I Tested And Reviewed 5 Best Wedge Pillow After Shoulder Surgery (2023)
Recovery after shoulder surgery requires proper positioning of the shoulder joint to allow for optimal healing and pain management. Using the right type of wedge pillow can provide the elevation and alignment needed to get a good night's sleep, while also relieving pressure on the affected shoulder. When shopping for the best wedge pillow after shoulder surgery, there are a few key factors to consider.
First, look at the wedge angle and height. The ideal wedge pillow will raise the shoulders between 30 to 60 degrees, with 45 degrees often recommended by physical therapists. The height of the wedge should align the shoulder joint above heart level to minimize swelling. Second, consider the fill material inside the wedge pillow. Memory foam contours to the body to relieve pressure points but retains heat. Latex or fiber fill options may sleep cooler. Third, look for wedge pillows designed specifically for post-surgery recovery that include features like machine washable covers or cutouts to prevent compression on healing incisions.
Will a soft or firm pillow provide the most comfort after surgery? Is it better to choose a structured wedge shape or a contour pillow that molds to your body? Should you look for wedges with removable, washable covers if you have concerns about hygiene? Asking the right questions upfront will ensure you select the ideal wedge pillow to support your post-operative recovery. With the right support under your shoulders at night, you can waking up with less pain and stiffness as your shoulder heals.
5 Best Wedge Pillow After Shoulder Surgery
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The product is ideal for relieving back, leg, and knee pain, aiding in acid reflux, and post-surgery recovery.
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The product is ideal for providing post-surgery support, comfortable sleeping, adjustable leg/back/arm support, sitting up, and resting.
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The product is ideal for providing relief from snoring, neck pain, shoulder pain, back pain, heartburn, and improving sitting posture in bed.
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The product is ideal for providing support and relief for back and leg pain, pregnancy discomfort, and sleeping issues.
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The product is ideal for providing orthopedic support and relief for back, neck, shoulder, and leg pain during sleep.
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1. Lunix Orthopedic Bed Wedge Pillow Set: Ultimate Pain Relief
I am absolutely in love with the Lunix Pillow System! As someone who suffers from sleep apnea, I have struggled to find a pillow that allows me to sleep comfortably on an incline without restricting my breathing. This system has been a game-changer for me. The adjustable height levels are perfect for finding the right position, and the pillows themselves are incredibly soft and supportive. No more waking up with neck and back pain!
One of the things I appreciate most about this pillow system is the wedge design. Unlike my old pillows that would constantly fall behind my bed, these pillows stay securely in place. I also love that they come with a travel bag, making it convenient to take them with me when I'm away from home. The fact that the pillow coverings are machine washable is a huge bonus as well.
While I have had a great experience with the product itself, I did have a minor concern regarding the lack of protective covers on the velcro when not in use. I reached out to the seller, and although it took a bit longer than expected, they did eventually send me the protective covers they had promised. The company's commitment to customer satisfaction is commendable.
In terms of performance, this pillow system has exceeded my expectations. I recently purchased a second set because I found it too easy to forget to bring the pillows to my seasonal home. The system has improved my sleep quality significantly, allowing me to sleep through the night without waking up frequently. I have experimented with different configurations and found the most comfortable setup for my needs. While I do find that adding a regular pillow on top provides additional support for my head, the Lunix pillows have greatly reduced neck pain and headaches compared to my previous setup.
I have been consistently using the Lunix pillows since November and have noticed a significant improvement in my sleep. Not only do they provide comfort and support, but they also eliminate the need for constantly readjusting pillows throughout the night. The carrying bag has come in handy when traveling, although I do wish it was made of a more durable material.
2. Kingfun Memory Foam Wedge Pillow Set – Ultimate Support!
I recently purchased the Kingfun 4pcs Orthopedic Bed Wedge Pillow Set and I am extremely satisfied with my purchase. I had to undergo surgery and was required to sleep in an upright position for three weeks. As a lifelong side sleeper, I was quite anxious about how I would be able to sleep comfortably in this new position. Thankfully, a friend recommended this wedge pillow set and it has been a game changer for me.
