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What Is Therapeutic Bedding?

T. Carrier
T. Carrier

Therapeutic bedding consists of sleep-related objects that provide some health benefit to users. These objects can include pillows, sheets, and bed structures themselves. Material composition and structural design typically differentiate therapeutic bedding from conventional bedding. The most common ailments that therapeutic bedding purports to combat are bone and muscle-related conditions. Some other conditions can be treated somewhat with therapeutic bedding as well, such as skin-related issues or digestive problems.

Basic bed structure may be ergonomically designed as a form of therapeutic bedding. For example, the bed may have an adjustable base that allows the mattress to be manipulated into a number of positions. Individuals may therefore sleep in a slightly bent position or at an inclination or declination. This ability may aid in a number of health-related problems, including improper blood flow, arthritis, acid reflux, headache, and restless legs syndrome.

Therapeutic beds are usually found in hospitals, but can also be rented or purchased for home use.
Therapeutic beds are usually found in hospitals, but can also be rented or purchased for home use.

Contour mattress represent another popular form of therapeutic bedding. Flexible material like foam typically comprises these products. When an individual lies on the mattress, the material gives slightly and fits directly against the individual’s back, arms, and legs. Contour mattresses are primarily tailored to individuals with back pain, as the mattress type can alleviate some of the strain on the back caused by traditional spring mattresses. The softness of the mattress can better prevent uncomfortable sleeping positions and is generally easier on sore muscles.

Manufacturers market some forms of therapeutic bedding as skin relief products. In general, producers claim that these materials — like pillow cases and comforters — are built with fabrics that can prevent bacterial accumulation on the bedding. In addition, the bedding may be made of soft material that will not irritate sensitive skin. The materials may also act as dirt repellants and moisture absorbers. All of these factors can possibly prevent the buildup of skin irritants.

In addition, many therapeutic bedding products incorporate massage capabilities. Vibrating mattresses, for example, can provide a full body massage experience. Further, devices can be affixed to the bed base that massage specific areas like the neck or the legs. Such approaches are intended to relax and help rehabilitate strained and injured muscles.

Pillows are another popular means of massage, as they can be designed with vibrating capabilities or installed with therapeutic massaging balls. In addition, therapeutic pillows are sometimes made of special materials like foam, or filled with extra-soft materials that are meant to ease soreness and pain. Further, some pillow designs keep skeletal parts in proper alignment, thereby reducing strain on joints. Full body pillows are one primary example.

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    • Therapeutic beds are usually found in hospitals, but can also be rented or purchased for home use.
      By: Agence DER
      Therapeutic beds are usually found in hospitals, but can also be rented or purchased for home use.