Do you know that almost 39% of population prefers to sleep on their side? (1) But there is a problem with side sleeping: the spine alignment is not properly placed which worsens back pain and cause discomforts related to spine and its connecting muscles.
[amazon bestseller=”Knee Pillow For Side Sleepers” items=”5″ template=”table” tracking_id=”ssleepkneepillow-20″]
If you want to prevent this and enjoy sleeping without tossing or turning around then it’s time to invest in a knee pillow especially designed for side sleepers. They specially developed such that it can accelerate the healing process and provide adequate support to spine while sleeping.
There are overflowing numbers of knee pillows in the market. So, choosing one among them can be a difficult task. That is why our experts have gathered a buying guide which helps you review the product and select the right one as per your requirement.
Moving a step further, they have personally tested every product and listed out the best 10 products available. Read on to know…
Comparison Table: Top 10 Knee Pillow for Side Sleepers
| Knee Pillow for Side Sleepers | Dimensions | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|
| Cushy Foam | 10 x 5.5 x 8 inches | Check the Price |
| ComfiLife | 9.8 x 7.9 x 6.3 inches | Check the Price |
| Everlasting Comfort | 10.5 x 6 x 8 inches | Check the Price |
| Abco Tech | 5.5 x 10 x 8 inches | Check the Price |
| SweetyLife | 8.5 x 5.7 x 8.3 inches | Check the Price |
| Sports Medica | 10.1 x 6 x 7.8 inches | Check the Price |
| Knee-T DLX | 25 x 10 x 3 inches | Check the Price |
| Cush Comfort | 9.2 x 0.4 x 13.4 inches | Check the Price |
| L’alysee | 10 x 6.5 x 7 inches | Check the Price |
| EverRelief | 11 x 9 x 7 inches | Check the Price |
A Detailed Evaluation of Each Knee Pillow for Side Sleepers:
1. Cushy Foam Knee Pillow
This knee pillow is the most trusted and highly recommended by physical therapists, doctors, sport trainers and chiropractors. This is why it has been chosen the best in our list by editors.
It can be used for improving blood circulation, as a knee spacer during pregnancy, and post-surgery support. Apart from that, it can also assist with restless leg syndrome. This therapeutic knee cushion is specially crafted in order to provide full body support all night long.
Firm memory foam construction provides fast-acting relief for varied cramps and pain. It helps you wake rejuvenated and rested in the morning. It also encourages correct posture while you are asleep without much tossing or twisting around.
Positives:
- High quality form memory foam.
- Great for pregnant women, sciatic relief and back pain.
- Long lasting and completely durable.
- Wash friendly.
- Good for post-surgery support and relief.
- Offers spine alignment.
- 100% money back guarantee.
- Free storage bag.
Negatives:
- Smelly initially.
- Didn’t work well for tall people.
2. ComfiLife Knee Pillow
Is the back pain giving you sleepless night? Then it’s time to purchase comfiLife knee pillow as it can alleviate your pain. Its ergonomic design will comfortably fit between the legs. So, it will provide perfect spinal alignment and reduces sciatica, lower, hip and joint pain.
It is made up of high density cut memory foam which makes the knee pillow completely durable and long lasting. A completely breathable cover ensures the pillow doesn’t get warm. It can be easily washed in the machine.
Its superior construction will never go flat so this pillow is completely durable. This pillow is neither too firm nor too soft. So it is perfect for anyone who is looking for good support while asleep.
Positives:
- 100% high-density cut memory foam.
- Superior construction.
- Ergonomic design.
- Recommended by chiropractors and physical therapists.
- Good for spine alignment and sciatica pain relief.
- 100% satisfaction guaranteed.
- Money back guarantee.
Negatives:
- Too thick and big.
3. Everlasting Comfort Knee Pillow
If you are tired of using a pillow that slips off then you should try this pillow as it has straps. With this, you will no longer have to readjust the pillow frequently and disturb your precious sleep.
It is made up of high quality memory foam so it will perfectly shape of the knees and curl around them. It is completely durable as it doesn’t flatten or lose its shape even for a longer periods of time. With this pillow, the manufacturer provides memory foam earplugs packed in a travel case.
