Best Wedge Pillow for Sleeping After Shoulder Surgery

Looking for the best wedge pillow for sleeping after shoulder surgery? Not to worry, this guide has got you covered!

Shoulder surgeries like rotator cuff surgery are a delicate medical process that leads to pains, swellings, and inhibited mobility as the body begins its journey to healing.

Your health care professionals would advise that you, by all means, reduce movement and increase support on your shoulder.

To increase or improve support on your shoulder, there are specially made pillows that help you achieve this. One such is the Wedge Pillow.

In a hurry? Here are our top picks:

Best Overall

Runner-Up

Best System

Kӧlbs Bed Wedge Pillow

9-12" Adjustable Memory Foam Pillow

Avana Kind Wedge Pillow System

Top 9 Best Wedge Pillow for Sleeping After Shoulder Surgery

Have you decided to buy a wedge pillow? We have put together a list of some of the best wedge pillows you can invest in after shoulder surgery for a faster recovery process. Check them below.

1. Kӧlbs Bed Wedge Pillow with Memory Foam Top Our Best Pick

The #1 product on our list, Kӧlbs Bed Wedge Pillow is designed to provide support and comfort while you sleep. It can be used to prop up your head, shoulders, or legs, and can help to ease respiratory problems and improve circulation.

The wedge pillow has a 30 degrees angle to provide gentle elevation for your head and neck which can help to reduce snoring, ease respiratory problems, and improve circulation.

This wedge pillow is made from high-quality sponge foam material core with a memory foam topper for maximum comfort. The sponge is soft and high-density to prevent deformation. Moreover, due to sponge foam, it is lightweight so you can easily transport it.

Thanks to its triangular shape, this wedge pillow is perfect for post-injury or post-surgical recovery. It also comes with a removable and washable cover for easy maintenance.

What We Like:

  • Can help ease respiratory problems and improve blood circulation
  • Relieves back pain and headaches
  • Perfect for post-surgical recovery
  • 30-degrees elevation angle
  • Designed with the R shape
  • The cover is machine-washable
  • Multipurpose with many different configurations
  • Affordable and value for money

What We Dislike:

  • Available in only one color

2. 9 – 12″ Adjustable Memory Foam Wedge Pillow – Best for Rotator Cuff Surgery

Memory foam bed wegde pillow for after surgery

This is a 5-in-1 wedge pillow that folds into a suitable size to support your shoulder, back, head, and neck during that post-surgery phase.

This soft form 9 – 12 inches wedge pillow elevates at an angle of 30 to 60 degrees which is just right for supporting your back (upper and lower) and feet if necessary.

The memory foam used to make this wedge pillow is 1.5 inches and of high-quality material. This makes it easy to adjust to your body shape while in use and then retract to its normal shape when not in use.

Another good thing about this wedge pillow is the ease with which it can be maintained (cleaned and stored away) and the small amount of space it consumes.

You can clean it with a washing machine and in case it is paramount that you’d travel to someplace important, your pillow has a handle so you can grab it along like a little bag.

Product Description

  • Triangular shaped pillow
  • 30 to 60 degrees pillow elevation
  • 5 inches thick memory foam
  • 24 x 22 x 12 inches

What We Like

  • Solid foam, excellent for post-surgery recovery
  • Soft and comfortable
  • 100% money-back guarantee means confidence in buying

What We Dislike

  • Might not be suitable for tall people (5’10” and above)

3. Cushy Form Triangle Memory Foam 10-inch Wedge Pillow

Cushy Form 10-inch post surgery wedge pillow

Do you know that your wedge pillow can give the comfort of a recliner? The Cushy Form 10-inch post-surgery wedge pillow supports your back, neck, and shoulders, providing all the support you need for a great posture.

The wedge pillow is made of high-density memory foam that adjusts to your shape and is strong enough not to give way under your body weight.

The pillow has a breathable cover for maintaining temperature. The cover is also washable so your wedge pillow can be looking brand new for as long as necessary.

Asides from these, the Cushy Form wedge pillow manufacturers offer a 100% money-back guarantee for their products.

Product Description

  • 25 x 24 x 10 inches by pillow dimensions
  • Memory Foam (high density) top
  • Washable and breathable foam cover
  • Ergonomically shaped wedge pillow

What We Like

  • The wedge pillow is medically designed
  • Can help in soothing shoulder pain after surgery and also improve other conditions like acid reflux, snoring, heartburn, or sinus pressure
  • When placed on its longest side, you can get the smaller 7 inches wedge pillow
  • Easy to clean and store

What We Dislike

  • Pillow may be too dense or firm on the body

4. Forias Wedge Pillow 12″ – Best Pillow for Frozen Shoulder

This Forias Wedge Pillow supports back and shoulders and improves circulation, and hence a wonderful option for post-shoulder surgery recovery. The multipurpose wedge pillow can not only support your shoulder but also your feet.

