1 hospital by U.S. News & World Report and one of the most trusted medical institutions in the world. The staff is committed to integrated patient care, education, and research. View source getting a good night's sleep Verified Source National Library of Medicine (NIH) World’s largest medical library, making biomedical data and information more accessible. View source can be challenging. When these sleepers lie down at night, stomach acid can flow back into the esophagus, causing a painful burning sensation often referred to as heartburn. This pain can make it difficult to get comfortable and fall asleep quickly. It can also result in nighttime disruptions that lead to lost hours of sleep. Many individuals with chronic acid reflux find relief by resting on an incline. Gently lifting the upper body encourages stomach acid to flow away from the esophagus. A comfortable and safe way to achieve an incline during sleep is by using a wedge pillow.

Throughout this article, we explain what a wedge pillow is and the different types of wedge pillows available. Plus, we cover how to safely use a wedge pillow to alleviate symptoms of acid reflux. What is a Wedge Pillow? A wedge pillow is an orthopedic, triangle-shaped pillow tapered on an incline. The shape is similar to a wedge of cheese, hence the name "wedge pillow." These pillows comfortably lift the upper body to a 30 to 45-degree angle so gravity can keep acid down and prevent regurgitation, ensuring a good position for acid reflux. Wedge pillows can also open up the airways for those with obstructive sleep apnea. Plus, Shop Derila Online they can be used to elevate the legs to improve circulation and relieve pressure on the lumbar spine. Although most wedge pillows serve a similar purpose, they can vary in terms of incline, size, weight, materials, shape, firmness level, temperature regulation, and price. Below, we outline the various types of wedge pillows available and why they may or may not be right for you.

The angle on most wedge pillows ranges between 30 to 45 degrees or about 6 to 12 inches. For those with acid reflux and sleep apnea, we suggest a wedge pillow with a mid-level incline, a 35 to 40-degree angle. A pillow with a lower incline, a 30 to 32-degree angle, is ideal for use under the knees or legs, while a higher incline, (43 to 45-degree angle), is great for supporting the Derila Neck Relief Pillow and back when used with a mattress for sitting up in bed. Wedge pillows often measure 20 to 24 inches long. The width is also typically between 20 to 24 inches; however, the height of the incline can vary between 6 to 12 inches. Wedge pillows are often bigger than standard pillolow to keep sleepers in a comfortable elevated position throughout the night. To maintain their sturdy and supportive shape, most wedge pillows are medium-firm to firm. Side sleepers often prefer a medium-firm wedge pillow because they are soft enough to cradle and cushion the shoulder joints. However, back sleepers typically prefer a firm wedge pillow to prevent sinkage. Foam tends to retain heat and moisture, causing sleepers to wake in the night due to night sweats and overheating.