When To Use a 12 Inch Wedge Pillow

How do you know when to use a 12 inch wedge pillow? Here is a list of some of the most common conditions a 12 inch wedge is best for.

1. Sinus Drainage

It is a fact that sinus pressure and drainage is worse when you lie flat on your back. Many Ear, Nose, and Throat doctors recommend sleeping in a recliner for that reason. But who wants to do that? A 12 inch wedge pillow allows you to sleep in your own bed while still getting the benefits of sleeping in a recliner.

Sleeping elevated on a 12 inch wedge pillow allows your sinuses to drain throughout the night rather than build up pressure. By preventing this pressure build up, you are more likely to wake up headache free and with a clearer nose. Sleeping elevated on a 12 inch wedge promotes sinus healing and helps you sleep better.

2. Shoulder Surgery

Sleeping after shoulder surgery is tricky, but a 12 inch wedge pillow makes it way easier. After shoulder surgery, sleeping flat isn’t usually an option due to the pressure this position puts on your shoulder. It is often too painful to tolerate.

Sleeping on a 12 inch wedge pillow positions your shoulder in a way that makes sleeping much more comfortable. Place your regular neck pillow on top of your wedge for maximal comfort. If you need additional support, place a pillow under your arm to support it even more. 

3. Vertigo

After a vertigo treatment, your practitioner may recommend sleeping at a 30 degree incline. A 12 inch wedge pillow will do the trick. Sleeping in this position after a vertigo treatment positions your inner ear optimally to allow for continued rehabilitation of your vestibular system.

4. Pregnancy

As you may know, it is not recommended to sleep flat on your back during the later stages of pregnancy. But what if you love sleeping on your back? Use a 12 inch wedge pillow! A 12 inch wedge is high enough to position you comfortably and keep baby safe. Go ahead and check with your OB to make sure you don’t have other complications that would keep you from sleeping on an incline, but if not, your OB will likely give you the green light!

5. Migraines

Finally, preliminary studies have shown that sleeping at in incline can reduce the presence of migraines. This is believed to be due to the fact that sleeping on an incline increases circulation throughout your brain. This increase in circulation decreases pressure that can build up in your head overnight when sleeping flat. What a simple way to potentially improve head pain!

Most people find that sleeping on a 12 inch wedge pillow is much more comfortable when used in combination with a knee wedge pillow. Using a knee wedge will keep you from slipping down your 12 inch wedge during the night. It also works to improve full body circulation and allows your muscles to completely relax overnight.

What do you plan to use your 12 inch wedge pillow for? Leave us a comment! We would love to know!

-Hillary Blare, Doctor of Physical Therapy