A pillow is a mate that works to give you a sound sleep and a dramatic dream. If you think your pillow does not give either of them, then it’s high time to change it.
When you get yourself a wrong pillow, it does not only affect your sleep, dream and pillow talks but also becomes a reason for several issues like neck pain and shoulder stiffness. And if you are one of those sufferers, then we have a solution that you can go through.
We made a list of 10 best pillows for neck and shoulder pain that have been loved by different kinds of sleepers.
Let’s check them pee-low?
10 Best Pillow For Neck and Shoulder Pain Reviewed!
In this section, we reviewed for you 10 of the best pillow for Neck and Shoulder Pain. What are those? Let’s see the list:
- LEREKAM Memory Foam Cervical Pillow
- Coisum Memory Foam Back Sleeper Cervical Pillow
- UTTU Sandwich Pillow
- Milemont Cervical Memory Foam Pillow
- Wonwo Cervical Memory Foam Pillow
- Elviros Cervical Memory Foam Pillow
- Contour Memory Foam Pillows for Neck Pain
- Milemont Shredded Memory Foam Pillow
- Mkicesky Side Sleeper Contour Pillow
- LEREKAM Memory Foam Cervical Pillow (Soft & White Dot)
LEREKAM Memory Foam Cervical Pillow Firm & Blue Dot
Comfier, softer, healthier and safer: this is what this best pillow for neck and shoulder pain by Lerekam provides you with.
It is filled up with memory foam having a rebound time of 3 to 5 seconds that helps make it absorb the impact force and disperse the pressure evenly. So, you will not feel any pressure and that you can relieve the neck and shoulder pain. The memory foam offers better airflow so that it can keep the skin dry and cool. Besides, the durability and support of the material are also very impressive. 
As for the pillowcase, it is made of 50% polyester, 40% polyester yarn, 15% color yarn and 5% spandex that will feel comfy and soft.
With gigantic three-dimensional back rub particles, the outer layer of the pad center is disseminated so your head and neck get support from these particles. That, yet the particles likewise feel comfortable and flexible making them rub the head, shoulder and neck region completely while assisting the body with unwinding. Thus, an evening of pleasant evening rest is ensured.
Besides, the pillowcase comes with an invisible zipper that you can unzip to remove and machine-wash it. The only issue with the pillow is that it will take some time to get rid of the newly bought weird smell.
However, this pillow uses ergonomic design so that it can help improve your sleep quality by making the cervical spine stretch and relax as well as adapting to the natural physiological curvature.
It will not matter which kind of sleeper you are, it will give you the kind of comfort you look for making it an ideal choice by aligning your head, neck, shoulder and back.
Pros:
- Neck Cervical Massage.
- 3 to 5 seconds rebound time.
- Durable and breathable memory foam.
- Aligns your head, back neck and shoulder.
- High Quality Invisible Zipper.
Cons:
- Takes time to get rid of the smell.
Coisum Memory Foam Back Sleeper Cervical Pillow
Designed perfectly for back sleepers, this cervical pillow offers the most comfortable advantage with its functions.
Having been stuffed with 60-density high quality memory foam, it is firm enough to support your neck and head. As a result, you can keep the neck aligned properly with the rest of your body. So, if you want to get rid of the awful crooked neck or sore shoulders, then this can be an ideal solution. 
As for the pillowcase, it is made of hypoallergenic polyester fiber material that lets air circulate to keep the pillow cool. You can also remove and wash the case to make it clean and safe.
Being a cervical pillow, it will in general reduce the tension of the rear of the skull while you’re on your back and support your head to furnish you with ideal help. Notwithstanding, since it has been made for back sleepers, individuals who rest as an afterthought may not get benefits from this.
That said, the pillow is able to fit your neck perfectly, thanks to the temperature sensing feature of memory foam. There will also be two different contour heights on either side so you can go with the one you find the most comfortable.
The pillow has a medium hardness, that also feels perfect when it comes to cushioning your head, neck and shoulder.
Pros:
- Firm enough to support neck and shoulder.
- Ideal for back sleepers.
- Temperature sensing makes it fit neck perfectly.
- Two different contour heights.
- Breathable pillowcase.
Cons:
- Not ideal for side sleepers.
