When choosing a pillow for neck pain, the first goal is to eliminate the posture that triggers symptoms: excessive forward flexion, lateral drop, or excessive backward tilt of the neck during sleep. For side sleepers, the pillow must fill the shoulder gap; for back sleepers, it should support the neck without over-elevating the head. Contoured cervical-support designs can help when sized correctly, but overly aggressive contours or very firm pillows may create pressure and discomfort for some users. Material choice (memory foam vs latex) relates more to heat, feel, and responsiveness; alignment and loft are still the main drivers of pain outcomes. If pain lasts beyond 2–3 weeks or includes arm tingling/numbness, clinical evaluation is recommended.