One of the best features of this pillow set is its adjustability. The set comes with detachable parts that allow you to reconfigure the angles under your head, neck, back, and knees. This has been incredibly helpful for me as I can customize the angle to suit my comfort and support needs as my body heals. Whether I want to sit up and read, watch TV, or simply rest, this pillow set provides the necessary support and comfort.
I have been using this wedge pillow for two weeks now and I can confidently say that it has significantly improved my recovery experience. The pillow is not only comfortable but also highly supportive. It has helped alleviate the pain and discomfort I experienced after my surgery. I wake up feeling rested and without any residual pain.
I must also mention that the quality of this pillow set is exceptional. The memory foam material used is of high quality and provides excellent support. Additionally, the set comes with a convenient travel bag, making it easy to transport and use wherever I go.
In terms of customization, I did make a few modifications to the pillow set to suit my specific needs. As a shorter individual, I found that the neck support provided was a bit too thick and gave me a headache. However, I repurposed it to elevate my calves, turning the triangle wedge into a table top for my legs. I also added a seat gel for extra support during long hours and used my old neck pillow for added comfort during the night.
3. Slumbersupport: 45° Memory Foam Wedge Pillow – Ultimate Relief
I recently purchased this wedge pillow for my back pain and I must say, I am extremely pleased with the quality and height. It has provided me with great relief and I highly recommend giving it a try. In fact, I am considering getting a second one for another room. The pillow is of excellent quality and I am happy with my decision to purchase it.
However, it is important to note that the foam material of the pillow is polyurethane, which is highly flammable and toxic if it burns. So, it is advisable to exercise caution and keep this in mind.
I was also impressed with the company's customer service. They promptly contacted me to address any concerns I had, and their quick response left a positive impression. I would definitely consider buying from them again in the future.
After my shoulder surgery, I decided to order both the 12" and 7" wedge pillow. While the 12" wedge initially seemed like a good choice, I found it to be too high for my comfort. It felt as though I was reclining in an airplane seat, with my head flopping to the side. However, the 7" wedge proved to be the perfect solution. It provided the right amount of support for my recovering shoulder and eliminated the uncomfortable feeling of reclining too much. I also bought the companion pillow case, which I am pleased with as well. The wedge pillow made my recovery process easier by eliminating the hassle of adjusting to sleeping with one arm in a sling.
On the downside, the pillow was packed very tightly and the foam did not return to its original shape even after being unpackaged for three days. I tried reaching out to customer service, but unfortunately, I couldn't get through. This left me highly disappointed and dissatisfied with both the product and the company.
However, on a positive note, I came across this product through a YouTube video where someone recommended it for rotator cuff surgery recovery. I decided to give it a try and it made a world of difference. In fact, it was so helpful that I have since recommended it to numerous people who are also going through the same surgery. It has truly been the best purchase I made for my recovery.
4. Joybest Bed Wedge Pillow – Ultimate Support For Back And Legs
I recently purchased the 7-inch wedge pillow after undergoing post-op abdominal surgery at Cleveland Clinic. Since I would be staying in the area for a week after the surgery, I knew I needed a comfortable solution for sitting. This pillow turned out to be the perfect choice! I believe the 12-inch option would have been too high for me. I used regular pillows under my knees and had a separate pillow for my head, using this wedge pillow as an incline. Surprisingly, it felt similar to sleeping on my adjustable base bed at home.
During the journey back home, I found the pillow to be very useful in the back seat as I was experiencing a lot of pain and couldn't sit in the front seat comfortably. It provided great support and allowed me to lean against it. A couple of weeks later, a friend of mine who had been in a car accident borrowed the pillow to elevate her face and reduce swelling in her cheeks. However, I was disappointed to find that the pillow smelled like smoke when I got it back. Fortunately, I was able to remove the cover and wash it. Although the pillow still had a lingering smoke smell, I managed to eliminate it by spritzing it with a vinegar-water mix and letting it dry in the sun. I then spritzed it with a fabric softener and water mix and left it in the sun for another day. It now smells fresh and clean, ready to be used again. The only downside is that it takes up a lot of space in the closet.
