Traditionally, a bed pillow did little more than give a place to put your head at night.
If you were fortunate, you had a pillow that felt good and helped you to fall asleep.
A common technique was to use two pillows stacked on top of each other.
In general, a good pillow relationship was a hit-and-miss-affair.
You may have encountered some of the problems during sleep that I have.
Some of these problems have increased with age and weight gain.

• Waking up with a sore neck or back
• Headaches, ringing ears
• Feeling just as tired in the morning, as when I lay down at night
• Waking up suddenly with a gaging sensation
• Suddenly waking up with a screaming leg cramp

All of these problems are directly related to the support, or lack of support, provided by the bed and pillows.
I have recently become aware of a new breed of pillow manufacturer.
These companies are turning out a multitude of great new products that are designed to meet the needs of people like me who can benefit with some extra support.
Foremost among the new breed of pillows are the wedge pillows.
These cheese-wedge shaped pillows are intended to provide elevation and support to the upper-body.
The angle of the wedge can be 10 degrees or more; and some pillows have an adjustable angle.
They are helpful in cases of acid reflux, heartburn or gastric reflux.
They also may eating and reading in bed much more comfortable.
Wedge pillows are also available with a scalloped design.
That is, the middle section is lower than the edges, which provides more comfort and a secure feeling.
Leg relaxer pillows are another type of wedge pillow.
They are contoured to match the shape of the back of the sleeper's legs.
They aid in the comfort of people suffering with lower back pain, swollen legs, and varicose veins.
These pillows make an ideal partner with the wedge pillow to help people with back problems.
A multitude of special purpose pillows are available.
Leg relaxer pillows are intended to be placed between the sleeper's legs.
Side-sleeper pillows are also positioned between the legs, and are useful for controlling snoring by holding the sleeper on their side.
Pillows are also available for use outside the bedroom; they provide support for travelers and workers who have to sit for long periods of time.
I have learned that even a product as ordinary as a pillow can be improved.
The older I get, the more I appreciate the innovations in the traditional concept of pillows that can make my life healthier and more comfortable.