UTTU Sandwich Pillow
A bit unique than regular pillows, UTTU Sandwich model can impress you with a groundbreaking cut-and-layer design that makes it the best pillow for neck and shoulder pain. 
The pillow has a high contour in 4.7 inches and low contour in 3.9 inches with the memory foam in the middle. You will also find the loft adjustable where the fills can be removed let you reduce high contour to 3.5 inches and low contour to 2.8 inches. In short, it will let you adjust the fluffiness of the pillow so you can enjoy all the comfort while sleeping.
Besides adjustable loft, it can conform to the curve of your body. Plus, it is able to support your head, neck and shoulder.
To add more, it guarantees ideal solace just as helps in lessening neck and shoulder torment. In addition to that, the cushion will in general offer legitimate spine arrangement so it can keep your muscles loose while delivering pressure uniformly.
Its cover has been fabricated with 60% polyester and 40% bamboo making it hypoallergenic as well as breathable.
It also guarantees you to never become hard. Hence, you can enjoy its fluffiness without having to adjust it.
However, some users remarked that it takes time to break in, but this did not stop them from loving it.
Pros:
- Contour to neck, shoulder and head.
- Hypoallergenic and breathable cover.
- Zero pressure sleep.
- Adjustable loft.
- Never becomes hard.
Cons:
Milemont Cervical Memory Foam Pillow
Milemont too has the best pillow for neck and shoulder pain that is made for all kinds of sleepers.
It comes stuffed with Aircell-Tech Gel-infused Memory Foam that is CertiPUR-US certified and helps adjust to the pressure coming from your neck and head. Besides, it keeps the spine aligned and helps relieve neck and shoulder pain as it retains shape regardless of its frequent use. 
The remedial plan of Milemont enormously upholds the cervical bend of your neck, which means, there will be lesser neck torment and more therapeutic REM sleep just as help for your muscles and neck. What’s more, as it lifts your head to an appropriate stature, it guarantees needed help and solace.
The pillowcase is made of 65% Polyester and 35% Tencel which does not only offer durability but also dust mite protection. It comes with a high-quality side zipper that makes it removable and washable. You will also love how the cover stays cool all the time because of its great breathability coming out of Air Cell technology.
Moreover, the pillow also offers a protective barrier against allergens like dust mites, molds, and other bacteria.
It has also been loved by people of all sleeping positions since it comes with low and high pillow areas with a medium firm feel. So, you all will surely find it soft yet stable.
However, you may face some discomfort during the first week of use. But by the time your body gets adjusted to the correct position, you will love the comfort.
Pros:
- Protective barrier against allergens.
- Durable and breathable Aircell-Tech Gel-infused material.
- High-quality side zipper makes the cover removable and washable.
- Medium firm yet soft.
- Low and high pillow areas for all kinds of sleepers.
Cons:
Wonwo Cervical Memory Foam Pillow
Wonwo has won many user’s hearts with its simple ingredients that helped it be the best pillow for neck and shoulder pain. 
It’s simple! The pillow comes loaded down with adaptable padding that isn’t simply strong yet additionally agreeable to lay our head on. It vows to adjust to the normal arch of your body with its novel shape and plan. It additionally attempts to help your neck and head so it can decrease shoulder and neck torment, ease body firmness.
Besides, you will also find it promoting neutral spine alignment making your muscles relax and improving your sleep.
The pillow comes with two different heights that will be ideal for people who prefer different sleeping posture to catch some Zs.
The material will not get hard in cold weather. It will remain soft yet solid enough to last longer. As for the pillowcase, the bamboo fiber is soft and breathable to keep you cool all night. It has been fabricated with heat-dissipating technology that helps eliminate thermal buildup while you’re sleeping. Besides, you can remove and machine-wash it as well to keep it cleaner and fresh.
Moreover, the pillow features a decent slow rebound time from 3 to 5 seconds that make it disperse pressure evenly while you enjoy its support.
You may wish it to be a bit thicker since many users felt it slightly thinner than many of the rival models.
Pros:
- Two different heights.
- Will never get hard.
- Heat-dissipating technology.
- 3 to 5 seconds rebound time.
- Breathable and machine washable pillowcase.
Cons:
Elviros Cervical Memory Foam Pillow
Elviros claims to usher in the new age of modern pillows. They have been designed to offer comfort and better sleep. 
