An adjustable base can make your life easier in a whole lot of ways. But beyond simply allowing you to read and watch TV more comfortably in bed, adjustable bases have quite a few health benefits, from alleviating back pain to reducing snoring. Here, learn more about the health benefits of adjustable bases.
Adjustable bases relieve back pain
Lying flat on your back increases tension on your muscles and joints. Because adjustable bases allow you to raise your upper body and elevate your legs, they can help you find a sleep position that eases back pain—or keeps it from occurring in the first place. Doctors often recommend sleeping with an elevated head and slightly raised knees to help maintain the natural curve of your spine. You could do this with pillows, but as you move around during the night it’s easy for pillows to get knocked out of place. Those with more serious back conditions, like osteoarthritis or spinal stenosis, may also benefit from sleeping in a neutral position. (Learn more about how to protect your back while you sleep.)
Adjustable bases curb snoring
One of the biggest sleep disruptors: a snoring partner. Snoring happens when the flow of air through your nose and throat is restricted. This inability to breathe properly causes the surrounding tissues to vibrate, resulting in that familiar buzzsaw sound. Sleep position is one of the leading contributors to snoring. When you lie on your back, gravity pulls on your throat and constricts your airway. Raising your head can help keep your airway clear. If you have a snoring partner (or you are the snorer in a couple), consider using an adjustable base with a split king mattress; that way you will each be able to find the position that works best for you. (Learn other ways to keep snoring from ruining your sleep.)
Adjustable bases prevent acid reflux
Acid reflux, aka heartburn, happens when stomach acid makes its way up into the esophagus. Heartburn is usually worse at night, and that can make sleeping difficult. Keeping your head elevated will help prevent all that acid from backing up into your esophagus. (Here are more tips for treating nighttime acid reflux.)
Adjustable bases ease Restless Legs Syndrome
Another benefit of adjustable bases: Some of them have a massage setting, which can be a real boon to anyone with Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS). Research has found that lower leg rubs twice a week can help ease symptoms like tingling, urges to move, and sleeplessness. So go head and treat yourself to that massage! (Get more expert advice on dealing with Restless Legs Syndrome while you sleep.)
Adjustable bases make it easier to get in and out of bed
As you get older, you may find it harder to move around in bed. Being able to raise the head of the bed will make it easier to change position and get in and out of bed. Plus, some adjustable bases come with under-bed lighting, so you can see where you’re going if you need to head to the bathroom in the middle of the night or you kicked your slippers under your bed. (Consult these tips for choosing the best mattress if you’re over 50.)
To find out which mattress pairs perfectly with an adjustable base, here’s how to find the best mattress for an adjustable base.