicians and is used to target shoulder pain.
The flexible design provides support under the arm and legs as well. It can be popped up to 6 inches of height according to the preferred position of the users. The conditions that it specifically targets include tendonitis, bursitis, chronic shoulder pain, and rotator cuff injuries.
Because of this target market, it is manufactured using reliable medical grade material to ensure the right kind of treatment, the longevity of the product, and higher quality. Four different types of medical-grade foams are added into the manufacturing of these particular wedge pillows.
According to an estimate, it takes about thirty nights to adjust to a new sleeping position and pattern. Therefore, this product has a 30-day return policy, which means that you can return it even after thirty days of use if it does not treat your problem.
Pros
- No unpleasant odor
- Suitable to gift to the friends and family members as well
- Targets specific medical conditions
- Made from four layers of medical grade material
Cons
- Does not suit all kinds of body contours
- Does not target all kinds of problems
5. Lisenwood Foam Bed Wedge Pillow Set
This triangular-shaped wedge pillow set comes in two separate pieces, one to be used under the head and the other under the legs. It is suitable for peoples who have always slept with additional cushion support and more pillows. This wedge pillow is also suitable for pregnant women and is commercially sold and used in beauty salons and fitness centers as well.
The wedge pillow comes in 2 separate pieces that make it all the more versatile. You can use it for a good night’s sleep or for lounging around in your living room. It is about 23.6” inches wide and 12” high and can be easily adjusted for any preferred setting. These two pieces can be either used separately or assembled. There are numerous ways you can utilize it.
The cover is made up of premium plush fabric with a concealed zipper. It is removable and washable.
Pros
- This product comes with a lifetime warranty and 100 percent payback warranty
- You can also return it if you just do not like it or if it does not target your concerns.
- The material is tested for performance, durability and emission tested.
Cons
- It is a little difficult than other products for carrying and storage.
6. Jewell Nursing Solutions Rescue Turning Wedge for Patients
This one is a medical-grade pillow used for particularly targeted concerns. It is an angled pillow used as a turning wedge mostly for patients who have difficulty in moving and need increased support behind their back or legs.
The carefully layered foam has been built to ensure pressure distribution to target the concerns like nursing after giving birth, deter bedsores, etc. It is available in 28 x 14 x 5 inch size and comes in a single piece. Various degree tilts are used for various concerns like 30 degrees for patients with bedsores.
The material and weight of the pillow have been designed to ensure a firm grip and that it does not slip from under the patient, disorienting their position. The ergonomic design ensures minimum touch to the patient’s body.
This wedge pillow avoids any kind of possible discomfort and maintains an equal distribution of pressure to provide comfort. The turning edge in the center of this cushion avoids exerting pressure on a patient’s spine. The weight is distributed evenly throughout and maintains a favorable body posture.
Pros
- Since the product has been designed and manufactured for patients on bed rest, the cover has been made from a material that is moisture proof.
- Hygiene can be fully ensured and controlled.
- A disinfectant towelette can be used to wipe clean it without having to wash it or soak it completely in water.
7. InteVision Ortho Bed Wedge Pillow (Relief for Back, Hip, and Knee Pain)
This product has been specifically designed to elevate the legs post-surgical treatments or to promote efficient blood circulation to treat other clinical problems. It has been designed according to the contours of the leg to provide a comfortable position without making your feet feel like in an elevated position.
Made from memory foam, this wedge ortho pillow comes in 8 x 21 x 24 inch size and is particularly good for lower back, hip, and knee pain relief. Manufactured by InterVision, it comes in a white bamboo cover and weighs approximately 3.2 pounds.
It has been carefully designed with two layers of foam, with a top layer with slightly softer foam to provide comfort and the bottom layer with a slightly firmer one to provide a strong grip and support.
Keeping your legs and feet elevated with the help of this cushion helps the spinal cord and the muscles around it to relax. The bamboo cover is machine washable and gives a smooth, clean feel under your feet after each wash.
Pros
- Relieves back, hip and knee pain
- Removable, washable cover
- Can be returned within 30 days of purchase along with the 100 percent refund.
Cons
- Some customers claim that the pillow is not made from memory foam.
8. Relax Support RS6 Wedge Pillow
The Relax Support RS6 Wedge Pillow has a 3-in-1 technology that is adjustable and is ideal for the back, neck, and legs. It is also mostly used for pregnant women for the kind of support behind the back that it promises to provide.
It relieves the breathing issue as well, thus tackling the problem of snoring, therefore makes it a perfect gift for your partner if you want to enjoy a peaceful sleep without the noise of your partner’s snoring.
