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Do you often wake up with lower back pain? If so, you’re not alone. In fact, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, up to 80% of adults experience back pain at some point in their lives. Fortunately, there are things you can do to help ease this pain. One simple solution is to use a wedge pillow when you sleep. Here’s how it can help.
WHAT IS A WEDGE PILLOW?
A wedge pillow is a pillow that is angled so that it supports your head and shoulders while you sleep. This helps to reduce any tension or strain on your back and neck. Additionally, wedge pillows can be used to elevate your legs, which can help to relieve any swelling or discomfort.
HOW A WEDGE PILLOW CAN HELP RELIEVE BACK PAIN
There are a few different ways that sleeping on a wedge pillow can help relieve back pain. It can take pressure off of your spine by elevating your upper body. This can be especially helpful if you suffer from GERD or acid reflux, as it can prevent stomach acids from rising into your throat during the night. Sleeping on a wedge pillow can help keep your spine in alignment by supporting your neck and shoulders. This can help prevent tension headaches as well as pain in your upper and lower back.
Wedge pillows come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so it’s important to choose one that best meets your needs. For example, if you’re looking for something that will elevate your head and shoulders, you’ll want to choose a taller pillow. On the other hand, if you just need a little support for your lower back, a shorter pillow will suffice. There are also wedges available that are specifically designed for pregnant women or people recovering from surgery. No matter what your needs are, there’s a wedge pillow out there that’s perfect for you.
TIPS FOR CHOOSING A WEDGE PILLOW
- Pillow height: A taller pillow will provide more support for your back, while a shorter pillow is better for people with shorter torsos.
- Firmness: If you have neck or shoulder pain, you’ll want a softer pillow. But if you’re looking for support for your lower back, a firmer pillow is better.
- Washability: Look for a pillow that has a removable cover that can be machine-washed.
Also, be sure to place the pillow correctly. The best way to position a wedge pillow is to place it underneath your mattress, with the thickest part against the headboard. This will ensure that the pillow doesn’t slip during the night.
DON’T FORGET OTHER MEASURES
In addition to using a wedge pillow, there are other things you can do to achieve better sleep posture. For example, avoid sleeping on your stomach, which can put unnecessary strain on your back. If you tend to sleep on your side, try placing a pillow between your knees to keep your hips aligned.
CONCLUSION
If you often wake up with back pain, consider using a wedge pillow when you sleep. Elevating your upper body and supporting your neck and shoulders can take pressure off of your spine and prevent stomach acids from rising into your throat. Additionally, sleeping on a wedge pillow can help keep your spine in alignment, which can lead to less pain overall. With so many benefits, it’s no wonder wedge pillows are becoming more and more popular.