For me personally, lying flat on the bed, whether on my side or back, leads to breathing difficulties and even hospitalization due to respiratory problems. I recently had a sleep study done for sleep apnea, and while I'm waiting for the results, the whole experience has been quite scary. I used to sleep on a reclining love seat in a somewhat upright position until my husband got me this pillow. Now, I can sleep in bed without any episodes and I have restful sleep.
Speaking of the pillow itself, it expanded to its full size immediately after I opened the package, which was a pleasant surprise. I didn't have to wait at all to use it, and it truly measures up to its advertised thickness of 10 inches. I injured my lat muscles at work and had to take two weeks off. I tried various pillow configurations at home, but they only made the pain worse. Finally, I decided to order this wedge pillow, and it turned out to be the perfect size and angle to aid in the healing process. Additionally, it's great for watching TV in bed. The firmness of the memory foam was exactly what I needed for proper support. While it may not suit everyone, it's absolutely perfect for me. The quality is excellent, and considering the price, I highly recommend it to others in need of a similar product.
5. Orthorelief: 4-In-1 Bed Wedge Pillows – Ultimate Sleep Support
I recently purchased this cushion support and I couldn't be happier with my choice. I needed something that was firm to medium firm and this product delivered exactly that. The quality is excellent and it provides great support, especially for someone like me who has scoliosis. It arrived nicely wrapped in a box and when I opened it, it automatically came out in its proper shape without any waiting time for it to expand. There was no weird smell either, which was a relief. It's perfect for both day and night use and has greatly improved my sleeping comfort.
My husband had rotator cuff surgery scheduled and we needed a reclining chair for his recovery. We came across this cushion support and decided to give it a try. We received it very quickly and my husband tried it out before his surgery. He instantly fell in love with it and found it to be extremely comfortable. After his surgery, he went straight to the bedroom and has been using the support ever since. He plans to even sleep with it because of how comfortable it is. We are grateful to this company for providing such an amazing product. It's definitely worth the price and will continue to be used even after my husband recovers from his surgery.
We also bought this cushion support for one of our kids who is using it in a double dorm room. The other bed was unused and needed something to prop themselves up while lounging. This collection of oddly-shaped pillows has been perfect for their needs. They can easily rearrange the pillows to suit whatever activity they're doing and always find it comfortable. The support has held up well even after four months of heavy use.
One of the best features of this product is the vacuum bags that come with it. We were amazed at how well they worked. When we needed to pack up and leave, we thought fitting the pillows in our already full car would be impossible. However, the vacuum bags made it incredibly easy. Using the hose from a small vacuum, we were able to flatten the pillows into two-inch thick packages. It even comes with a little blue clip that makes sealing the bag easier. Overall, this is a great product that I would highly recommend. I plan to keep it around for future use, even when I'm post-surgical myself.
FAQs
Are there any alternative pillow options that can provide similar benefits to a wedge pillow for shoulder surgery recovery?
Yes, there are alternative pillow options that can provide similar benefits to a wedge pillow for shoulder surgery recovery. One option is a body pillow, which is a long, narrow pillow that can be positioned to support the shoulder and arm during sleep.
This can help to keep the shoulder properly aligned and reduce pressure on the surgical site. Another option is a contour pillow, which is designed to support the natural curves of the body, including the shoulders.
This type of pillow can provide targeted support and help to alleviate pain and discomfort during recovery. Additionally, a memory foam pillow can conform to the shape of the shoulder, providing optimal support and relieving pressure points.
It's important to consult with your healthcare provider or physical therapist to determine the best pillow option for your specific needs and recovery requirements.
Are there any exercises or stretches that can be done in conjunction with using a wedge pillow for shoulder surgery recovery?
Yes, there are exercises and stretches that can be done in conjunction with using a wedge pillow for shoulder surgery recovery. However, it is important to consult with your healthcare provider or physical therapist before starting any exercise routine to ensure it is suitable for your specific condition and stage of recovery.