The elevation option has been strategically designed, where it comes with two elevation pillows with different degrees of elevation and can be zipped to make it one for the highest elevation option, thus being a 3-in-1 kind of a product.
Made from high-quality memory foam, this product lasts longer without getting de-shaped or the quality of foam getting deteriorated. Where the competitors are trying to make similar products with simple classic foam, this has been made by the four layers of high quality, reliable memory foam.
Pros
- Ideal for respiratory problems
- Minimizes snoring
- You can return the product anytime if you do not like it along with a 100 percent refund.
- Has a firm grip towards the surface and prevents slipping from under the neck or body.
Cons
- Not so ideal to be used in the areas with hot humid weather, because the foam causes increased heat and sweating.
9. ZOEMO Memory Foam Orthopedic Bed Wedge Pillow
The ZOEMO Memory Orthopedic wedge pillow is a multipurpose pillow that can be used for a sound, peaceful sleep for post-surgical rest and support and relieving back, neck, and shoulder pain. It is equally good to be used while lying down or for sitting up to read a book or use a laptop.
The high-quality, high-density memory foam goes into the manufacturing of this product and provides 30 to 60 degrees of elevation. The product is foldable and the design is said to be one of a kind 12 in 1 feature.
This means that there are 7 different options in it to adjust the height and elevation according to the concern you want to target through it. When adjusted on a preferred height and elevation, it leads to sound peaceful sleep, thus promoting health and overall well-being.
Pros
- Promotes healthy, long, peaceful sleep.
Cons
- Return and exchange requests are only entertained under certain terms and conditions, unlike some of the other retailers.
10. Lunix 4pcs Orthopedic Bed Wedge Pillow Set
This wedge pillow set comes in 4 separate pieces and is used for extra high-end firm support. It is mostly recommended by doctors for patients of stroke or critical physical condition with limited movability or a need to be in a certain posture.
However, people with weak spinal or with an issue of backache also use it for extra support. It must be noted that this wedge pillow cannot be replaced with a regular bed and should only be used for a limited time period.
This wedge pillow is made of soft high-quality memory foam and is easily adaptable to the shape and contours of your body. It can relieve the pain and pressure from the target areas for you.
This wedge pillow is considered a reliable and long-lasting product. And it is manufactured considering the needs of such critical patients with peculiar needs.
Pros
- Adapts to the shape and contours of your body
- The soft material of the foam has been used so that it is not too firm for the patients in critical condition.
Cons
- The fact that it comes in 4 different pieces makes it difficult to set and handle, to store or to carry around
11. PharMeDoc Pregnancy U-Shape Full Body Pillow
The PharMeDoc Pregnancy Pillow provides full-body support, unlike other wedge pillows. This is considered a maternity body pillow particularly designed for pregnant women. It has been ergonomically designed according to the shape and contours of the body and has a detachable extension. The full body pillow provides firm support to the back, neck, shoulders, hips, and feet all at once.
It ensures long sound sleep to the pregnant women, thus providing them the necessary rest that they need. The jersey cover gives an ultra-soft feel and it is removable and washable. So you can clean it easily. This pregnancy pillow is 53 inches long, 31 inches wide, and 7 inches high, giving you enough room to relax and flip positions.
The pregnancy pillow can also be used by other non-pregnant women, who are looking for full-body support. It is completely risk-free and guarantees 100 percent satisfaction.
Pros
- Provides customized relief in your preferred position
- Made from soft jersey material
- Double-stitched seams make it more reliable and long-lasting
- Covers are easily removable and washable
Cons
- Because of the large size, the handling of the product is somewhat difficult and needs a large storage room.
12. Leachco Snoogle Original Pregnancy Total Body Pillow
The Leacho Snoogle full body pillow is a specialized maternity pillow suitable for pregnant women or for post-delivery relief and comfort. It provides support to the back, neck, legs, and tummy all at the same time.
Available in a beautiful mauve color, this pillow has a nice delicate feminine touch to it, which makes it all the more favorite of our female target audience. This pillow has been carefully designed by a nurse who is a mother herself. She has prepared the shape and contours of the pillow, considering the needs and concerns of pregnant women.
The best thing about this product is that it does not release extra heat and is extremely comfortable to be used even in hot weather.
Pros
- Designed by a professional nurse
- Suitable to be used in hot weather as well
- Machine washable cover
- Suitable for different heights and body sizes.
Cons
- Too big to fit on a bed, especially when you are sleeping with your partner.