The strap comes handy as it has completely adjustable and removable straps. It is highly recommended by physical therapists for post-surgery support as it helps to quicken the recovery by improving the blood circulation. The manufacturer provides lifetime replacement guarantee so is anything happens, you can get a new one at no extra cost.
Positives:
- 100% pure memory foam.
- Ergonomic curved design.
- Has straps, so it doesn’t slip off.
- 2 memory foam earplugs.
- Lifetime replacement guarantee.
Negatives:
- It is a bit heavy.
- Zipper is weak.
4. Abco Tech Knee Pillow
This is one of the adorned pillows by many therapists because of its amazing benefits. It provides good support to the spine and reduces the stress on muscles. Naturally sleeping on the sides will cause spine misalignment but with this pillow you will never put unnecessary strain on the muscles or spine.
Abco pillows are made up of hypoallergenic material which make the pillow completely durable and long lasting. They will hold its shape for very long periods of time. The cover is easy to remove and machine or hand washed for hygiene.
Positives:
- Better spine alignment.
- Improve sleep quality.
- Hypoallergenic and easy to wash.
- 100% risk free satisfaction guaranteed.
- 100% visco-elastic memory foam.
Negatives:
- Pillow is a bit short sized.
5. SweetyLife Knee Pillow
With this pillow, you will get perfect sleep no matter whether you are pregnant or just side sleeper. You can get a very good sleep without much tossing or turning around. So finally, you can wake up refreshed and relaxed every morning.
The ergonomic design is specially developed to stay in place. The premium density 100% memory foam is completely durable and lasts for a very good time. It will never go flat and comes back to its original position once the pressure disappears.
In order to maintain comfortable temperature, the pillow is provided with a breathable, zippered cover. It can be machine or hand washed for hygienic purposes. You can place this pillow either between your thighs or legs as per your convenience.
Positives:
- Premium high-density memory foam.
- Ergonomic design.
- Instant pain relief.
- Breathable and hypoallergenic.
- Lifetime replacement guaranteed.
Negatives:
- The zipper is a bit weak.
6. Sports Medica Memory Foam Pillow
As the name suggests, this memory foam pillow is highly recommended by physiotherapists for sport enthusiasts and athletes. When placed between the knees, it will improve spine alignment and prevent pelvic rotation. This will in-turn relieve the pressure on sciatica nerve and reduce the discomfort it is causing.
High density odor free memory foam which is wrapped up in jacquard airtech fabric is used for making this pillow. Straps are provided so that it doesn’t slip off during the sleep. It has medically researched benefits like improving venous return, maintaining cervical spine alignment, and others.
Only finest quality materials are used while making this pillow. The manufacturer provides 2 year guarantee so you can return the product if turns faulty.
Positives:
- Best suited for sport enthusiasts.
- Has medically researched benefits.
- High density and odor free memory foam.
- Maintains cervical spine alignment.
- Helps in recovering from shoulder/hip/knee surgery.
Negatives:
- Can get warm while you sleep.
7. Knee-T DLX Memory Foam Knee Pillow
Many users have stated that they bought this memory pillow because of its reliability and durability. It is designed in such a manner that the legs are supported and held in neutral position which aligns the spine correctly. Thus it helps in reducing the back pain.
It is very helpful for people who have arthritis that is the reason why it is highly recommended by orthopedic doctors. It is equipped with two adjustable straps which provide enhanced comfort.
It is completely hypo allergic, so you don’t have to worry about allergies. Its shape is anatomically perfect so it is very helpful in reducing the stress on the back, improving blood circulation and relieve body pain.
Positives:
- Made in USA.
- Unique patented design.
- 100% memory foam.
- Endorsed and prescribed by 100’s of physicians.
- Anatomically accurate.
- Hypoallergenic.
Negatives:
- Expensive.
8. Cush Comfort Pillow for Knees
This pillow is the solution for uncomfortable sleepless nights as it reduces the tossing and turning. It is specifically designed to provide relief from back, sciatica and leg pain without sacrificing the comfort. This knee pillow is capable of providing support right from thigh to calf.