The inventive shape configuration is great for a wide range of sleepers. What’s more, with its adaptable padding fill, it shapes itself to the forms of your shoulder, neck, and head while you rest. In addition to that, it additionally forms once again into its unique shape in the wake of delivering pressure. Numerous clients cherished it for its warm, rich resources that give a ’embracing’ vibe.
The pillow has a cavity in the middle that cradles the head to provide it with great support whereas the structure offers better respiration of yours.
With center contour, the pillow follows the curvature of the spine and neck so it can prevent herniated or bulging disc for back sleepers. If you are a side sleeper, it will fit your neck to shoulder area ideally as it has side panels as well.
The pillow also offers neutral spinal alignment that works to decrease pressure and also helps relieve pain. The slow rebound function keeps the shape and firmness so you can use it for a longer period.
Besides, with its two-sided heights in the front and back, it also helps different sleepers cope up with different sleeping issues.
One big plus of the pillow is that you will get two removable pillowcases that are enough breathable to keep you cool and dry. And you can also remove them for washing purposes.
One small con of the model is that it is not very thick. So, some of you may wish it to be more stuffed with memory foam fills.
Pros:
- Middle cavity helps cradle the head.
- Center contour helps prevent herniated or bulging disc.
- Two-sided heights front and back
- Slow rebound functions.
- Two breathable and machine washable pillowcases.
Cons:
Contour Memory Foam Pillows for Neck Pain
Contour memory foam pillow can bring you great joy by shooing away all the pains and aches at night while you try to sleep and dream.
The cervical pillow comes stuffed with durable memory foam that warrants to always stay soft even if the weather changes to chill. 
Moreover, it features 3-5 seconds slow rebound function that provides you with stress-free sleep by adapting to the natural curve of your body. As a result, it tends to fit the curve of your neck and shoulder ideally while you lay your head on it.
The frontal slope of the pillow keeps your shoulders and neck in proper alignment that helps lessen neck ache and alleviate shoulder stiffness. You will love to snuggle around it as it can make you feel relaxed and comfortable.
Its front and rear sides come in different heights that accommodate different sleeping positions. If you are a back sleeper having cervical issues, you can lie on the higher side of the pillow with frontal slope. The side will not only offer better support but also soothe away all the pains making it the best pillow for neck and shoulder pain.
The pillowcase has been made of durable fabrics that are smooth and breathable to let you feel cool and cozy all night. You can also remove it and machine-wash it to keep it clean and safe.
However, a little con is that it is more on the firm side so people who prefer soft and squishy pillow may not like it.
Pros:
- Will not get very hard.
- It comes with different heights for all kinds of sleepers.
- Adaptable slow-rebound effect.
- Breathable and machine washable pillowcase.
- Optimum support.
Cons:
Milemont Shredded Memory Foam Pillow
No matter how much you sculpt, scrunch, squish, or fluff, this pillow promises to go back to its original rectangular shape.
It comes with a shredded memory foam pill that is not only durable but also free of chemicals. The fill also offers softness yet firmness and matches the natural curve of your body. 
One of the reasons why it has been chosen to be the best pillow for neck and shoulder pain is the balanced support that it provides to the upper area of the body. Hence, you will find it to relieve all sorts of pain and stiffness while helping muscles relax.
It also guarantees to never go flat and low so it attempts to improve your sleep as well. Indeed, the pillow might set aside effort to return to the first shape, however that is not nothing to joke about.
The pillow has also been stated to be ideal for different sleep posture as it offers optimum support and keeps the spine aligned.
Both the memory foam and pillowcase are breathable that will help keep you cool all night. You will also find both of them comfortable.
Speaking of the pillowcase, you can remove it for washing purposes so you can keep it clean and enjoy its cushioning.
Pros:
- Free of harmful metals and chemicals.
- Will never go flat.
- Will get back to its original shape.
- Offers optimum support.
- Breathable and machine-washable pillowcase.
Cons:
- Takes time to get back to original shape.
Mkicesky Side Sleeper Contour Pillow
This model by Mkicesky helps you get rid of different sleeping problems other than just neck and shoulder pain.
The cervical pillow has been designed ergonomically to let muscles of the neck and shoulder relax completely. Its contoured shape provides you with proper alignment that helps relieve neck and shoulder discomfort and rejuvenate your body. 