It is built with thick memory foam for durability and comfort plus the foam also adjusts to the shape of your neck, shoulders, and back for improved comfort.

The breathable foam cover that is also removable and washable regulates the temperature of your pillow, making it a great value for every dime spent on it.

Product Description

  • 25 x 22 x 12 inches in dimensions
  • Covered in layers of thick, memory foam
  • Has a cover that is soft and washable
  • Adjustable and multipurpose wedge pillow

What We Like

  • Great support for your shoulders, head, neck, and back
  • Can replace a reclining chair
  • Durable memory foam
  • The height is medically designed
  • Makes a great gift for friends and loved ones
  • Can be used by tall folks

What We Dislike

  • The shipping packaging might cause slight depression to the foam

5. InteVision 12 Inches Extra Large Wedge Pillow Best Materials

This wedge pillow from InteVision measures a staggering 33 x 30.5 x 12 inches in dimensions. It also has memory foam of 2 inches thickness incorporated in its ‘two-layer’ design.

The InteVision 12inches wedge pillow is also equipped with a height-adjustable headrest covered in memory foam to add additional support to your head and neck.

Ever seen Egyptian cotton? This is what the InteVision wedge pillow is covered with, plus a 400 thread count. If you are recommended to sleep in an angular (or inclined) position after shoulder surgery, you can buy this most recommendable wedge pillow.

Product Description

  • Made and covered with Egyptian cotton
  • 400 thread count
  • 2 inches memory foam
  • 33 x 30.5 x 12 inches in dimension
  • Comes with replacement pillowcases

What we like

  • Extra large size can accommodate both hands at a time
  • Egyptian cotton gives luxurious feel
  • Sturdy and comfortable with a high-density memory foam
  • Can be used by very tall or bulky folks

What we dislike

  • Quite expensive.

6. Contour’s Backmax Wedge Bed System – Best Bed Wedge System

Contour products Foam bed wedge system

For full multifunctional support, Contour’s Backmax offers you great value for your money. The 28-inch high wedge pillow and bed system has 3 wedges that can be used apart or together with the aid of a zipper design.

With this wedge system, your body is relaxed in a 120-degree elevated position and in a no-pressure zone. This improved pressure-free design is particularly useful to folks who are in a post-surgery recovery stage as it eliminates pressure points.

The wedge bed system is covered in 1-inch thick memory foam and eye-catching color.

Product Description

  • Orthopedic wedge in an ergonomic design
  • Zipper system for adjusting wedge length
  • Removable Fleece cover
  • 30-day return policy and 1 year

What we like

  • Provides zero-gravity support and relief
  • Supports both upper and lower body
  • Can be used when traveling

What we dislike

  • The slight chemical odor might be harmful to some people
  • The product is quite pricey

7. Relax Home Life 7.5 Inch Wedge Pillow

This Relax Home Life pillow is 7.5 inches in height and can replace your recliner in every sense of the word. It is built with high-density foam that is covered in a material that is breathable and also washable.

The firm foam was built to be durable and not collapse under your body weight. That’s not all, it provides 100% support for your neck, shoulder, and back, making it an excellent choice for a post-shoulder surgery recovery period.

Finally, if you want a product with a guarantee or 100% risk-free purchase, you should consider this wedge pillow as it has a trusted money-back guarantee and warranty.

Product Description

  • Removable, washable foam cover
  • Medically designed 7.5 inches height
  • Leg and back elevation
  • durable foam material

What we like

  • the durable foam ensures your product lasts long and doesn’t collapse due to your body weight
  • pocket-friendly wedge pillow
  • a removable and washable cover makes for an easy maintenance
  • unparallel customer support and money-back guarantee

What we dislike

  • not large enough as one can slide from the pillow during deep sleep

8. Avana Kind Wedge Pillow With Bamboo Cover

Avana Orthopedic Support Pillow

This Avana wedge pillow and bed system is a 4-piece system with adjustable length. It includes a headrest, knee rest, scoop cradle, and a back scoop.

The back scoop is an excellent lumbar support option when flipped upside down. This wedge bed system has polyurethane and memory foam in different layers and is covered with a breathable fabric of bamboo.

To maintain the brand new look of your wedge pillow, the covers can be removed and washed with a machine washer. The brand offers buyers a 1-year warranty with an unbeatable customer care service in case there are complaints about the product.

