I personally use a nice firm foam pillow that has a cooling layer on top. This gives me great support for my neck but then also keeps my head cool. There's no excuse to cheap out on basic pillows when neck and back pain can impact so much of your life.
I personally use a water pillow to combat neck pain. The water inside the pillow can be adjusted to fit my preferences, providing customized support for my neck, head, and spine. By distributing weight evenly, the water pillow helps reduce pressure points for a more comfortable sleeping experience. A water pillow may not be a well-known option, but it can be an effective solution for those looking to alleviate neck pain. For example, after switching to a water pillow, I noticed a significant decrease in neck pain and stiffness when I woke up in the morning.
Using a rolled-up towel as a pillow can be effective in providing support for the neck and head. Simply roll up a towel and place it under the neck while lying on the back, or fold it in half and use it as a makeshift pillow while lying on the side. This can help align the spine and relieve pressure on the neck muscles, reducing pain and discomfort. While it may not be the most luxurious option, it can be a simple and affordable solution for those experiencing neck pain.
My chiropractor made the recommendation of a Temper-Pedic pillow for my neck pain. The trick is to try the pillows first in order to find one that cradles your head in the correct position. The Temper-Pedic has a few sizes to choose from so finding one that keeps your neck level is important.