Adjustable beds are usually thought of as for people who are in hospitals, chronically ill, or in debilitating pain. Although an adjustable bed’s therapeutic benefits are undeniable, they are also suitable for individuals who suffer from muscular and joint aches, pains and sleep disorders. They are also ideal for everyone who simply enjoy the comfort of sitting up comfortably while reading, watching TV or working.  If you’re planning to buy an adjustable bed but you’re not sure if this a biggest investment for you and your family, consider these health benefits of adjustable beds — and get the best night’s sleep you’ve ever had!

Edema

Edema is a frequent problem among older people and pregnant women; it is a buildup of fluid, usually occurring in the ankles, feet, and legs.  Edema also occurs in individuals who work on their feet all day, only to come home and find their feet and legs swollen and tender. While it is not always painful, it can make walking difficult, and can make the legs and feet feel very heavy.  WebMD states that leg edema can lead to skin ulcers, and can interfere in blood flow. Edema can also lead to varicose veins.

For more serious cases, medication can be prescribed, but other options are available.  By raising the legs above the heart, fluid can disperse and make walking more comfortable.  Utilizing an adjustable bed is the easiest way to raise the feet and legs comfortably, for an extended amount of time, with minimal effort.

Back Pain

Back pain is one of the most common complaints among adults. Finding a sleep position that matches the natural curves of your body is essential for optimal back comfort and for reducing pain. Flat mattresses don’t always provide adequate support, but with an adjustable mattress, you can support your spine by releasing the pressure on the sciatic nerve. Proper spine alignment also prevents pain caused by compression, and reduces the need to prop up your head. This could help you eliminate morning headaches and neck aches.

As we age, the cartilage and ligaments that hold together our vertebrae in our spines becomes thin and less cushioning.  This can lead to back aches, and chronic pain. Raising the foot of the bed takes pressure off the lower back, easing aching back pain.  It also may ease hip and knee pain. Adjustable beds can be moved to any position that takes the stress off the affected vertebrae, and can be changed to react to the pain location of the moment. Whether you need to keep your legs elevated to reduce pressure on your spine or you want to keep your head elevated to reduce neck aches, you can move an adjustable bed to suit your needs.

Arthritis

Arthritis is a common for seniors: stiff, painful joints.  Adjustable beds can be positioned in any way that is comfortable for you, a position that will take away the ache and allow the person to sleep comfortably.  Additionally, the morning is often the time where arthritis sufferers feel the stiffest, and it may be difficult to get out of bed.  By raising the head of the bed and lowering the foot, adjustable beds effectively help “push” you out of the bed easily.

Digestion

Have you ever felt uncomfortable upon waking after falling asleep with a full stomach? You can help your body process undigested food with an adjustable bed. By raising the head of the bed by just a few inches, sufferers of acid reflux can also get some relief. Not only will you feel more comfortable when you wake up, but you’ll also avoid the pain and discomfort associated with indigestion.

Sleeping Disorders

Apnea and snoring are the two common sleep disorders, with an adjustable bed, the benefits include better sleep for you and your partner. If you snore, you probably lie on your back — although snoring can happen in any position. The trachea closes because of the weight of your neck, and this creates the snoring sound. You can reduce or eliminate these snoring sounds by propping yourself upright. Say goodbye to long nights of waking yourself or your partner because of snoring!

However, sleep apnea is a more serious sleeping disorder that can be risky if left unchecked. For certain kinds of sleep apnea, sleeping in an adjustable bed can prevent breathing stoppage and improve the quality of rest. By raising the head of the bed, it will change the angle of the airway, and lead to less constriction, less snoring, and easier breathing.