The 5 Best Orthopedic Pillows of 2026
We tested pillows for a range of qualities like support and adjustability to identify the best orthopedic pillows.
- We chose the Luxome LAYR as the Best Orthopedic Pillow Overall. Our testing found it offers excellent support and customization options for a wide range of sleepers.
- The best orthopedic pillows cost $65–$172 for standard/queen sizes.
- Your body weight and sleep position affect what pillow works best for you.
NCOA supports everyone’s right to age well. So we take the time to research, test, and recommend products that can help you live a healthier life. We’ve spent more than 2,500 hours researching and testing pillows to give you the most accurate product reviews. To find the best pillows, we:
- Consulted with sleep specialists like doctors, occupational therapists, and physical therapists for guidance on choosing the best pillow
- Put more than 130 models through a series of 19 different tests at our in-house lab
- Mystery-shopped more than 40 brands
- Surveyed more than 2,000 older adults on their sleep quality
- Interviewed experts on the importance of good sleep for older adults
- Worked with older adult testers to evaluate pillows and get their opinion
- Read thousands of verified customer reviews
We’re constantly testing new pillows and sleep products to give you the most accurate and up-to-date recommendations. Read more about our sleep accessories review methodology.
If you frequently wake up with neck pain or shoulder soreness, you may want to consider your pillow. The standard pillows you find at a big box store may not have the support you need. Orthopedic pillows are designed to support your head and neck, keeping your spine in a healthy position.
“An orthopedic pillow is specifically designed to promote proper spinal alignment,” said Jeremy Smith, MD, spine surgeon and Chief of Spine Surgery at Hoag Orthopedic Institute in Irvine, California. “While no single pillow will work for everyone, orthopedic designs generally offer more structured support that can help correct poor sleep posture or other problems.”
Dr. Smith also noted that not every product labeled "orthopedic" is truly supportive because there is no official way to verify it. The materials, design, and other factors can be more important than the name alone.
With that in mind, we put 15 top pillows to the test to see which live up to the claims of the best orthopedic pillows. Read on for our picks.
Luxome LAYR
- Highly customizable height and feel
- Strong alignment support for all sleep positions
- High quality materials and simple care instructions
Saatva Latex
- Responsive shredded latex for side sleeping support
- Available in standard or high loft
- Machine-washable organic cover
Brooklyn Bedding Talalay Latex
- Great balance of softness and support
- Responsive to support alignment in different positions
- Available in high or low loft
Best orthopedic pillows in 2026
- Luxome LAYR: Best Orthopedic Pillow Overall
- Saatva Latex: Best Orthopedic Pillow for Side Sleepers
- Brooklyn Bedding Talalay Latex: Best Orthopedic Pillow for Shoulder Pain
- TEMPUR-Neck: Best Orthopedic Pillow for Neck Pain
- Brooklinen Marlow: Best Orthopedic Pillow for Back Sleepers
Comparing the best orthopedic pillows
| Comparison Features | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Score (out of 10)* | 9.3 |
8.7 |
8.1 |
8.1 |
9.4 |
| Best for | Overall |
Side Sleepers |
Shoulder Pain |
Neck Pain |
Back Sleepers |
| Trial period (nights) | 30 |
45 |
30 |
None, generally non-returnable |
365 |
*Ratings reflect a brand's overall offering; the best overall pick doesn't necessarily have the highest score
Top features of the best orthopedic pillows
We looked for the following features when choosing the best orthopedic pillows:
Luxome LAYR: Best Orthopedic Pillow Overall
We selected the Luxome LAYR as the Best Orthopedic Pillow Overall. We found it provides excellent support and customization for a wide range of sleepers. This adjustable pillow feels comfortable and well-made, with a smart design that helps keep your head and neck aligned. It stood out to us among the best orthopedic pillows for its versatility and overall comfort.