Some gentle exercises that can be helpful include:
1. Pendulum swings: Stand and lean over slightly, supporting yourself with your uninjured arm on a table or chair. Let your injured arm hang down and gently swing it in small circles, both clockwise and counterclockwise.
2. Shoulder shrugs: Sit or stand with your arms relaxed at your sides. Lift your shoulders up towards your ears, hold for a few seconds, and then relax them back down.
3. Passive range of motion exercises: With the help of a caregiver or therapist, move your injured arm in different directions, such as flexion, extension, abduction, and adduction. These exercises help maintain joint mobility.
4. Gentle stretching: Perform stretches specifically targeting the muscles around the shoulder joint, such as the pectorals and rotator cuff muscles. Hold each stretch for about 20-30 seconds and repeat a few times.
Remember to start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and range of motion as advised by your healthcare provider. It is essential to listen to your body and stop any exercise that causes excessive pain or discomfort.
Are there any potential risks or side effects associated with using a wedge pillow after shoulder surgery?
Using a wedge pillow after shoulder surgery can have potential risks and side effects, although they are generally minimal. It is important to consult with your healthcare provider or surgeon before using a wedge pillow to ensure it is appropriate for your specific condition and recovery process.
One potential risk is improper positioning or support, which can potentially cause discomfort or strain on the shoulder or surrounding muscles. It is important to ensure that the wedge pillow is properly aligned to provide adequate support and elevation for the shoulder.
Adjusting the pillow's angle and height may be necessary to find the most comfortable position.
In some cases, using a wedge pillow can also lead to respiratory issues, such as difficulty breathing or snoring. This is more likely to occur if the pillow's angle is too steep or if the individual has a pre-existing respiratory condition.
If you experience any breathing difficulties or notice an increase in snoring, it is advisable to stop using the wedge pillow and consult with your healthcare provider.
To minimize the risks and maximize the benefits of using a wedge pillow after shoulder surgery, it is crucial to follow your healthcare provider's recommendations and instructions. They may suggest specific positioning techniques or provide alternative options if a wedge pillow is not suitable for your recovery.
Are there specific features to look for when choosing a wedge pillow for shoulder surgery recovery?
When choosing a wedge pillow for shoulder surgery recovery, there are specific features that you should consider to ensure optimal comfort and support. Firstly, look for a wedge pillow that is specifically designed for shoulder surgery recovery, as these are often shaped and contoured to provide targeted support to the affected area.
Additionally, it is important to choose a wedge pillow that is made from high-quality and durable materials, as it will be used for an extended period of time. Look for a pillow that is made from hypoallergenic and breathable materials to prevent any skin irritations and promote airflow.
The size and height of the wedge pillow are also important factors to consider. It should be of an appropriate size and height to provide proper elevation and support to your shoulder, while also being comfortable for you to sleep on.
Lastly, consider the pillow's cover. Opt for a removable and washable cover, as this will make it easier to keep the pillow clean and maintain good hygiene during your recovery period.
Overall, choosing a wedge pillow with targeted support, high-quality materials, appropriate size and height, and a removable cover will help ensure a comfortable and effective recovery from shoulder surgery.
Can a wedge pillow be used for both side sleeping and back sleeping after shoulder surgery?
Yes, a wedge pillow can be used for both side sleeping and back sleeping after shoulder surgery. A wedge pillow is designed to provide support and elevation to the upper body, which can be beneficial for individuals recovering from shoulder surgery.
When sleeping on your back, the wedge pillow can be placed under your upper back and shoulders to provide a slight incline, reducing pressure on the surgical site and promoting proper alignment. Similarly, when sleeping on your side, the wedge pillow can be positioned behind your back to provide support and prevent rolling onto the affected shoulder.
However, it is important to consult with your healthcare provider or surgeon for specific recommendations regarding the use of a wedge pillow after shoulder surgery, as they can provide personalized advice based on your individual condition and recovery process.
Can using a wedge pillow after shoulder surgery improve the healing process and prevent complications?