Ultra thick and super soft memory foam is used for making this comfy knee pillow. However, it can stay firm and strong for a very long time. It is ergonomically designed so that it can provide complete mobility of bending and stretching the legs and body.
Positives:
- Instant relief from hip, back and sciatica nerve pain.
- Ergonomically designed.
- Supports thigh and calf.
- Ultra thick washable cotton cover.
- Real orthopedic support.
- Complete guarantee.
Negatives:
- Nothing much.
9. L’alysee Pain Relief Knee Pillow
This pillow is specially designed to relieve the discomfort caused by sciatica nerve. It is the best pillow if you want to improve the condition as it can reduces the numbness around the legs after sleep.
It takes off the pressure from muscles and releases the stress. It will perfectly fit between the knees and thighs. The soft plush material used for making this pillow will retain its shape for a very long time. A strap is provided on one side which help to hold the pillow without restricting the movement.
The outer layer of the pillow is of soft microfiber which can be machine washed for hygiene. This pillow is perfect for people who are suffering from sciatica, arthritis and lower back pain.
Positives:
- Best suited for sciatica, back and hip relief.
- Thick and cushiony memory foam.
- The curved design fits perfectly between the thighs.
- Soft microfiber outer layer.
- 100% satisfaction guaranteed.
- Comes in three different colors: white, blue and grey.
Negatives:
- Some people felt it too firm.
10. EverRelief Knee Pillow
This product is tested and proven to be of high quality and outperforms any cushion in the market. It is perfect for women looking for great support during pregnancy. It keeps your knees, hips and legs in a parallel position so that you can get maximum comfort.
High-density memory foam used for making this product reacts to your body temperature and body type. This therapeutic foam absorbs pressure where you need it and won’t flatten over time.
The thermo-sensitive knee pillow will slightly elevate the leg to provide perfect spine alignment during sleep. It reduces tossing turning during the night so you can have a good sleep. The soft velour cover is easy to remove and machine washable.
Positives:
- Custom designed pillow.
- Optimal spine alignment.
- Moderate leg support.
- Thermo-sensitivity.
- Therapeutic dense memory foam.
- 100% guaranteed.
Negatives:
- May not last for extended periods.
How Exactly Does a Knee Pillow Work?
Sleeping on your sides or in a fetal position helps to maintain the quality of sleep and keep you healthy. This position helps to maintain the natural arch of the spine, keeping the body properly aligned.
Apart from that, placing a pillow between the kneesremoves the pressure from the lower back and hips by distributing the weight evenly throughout the body. They also help to minimize the tension in legs and lower back.
A knee pillow also helps you relax the hamstring muscles by enhancing the back and leg relaxation. By keeping the hips and pelvis in right place, the spine will be properly aligned, making you more relaxed.
Knee Pillows have become very popular because of their effective results in reducing pain and support the knees while sleeping. During sleep, the muscles present in our body become sore when pressure is applied on them.
If no support is provided then pelvic area gets rotated leading to a misalignment in the spine. This ultimately leads to discomfort and pain. This can be prevented by placing a pillow between your knees, especially if you sleep on your side. The pillow support ensures the spine is properly aligned and removes off the pressure from the nerves and muscles.
Different Types of Knee Pillows
Though most of the knee pillows are pretty much alike, there are different in sizes, shapes and other reasons. We have mentioned them clearly below…
1. Hourglass Knee pillow
An hourglass is one of the most common and affordable option in knee pillows. Its specially crafted shape prevents your legs from sliding or moving while sleeping. Apart from that, you can also place it under other body parts as well like thighs, back or others based on your needs.
2. Strap on Knee Pillow
This type of pillow contains a strap which can be attached to any one of your legs. This functionality prevents the pillow from moving or slipping in the night. When it comes to durability, the pillow design lasts much longer than hourglass pillow.
Though they look very simple, the strap functionality makes it more expensive than other types of pillows. Some strap on pillows are available at a cheaper rate as well but they are not effective when compared to contoured ones.
