I always sleep on my left side because I have limited range of motion in my neck to the right from an accident. My ear does not go numb, but I don't have my hand there, my left arm is somewhere under there.

I found a pillow that has a gel covering which is very comfortable. It is only on one side. I found it at Marshals about 2 years ago.

It is a real bother to get up because sometimes it is hard to get back to sleep.

I also use a pillow between my legs which is the better way to sleep on your side. If you are really good, you have a third pillow to put your arms around, per my PT. Hope something works for you.