When to Use a 10 Inch Wedge Pillow

How do you know if a 10 inch wedge pillow is right for you? Here are some of the most common uses for a wedge with this height.

1. Reading in bed

A 10 inch wedge pillow is the perfect height for reading in bed. When you place it on its side and put your neck pillow behind your head, your back and neck are completely supported. This setup keeps you reading even longer, improving the performance of even the most avid reader.

2. Sleep Apnea/Snoring

A 10 inch wedge pillow is also the ideal height for a back sleeper who struggles with sleep apnea or snoring. When you place your regular pillow on top of the wedge, your head and neck are supported comfortably. This position also helps your throat structures stay open which can alleviate symptoms of sleep apnea and snoring.

3. Bed Transfers

If you are having difficulty getting into and out of bed due to weakness, a surgery, broken ribs or another injury, you just need a little positional advantage! A 10 inch wedge pillow is perfect for this. It keeps your upper body elevated so that it requires less strength to get into and out of bed.

4. Acid Reflux

Typically, a 7 inch wedge is recommended for acid reflux. However, if you have additional weight around your stomach, you may need a little more support in order to effectively combat the effects of GERD. This means that a 10 inch wedge pillow is right for you! The additional height will be sure to position your stomach and esophagus optimally to minimize heartburn and other reflux symptoms.

5. Breathing Difficulties

Additionally, this height of wedge can help with breathing difficulties. Sleeping on a 10 inch incline helps to open up your chest which can decrease chest tightness and open up your airways. It also helps drain your sinuses which can result in easier breathing. A 12 inch wedge pillow also helps with breathing difficulties so depending on the severity of your impairment, you may also consider a 12 inch wedge pillow.

If you slide down your 10 inch wedge pillow at night….

Sometimes, people who sleep on a 10 inch wedge pillow report that they slide down it during the night. The way to prevent this is to sleep with your legs on a knee wedge pillow! Propping your legs up not only supports your back while you sleep, it will keep you positioned properly all night on your 10 inch wedge.

Do you have other uses for a 10 inch wedge pillow? If so, leave us a comment to let us know! We would love to hear from you!

-Hillary Blare, Doctor of Physical Therapy