- Adjustable inserts to change height and firmness
- Supportive design for neck and spine alignment
- Removable layers for simple cleaning
- Fill material: Down alternative and memory foam
- Adjustability and loft: Adjustable with inserts, 9.5” loft
- Firmness level: Adjustable firmness
- Cooling: Gel-infused foam, breathable fabric
- Shape: Traditional rectangle
Pros
- Highly adjustable for different sleep positions
- High-quality, comfortable materials
- Straightforward cleaning and maintenance
Cons
- Not great for hot sleepers
- Takes time to find the right setup
- Higher loft may feel too tall at first
Why we chose the Luxome LAYR as the Best Orthopedic Pillow Overall
The Luxome LAYR is our Best Orthopedic Pillow Overall due to its high-quality materials—testers gave it a perfect 5/5 score. We also like that it lets you adjust the loft and feel to keep your head, neck, and spine in the best position. Our testers reported it was comfortable in their preferred sleeping positions, rating it 4.5/5 for comfort. They also praised its ease of cleaning, giving it another perfect 5/5 score. It’s worth noting the LAYR isn’t the best option for hot sleepers, with a below-average 2/5 score for cooling. But this pillow’s strong support and adjustable design make it one of the best orthopedic pillows for most sleepers.
Our testing experience with the Luxome LAYR
Testers praised this pillow’s adjustable design and high-quality materials. “This is a pretty high-tech pillow!” said one. “It has a super comfortable outer layer, to the point where I could sleep on this without a pillowcase.” They also liked how the cover stretched to fit the layers inside, which made changing the pillow’s loft feel simple.
Testers enjoyed exploring the different layers inside this pillow and how each one changed its feel. “There is a plush filling, a regular piece of cooling memory foam, and then one more filling with shredded memory foam. It truly has all the layers!” said one tester. This mix can help offer the kind of support people shopping for orthopedic pillows may prefer.
56% of older adults who responded to our survey chose a memory foam pillow.1
Testers also liked how they could adjust this pillow’s loft. With all its layers, the Luxome pillow is 9” high. “This pillow has a bit too much of a loft for me, but the nice thing about this pillow is how customizable it is,” said one tester. After removing one layer, they felt better support in their neck and shoulders, especially when sleeping on their side.
The Luxome LAYR pillow’s adjustability means it can work equally well for different sleep styles. “Once I took out that middle layer of memory foam, it was suitable for stomach sleepers,” said one tester. This adjustable height is what sets it apart from other orthopedic pillows.
The one area where this pillow did not perform as well as others we tested was in our heat-gun tests. When we measured its surface temperature before and after use, the pillow rose by 17 degrees. This is more than any other pillow we tested, so we would not recommend this pillow for people who prefer to lie on a cool surface all night. But otherwise, the Luxome LAYR offers comfort, flexibility, and quality that may benefit those with orthopedic concerns.
The Luxome customer experience
- Trial period: 30 nights
- Shipping: Free standard
- Warranty: Limited
- Financing: Yes
Customer service
You can contact Luxome customer service by:
- Email: support@luxome.com
Payment options
Luxome accepts all major credit cards as well as Shop Pay, Amazon Pay, PayPal, and Google Pay. It offers financing through Affirm.
Saatva Latex: Best Orthopedic Pillow for Side Sleepers
We selected the Saatva Latex as the Best Orthopedic Pillow for Side Sleepers for its excellent neck support, natural materials, and luxurious feel. This pillow kept the head and neck in line, especially when side sleeping, while still feeling plush and comfortable. The Saatva stood out for its quality materials and great support, two features the best orthopedic pillows share.
- Shredded latex fill for gentle support and pressure relief
- Multiple protective covers for a high-end, durable feel
- Medium loft designed to support the head and neck
- Fill material: Shredded latex
- Adjustability and loft: Not adjustable; standard (4–5'') or high loft (6–7'')
- Firmness level: Medium
- Free trial period: 45 nights
- Cooling: Breathable latex
- Shape: Traditional rectangle
Pros
- High-quality materials with a luxury feel
- Good neck support for side sleepers who like softer pillows
- Clear care instructions and helpful customer service
Cons
- More expensive than many other orthopedic pillows
- Only average cooling for hot sleepers
- Not adjustable for firmness or loft
Why we chose the Saatva Latex as the Best Orthopedic Pillow for Side Sleepers
The Saatva Latex is our Best Orthopedic Pillow for Side Sleepers. We found its medium loft and responsive latex help support the head and neck and keep the spine neutral, especially in a side sleeping position. This pillow is not adjustable, but it does come in two loft options. We tested the standard loft.
