Triangle Pillow for Back Support

A triangle pillow for back support can make a big difference in your quality of sleep. Today we are going to talk about the type of triangle pillow that might work best for you.

Ideal height of a triangle pillow for back support

Back support triangle wedge pillows come in different heights. The most common heights are 7-inches, 10-inches, and 12-inches. Here is a list of reasons why you may choose one particular height over another.

7-inch wedge pillow: acid reflux, GERD, mild sleep apnea, mild difficulty breathing at night.

10-inch wedge pillow: moderate difficulty breathing, wanting to read in bed, significant snoring, heavier torso weight, sleep apnea, moderate sinus drainage, help getting into and out of bed.

12-inch wedge pillow: vertigo, post shoulder surgery, pregnant, heavier torso weight, severe difficulty breathing at night, significant sinus drainage, severe nighttime asthma, help getting into and out of bed.

For full back support, add a knee wedge pillow

After you choose the best height for your triangle pillow for back support, be sure to use it along with a knee wedge pillow. Sleeping on a triangle wedge pillow alone, without also sleeping with a knee wedge pillow, can cause back discomfort.

Sleeping with a knee wedge pillow takes pressure off your lower back by supporting the weight of your hips and legs. With the weight of your hips and legs supported, your lower back can rest! A knee wedge pillow also puts your spine in the most relaxed position.

For side sleepers, choose a triangle back support pillow designed for side sleepers

If you are a side sleeper, don’t use a triangle wedge pillow designed for back sleepers. Choose a contoured incline pillow instead. A contoured pillow will fully support your back and spine while you lie on your side and still provide the torso elevation that you need.

To maximize back support while you are sleeping on your side, combine the contoured incline pillow with a leg separator pillow. The leg separator pillow supports your hips and legs so that the muscles in your lower back and hips are not pulling on your spine while you sleep.

A triangle pillow for back support is a great tool to support your back while you sleep. By choosing the correct pillow, you are setting yourself up for a night of successful sleep!

-Hillary Blare, Doctor of Physical Therapy