If you are a side sleeper then you have to place the knee pillow on the lower leg or lower knee. If you sleep with your legs straight then place the pillow a little higher near groin. The size of the pillows in combination with bedsheet and comforter, restricts your movement while sleeping. Pillows with large straps come in multiple sizes, so they can fit either long or short legs.
3. Long Knee Pillow
Long knee pillows provide improved support to lower body and also prevent you from turning over or moving around while sleeping. They are perfect for people who like to cradle entire body while sleeping.
4. Wedge Knee Pillow
This type of pillow has a triangle shape which brings the lower and upper parts of the legs in a triangle position. They are very helpful in reducing the lower back pain.Other than that, it also helps to reduce swelling in feet, tired muscles and varicose veins. As it slightly elevates the knees, they are perfect for people who prefer sleeping on their sides.
Buying Guide: Knee Pillow for Side Sleepers
With all those different features, materials and others, it is not easy to select one. So, we have gathered all the information required that will help you take the decision.
1. Firmness
When it comes to knee pillow, it shouldn’t be either too soft or too firm. The right amount of firmness will keep the knees comfortable enough to relieve the pain. For most of the people, medium fitness is perfect as it keeps the knees apart which is the main reason for using a knee pillow.
2. Material
Most of the manufacturer’s use materials like water gel, memory foam and others. Among them memory foam is the pricier and firm one. As they are hypoallergenic, comfortable, and softness most of the people prefer it. However, you have to select the material based up on your sleeping style and condition. Because not everyone require a firmer cushion. Apart from that, you should also consider the durability and support of the material. Check out the quality of the pillow cover fabric as well. It should not irritate your skin and should be easily maintained.
3. Size and Dimension
For pillows that elevate our body, angle and height play an important role in determining the comfortability. As per many specialists, pillows should raise the legs or back at certain level that is higher than heart’s level. However, if the height is too high then you can strain the hips and lowerback. Check out the width of the pillow as well. Make sure both of legs can rest on it comfortably. Too wide knee pillows can strain your pelvis and too thin knee pillows don’t provide adequate space to realign the spine.
4. Thickness
A thin pillow will not be able to maintain proper distance between the legs. Make sure the pillow has at least 4 – 6 inches depth for good comfort and perfect spinal alignment. If you are overweight then go with a pillow that has maximum thickness.
5. Durability
Knee pillows are a health investment. So you have to be very careful about its durability, especially as some of them are quite expensive. Make sure the manufacturer provides enough guarantee that it won’t flatten, clump or get damaged.
6. User’s Body Weight
Thickness of the pillow should be determined as per your body weight. For example, if you are an overweight user then a thicker pillow is the ideal options. If you are an average or skinny person then softer ones are the best choice. Soft materials like memory foam usually tend to dimple as per the weight applied. So, a heavier person needs a firm or high density ones than lighter person.
Size of the person also determines the size of the knee pillow to purchase. For people who have short legs, a knee pillow with high elevate can be uncomfortable. For people with long legs, a sharp angle elevated pillow can be uncomfortable. For people who have slim pelvis, it is recommended to purchase a thinner pillow. For people with wider pelvis should consider wide knee pillow.
7. Purpose
Every product is designed to cater certain problem. Some may provide improved blood circulation while others provide back pain relief. So, you have to choose the knee pillow based on your requirement.
8. Flexibility
If you like to fold the pillow between the knees then choose the one which has good flexibility. Side sleepers like to tuck or twist the pillow so it is better to choose gel based or shredded memory foam knee pillow.
9. Cost
If you have a tight budget, make sure to get most of the amount you can cater. Most people think that expensive products have higher quality. But that’s not true always. So, check out the quality and reviews before purchasing the product. Some of the low-quality knee pillows can provide results initially but they worsen the condition overtime. So, purchase a durable product that serves you long term.
10. Density
Usually, the average density of the high quality knee pillow is between 3 – 4 pounds. If the density is too low then it will not support the weight of your body, leading to additional discomfort. So, make sure to check the density of the pillow before purchasing as different materials have different densities.
11. Support
During sleep, a knee pillow should securely support the knees, legs and hip in a most natural position. If not then it can lead to additional discomfort. So, make sure the pillow doesn’t slip off or slide away during sleep.
