A good night’s sleep is the foundation of a great day, however getting a good night’s rest may be difficult for some. While there are a number of factors that can come between you and a good quality sleep, being an arm sleeper can have a negative impact. This is someone who sleeps on their side or stomach with one arm under their pillow. A poor sleeping posture can lead to pressure on the nerves and muscles in the arm.
A night time sleeping posture is strongly related to quality of sleep. Specifically, poor cervical posture during sleep, which is believed to increase biomechanical stresses on cervical spine structures, can produce cervical pain and stiffness, headache, and scapular or arm pain, resulting in low-quality sleep (Gordon et al. 2010). Thus, an appropriate selection of pillows can optimize the sleeping posture and help facilitate high-quality sleep. (Bernateck et al. 2008).
Understanding Arm Pain
Arm pain can be a common problem that affects people of all ages. It can occur due to various reasons and the pain can range from mild to severe, affecting different parts of the arm, including the shoulder, elbow, wrist and hand.
Some common causes of arm pain include:
- Poor Posture: This occurs from sleeping on your side and can cause arm pain as the weight of the body compresses nerves and blood vessels, leading to numbness and tingling in the arm.
- Repetitive strain injury (RSI): This occurs due to overuse of the arm and can cause pain, swelling and stiffness.
- Rotator cuff injury: This is a common cause of shoulder pain and can occur due to injury or degeneration of the rotator cuff muscles.
- Tennis elbow: This is a type of RSI that affects the elbow and can cause pain and tenderness on the outer side of the elbow.
- Carpal tunnel syndrome: This is a condition that occurs due to compression of the median nerve in the wrist and can cause pain, numbness and tingling in the hand and fingers.
Treatment options for arm pain may include rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE), pain medication, physical therapy or surgery. However, many people have opted for an affordable yet effective option, which is investing in a pillow designed to provide proper support and alignment to the neck, shoulder and arm.
Types of Pillows for Arm Pain
When it comes to arm pain, pillows can provide relief and comfort. Here are some types of pillows that can help alleviate arm pain:
- Orthopedic pillows: These pillows are designed to support the neck and spine and can help reduce pressure on the arms. They are often made of memory foam or latex and can contour to the shape of the head and neck for added comfort.
- Side sleeper pillows: These pillows are specifically designed for side sleepers and can help reduce pressure on the arms. They are usually thicker and firmer than other pillows and can provide added support for the head and neck.
- Body pillows: These long, cylindrical pillows can be hugged or placed between the legs to reduce pressure on the arms. Side sleepers or those who sleep on their stomach often use them as they can provide added support and comfort.
- Wedge pillows: These pillows are designed to elevate the upper body and can help reduce pressure on the arms. They are usually a go-to for those suffering from acid reflux or having snoring issues, although they can also provide arm pain relief.
It’s important to choose a pillow that is comfortable and supportive for your individual needs. Consider factors such as firmness, material and size when selecting a pillow for arm pain relief.
Our Top Recommendations
If arm pain is on your list of bedtime offenders, you have come to the right place. Finding the right bedding setup can be critical to ensure your head and neck get the proper support without reducing circulation to the arm. Fortunately, using a pillow designed to alleviate arm pain can help you get a better night’s sleep.
While there are various types of pillows that can alleviate arm pain, each one offers unique benefits and features, therefore choosing the right one will depend on your specific needs and preferences. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the top pillows for arm pain based on expert recommendations and customer reviews.
Wife Pillow
- We Made it For You: For the way you sleep, it’s a pillow for all your sleeping positions. You’ve got 5 zipper access where you can adjust the height or angles by adding or removing filling. Stomach sleepers need a thin slim flat pillow, while side sleepers require a high, thick supportive pillow. You may want soft , medium, or maybe even firmer harder support. You can make any combination for your cuddle pillow with arm holes with any of the accessories or options we proudly offer.
- The Most Comfortable & Soundest Sleep Ever! Get this pillow to your perfect height for you & get a peaceful night's rest. Special slots for your arm that allow you to position your body the way it needs rest while relieving pressure. Put your arms into the grooves and finally get 360 degrees of motion as you sleep. Customers like you are getting results. Do you get migraine headaches, or are you a TMJ sufferer? Need post surgery pain relief or an anti snore solution? Our pillow is for you.
- The World's First: contoured arm & body positioning pillow. A pillow for neck and rotator cuff pain relief that works for the way you sleep. For couples, no numb tingling arms from your loved ones head. Having different arm positions makes it easy for any sleeper to find the perfect angle for a great rest. The U cervical vertebrae groove molds to your shoulders & head for optimal support. You are in control to adjust the height or support level. No more aching morning. Wake up refreshed!
