Six Things to Do With a Wedge Pillow

A wedge is a simple shape with an unusual range of uses, most of which come from turning it a different way round. It is one of the few pieces of foam that earns its storage space.

Reading and Working in Bed

The most common use. A wedge behind the back gives a stable inclined support that stacked pillows cannot, because pillows slide and collapse while a wedge holds its angle.

It also keeps the neck in a better position than being propped upright against a headboard, which is what produces the stiff neck after an evening with a laptop.

The Sizes

• Around six to eight inches: general propping and mild incline
• Ten to twelve inches: a steeper incline for sleeping
• Wider bases hold their position better under a torso
• A gradual slope is more comfortable than a steep short one
• Removable washable covers matter, since these get used constantly

Multi-use wedges around seven inches with washable covers, of the kind at xtreme-comforts.com, sit at the versatile end: usable for all of the above rather than optimised for one.

Sleeping on an Incline

For night-time reflux and for some snoring, a gradual incline from the hips upward is what is wanted.

The important detail is that it should raise the torso rather than bending the neck. Stacking ordinary pillows folds the body at the waist, which can make reflux worse rather than better.

Under the Knees

Turned over and placed under the knees while lying on the back, a wedge allows the pelvis to settle and reduces strain on the lower back.

It is one of the more commonly suggested positions for back comfort while lying down, and it costs nothing to try with something you already own.

Leg Elevation

Under the calves, with the feet higher than the hips, for tired or swollen legs after a long day.

Note that under the knees and under the calves do different things: the first is about back comfort, the second about fluid drainage.

Between the Knees, Side Sleeping

Placed between the knees while on the side, it keeps the upper leg from dropping forward and rotating the pelvis.

That is a common suggestion for side sleepers with hip or lower back discomfort, though a dedicated knee pillow is usually a better shape for it.

Getting Used to Sleeping on One

It feels strange for several nights, and people slide down. A wedge extending far enough down the torso helps, and a pillow under the knees reduces sliding.

After Surgery

Wedges are frequently suggested for post-operative positioning, and the specifics vary by procedure. Whatever the surgeon or physiotherapist instructed takes precedence over general advice.

Not for Infants

Stated plainly. Sleep positioners and wedges are not recommended for babies, and infant deaths have been associated with them. Safe sleep guidance is a firm flat surface, on the back, with nothing else in the cot.