Water pillows are just what they sound like--pillows that contain a layer of water inside them, with the purpose of supporting a patient's head and neck. Water pillows conform to the shape of a patient's head, similar to memory foam, to provide less uncomfortable resistance against pressure points. When patients roll over in their sleep, the water layer in the pillow accommodates their movement.

Many chiropractors recommend water pillows to their patients because they are fully adjustable. There's no such thing as a one-size-fits-all water pillow. Water can be added to or removed from the inner water core to suit people who like firm pillows or those who like softer ones. When buying pillows, make sure the one you buy comes with a machine washable covering, and will fit in a standard sized pillow case.

What Do Clinical Tests Prove about Water Pillows?

There have been clinical tests performed with these pillows, to determine just how effective they are in helping patients to sleep comfortably. These tests prove that water pillows will actually improve the quality of a patient's sleep. Many doctors advise their patients to get water pillows to help with shoulder pain or neck pain--the support these pillows give provide a respite from the pain that helps patients relax and get the sleep they need.

These pillows are not returnable unless they are sealed in their original packaging--this is for health reasons, mandated by the federal government. These pillows are inexpensive, generally running between thirty and fifty dollars, depending on the exact model purchased. If you have a patient who cites lack of sleep as a factor contributing to an overall lack of well-being, you may recommend that he or she get a water pillow as part of an at-home treatment program. Many patients simply don't know that a bad night of sleep is often the result of trying to sleep on a pillow that doesn't provide adequate support.