The responsive latex fills the space between the head and shoulder to offer gentle support. It earned a 4/5 for comfort from testers. The organic cotton cover is removable and machine-washable, earning this pillow a perfect 5/5 for ease of maintenance. While it costs more than many orthopedic pillows, the Saatva Latex pillow feels well-made and durable, scoring a 4.5/5 for quality materials. Saatva has a strong reputation for customer service, which explains this pillow’s 4/5 rating.
Our testing experience with the Saatva Latex Pillow
When our testers first handled the pillow, the quality was immediately clear. “This pillow is made with very nice materials,” said one tester. “It feels soft and cool to the touch. I would consider this feeling like a luxury pillow.” They also noticed the layered design. “When I unzipped the first cover, there was a second cover before reaching the latex filling of the pillow," our tester said. "This shows how there are three layers of protection before reaching the core of the pillow.”
Testers found the pillow provided the right amount of support where needed, which is especially important for side sleepers. “I think that this pillow has a decent amount of pressure relief for being a soft, latex pillow,” said one tester. “I feel lifted off the bed, but not so much that my neck would begin to hurt. The second layer is very plush, which gives support and comfort around my neck.” This made it easier to stay comfortable through the night, especially for sleepers who like a softer-feeling pillow.
In our tests, the pillow compressed to less than half its original height under weight. “It feels like the right amount of sinkage to be comfortable,” said one tester. “There is obviously some responsiveness in the latex, but the plush cover will not return to its shape without manipulation.”
Testers also gave this pillow points for its removable cover and clearly labeled care instructions. ”The font is large, clear, and easy to read for someone who might have impaired eyesight,” said one tester.
Even with its breathable cover, the Saatva latex pillow earned only average scores for cooling (3/5), so it may not work well for hot sleepers. But it stands out as a premium option, especially for side sleepers who want comfort, support, and long-lasting quality from an orthopedic pillow.
The Saatva customer experience
- Trial period: 45 nights
- Shipping: Free standard
- Warranty: Limited lifetime
- Financing: Yes
Customer service
You can contact Saatva customer service by:
- Phone: 877-672-2882, available 24/7
- Email: info@saatvamattress.com
- Live chat: Available via the chat icon on the website, 24/7
- Calling or visiting a viewing room
Payment options
Saatva accepts Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express, Google Pay, and PayPal. Financing is available through Affirm.
Saatva offers a $225 discount on purchases of $1,000 or more to adults age 65 and older, military members and their families, first responders, health care professionals, government employees, teachers, and college students. This discount cannot be combined with other offers.
Brooklyn Bedding Talalay Latex: Best Orthopedic Pillow for Shoulder Pain
The Brooklyn Bedding Talalay Latex pillow is our Best Orthopedic Pillow for Shoulder Pain. In testing, we found it provides great support and comfort while gently lifting pressure off the neck and shoulders. It has an excellent balance of softness and responsive support, helping keep your head and spine properly positioned. That balance is what we look for in a high-quality orthopedic pillow.
- Talalay latex fill with springy, responsive support
- Soft, breathable lyocell cover
- Supports side and back sleeping with good neck alignment
- Fill material: Latex
- Adjustability and loft: Not adjustable; low (4'') or high loft (5'')
- Firmness level: Medium
- Free trial period: 30 nights
- Cooling: Breathable latex core and cotton cover
- Shape: Traditional rectangle
Pros
- Great pressure relief for neck and shoulders
- High-quality, durable materials
- Can switch positions without losing support
Cons
- Cooling is only average
- Loft may be too high for stomach sleepers
- Most expensive pillow on this list
Why we chose the Brooklyn Bedding Talalay Latex as the Best Orthopedic Pillow for Shoulder Pain
We chose the Brooklyn Bedding Talalay Latex pillow as the Best Orthopedic Pillow for Shoulder Pain because it stood out in our testing for relieving pressure on the shoulders and providing overall support. Talalay latex is known for its supportive and responsive feel. It also tends to be more breathable than other foams. The pillow's high-quality construction earns it a 4.25/5 score for materials. It also helps to justify its higher cost (it is the most expensive pillow on this list).
