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Real members of MyLupusTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

I started out with si joint pain a while back and X-rays show osteoarthritis but I am still having a lot of pain particularly morning and

A MyLupusTeam Member asked a question 💭
NC

Evening. I switched from one Celebrax a day(didn’t seem to help) to 2 a day. Which has only been 3 days now. When I was experiencing dizziness I started using 2 pillows to sleep to help with dizziness (which it does some). My question is could sleeping on 2 pillows cause the pain I am experiencing now in my neck and shoulders? Or is it more likely tied to pain in si joints and holding my body differently due to pain with movement and effects of this problem on my spine?

May 28
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Answer Summary

Members rallied around a question about whether sleeping on two pillows could be causing new neck and shoulder pain, with many agreeing that... Read more

Members rallied around a question about whether sleeping on two pillows could be causing new neck and shoulder pain, with many agreeing that extra pillows can strain the neck and that switching to one pillow or a supportive memory foam pillow brought real relief. Several members shared that physical therapy can address both SI joint and neck pain in the same sessions, and that ice packs, gentle movement, and supportive sleep positions all help manage the discomfort. A recurring theme was hope, as the original poster later shared that a polymyalgia diagnosis and prednisone nearly eliminated the pain entirely.

A MyLupusTeam Member

Maybe you could get one of the pillows that are shaped to support your neck and head. I feel they are very comfortable and have helped with my neck pain. I sure hope you find a solution soon. 🙏😊❤️

May 31
A MyLupusTeam Member

“I’m sorry you’re hurting. Osteoarthritis pain can be really tough, but there are things that help. Try heat for stiffness, ice for swelling, gentle movement, and supportive sleeping positions. And make sure you follow up with your doctor so they can help you manage it. I’m here for you.”
1. Heat for Stiffness
2. Ice for Swelling or Sharp Pain
3. Gentle Movement (Not Heavy Exercise)
4. Supportive Sleeping Positions
If it’s her hip, back, or SI joint:
pillow between the knees
pillow under the knees if lying on her back
avoid twisting when getting in/out of bed
This keeps the pelvis aligned and reduces pressure.
5. Supportive Shoes
If the pain is in the hip, knee, or SI joint, shoes matter.
cushioned soles
avoid flat, unsupportive shoes
avoid walking barefoot on hard floors
This reduces joint impact.
Your doctor may recommend:
anti‑inflammatory medications
topical creams
physical therapy
joint injections (if needed)
I Encourage you to follow up if the pain is severe or worsening.

May 31
A MyLupusTeam Member

I agree...too many pillows cause the neck to have to accomadte the size of the pillows. It was recommended to me to buy LISSBURY Thin Pillow for Stomach Sleeper – 2.2" Ultra Flat Memory Foam | Super Thin Low Loft Support for Belly Sleepers | Best Pillow for Neck Alignment and Front-Sleeping Comfort--Amazon-of course! iIt has helped...Good Luck!

May 28
MyLupusTeam

Both factors could genuinely be contributing to the neck and shoulder pain, and it's likely a combination of the two rather than just one cause.

Sleeping on two pillows can alter the alignment of your neck and spine, which may create tension and discomfort in the neck and shoulders over time. However, lupus-related joint Show Full Answer

Both factors could genuinely be contributing to the neck and shoulder pain, and it's likely a combination of the two rather than just one cause.

Sleeping on two pillows can alter the alignment of your neck and spine, which may create tension and discomfort in the neck and shoulders over time. However, lupus-related joint inflammation is also a very common cause of shoulder and neck pain on its own. When the body is compensating for pain in one area, like the SI joints, it often shifts posture and movement patterns. This can place extra strain on surrounding areas, including the upper spine, neck, and shoulders — creating a kind of "chain reaction" of discomfort.

Morning pain in particular is very common with lupus-related joint issues. Nearly 95% of people with lupus report joint pain and stiffness that tends to be worse in the morning and improves with movement.

A few things worth considering:

- Pillow height — Too many pillows can push the neck forward unnaturally, straining muscles overnight
- Sleep position — How you're positioned to protect your SI joints may be adding stress to your upper body
- Compensation patterns — Moving differently due to SI joint pain can quietly overload other joints

Since the Celebrex change is only 3 days in, it's worth giving it a little more time, but do flag all of these symptoms — the neck, shoulder, and dizziness — to your doctor. They can help untangle what's lupus inflammation versus a positional issue, and may have suggestions for better sleep positioning that addresses the dizziness without straining your neck.

May 28
A MyLupusTeam Member

I had two cortisone shots in my neck. Did not last long. I have tried two different pillows. I bought a special neck wrap that can be frozen or heated. My Doctor said to use cold over heat. I get headaches from the neck pain.

May 31

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