Choosing a comfortable bed and mattress
The type of bed and mattress is a critical decision for people with back problems. While little is known about the type of mattress is good for the back and little medical information about adjustable beds, there are still a lot of questions as to whether or not an adjustable bed is a better alternative for flat mattresses for people suffering from back problems.
How an adjustable bed works
As the name implies, adjustable beds (also called a Semi-Fowler bed), can be attuned to various positions. Sleeping slightly inclined gives comfort to people with back problems with the upper body slightly elevated than the lower body and support to the knees at a slight angle. This position eases some stress off the lower back. It provides support to the spinal curves and lightens the pressure on the entire body.
Potential benefits of an adjustable bed
An adjustable bed provides comfort sleeping slightly inclined compared to lying on a regular flat mattress. How certain back conditions can be lightened up and give more comfort provided to people are seen in the following situations
• Degenerative spondylolisthesis. Adjustable beds reduces the pain discomfort in the lower back allowing a comfortable sleep the rest of the night.
• Osteoarthritis. This back problem is accompanied by stiffness and sore during the morning. Adjustable beds give better support by lessening compression in the joints.
• Spinal stenosis. People with this back problem find comfort bending forward rather than standing upright. Flat mattresses provide lesser comfort compared to sleeping inclined which is offered by adjustable beds.
After undergoing surgery in the lower back, patients felt more comfort using adjustable beds compared to flat mattresses.
While a patient may not be sure of the benefits from an adjustable bed or is unsure of purchasing a new bed, a possible option is by propping up the upper body by using pillows beneath the knees.
Patient's preference should determine the choice of bed and mattress
Sleeping comfort is still the determining factor in the choice of bed or mattress. No particular type of mattress or bed is guaranteed to work for all patients, and no medical studies proves that adjustable beds are preferable. Whatever bed or mattress gives sleep comfort without extra pain is deemed as the best option.
Sleeping or lying down is the only time in which complete relaxation is experienced by the muscles, ligaments and the spine. A person suffering from a back injury needs to have a good sleep in order to help in the healing process.
Got a Question? Ask.
Ask the community a question about this article:
Q&A Powered by:
Latest Home and Family Articles
Ceramic Floors - How to Tile Them
By: Matt Morgan | 11/10/2008
This article provides tips and advice on how to tile a ceramic floor from preperation of the floor surfuce through to grouting the newly laid tiles.
The Teddy Bear Hidden Wireless Camera is Very Convenient to Keep an Eye on the Nanny
By: Raul Crasmin | 10/10/2008
We should pride our self on to believe that we are enhanced with the contemporary equipments and how we can expand our knowledge and skill from them while using them at our working places or even at our homes. Following the fact that once we have hunted out the expansion...
Baby Shower Party: Shower Invitations
By: Janet R. | 10/10/2008
Since then, baby shower party were practiced with a specific and important purpose, that is to shower the soon-to-be mother with lots of gifts for her baby. Although we can't point out the exact history of the baby shower, most of us agree that its purpose has not change. The...
Tips For Moving in With Stepfamilies
By: Lorne MacInnes | 10/10/2008
Moving can be difficult no matter what the situation, but it's even more difficult when two existing families combine to make one. Stepfamilies are always a difficult transition because everything is new. You have to share your home with someone else, change your routine and get used to new people,...
Doing Zero-Gs in a Lift Chair
By: Brad Brubaker | 10/10/2008
If you are a fan of the space program, then you are likely to have heard the term zero gravity. The term is often used to describe being weightless and there are several rides available that let a person experience this sensation. At this point, you might well be asking...
Benefits of Metal Roofing
By: Millard Hiner | 09/10/2008
If you are thinking of renovating your home or are in need of a new roof, you may want to consider metal roofing. Metal roofing is a growing trend among homeowners because of the many benefits that this type roof brings and this web site describes metal roofing in detail.
How to Remove Carpet Stains
By: Scott Becker | 09/10/2008
carpet cleaning
Using an Au Pair For Child Care
By: Ray Subs | 09/10/2008
Parents of young children know how difficult it is to balance life, family and work in today's hectic world. Many parents need extra help, especially if they have more than one child, in the form of a nanny or caregiver to give their children the care and attention they need....
More from Jan Thomsen
Taking Cat Arthritis Seriously
By: Jan Thomsen | 21/09/2007 | Pets
Cats are incredibly agile. They have an amazing sense of balance and they always land on their feet no matter how they started to fall. They also have a unique bone structure that allows them to absorb shocks from any impact. That is, the forelegs of a cat are not...
How Babies Can Get Infected With Herpes
By: Jan Thomsen | 21/06/2007 | Health
Herpes is a disease that is very hard for a person to accept. It causes not only physical pains to the infected person but also emotional pains as well. But what has happened to you can no longer be undone. The only thing that can be done now is to...
Getting A Payday Loan Extension
By: Jan Thomsen | 05/02/2006 | Finance
A loan extension is an option which is usually offered by payday loan companies. There are many reasons why a borrower or client cannot meet his financial obligations with a payday lender. There maybe a family emergency or the car suddenly needs repairs.
Weight Loss Attitudes
By: Jan Thomsen | 01/02/2006 | Health
Once you've achieved your desired weight, you return to your old eating habits and levels of activity, the weight will return. Plain and simple. Quick-fix diets face this kind of problem.
Dog Training Tips
By: Jan Thomsen | 01/02/2006 | Pets
The worst thing about having a dog is the training part. Just imagine how bad an untrained dog is. An untrained dog could litter anywhere in your house. This gives you're a house a foul odor that is pretty difficult to figure out where it is coming from.
Home and Family 