This pillow is available in high or low loft, and we tested the high loft option. Testers found that it provided strong neck support, especially when sleeping on their backs or sides. This can help prevent shoulder pain by keeping the upper body properly positioned and aligned with the spine. While the instructions could be clearer, the removable cover can be machine-washed and dried, earning it a 4/5 score for maintenance and care.
Our testing experience with the Brooklyn Bedding Talalay Latex
This pillow’s lyocell cover with a diamond pattern and sturdy stitching impressed our testers. The Talalay latex fill felt springy, but light. “The cover feels soft and durable, with a little bit of stretch to it,” said one tester. “I feel the latex in the filling pushing my head back up in a soft, supportive way.” These natural materials are known to be breathable and moisture-wicking, which adds to the overall comfort during testing.
The latex had a gentle bounce that kept the head supported during our testing. “I am receiving great pressure relief in my neck and shoulders due to the latex filling,” said one tester. This made side sleeping feel natural and comfortable, which is key for anyone dealing with sore shoulders.
Testers reported that the pillow did not sink too deeply when lying on it. This is important for keeping the head and neck in alignment to avoid aggravating shoulder pain. “I can feel my head almost ‘bounce’ back when I move around, but not in a way that is uncomfortable or adding strain,” said one tester. During our responsiveness test, the pillow compressed to about 2 inches with a medicine ball and took just over two seconds to return to full loft. This makes it a strong choice for combination sleepers who change positions at night.
Although the pillow is made with breathable materials, it scored only average (3/5) in our heat tests, so it may not be the best for people who prefer a very cool pillow. That said, the choice of loft height, responsive support, and durable design makes the pillow a great option for people looking for an orthopedic pillow that can offer shoulder pain relief.
The Brooklyn Bedding customer experience
- Trial period: 30 nights
- Shipping: Free standard
- Warranty: 3 years
- Financing: Yes
Customer service
You can contact Brooklyn Bedding customer service by:
- Phone: Call 623-624-1222, available seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET Monday to Friday and 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday
- Chat: Live chat via the bottom right corner of the Titan website, available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET and Saturday through Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET
- Website: Submit a contact form
Payment options
Brooklyn Bedding accepts major credit cards, Amazon Pay, and PayPal. Financing is available through Affirm.
TEMPUR-Neck: Best Orthopedic Pillow for Neck Pain
We chose the TEMPUR-Neck as the Best Orthopedic Pillow for Neck Pain because it is specifically designed to support the neck and help with spinal alignment. Its firm, molded design is made to cradle the neck and reduce strain. The pillow’s strong focus on alignment is why it stood out among the other orthopedic pillows we tested.
- Firm, contoured memory foam for neck alignment
- Designed for back and side sleepers
- Shape helps limit neck strain during sleep
- Pillow type and fill material: Memory foam (Tempur material)
- Adjustability and loft customization: None
- Firmness level: Extra firm
- Cooling: Cooling fibers (optional upgrade for $10)
- Pillow shape: Contoured
Pros
- Excellent neck support for back sleepers
- Stays cooler than many memory foam pillows
- Good option for higher-weight sleepers
Cons
- Not comfortable for stomach sleepers
- Takes time to adjust when changing positions
- Materials feel basic for the price
Why we chose the TEMPUR-Neck as the Best Orthopedic Pillow for Neck Pain
The TEMPUR-Neck is our Best Orthopedic Pillow for Neck Pain because its design supports the natural curve of the neck and reduces pressure that can cause neck pain. In our testing, it was also one of the better pillows for preventing heat buildup, earning a 4/5 for cooling. This is impressive for a memory foam pillow, which is one reason we chose it as the best pillow for neck pain in our roundup of the best memory foam pillows. The TEMPUR-Neck also earned high marks for value (4/5), especially for shoppers seeking a very firm, contoured pillow designed for neck support.