13. Mkicesky Contour Memory Foam Pillow
Sleeping sideways is not a choice, it’s a feeling! What better can you get to enjoy this great feeling than Mkicesky Side Sleeper Contour Memory Foam Pillow? Mkicesky Side Sleeper Contour Memory Foam Pillow is designed especially for side sleepers.
The design of the pillow is ideal to support your neck and shoulder and allow your muscles to relax completely when you doze off. The ultra-comfortable memory foam used in the product will make sure that you don’t have to change your position frequently when you are asleep. The pillow easily adjusts according to the shape of your neck and shoulders and this is the reason why you get to enjoy a sound sleep.
Pros
- Perfect for all postures of sleep
- Tends to reduce snoring
- Fits aptly with the curve of the neck
- Breathable fabric used keeps you dry
Cons
- Comes in a single cover
- Can be a bit tough to wash
14. Lunderg CPAP Pillow for Side Sleepers
Comfortable sleep, the best position for neck and shoulders, and no sweating! It’s a dream sleep for everyone who goes to bed at night after a hectic day. The Lunderg CPAP Pillow for Side Sleepers is making this dream a reality – thanks to the innovative design for all types of sleepers.
The pillow system includes 2 pillowcases with the proven thickness to guarantee absolute comfort of your neck and head. The pillows have been made with memory foam that is proven to provide the next level of comfort.
What makes this pillow set a must-have for everyone is its adjustable thickness. The makers believe that no two people are the same and this is why they should get what their body is comfortable with. Those who use snoring masks can also use the product with full confidence.
Pros
- Adjustable thickness
- Two pillow cases
- Ideal for all types of sleepers
Cons
- Pillows may not be suitable for children
15. Avana Kind Bed Orthopedic Support Wedge Pillow Comfort System
Avana Kind Bed Orthopedic Support Wedge Pillow serves the purpose of providing immense comfort to your neck, shoulders, and back. It comes in a pack of 4 pieces in cloud/camel colors. The pillows have been designed in a way to support your body while sitting upright.
Those who are confined to their bed for long hours or those who enjoy watching TV, reading books, or using laptops on their beds can get the best value out of these pillows. The pillow set is also very helpful for pregnant women who are in the latter stages and need to rest well to stay healthy. Avana Kind Bed Orthopedic Support Wedge Pillow Comfort system will give you the best comfort you need.
Pros
- Easy to flip and adjust according to your back
- The leg wedge provides elevation to help your aching pressure points
- Breathable fabric
- Machine washable
Cons
- Returns and refunds may face delays
- Only suitable for one person
Below is a summary table of wedge pillows.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I buy a wedge pillow without a doctor’s recommendation?
Yes, wedge pillows are sold without a doctor’s recommendation but are advised to use them only after consultation with your physician.
2. What material should I look for when buying a wedge pillow?
Wedge pillows are mostly available in polyfoam and memory foam.
3. Who should use wedge pillows?
Wedge pillows are suitable for back sleepers, pregnant women, people with sleep disorders. For the ones who snore, people with neck, shoulder, or back pain, people with acid reflux, people with diabetes or high blood pressure problems.
4. For how long does a wedge pillow last?
A good quality wedge pillow should last for about three years, at least. However, the average life of these pillows depends on their quality and use.
5. Can I wash a wedge pillow?
The cover of the pillow can be machine washed, but it is recommended not to soak the foam of the pillow in water, as it will deteriorate the quality of the pillow and its firmness. Spot cleaning can be used on foam as and when required.
6. What should I do if my wedge pillow does not give me the desired results?
If you do not get the desired results, or if the use of a wedge pillow creates further problems like increased back pain or more disturbed sleep, please discontinue the use and consult your physician about it.
7. What are the general price ranges of wedge pillows?
You must expect the price to be somewhere between $50 to $100. However, the lower-priced ones are also available in lower quality.
8. Is there an option to adjust the elevation of the wedge pillow?
Some wedge pillows do come with an option to adjust the incline angle, but these are extremely rare to be found.
9. Where can I buy wedge pillows?
There are numerous online and in-store options to buy wedge pillows from. Do not forget to check the warranty and return policies before buying one from any of these retailers.
Conclusion
Since there is now an increasing demand for wedge pillows and there is also an overwhelming number and variety of wedge pillows available in both online and offline markets, this article gives you a snapshot of what to look for in an ideal wedge pillow, how to choose one for yourself and some of the best wedge pillows available that you can conveniently order online and get them delivered to your doorstep.
Buy one today and feel your mental and physical health getting improved each day and embrace better sleeping patterns.
