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Last Updated on October 28, 2022
A wedge bolster pillow is a vastly used orthopedic pillow because it is beneficial for people with special needs and a great way to add extra support and comfort to most of us while sleeping. These pillows can be placed under your knees, behind your back, or even under your feet to help elevate them slightly. It can help relieve pain in the lower back, hips, and legs. Additionally, wedge bolster pillows can help keep your spine aligned while you sleep, improving your overall sleep quality. If you suffer from back pain or other aches and pains, consider investing in a wedge bolster pillow to help you get the most comfortable night’s sleep possible.
What is a wedge bolster pillow?
A wedge bolster pillow is a pillow that is designed in a firm wedge shape. Wedge pillows have multiple uses and are helpful at home and in the office.
A typical wedge bolster pillow is made from a covered block of foam. The block is cut into a precise wedge shape which will retain its shape over a long period, unlike stuffed and filled pillows, which tend to warp over time.
The size of the pillow and the angle of the wedge can vary greatly, depending on the pillow’s purpose. Classically used to provide support, wedge pillows create a firm support surface that one can use for comfort. For example, a wedge pillow can be leaned against the headboard of a bed for support while reading, and pregnant women can use a wedge pillow to support their bodies while sleeping in late pregnancy.
Who should use a wedge bolster pillow?
A wedge bolster pillow is a common choice for people:
- Watch TV, read books, and work on laptops in bed for an extended period. Sitting on a soft surface for a long time, such as a bed, could increase extra pressure on your spine. Leaning against a wedge pillow could give additional support and alleviate the pain caused by stiff positioning.
- Frequently snore and have sleep apnea. A wedge pillow could help you open the airway while sleeping and reduce the symptom of snoring and the occurrence of sleep apnea.
- Suffer from chronic coughing and sinus problem. A wedge bolster pillow provides just enough elevation for the upper body, which prevents mucus from pooling at the back of the throat. Wedge bolster pillow also encourages better sinus drainage, reducing inflammation and irritation. Ultimately, a wedge pillow can improve overall health and a more restful night’s sleep.
- Suffer from upper back pain. For some people, a wedge bolster pillow can provide the relief they need. A wedge pillow can take pressure off the lower back and help ease the pain by gently elevating the hips and aligning the spine. Wedge bolster pillows are especially beneficial for people with upper back pain, as they can help to open up the chest and improve posture. People with lower back pain may find that a wedge pillow puts too much pressure on the lumbar region. It is important to speak with a doctor or physiotherapist before using a wedge bolster pillow to ensure that it is the proper treatment for your individual needs.
- Suffer from acid reflux. Sleeping in an elevated position could help prevent acid reflux.
- In the post-injury stage. Doctors often recommend a wedge pillow to patients who have recently had surgery. Placing the wedge pillow under the knee could help blood circulation and reduce swelling and pain in sensitive joint areas.
- In pregnancy, particularly in the late stage. For pregnant women, a wedge bolster pillow can be a lifesaver. This pillow supports your lower back and belly, making it easier to stay on your side and get a good night’s sleep.
What to consider when buying a wedge pillow?
When it comes to wedge bolster pillows, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. The right pillow for you will depend on your specific needs. In a nutshell, you should consider the following factors:
- Firmness: How firm do you need the wedge bolster pillow to be? If you use the pillow for support, you will need a firmer wedge pillow. However, if you use the pillow for comfort, you may prefer a softer wedge pillow.
- Fill-in Materials: The most common materials are memory foam and Latex, which keep in shape over time. These materials have practical and physiotherapeutic effects on sleep-aiding, particularly for people suffering from some health complications and post-surgery recovery. There are wedge pillows filled with down or down alternative filling, such as polyester, which primarily serve the purpose of reading on the bed or couch.
- Height and incline degree: When shopping for a wedge pillow, it’s important to look for one that offers at least 7 inches of incline at 35 to 45 degrees. It will allow you to gradually increase the angle of your head and shoulders until you find the most comfortable position.
- Cover: Opt for the removable cover with hypoallergic and breathable features is better.
- Certification: CertiPUR-US® certification for the foam used in the bedding products. And STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX® certification is for the quality eco-friendly cover materials.
How to properly use a wedge bolster pillow?
A wedge bolster pillow could serve various purposes by placing it in different positions. It is an economical alternative to the adjustable bed and mattress, particularly for bed-ridden patients.
- Upright Recline for sitting-up readers: To set up the wedge pillow, place the wide end of the pillow onto your mattress and lean the flat side against the headboard of your bed. You can then recline upright without putting pressure on your back, shoulders, or neck.
- Elevating side sleepers and back sleepers: The gentle slope of the incline for the side sleepers and back sleepers will support the neck and shoulders, allowing your body in a neutral position to align your spine.