12. Comfort
Knee pillows for side sleepers should stay together all night without disturbing the sleep. This is more important for people who deal with…
- Spine misalignment
- Hip bursitis
- Pregnancy
- Back pain
- Knee arthritis
- Recent surgery
- Pregnancy
- Sciatica
13. Cooling Action
As you will be placing the knee pillow all night, it should not generate heat or sweat, which can disturb your sleep. Make sure the knee pillow you choose has a cooling property.
What is the Appropriate Way to Place a Knee Pillow?
If you want to achieve effective results then it is very important to place the knee pillow properly. Below is the appropriate way…
- For Side Sleeper:In this position, you have to place the pillow between the thighs or knees. This pillow placement ensures proper position while sleeping. This is perfect for people who underwent a leg surgery. This also prevents you from rolling over.
- For back sleepers:In this position, you have to place the pillow under the knees in such a way that knees stay up and remove the pressure off the spine. They can also be placed under other parts of the body. For example, you can place it under the arms when you are lying back.
Advantages of Knee Pillows for Side Sleepers
Misalignment especially during sleep can lead to strain and pressure on the legs, shoulder, knees, spine and other parts of the body. A knee pillow can be beneficial in relieving this strain. Apart from that, it is also helpful in dealing with several issues mentioned below…
- It eliminates the muscles tension and pressure in the lumbar area of the spine. This happens because it makes sure the spine is properly aligned while sleeping.
- It reduces the muscle cramps, lower back pain, varicose veins and other discomforts related to sciatica. Most of these cases are caused by incorrect sleeping posture.
- By elevating the lower body, they maintain proper sleeping position maximizing the comfort and quality of sleep.
- Sleeping in correct posture improves blood circulation which prevents sore knees, achy legs and muscle tension.
- If you are suffering with osteoporosis then knee pillows can provide a great relief as they support the sore joints.
- Sleeping with a knee pillow prevents the back pain.
- If you toss and turn around a lot during sleep then a knee pillow will help you sleep in a comfortable position.
- By keeping a pillow between the knees, it helps you maintain correct posture during sleep. If there is no support between the knees then upper leg is free to pressure the spine leading to stress on hips and lumbar area. Placing a pillow will prevent the pressure on hip and back pain.
- People dealing with scoliosis, sciatica and slipped discs can provide a great relief by improving the sleeping position.
- If you use an ordinary pillow for leg support then it may take a lot of bed space which can be difficult to sleep, especially with partner. Knee pillow will barely consume any space so your partner will have enough bed space for sleep.
- Most of the pains in knees is caused due to bone-on-bone friction. Knee pillow will create the gaps between them to remove the friction.
- These pillows fill the gap between the knees and maintain the body in proper sleeping position. This can be very helpful for pregnant people.
- The knee pillow will let the blood pass through the veins without any interference, preventing blood stagnation. This is very helpful in keeping the feet strong and healthy.
- It provides a great relief to your feet after a long hectic life.
Who Should Purchase a Knee Pillow?
Purchasing a knee pillow is one of the great investments anyone can make. Below we have explained reasons…
1. Back Pain
People dealing with sciatica often suffer with insomnia and other issues. If you align the legs properly using a knee pillow, it helps to reduce the swelling caused by sciatica nerve. Usually, sleeping on the sides increases the pressure on the sciatica nerves. By using a knee pillow, the upper leg gets elevated – which helps to reduce the pain and inflammation.
2. Hip Pain
A knee pillow helps to prevent the hips from moving or rotating while sleeping. This positioning also helps in preventing the body from angling over – which can worsen the condition.
3. Side Sleepers
People who sleep to their sides often experience walking up in the middle of night and improper rest. This is experienced because the bones in our knees bump into each other while sleeping. Placing a knee pillow can help preventing this situation and also improve sleeping quality.
4. Back Sleepers
Do you prefer sleeping on your back? You can still get the benefits of a knee pillow. It helps in relaxing the legs and reducing the tension in lumbar area. Apart from that, it also helps in keeping the spine aligned and reducing the pressure on tailbone.
