Sleep Wedge
For a more comfortable night's sleep, a sleep wedge is becoming
a very popular solution for any number of ailments. If you might suffer from episodic acid reflux, from eating too
close to bedtime, or are constantly plagued by the discomfort; if you have sinus or other breathing problems that
might lead to excessive snoring or other discomforts, this is an alternative worth investigating. This concept is
also being applied for infants to help prevent SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome), by keeping babies in a safe
sleeping position.
First, for infants there are two innovative designs that
deserve attention. Actually the first one is marketed by DexBaby for expectant mothers as a pregnancy pillow. It is
a 12 x 11 inch breathable foam that tapers from a 4 inch thick end. It is designed to be placed under the belly of
the mommy-to-be as she begins to sleep on her side. The advantage to baby is increased oxygen and nutrients that
will be flowing. For the lady, it can help reduce the painful swelling of the extremities. It may very well serve
nicely to assist after birth to help facilitate breast feeding. The other item, for the baby, is the "Safe Lift
Deluxe Universal Crib Wedge", also by DexBaby. This gentle wedge is held in place with a non-slip bottom and will
help address baby's stomach upset and any breathing problems that might be caused by nasal congestion. It is
available for less than $10.
These triangular shaped pillows are usually made of foam and
fiber with more technological advancements have been made to include materials that will mold to the body and are
slow to recover their original shapes. These pillows may also be known as orthopedic pillows simply because they
are by design, able to support specific areas of the human frame.
The advantage of using a single pillow over propping up on
several is the extra firmness achieved by the foam over typical materials used for conventional pillows. They can
be comfortably used with a standard pillow as well for added comfort. Hospitals have used them for years to improve
circulation after surgeries and give added support to injured body areas.
Because of their triangular shape, your movement throughout the
night will not cause any loss of benefits, it will remain in place. If having suffered an injury or are recovering
from an operation, it is important to maintain a constant position during the night. These wedges can make that a
much more comfortable proposition. To address areas like back or neck injuries, these can be adapted to the level
of comfort desired by simply placing them where additional support is required. Other ailments such as a poor
circulation in the lower extremities can be greatly improved by elevating the upper body. It works the same way if
used to elevate the legs. It can greatly improve the accumulation of fluids in the ankles and feet or pain caused
by the swelling or over-exertion.
With all of the sizes, elevations, firmness, or even
totally hypo-allergenic if required, that are available for a sleep wedge, it should be well worth finding the one
that suits you. If by chance you are unable to find what you need to be comfortable, it may be worth checking with
a local medical supply company. And it is quite easy to just have one customized for you. Most will agree, it is
well worth finding any means for a comfortable night's sleep for our overall health and
well-being.
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