If you’re looking for a pillow that can help alleviate arm pain and other related discomforts, then the Wife Pillow might be worth considering. This pillow is versatile and designed for all types of sleepers. It comes with five zipper access points that allow users to adjust the height and angle of the pillow to their needs and liking. Additionally, it has special slots for the arms to alleviate pressure and provide users a more comfortable sleep experience.
| What We Like: | What We Don’t Like: |
Five zipper access points to adjust the height and angle of the pillow. Special slots for the arms to alleviate pressure. Designed for all types of sleepers. | May take some time to get used to. More expensive than other options on the market. May not be suitable for those who prefer a firmer or more supportive pillow. |
Bespillow Neck Pillow
- 【Patented Ergonomic Design Contour Pillow】The neck pillow adopts a unique butterfly shape design, which combined with the traditional bed pillow, thus achieving significant neck pain relief. Butterfly shape gives your arms special armrests. Contour design holds your neck at the right height and offers excellent support during sleep. The central cavity properly supports the head, facilitates alignment of the head with the body and spine. Choose Bespillow pillow and experience a sound sleep!
- 【Safe & Odorless-Premium Memory Foam Pillows】Our cervical pillow is made of CertiPUR-US and Oeko-Tex certified memory foam, which provides amazing comfort and soft yet sturdy support for sleep. When lying on this neck Pillow, it feels like floating on water or clouds, without any pressure on your skin.Special slow rebound memory foam won't change its shape and firmness due to season. Unleash your best sleep with our ergonomic pillow- the ultimate blend of comfort, style, and quality!
- 【2 Personalized Height in A pillow for Any Sleep Style】- Do you often toss and turn because you can't find the height that suits you? Bespillow cervical pillow helps you to fix this trouble. Our memory foam pillows comes two height options with size 24.8*14.5*5.1/4.5 inch ( L x W x H). The ergonomic and supportive pillow for neck pain is designed for multiple sleeping positions, such as side sleeping, supine, stomach sleeping, back sleeping and low pillow sleepers etc.
Are you suffering from neck, shoulder or arm pain? If so, the Bespillow Neck Pillow is a great option to consider. It features a unique butterfly shape design that combines the traditional bed pillow for pain relief. Its contour design holds your neck at the right height while providing excellent support during sleep. The central cavity properly supports the head, facilitating alignment of the head with the body and spine.
To ensure you are receiving the best quality pillow, you can rest assured that it is made of CertiPUR-US and Oeko-Tex certified memory foam, which provides amazing comfort and soft yet sturdy support for sleep. The pillow has two personalized height options and it is designed for multiple sleep positions including side sleeping, supone, stomach sleeping, back sleeping, low pillow sleeping and more. Additionally, its COLD SILK TECHNOLOGY FABRIC perfectly fits the skin to breathe from a dry night.
| What We Like: | What We Don’t Like: |
Features a unique utterfly shape Provides significant neck pain relief. Has armrests for added comfort. Made of CertiPUR-US and Oeko-Tex certified memory foam. Soft, yet sturdy for sleeping. Two personalized height options. | May be too hot to comfortably sleep with. May be too firm or too soft for some users. May have a slight odor when first opened, but it dissipates quickly. |
MedCline Shoulder Relief Wedge and Body Pillow System
- NOW AVAILABLE IN 2 SIZES. Select size based on user's height. Small/Medium: 5'9" and under & Large: 5'10' and taller.
- PURCHASE WITH FSA FUNDS. MedCline products are an approved medical expense under health savings plans.
- DESIGNED SPECIFICALLY FOR SIDE-SLEEPING COMFORT. MedCline Shoulder Relief System is designed for those suffering with chronic shoulder pain at night. Sleep System props you up just high-enough to take the pressure off your downside arm and shoulder. System includes Shoulder Relief Bed Wedge, full length memory foam body pillow, and smaller insert pillow; all with removable covers
Say goodbye to chronic shoulder or arm pain at night. With the MedCline Shoulder Relief Wedge and Body Pillow System, you can finally get the pain-free rest you truly deserve. This pillow’s system includes a shoulder relief bed wedge, a full-length memory foam body pillow, and a smaller insert pillow, all with removable covers.
Whether you’re short or tall, you can be happy to know that it is available in two sizes, making it easy to find the right fit for your needs. While it caters to all types of injuries, it is specifically designed for side-sleeping comfort, providing relief from pressure on your downside arm and shoulder. Plus, it has a wedge that gradually inclines you up to 6-inch in height.
| What We Like: | What We Don’t Like: |
Available in two different sizes to fit users of different heights. Designed specifically for side-sleeping comfort. The gradual incline of the wedge props you up to a 6-inch height. | Heavy, weighing almost 18 pounds. May take some time to get used to. Price is higher than other similar options on the market. |
Beck’s Classic Made in USA | Pro Rest Arm Pillow
- MADE IN USA BY AN AMERICAN COMPANY| Have confidence knowing what is in the product and who made it. Beck's Mfg has been providing bedding products for 40 years
- UNIQUE CHANNEL DESIGN| Redistributes Pressure-Stabilizes-Immobilizes-Elevates
- HOSPITAL GRADE MATERIAL | Rugged outer shell just requires cleaning with damp cloth. Can use with any pillow case if needed
If you’re looking for a pillow that can help you with arm pain, then the Beck’s Classic Made in USA | Pro Rest Arm Pillow is the perfect solution for you. With its unique channel design, this pillow can help redistribute pressure, stabilize, immobilize and elevate your arm, helping you get a good night’s sleep without any discomfort.