Besides, the memory foam fill is responsive so it will reshape to the preferred position for cradling your head, relieving pressure points and improving circulation.
Not only that, but the pillow also supports the natural curve of the neck to offer comfort so you can breathe more freely and peacefully.
Having the cervical spine upheld immovably and tenderly, its Adopt Hollow Design diminishes the strain on your head that further lessens the weight on your cervical spine and settle your dozing stance. Accordingly, it won’t just calm neck and shoulder torment yet in addition addresses wheezing and sleep deprivation issues.
As for the removable pillowcase, it also feels cool as it allows air for circulation. Having been made of polyester material, the case is not only smooth and soft but hypoallergenic as well.
One big plus about the pillow is that it has 2 different heights that make it ideal for people of different sleeping positions. So, it is indeed multifunctional.
A small drawback is that it takes a bit time to break in as per the users but that should not be a big concern.
Pros:
- It helps solve different sleeping issues.
- Adopt Hollow Design reduces pressure.
- Cervical contour helps support the natural curve.
- Breathable and machine-washable pillowcase.
- Two different heights.
Cons:
LEREKAM Memory Foam Cervical Pillow (Soft & White Dot)
A softer version of the cervical pillow by Lerekam that focuses on providing you with comfort so calling it the best pillow for neck and shoulder pain will not be wrong. 
This one comes with a white dot that is softer than the blue dot version. To provide your head, neck and shoulders with optimum support, its pillow core surface is distributed with myriad and big three-dimensional massaging units.
While being stuffed with soft memory foam, the units work to massage effectively so that it can relax all of your upper body parts. Your neck and head will also not get muggy, thanks to skin-friendly and breathable material provided by the brand.
The pillow requires only 3 to 5 seconds to rebound which makes the pillow absorb evenly. It also disperses the pressure so that it can protect your neck health. The credit should be given to its elasticity.
The pillowcase is fabricated with 50 % polyester, 40 % polyester yarn, 15 % color yarn, 5 % spandex that offers a smooth texture. You can remove it as well as machine-wash it after unzipping it by its invisible zipper. Although, it is not supposed to release chemical smell, but some of the users griped that it did. Not just that, they also noted that it takes time to get rid of such smell which can be a small downside for you.
However, the pillow will not only support the upper body areas but also adapt cervical to natural physiological curvature so you can sleep better.
Pros:
- Soft Rebound Memory Foam.
- Large 3D Massage Particles.
- 3 to 5 seconds rebound time.
- Breathable and high quality pillowcase.
- Invisible zipper glides smoothly.
Cons:
- The chemical smell is strong.
The Buying Guide
Things to consider
Size:
Size also plays a big role when it comes to preventing neck and shoulder pain. Choosing the wrong size will not only cause the issue but can also worsen it. For this, we have given a table so that you get an idea of which size would be ideal for you to pick.
| Pillow size | Dimensions in inches | PillowCase Dimensions in inches | Notes |
| Travel | Varies | Specialty sizes | Such pillows come in different shapes and sizes. You will find them enough small and light to stuff into carry-on bags. The classic U-shape model is stated to be the commonest type of travel pillows. |
| Small | 20W x 12L | Specialty sizes | A size that is mostly found in curved or cervical memory foam pillows. The pillow is shorter than the standard size. |
| Standard | 20W x 26L | 20-21W x 30-32L | This is the most compact and commonest pillow size. It is able to fit twin, twin XL, and full sized bed. |
| Super Standard | 20W x 28L | 20-21W x 30-32L | The size is a bit longer than that of Standard. However, it fits into the same pillowcase dimensions. |
| Queen | 20W x 30L | 20-21W x 30-32L (standard) or 20-22W x 30-34L (queen) | An ideal size for sleepers who toss and turn. A great option for queen sized beds or larger. |
| King | 20W x 36L | 20-21W x 36-41L | This is also an ideal size for the restless sleeper who tosses and turns. A great option for king or California king-sized bed. |
| Euro | Varies | Varies | They come in square shape making them suitable as backrests or headrests. |
| Body pillow | 54W x 20L or 48W x 20L | Varies | Perfect for side-sleepers who have a tendency to snuggle. They are also suitable for pregnant women |
Material
The material of a pillow helps determine how a pillow would redistribute your head weight as you move. There are a lot of materials that are used to make a pillow comfortable and well-proportioned. But only a few materials are the best when it comes to neck and shoulder pain. These materials cradle the neck and head as well as align the spine. Let’s know what they are:
Memory foam does not only contour to the head but also the shoulder and neck. It relieves pressure points and keeps the spine neutrally aligned. Pillows of memory foam are filled with either shredded or solid piece of viscoelastic poly-foam. This substance gets softer when it contacts with body heat. Moreover, pillows of shredded memory foam can be adjusted to your desired shape and loft, whereas pillows of solid-piece memory foam can be shaped in an ergonomic design for making the position of neck and shoulder better besides your head.