25% of older adults who responded to our survey reported having chronic neck pain.1
Our testing experience with the TEMPUR-Neck
Our testers felt that the TEMPUR-Neck was pretty average as far as materials go, rating it a 3/5.“The materials don’t feel like anything special,” said one. “There is a polyester cover over some memory foam, but the memory foam doesn’t feel as high-quality as some pillows do.” While the cover did not feel cheap or plastic-like, the price made some testers expect more.
Testers said it took time to get used to the TEMPUR-Neck. “This is a pillow that is meant to help support your neck and shoulders throughout the night,” said one tester. “But it takes a minute to adjust to a comfortable position, and you can’t move around too much.” Once testers found the right position, they said the support was clear. “On my back, I could feel pressure relief in my shoulder and neck,” one tester said. Side sleeping also took some adjustment, especially for lighter-weight testers. “I liked it on my back once I lay there for a few minutes and really sank into the pillow, but as soon as I moved to my side, I had to wait again,” said one tester.
This pillow was surprisingly good at preventing heat buildup, which is rare for memory foam. In our heat gun tests, it stayed several degrees cooler than any other pillow we tested, except the Brooklinen Marlow. Testers rated it a 4/5 for cooling. They also noted that the memory foam was pretty responsive. When we compressed it with a medicine ball and then removed the weight, it took only 1.4 seconds to return to its full 5-inch loft.
Things our testers didn’t like? The care instructions were hard to read. “The directions are clearly labeled on the inside of the pillow cover. However, they are so small, and the font is so thin that anyone with impaired eyesight would really struggle to read these,” said one tester.
The TEMPUR-Pedic customer experience
- Trial period: None
- Shipping: Free standard
- Warranty: 5 years
- Financing: Yes
Customer service
You can contact TEMPUR-Pedic customer service by:
- Phone: 888-811-5053
- Live chat: on the website
Payment options
TEMPUR-Pedic accepts all major credit cards and offers financing through its website.
Brooklinen Marlow: Best Orthopedic Pillow for Back Sleepers
We chose the Brooklinen Marlow as the Best Orthopedic Pillow for Back Sleepers because it has the right balance of comfort and support for the head, neck, and spine in that position. Its easily adjustable design lets you find the right fit with just the pull of two zippers. In our testing, it earned high marks across the board, including our highest score for cooling. And it's the least expensive option on our list.
- Adjustable loft and firmness with dual zippers
- Plush, hotel-like feel with foam and fiber fill
- Hypoallergenic and antimicrobial materials
- Fill material: Memory foam
- Adjustability and loft: Adjustable; 5''
- Firmness level: Adjustable firmness
- Free trial period: 365 nights
- Cooling: Cooling memory foam
- Shape: Traditional rectangle
Pros
- Can be adjusted without removing filling
- Great neck and spine support for back sleepers
- Least expensive pillow on this list
- Best pillow we tested for cooling
Cons
- Shortest warranty of any pillow on this list
- Limited adjustability compared to removable-fill pillows
- May compress too much for those who want firm support
Why we chose the Brooklinen Marlow as the Best Orthopedic Pillow for Back Sleepers
We chose the Brooklinen Marlow as the Best Orthopedic Pillow for Back Sleepers because it offers the best balance of comfort, value, and adjustability. Its loft height can be customized. So it’s versatile enough for sleepers with different body types and preferred sleeping positions. It scored 4.5/5 in our comfort testing.
The Marlow was one of the lowest-priced pillows on our list (scoring a perfect 5/5 in value). The materials are top-notch, earning it a 4/5, and are especially good for cooling. The Brooklinen Marlow had the smallest temperature increase of any pillow we tested. It rose by fewer than 10 degrees after use, which earned it a 5/5 score for cooling.
