Adjustable Beds Have Medical Benefits

The medical community has known for some years that maintaining a bedridden patient in a particular position can aid in the patient’s care. The benefits of an adjustable bed to patient wellbeing have been well documented and cover a wide scope of medical conditions. Advancements in technology and design have taken the adjustable bed out of the hospital and into our homes. For a cost comparable to that of a traditional flat bed, we can have all of the benefits a quality adjustable has to offer.

It is important to remember that the term adjustable bed refers to a mechanically operated bed that can raise and lower the head and feet. This differs from so called adjustable mattresses.

The federal Food and Drug Administration, FDA, has recognized that the use of an adjustable bed can help in the treatment of numerous medical conditions. While not advocating adjustable beds as a cure the FDA has cleared the use of adjustable beds for treating minor aches and pains to more serious medical maladies.

Low back pain can be a chronic problem for many people and the causes are quite varied. From pulled muscles and arthritis to spinal deformities, back pain can make life a real pain and many people seek relief through various types of treatment. Volumes have been written about which type of sleep system is best for people with chronic back pain. The debate has raged between mattress manufacturers and the medical community over whether a firm or soft mattress is better for relieving back pain.

Consumers have not benefited very much from this debate and are often confused as to the best choice. One thing that many experts seem to agree on is that a traditional flat bed, whether firm, soft or somewhere in between is not the only solution. In clearing the use of adjustable beds, the FDA acknowledges that adjustable beds may provide temporary relief of lower back pain. Quality adjustable beds can place you in an almost infinite number of positions, helping to relieve pressure on the spine and supporting muscles.

As we age, many of us develop circulatory problems that affect the legs. One way to reduce swelling and the accumulation of fluid in the legs is raise the feet slightly above the heart. This can be accomplished with a stack of pillows or other means, but an adjustable bed makes the task much easier and far more comfortable. The FDA has cleared adjustable beds for providing temporary relief of edema or swelling of the legs.

Acid reflux disease can range from a minor annoyance to a serious medical problem. Acid from the stomach finds its way back up the esophagus causing heart burn like symptoms and can lead to damage to the esophagus. In addition to drug therapies, sleeping with the head slightly elevated can help keep stomach acid where it belongs. Again, a quality adjustable bed can provide a comfortable and reliable way to position the upper body in a way that can reduce the symptoms of acid reflux disease.

Nothing can be more annoying than snoring. Not only can snoring be troublesome to a bed partner, snoring can also lead to interruption of sleep leaving you feeling turned and not well rested. Snoring can be a symptom of a more serious medical condition called sleep apnea. Chronic snoring should be evaluated by a qualified medical professional. According to the FDA, minor snoring or occasional snoring may relieved by use of an adjustable bed.

The advantages of being able to conveniently and reliably changing sleeping positions, combined with options like massage and heat, can make the purchase of a quality adjustable bed a real plus.

This article is for informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified medical professional.