- Under the leg: Lifting the legs during sleep also increases blood circulation, preventing the legs and feet from swelling. It is particularly beneficial for pregnant women. In addition, improved circulation promotes healing and recovery for those with heart disease and other serious medical issues.
- Under the belly for pregnant women: Placing the thinnest part of the wedge pillow under the belly could improve the sleep quality of the pregnant women as the pillow gives extra support while reducing the pressure on the spine.
11 best wedge pillows to improve your quality of sleep
AllSett Health Wedge Bolster Pillow
Highlights & Pros:
- ergonomically designed pillow
- features a 1.5″ thick gel memory foam layer
- Demention: 24″x24″x10″
- The 30° angle is ideal for pregnant women, post-knee surgery recovery, and people suffering from acid reflux or GERD.
- The machine washable cover
Cons:
- Some complaints about the stability of the pillow
AllSett Health Adjustable Folding Wedge Bolster Pillow
Highlights & Pros:
- Multi-purpose 7-in-1 design
- Adjustable design provides a 30° or 60° degree angle that supports the head with a gradual or steep slope.
- Two unique sizes of cushion: one for back and one for leg elevation
- Memory foam
- Reduce snoring, heartburn, and other health issues, such as knee pain, back pain, varicose veins, edema, etc.
- The machine washable cover
- Travel friendly
Cons:
- Some complain that the pillow is too firm.
Everlasting Comfort Bed Wedge Bolster Pillow
Highlights & Pros:
- Multifunctional four in-1 design
- High-density memory foam with a 2″ gel-infused memory foam top layer.
- It has a storage pocket for your convenience.
- Improve sleep quality by reducing sleep apnea and acid reflux, and good for after surgery,
- The machine washable air layer cover
- Dimensions: 12″x12″x24″
- Amazon’s Choice
Cons:
- Some complain that the pillow is too firm.
Bekweim Wedge pillow
Highlights & Pros:
- Exclusive Curve Design Multifunctional 4 in-1 Design
- Available in three Sizes
- Multi-use relief from pain,post-surgery, and the acid influx
- Proprietary memory foam features a dual layer of visco-elastic premium memory foam
- Breathable bamboo cover + bonus sheet
Cons:
- Some buyers complain that they didn’t receive the bonus sheet.
Lunix LX5 Orthopedic Bed Wedge Pillow Set
Highlights & Pros:
- Made of premium memory foam to contour your body
- Adjustable position to your needs from 20o-80o
- Multi-use relief from pain,post-surgery, and the acid influx
- The head pillow’s unique Velcro strap prevents slipping and provides hours of comfort.
- Removable & Breathable bamboo cover
- Made in the USA
Cons:
- Too firm when used as a backrest.
Xtra-Comfort Leg Elevation Pillow
Highlights & Pros:
- Wide pillow for leg resting
- 45-degree incline and 8″ height elevating for greater comforter
- Dual-form construction features the top layer with gel-infused memory foam for greater comfort
- Removable nonslip cover
- Amazon Choice
Cons:
- It may be small for people over 200lbs
InteVision Foam Bed Wedge Pillow with Headrest
Highlights & Pros:
- Two Layer Design plus an adjustable cooling gel memory foam headrest pillow in one package
- 2″ cooling gel memory foam on top of the base form
- Multi-use relief from pain,post-surgery, and the acid influx
- Removable high quality cover
- Amazon Choice
Cons:
- Chemical smell and need to air out for 48 hours
Company Essentials™ Down Alternative Reading Wedge Pillow Insert
Highlights & Pros:
- High-quality Polyester fill for generous weight and maximum fullness.
- Two sizes available :Medium: 20″ x 15″ x 8″ /Large: 36 ” x 18 ” x 12 “
- STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX® certification
Cons:
- For reading only
Cushy Form Bed Wedge Pillow
Highlights & Pros:
- High-density memory foam adds an extra layer of comfort
- 25-degree incline
- Multi-use relief from pain, post-surgery, and the acid influx
- Removable high, quality cover
Cons:
- Some people feel the pillow is too sturdy.
Relax Home Life Bed Wedge Pillow
Highlights & Pros:
- Three size options
- An industry-best 1.5-inch memory foam top layer on the base foam.
- Multi-use relief from pain, breathing problems, and the acid influx
- Removable Bamboo viscose cover
- 100% lifetime warranty
Cons:
- The chemical smell takes time to air out.
Joybest Bed Wedge Pillow
Highlights & Pros:
- A high-density medical grade foam wedge core with 1″ memory foam on top
- 3 Size for Choice
- Multi-use relief from pain,post-surgery, and the acid influx
- Washable cover
- Amazon Choice
Cons:
- It takes time to air out the chemical smell.
- It is small for queen size bed.
Conclusion:
Wedge bolster pillows are necessary bedding accessories to add extra support and comfort to your body while you sleep. Following our guidance and considering your special needs regarding health issues and sleeping positions, you will improve your sleep quality!
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