Our testing experience with the Brooklinen Marlow Pillow
Our testers noted that the Marlow felt soft and plush, and that the materials seemed far more premium than its price would suggest. “While it’s not actual down, the Marlow pillow feels extremely similar to down—I had to double check the materials,” one tester said. The stitching was strong, and the pillow offered more support than expected given its fluffy feel. Even though it contains foam, the pillow didn’t feel stiff like many memory foam orthopedic pillows.
The adjustable zipper design was a favorite feature. “I think the zipper feature is super unique, as it lets you easily adjust the firmness to your preferred comfort level,” a tester said. Opening or closing the zippers made a clear difference in the pillow's loft, and the mesh panels helped add airflow when the pillow was more open. This may be one reason the pillow performed so well in our heat retention tests.
Back sleeping was where the Marlow really shone. “Back sleeping felt best with one zipper open and one closed, which provided a mix of sinkage and support that kept my neck and spine straight,” one tester explained. This medium setting helped the head rest comfortably while keeping the spine neutral, which is key for back sleepers.
Testers noted that this pillow may feel too soft for those who prefer more support. It also tends to compress under weight and lose its shape. In one test, this pillow took 3.6 seconds to rise back up, and it never returned to its full 5-inch loft height. That may be why the care instructions recommend fluffing it daily, which could be more work than some people want to do. But overall, testers felt this pillow offers great value for its price, and is good for hot sleepers and back sleepers alike.
The Brooklinen customer experience
- Trial period: 365 nights
- Shipping: Free over $100
- Warranty: One year
- Financing: Yes
Customer service
You can contact Brooklinen customer service by:
- Phone: 646-798-7447
- Email: hello@brooklinen.com
- Live chat: Available on the website
Payment options
Brooklinen accepts all major credit cards, PayPal, ShopPay, and Venmo. They offer financing through Afterpay.
Our process testing the best orthopedic pillows
Our team has spent thousands of hours researching and testing mattresses, pillows, and other sleep accessories so you can feel confident in our reviews. We work with experts in sleep, physical therapy, and occupational therapy, so we know which features are most important when searching for the best pillows for back pain.
For this review, we personally tested more than 15 pillows. Each pillow was evaluated and used by older adults to ensure we have real-world data on its performance. We took these important factors into consideration when testing the best orthopedic pillows:
Materials
We asked testers to rate the quality of the materials used in each pillow and note how comfortable and durable they felt and looked. Some brands use materials certified to be free of allergens or toxins, or make other claims, such as being eco-friendly. We checked whether these claims were backed by a third-party organization and/or a warranty.
Pressure relief
We noted how well the pillows contoured and how supportive they were when sleeping on your side, back, and stomach. We also checked whether each pillow provided pressure relief where needed, which can be a big benefit if you have back, neck, or shoulder pain.
Cooling
Many people prefer a cool pillow. To evaluate the temperature regulation and cooling technologies of each pillow, we asked testers to rate how cool each pillow felt. We then measured the temperature change before and after use using a thermal heat gun.
Care
Pillows are everyday items that require regular maintenance. We asked testers to note where they found care instructions on each pillow and whether those directions were simple to read and follow.
Ease of adjustment
If a pillow could be adjusted to suit different sleep positions and types of sleepers, testers then rated how complicated it was to adjust.
Loft and responsiveness
We measured how quickly the pillow springs back into place and how lofted it is to help learn who it might be best for. If a pillow becomes squished down and doesn’t bounce back, it may not keep your spine aligned.
Who should consider an orthopedic pillow?
If you tend to wake up with neck pain, stiffness, or headaches, your pillow may be part of the problem. An orthopedic pillow can be a good choice for people who need extra support to prevent or lessen these issues. Orthopedic pillows are shaped to support the head and neck, which can help reduce strain while you sleep. The best orthopedic pillows are often helpful for people who deal with ongoing discomfort or poor sleep posture. Some people who may want to consider an orthopedic pillow include:
- Back sleepers: These sleepers may benefit from orthopedic pillows, which help keep the spine in a straight line.