Using a wedge pillow after shoulder surgery can indeed improve the healing process and prevent complications. A wedge pillow helps in maintaining proper alignment of the shoulder joint and reducing strain on the surgical site.
It provides elevation and support to the affected shoulder, which helps in reducing swelling, pain, and discomfort.
By keeping the shoulder in an elevated position, a wedge pillow can also aid in improving blood circulation and preventing the accumulation of fluid around the surgical area. This can help in reducing the risk of complications such as infection and excessive swelling.
Moreover, using a wedge pillow can also assist in promoting better sleep quality and overall comfort during the recovery period. It can help in preventing movements that may strain the shoulder, ensuring the healing process is not disrupted.
It is important to consult with your healthcare provider before using a wedge pillow, as they can provide specific recommendations based on your individual condition and surgical procedure.
How does a wedge pillow help with shoulder pain and discomfort post-surgery?
A wedge pillow can be a helpful tool in managing shoulder pain and discomfort post-surgery. It provides support and elevation, which can alleviate pressure on the affected shoulder. By elevating the upper body at an incline, a wedge pillow helps reduce strain on the shoulder joint, promoting proper alignment and reducing swelling.
The elevated position also aids in improving blood circulation, which aids in the healing process. It can also prevent shoulder muscles from tightening and becoming stiff, which is common after surgery.
Additionally, a wedge pillow can provide stability and prevent rolling or shifting during sleep, ensuring that the shoulder remains in a comfortable position throughout the night.
It is important to note that while a wedge pillow may provide relief, it is crucial to consult with your healthcare provider for individualized advice. They can provide specific instructions based on your condition and recommend the optimal angle of elevation for your wedge pillow.
How long should a person use a wedge pillow after shoulder surgery?
The duration for using a wedge pillow after shoulder surgery can vary depending on the individual's specific case and the advice of their healthcare provider. In general, it is recommended to use a wedge pillow for at least a few weeks following shoulder surgery to help support proper positioning and alignment of the shoulder during sleep.
This can aid in reducing pain, swelling, and discomfort, as well as promote healing and prevent potential complications. However, it is crucial to consult with your surgeon or physical therapist for personalized guidance on the appropriate duration and usage of a wedge pillow after shoulder surgery.
They will consider factors such as the type of surgery, individual recovery progress, and any specific post-operative instructions to determine the optimal duration for using a wedge pillow. Always follow the healthcare professional's advice for the best outcomes.
What are the benefits of using a wedge pillow after shoulder surgery?
Using a wedge pillow after shoulder surgery can provide several benefits in terms of comfort and recovery. Firstly, a wedge pillow helps elevate the upper body, including the shoulder, which can help reduce swelling and inflammation.
This elevation promotes better blood circulation and lymphatic drainage, aiding in the healing process.
Secondly, a wedge pillow helps maintain proper alignment of the shoulder, preventing any strain or pressure on the surgical site. This can alleviate pain and discomfort, allowing for a more restful sleep and improved recovery.
Additionally, using a wedge pillow can help prevent any inadvertent movements during sleep that may disrupt the healing process. It provides stability and support to the shoulder, reducing the risk of accidentally rolling onto the affected side or making sudden movements that can cause pain or damage.
Lastly, using a wedge pillow can also help improve breathing and reduce snoring, as it keeps the upper body elevated and opens up the airways.
Overall, a wedge pillow can significantly contribute to post-surgical comfort, support, and overall recovery after shoulder surgery.
What is the ideal angle of elevation for a wedge pillow used after shoulder surgery?
The ideal angle of elevation for a wedge pillow used after shoulder surgery can vary depending on the individual's specific needs and comfort level. However, a commonly recommended angle is between 30 to 45 degrees.
This angle helps to elevate the upper body and keep the shoulder in a neutral position, reducing pressure and strain on the surgical site. It also promotes proper alignment of the spine and can help alleviate pain and swelling.
It is important to consult with your healthcare provider or surgeon for personalized advice on the best angle of elevation based on your specific condition and recovery progress. They may provide specific recommendations based on the type of surgery you had and any other factors that may impact your recovery.