Pillows are stuffed with feathers that come from outer feathers of geese or ducks. Down is stated to be the fluff found underneath the outer feathers that make the pillow softer. So, you will find such pillow comfy and luxury. However, feather pillows may require frequent fluffing but they are great at conforming to the neck and shoulder while possessing adjustable loft.
Such pillows are filled with 5 pounds to 10 pounds of buckwheat outer shells or hulls. They are extremely firm that can be uncomfortable to some of you but can provide you with good support to help deal with neck and shoulder pain.
Latex is a natural, solid material that is extracted from the sap of rubber trees. It is able to conform to the head, neck and shoulder that helps in relieving pressure and aligning the spine, just like memory foam. Such pillows come in single-piece or shredded. Moreover, it can also alleviate pain. However, its loft is not very adjustable but does a decent job.
Polyester fill is a synthetic fabric coming in shredded or interlocking fiber. It does not flatten easily as it mimics the softness of cotton. The shredded pillows do a great job in easing neck pain but the interlocking fiber exacerbates it instead. However, coming in a reasonable price tag, it is a good option.
Cover Material
If you want to make sure that you enjoy optimal comfort, it is suggested to go with a pillow cover that has a soft texture. You can either choose the material that is made of cotton or one derived from bamboo fiber. Polyester cover can also be pretty durable and comfortable to reduce neck and shoulder pain. Just make sure that the cover is enough breathable to allow sufficient air circulation.
Shape
The shape of pillows helps in determining the type of support it provides to the neck. If you are suffering from neck and shoulder pain, then make sure the pillows are either even surface or curved.
This is the standard shape of the pillow that is rectangular and smooth. Even surfaced pillow contains feathers, shredded memory foam or poly-fill so it can contour to the neck and head for comfort and support. However, there are some cases where people may not receive enough support if the pillow lacks sufficient fills. That said, even surface pillows can retain a fuller shape if filled with interlocking polyester which can help with comfort.
Also known as orthopedic or cervical pillows, curved ones are basically fabricated with a single piece of memory foam. While the head area is recessed, the neck area is elevated. There are people who remark getting more comfort and support after placing the pillow upside down.
Loft
Loft defines the thickness of a pillow. You will basically find 3 types of lofts:
- Low-loft: Below 3-inch thickness
- Medium-loft: 3-inch to 5-inch thickness
- High-loft: Above 5-inch thickness
It is linked directly to the comfort and support of pillows as well as the possibility of neck pain occurrences. You will get a lot of variables to consider when it comes to choosing an ideal loft. The variables include positions of sleep and pillow, type of mattresses, the width of your shoulder, head size and your body weight.
Sleeping Position
The position of sleeping has a big impact on the pillow type you choose. If you keep your spine neutrally aligned, it can help lessen shoulder and neck pain through which you can enjoy a better sleep. For this, it is essential to go for a pillow that has the right loft depending on your sleeping position.
One of the commonest and preferred positions is side-sleeping. It provides you with better breathing. And you can also improve your heart health by reducing acid influx through lying on the right side. The ideal pillow for side sleepers is stated to be medium to high-loft. They can also go with a contour pillow that has a lower loft in the head area and a higher loft in the neck area.
Such people align their spine naturally as their back remains in direct contact with the sleeping surface. This position also allows for better breathing. However, there is yet a risk of snoring as well as a bigger risk of developing sleep apnea. The most ideal pillow for back sleepers is the one with a medium to the low loft. As for the type, you can go for a cylindrical pillow that offers great support under the neck.