5. Expectant Women
Women who are pregnant have restricted sleeping positions. Placing a knee pillow helps to ease the pain, discomfort and this position has reduces the times the baby kicks. Placing a pillow keeps the body aligned, relaxed and promote healthy circulation.
6. Poor blood circulation
Poor circulation often leads to swollen legs, varicose veins, etcetera and muscle stretching. Sleeping position also have an important role in blood circulation due to gravity. Elevation in legs help to reduce the tingling and spams associated with poor circulation. Elevation also helps in improving healthy blood flow from heart to other body parts.
7. Surgery Patients
Discomfort and pain are common things experienced after a surgery. To get relief from the same, it is very important to align the spine, knees and hips. Placing a pillow between knees helps to align the bone structure, providing pain relief and comfort.
8. Spine Misalignment
If you are dealing with spine misalignment then a knee pillow can be very helpful as it helps to elevate the body and promote good sleeping position.
9. Painless Sleeping
Experts who have been studying sleep confirmed that most of the people prefer sleeping on their sides. Though it provides very good support to the natural arch of the spine, not everyone can experience pain free in that position. And a knee pillow will be helpful in the same. It works in two ways – provides relief from hip pressure and supports the spine.
Placing a knee pillow supports the knees, provides relief to sciatica nerve and aligns the spine in a better way. Many users have confirmed that using the knee pillow has improved their sleep a lot.
10. Improves Sleep Quality
Usually people dealing with insomnia take medical sleeping aids which eventually become ineffective. And sometime, people get addictive too much to them. But knee pillow is a natural, drug-free solution to align your spine and prevent insomnia. As per Mayo Clinic, using knee pillow helps to improve the quality of sleep, especially for people who prefer sleeping on their side.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Foam or Memory Foam – Which one to choose?
In most of the pillows, memory foam and polyurethane foam are common material used. Both these types are available at the same cost. As per our research and testing, memory foam is much more supportive than standard foam. It perfectly contours to the shape of your legs and reduces the shifting of legs while sleeping. As memory foam fits exactly to the body so it may generate a little bit heat than normal foam.
2. Are Knee Pillow Covers Durable Enough?
For some strange reasons, most of the knee pillow covers suck because most of the fabrics used are white in colour. Overtime due to sweat, oils and washing, the white covers turn in yellow. Most of the pillows have zippered removable covers, they can get wear off easily.
We recommend using a standard pillow case over the knee pillow, as it will keep the pillow hygienic and simple. But as some of the knee pillows have odd shapes like hourglass, normal cover is not going to be a perfect fit. But you can just fold the excess underneath the pillow and place it between the knees.
3. Should We Remove the Tags of Knee Pillow?
Usually, knee pillows come with tags and some of them are frustratingly long. And worst part of these tags is that they sometimes irritate while sleeping. If you want to remove these tags then you have to be very careful, because the tag will be sewn directly into the seam. If it is removed incorrectly then it can leave a tear or hole. You can also cut the tag as closely as possible using a scissors.
If the tag is not causing any trouble then leaving it is recommended. Usually hourglass knee pillows will not have any tags. But strap on knee pillows will have the tags.
4. Does a Knee Pillow Give Away Foul Odor?
When the package is opened, memory foam pillows give away a foul odor. If the smell is worrying you then leave it out in air for a couple of days. This will eliminate the smell coming out from the knee pillow.
5. For whom is a knee pillow most recommended?
- Back Sleepers: It helps in reducing the tension and relieving the pain in the lumbar area.
- Side Sleepers: using a knee pillow raises the upper legs and helps to maintain the spine alignment properly.
- Pregnant women: sleeping to their sides is the most beneficial sleeping posture during pregnancy. It helps in reducing the pressure in hip joint and back.
Conclusion:
Supporting the spine and legs help you deal with a lot of issues like arthritis, sciatica and others. For a good sound sleep, investing in a knee pillow is one of the best things you can do. With the information we provided in the buying guide, you can buy the right knee pillow. However, if you don’t want to waste time in researching then you can buy from the list we provided.
Have any queries related to knee pillows for side sleepers? Write to us in the comment section below. We are more than happy to answer them for you.
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