I'm a side sleeper. Before getting the BodyPillow I'd always wake up with some sort of pain, whether it be back or shoulder. A regular pillow helped me fall asleep, but didn't help my body get through the night pain free. Now that I have a BodyPillow, I can sleep through the night on my side without waking up with a sore shoulder or tight back. It's one of the most important purchases I've ever made to assist with my sleep.