- Side sleepers: They may find relief from orthopedic pillows that fill the space between the shoulder and neck.
- People who snore: Regular snorers may sleep better with orthopedic pillows, since proper head and neck support can help keep airways more open.
What to look for when choosing an orthopedic pillow
Choosing the right orthopedic pillow can make a big difference in your comfort and sleep quality. The best orthopedic pillows support your sleep position, feel comfortable all night, and hold their shape over time. Knowing which features matter most can help you choose the right option.
Proper spinal and neck alignment
Orthopedic pillows should keep your head, neck, and spine in a straight line while you sleep. This kind of support helps reduce pressure and prevents your neck from bending at awkward angles, and causing pain.
The right loft for your sleep position
The height, or loft, of orthopedic pillows matters a lot. Side sleepers usually need a higher loft, while back sleepers often do better with a lower pillow that supports the neck without lifting the head too much. Stomach sleepers should typically choose a low-lofted pillow or sleep without one.
High-quality materials and construction
The best orthopedic pillows are made with durable foam, latex, or supportive fiber fills. Strong materials help the pillow keep its shape and provide steady support that lasts.
Adjustability
Adjustable orthopedic pillows allow you to add or remove fill to adjust the height. This is helpful for combination sleepers or anyone still figuring out what feels best for their body.
Durability
A good orthopedic pillow should last 1–3 years. If the pillow flattens quickly or feels lumpy, it may not give the support your neck needs.
Ease of care
Look for orthopedic pillows with removable, washable covers. Simple care helps keep your pillow clean and fresh, which is especially important for everyday use.
Pain considerations
If you have neck, shoulder, or arthritis-related pain, choose orthopedic pillows designed for pressure relief. The best orthopedic pillows gently support sore areas without feeling too firm or too soft.
How much do the best orthopedic pillows cost?
The best orthopedic pillows cost $65–$172 for standard/queen sizes. In addition to size, a pillow’s materials, durability, adjustability, and any trial period or warranty may affect its price.
| Comparison Features | Luxome LAYR |
Saatva Latex |
Brooklyn Bedding Talalay Latex |
Tempur-Neck |
Brooklinen Marlow |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost* | $150 |
$165 |
$172 |
$109 |
$65 |
| Shipping costs | Free |
Free |
Free |
Free |
Free over $100 |
| Warranty length | Limited |
Limited |
3 years |
5 years |
1 year |
| Return fees | Decided at return |
None |
None |
None, generally non-returnable |
$9.95 |
*Most mattress and sleep accessory brands run frequent or ongoing promotions. Sale prices are typically lower and may change often.
Frequently asked questions
What is an orthopedic pillow, and how does it support neck and spine alignment?
An orthopedic pillow is designed to support your head, neck, and shoulders, keeping your spine in a straight line while you sleep. The best orthopedic pillows help reduce neck strain by keeping the neck level, without an upward or downward tilt.
Are orthopedic pillows good for neck pain, arthritis, or chronic stiffness?
Orthopedic pillows can help relieve neck pain, arthritis, and stiffness in certain cases by providing consistent support throughout the night. The best orthopedic pillows reduce pressure and help muscles relax instead of tightening while you sleep.
Which type of orthopedic pillow is best for side, back, or combination sleepers?
Side sleepers typically benefit from taller orthopedic pillows that fill the space between the shoulder and neck. Back sleepers need a lower pillow with neck support. Combination sleepers often prefer adjustable orthopedic pillows so they can change the height as they move.
How long do orthopedic pillows last, and when should you replace them?
Most orthopedic pillows last about 1–3 years, depending on the materials and how often they are used. You should replace even the best orthopedic pillows when they lose their shape, feel lumpy, or no longer support your neck.
What features should older adults look for when choosing an orthopedic pillow?
Older adults should look for orthopedic pillows with gentle contouring, pressure relief, and easy-to-clean covers. The best orthopedic pillows also feature breathable materials and a height that is comfortable for the neck and shoulders.
Questions? Email us at reviewsteam@ncoa.org.