Updated January 15th, 2023
Introduction / Jeremy / Hanna
Ricky / Shawn / Conclusion
Introduction
One of the most commonly asked questions I receive from patients is: “What pillow do you recommend I use?”. Physical therapists, doctors, surgeons, massage therapists, nurses, chiropractors, and even bedding salespeople have differing opinions on the answer to this question. After years of asking clients which pillows they use, and trying multiple kinds myself, I’ve finally learned the golden rule to picking a perfect place for your head at night: The best pillow for you is the one that gets you to a restful night’s sleep without pain in the morning. There are no “One size fits all” pillows for this outcome. What works for you may not work for your spouse, your siblings, or even your doctor. However, the PTs at Peak Movement Health are going to share the pillows they use for a perfect night’s sleep.
Jeremy Tarwater, PT DPT - CEO of Peak Movement Health
New Dad - Wellness Enthusiast - Dreamer
What Jeremy Says:
“I use the MARNUR Butterfly Pillow from Walmart. I am usually a side sleeper but am able to sleep on my back comfortably and without snoring when I use this pillow (you’re welcome Jess ;) ). The shape of it holds your neck in position without bringing the head too far forward. It can also be used for side sleeping as well and allows you to place your arm up by your head without causing numbness or tingling in your hands. I recommend it to patients with neck or jaw pain since it holds the head in a safer position.”
Where You Can Get It:
Hanna Kearney, PT DPT - Co-Founder of Peak Movement Health
Crystal Collector - Army Spouse - Fur Mom
What Hanna Says:
“I own the Cool Touch Memory Foam Bed Pillow from Target (Brand: Made By Design). It cushions my head gently with memory foam so it molds to my neck and head, but doesn’t sink down to a flat surface. I sleep on my sides and stomach, usually twisting my neck in a funny direction whenever I sleep. However, I don’t wake up in the middle of the night with neck pain. It has a plump shape, too, so my pillowcases always look nice.”
Where You Can Get It:
Ricky Pacheco, PT DPT - Networking Coordinator at Peak Movement Health
Comedian - Traveler - Baseball Fan
What Ricky Says:
“I use the temper cloud adjustable pillow from Tempur-Pedic. I prefer a more firm pillow that allows my neck to be elevated and this pillow gives you the ability to fold it and have it contour to the shape of your neck. I also must admit that I am a spoiled sleeper and need a minimum of three pillows. One for my head, one between my legs and one that I hug throughout the night. I feel that it puts me in the ideal sleeping position as a side sleeper.”
Where You Can Get It:
Shawn Lillie, PT DPT - Movement Specialist at Peak Movement Health
New Dog Dad - Weightlifter - Athlete
What Shawn Says:
“I use the My Pillow from as seen on TV. I am a side sleeper and I feel as though it holds its shape all night and allows me to have my head supported with only a simple fluff prior to going to bed. I have used this pillow (and have purchased new ones) since college and have never woken up with neck pain.”
Where You Can Get It:
Conclusion
At the end of the day, we all want a pillow that promotes a good night’s sleep, helps prevent head and neck pain, and lets us wake up refreshed. I recommend trying different pillows for 3-5 sleeps before deciding if it’s the one. Pillows come with different types of support, shape, and filling, and one may help you more than others. You may have good and bad night’s sleeps even with the perfect pillow for you. If you are having other sleep difficulties, we recommend talking to your doctor.
What pillow do you use? Would you recommend it to a friend? Email us your answer at
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