What you sleep on can make a big difference in the quality of sleep you get every night. A mattress that does not offer enough support for your spine can lead to muscle fatigue and a poor night's sleep. A good mattress will allow you to maintain the same natural spinal alignment that you have when standing. When your body is allowed to rest in its natural position, muscles are relaxed and sleep is more refreshing. For patients with back pain, however, lying flat is not always comfortable. For these patients, adjustable beds may be the answer. While there are no scientific studies that prove adjustable beds can relieve back pain, some of their features may be able to help patients with back pain get more comfortable during sleep. Adjustable beds are different than standard flat beds because they allow users to change the incline angle of the head of the bed and, in many cases, at the foot of the bed as well. A slight incline of the head (no more than 45), coupled with additional support under the knees, can help reduce pain, particularly leg and back pain from herniated discs and/or spinal stenosis. It also helps a patient to get out of bed without having to roll and sit up as much as if one who was rising from a flat position. If you are considering an adjustable bed, the first thing you should do is to find out if you are comfortable enough in an upright or inclined position to sleep in that position for an entire night. One way do to that is to try the position for a night or two using pillows. If the inclined position helps relieve your pain, an adjustable bed may be a good choice for you. Another way is to purchase an adjustable bed from a manufacturer who offers a 30- or 60-day money back guarantee. In addition to the adjustable head and foot, there are other features available on many adjustable beds, including: 1. Programmable memory controller that allows you to select and return to previously selected positions for reading or watching television. 2. Built-in muscle-relaxing massage with variable speeds that automatically shuts off for safety and optimal comfort. 3. Zero-gravity positioning where you can position your legs above your heart for improved circulation and comfort. 4. Split base design to allow you and your partner to recline at the angle you each prefer. Ameriglide ( http://ameriglide.com), one of the nation's largest back care retailers, offers their electric adjustable bed with many of the features described above. In addition, Ameriglide offers a full line of Tempur Pedic mattresses that work with adjustable bed bases. For more information, please visit http://sleep.makeourlifebetter.com |