The pillow offers a unique channel design to reduce any risk of pressure sores on the arms, legs, knees, or wrists, which can be a common problem with regular pillows. Additionally, it is made with a soft fiberfill interior, which ensures it won’t break down over time. While the vinyl outer shell may be difficult to clean, you can simply use a damp cloth to remove any stains.
| What We Like: | What We Don’t Like: |
Made by a reputable American company to ensure quality. Reduces the risk of pressure sores on targeted areas. Made of a soft fiberfill interior for durability. | The vinyl outer shell can be difficult to clean. May not be suitable for everyone’s conditions. May be too small to provide adequate support to the arm. |
Buying Guide
Arm pain can be a result of various reasons, including poor posture, injury, or medical conditions. To alleviate arm pain, it is essential to choose the right pillow that provides proper support and comfort. Here are some factors to consider when buying the best pillow for arm pain:
Pillow Material
The pillow material plays a crucial role in providing the necessary support and comfort for arm pain. Memory foam and latex pillows are popular choices as they contour to the shape of the head and neck, providing adequate support. Additionally, these materials are hypoallergenic, making them suitable for individuals with allergies.
Pillow Size
When choosing a pillow, be sure it matches the size of your bed and your body type. A pillow that is too small or too large can cause discomfort and exacerbate arm pain.
Pillow Shape
A contoured pillow that follows the natural curve of the neck and head can provide the necessary support to alleviate arm pain. A wedge-shaped pillows can also be useful for those suffering from arm pain caused by medical conditions such as acid reflux.
Pillow Firmness
The firmness of the pillow is a crucial factor and it is recommended to pick one with medium firmness for adequate support and comfort . A pillow that is too soft can cause the head to sink in, leading to poor alignment of the neck and spine. On the other hand, a pillow that is too firm can cause discomfort and exacerbate arm pain.
Pillow Cover
It is necessary to choose a breathable and hypoallergenic cover to prevent allergies during your sleeping experience. Additionally, you want the cover to be easy maintenance and easy to clean so look into removable and washable covers.
By considering these factors, individuals can choose the best pillow for arm pain that provides proper support and comfort, leading to a good night’s sleep.
Best Practices for Side Sleepers
- Keep your arms close to your body: If you sleep on your side, it is best to keep your arms as close to your body as possible. This helps prevent your arms from being in awkward positions that can cause pain.
- Use a pillow: Whether you are resting or sleeping, place a pillow between your arms to keep them in a comfortable position. This can help prevent your arms from being in awkward positions that can cause pain.
- Choose the right mattress: While a good pillow is essential for your sleeping needs, a good mattress is just as important, especially for side sleepers. A mattress that is too soft can cause your body to sink in, putting pressure on your arms and causing pain. A mattress that is too firm can put pressure on your hips and shoulders, causing pain.
- Stretch: Before going to bed, take a few minutes to stretch your arms and shoulders. This can help prevent them from being in awkward positions while you sleep.
Common Mistakes Made by Side Sleepers
- Sleeping on your arm: Sleeping on your arm can cause pain and numbness. It’s important to avoid sleeping on your arm to prevent arm pain.
- Using a pillow that is too high or too low: Using a pillow that is too high or too low can cause your arms to be in awkward positions that can cause pain. It’s important to use a pillow that is the right height for you.
- Sleeping on a bad mattress: A bad mattress can cause your body to be in awkward positions that can cause pain. It’s important to choose a good mattress that is right for you.
By following these tips, side sleepers can prevent arm pain and get a good night’s sleep.
Consult a Healthcare Professional
If the pain in the arm persists for more than a few days, or if it is interfering with daily activities, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional. A doctor can perform a physical examination and recommend appropriate treatment options.
Seek Legal Assistance
If your arm pain stems from an accident or personal injury, you may be entitled to compensation. While this can be overwhelming, you don’t have to go at it alone. Contact The Personal Injury Center today to get connected with an experienced personal injury lawyer for guidance. They can help you understand the intricacies of your situation and assist you in pursuing your personal injury claim.
Disclaimer: Last update on 2024-05-01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API.
This content is provided solely for educational reasons and should not be seen as medical guidance. It’s important to consult with a healthcare expert prior to making any changes to your health regimen, including dietary adjustments or the use of supplements.
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