Benefits
- Contouring and neck support: Pillows like cervical type comes with a distinct curve that has 2 raised ends and a dip in the mid. It helps support the natural shape of the head and neck for all sorts of sleepers.
- Spinal alignment: The cervical spine refers to a delicate area in which the neck and upper back are connected via 7 vertebral segments. It is also the area where the spinal cord is positioned. An ergonomic pillow helps maintain the natural curve alignment at the back of the neck.
- Improved blood circulation to the muscles: Well-designed pillows come equipped with an ideal blend of softness and firmness. While a very hard rock pillow restricts blood circulation, a very soft pillow lacks support. But the pillows that are made for neck and shoulder pain help relax the muscle and increase blood circulations.
- Fits all: Such pillows are designed in such that can contour to each and everyone’s neck and head shape making it a custom fit. You will find most of the pillows that are made for side, back and stomach sleepers.
- Less turning and tossing: Perfect pillow should offer comfort as well as stability. Since it is likely to support your upper body area, it will let you relax. It means, there will be less turning and tossing all through the night. Such pillows keep you from motion distribution and disturbance. As a result, it will help improve sleep quality!
- Antibacterial protection: Most of the pillow fills and cases are made with materials that offer antibacterial protection. So, there will be no dust mites and odor to disturb you. Moreover, such materials are also very breathable since moisture and heat disperse from the pillow surface. So, you will find your head cool all night because of its air circulation. Not only that, but pillows also feature hypoallergenic properties that prevent allergic reactions.
- Deals with several sleeping issues: A perfect pillow does not only relieve neck pain and reduces shoulder stiffness but also helps you deal with other issues. It can also reduce a headache as well as tackle snoring and insomnia.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: What type of pillow is best for neck and shoulder pain?
A: The position of sleeping has a big impact on neck and shoulder pain. And the type of pillow you pick will make a big difference. No matter what type you go for, make sure that the pillow allows you to keep your spine neutrally aligned. This way, it can help lessen shoulder and neck pain while relieving the muscles extending from the neck to shoulders.
When it comes to material, it will be great to go for latex or memory foam since they both offer great support to the neck and shoulder.
Q: What is the best pillow for side sleepers with neck pain?
A: If you are a side sleeper who is suffering from neck pain, then you need to pay special attention to the pillow thickness, particularly the ones with broad shoulders. Make sure that you look for a neutral spinal alignment. You won’t find any pillow that is specifically ideal for everyone. It simply relies on you. Besides looking for the right thickness, make sure to think about the material as well.
There has been a review led in Australia that expected to discover the kind of cushion material which will be great for side sleepers in migraine, neck solidness, and arm torment in correlation with the individual pads of the members. It was uncovered that latex material was the best in decreasing migraine, neck firmness, and arm torment contrasted with polyester, froth normal, froth form, and quill ones. You can look at the subtleties on the US National Library of Medicine to know more.
Q: How should I sleep with neck and shoulder pain?
A: You can follow these tips stated below to sleep in such so you can relieve neck and shoulder pain:
- Get 2 pillows, with the top pillow overlapped slightly back of the bottom pillow.
- It is recommended to lie on the back or side. Let the top pillow support your neck while the bottom pillow supports your shoulder.
- You can use a body pillow to hug it. This will help in putting your top shoulder in an open position. You can also have the pillow tucked up high under your arms.
- Use a pillow in between your legs if you are side sleeping. If you are on your back, then use one behind your thighs. It will help in taking the pressure off your entire spine.
- When you lie down, take a gentle deep breath. This will help calm your body down as well as improve the flow of oxygen to the muscles so that they can relax. This way, you will be able to relieve neck and shoulder pain.
Q: Can a pillow cause neck and shoulder pain?
A: Yes, if you go with the wrong type of pillow, it can cause neck and shoulder pain. For instance, pillows that are filled with down alternative are the worst for the neck and shoulder. They lose shape easily and deteriorate quickly that can worsen the pain. Besides, going with a wrong loft can also cause such pain. For getting the correct one, make sure you take note of your sleeping position.
Wrap-Up!
It will only need a pillow replacement to get relief from neck and shoulder pain. You will find several options that will suit different needs and budgets. But no matter what you grab, we would suggest you to give a bit of time to get adapt to it before expecting the desired results. After the break in period, you will love the comfort, and get a sweet night’s sleep, we are sure of that!