Product Description

  • Comprises a 4-piece set including a back scoop, headrest, scoop Cradle and Kneerest
  • Polyurethane and memory foam compartments
  • Breathable and removable bamboo cover
  • Extra pillow covers for replacement

What we like

  • Adjustable angles for better comfort
  • An excellent wedge set for post shoulder surgery
  • Can replace a recliner
  • Easy to clean and maintain pillow covers

What we dislike

  • Pretty large

9. X-tra Comfort Foldable Wedge Pillow

Xtra Bed Wedge Pillow for sleeping after Shoulder Surgery

This X-tra Comfort Foldable Wedge Pillow is a 4 in 1 design that excellently supports the shoulders, back, and feet. The design makes it easy to carry about when traveling. It is made with high-quality memory foam and with removable, washable cover.

Since everyone has a different sleeping and comfort angle, this wedge pillow provides different angles so there is something for everyone.

Product Description

  • 4 in 1 pillow system for all-round support
  • Removable, washable cover
  • High-quality memory foam
  • Carry handle for portability

What we like

  • Being able to alter angles of inclination is priceless
  • Pocket-friendly price
  • Support and comfort are guaranteed
  • Portable

What we dislike

  • The chemical smell might be too strong to bear

Why Wedge Pillows are Ideal for After Surgery Recovery Process

No matter the kind of shoulder surgery you have had, for instance, a rotator cuff tear (which is the most common shoulder-related injury), it is very difficult to be comfortable or get enough sleep at night during the recovery process.

Wedge pillows are built differently to help you relax conveniently and speed up the recovery process after shoulder surgery.

Important Questions to Ask Before Investing in a Wedge Pillow After Shoulder Surgery

Did you just undergo shoulder surgery? Did your healthcare professional prescribe a wedge pillow for a better recovery process?

If yes, then it is important to ask a few questions for a better understanding of the characteristics and available designs of wedge pillows.

What Shape of Wedge Pillow Suits Me?

Wedge pillows are often triangular. Some have contoured or flat tops, depending on the manufacturer’s model. Some are made of a set of different pillow systems with detachable headrests while others are just one piece.

What’s best for you depends on what your professional prescribes or what you feel most comfortable using.

What’s My Preferred Size?

Wedge pillows differ in size and dimensions. However, most are at least 20 x 20 inches in length and width respectively. They are mostly large enough to support the back, shoulders, neck, and head at once.

Wedge pillows can also support knees, feet, and calves when placed at the foot of the bed. If you have a full-size or twin mattresses, a smaller wedge pillow would do the trick. If you own a king or queen-size bed, a large-sized wedge pillow is what you need.

What Angle Of Inclination Suits My Case?

The angle of inclination matters if you want your shoulder to be relaxed during recovery after surgery. Some wedge pillows start to incline from 7 inches. Some begin at 10 inches.

Whatever the case, the higher inclination is suitable for supporting the back, shoulders, and neck and therefore suitable for post-surgery.

What Wedge Pillow Weight Do I Need?

Do you want a wedge pillow you can maneuver?

Lighter ones would be the answer and these weigh as little as 2 to 3 pounds. Heavier ones are like 10 to 13 pounds and are best for people who toss and turn a lot when asleep.

While lighter wedge pillows can slip from the bed, the denser ones provide more balance and hence best for the post-shoulder surgery recovery process.

What Material Is The Wedge Pillow Made Of?

Wedge pillows are made of denser materials than normal pillows (medium to high-density memory foam). They are also covered with durable synthetic fabrics made from bamboo, rayon, or polyester.

How Can I Store My Wedge Pillow When Not in Use?

Wedge Pillows can be awkward when lying about unused. That is why most people tend to go for the ones that are easy to stash away neatly. Some can be disassembled and stashed away in a backpack or suitcase.

How Do I Care For My Wedge Pillow?

Wedge pillows are easy to clean and maintain if only you know how to. Your best bet is dabbing the dirty spots with a light material as exposure to dampness can cause the memory foam to deteriorate.

What Is My Budget?

The least you can get for a good wedge pillow is $30, which is a pocket-friendly price. However, the higher the quality of the foam, the more expensive it will be. Sometimes the brand may influence the price, however, finding what suits you is paramount.


Our Final Thoughts

Your shoulder requires maximum support throughout the healing period after surgery. Wedge pillows, just like recliners, come in handy during this period because they provide all the support your shoulder needs.

While there are different brands and sizes of wedge pillows, knowing what suits you and your budget can help you make the right choice. With our review of eight (8) of the best wedge pillows for after surgery, you can be sure to get one that fits your needs.

That said, following your healthcare professional’s instructions can also go a long way in helping you make a choice and have a speedy recovery.

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