The Role of Mattresses In Preventing Sleep Disorders
Sleep is an essential human activity; it is as important as eating, drinking, and breathing. However, to most individuals, quality sleep is not easy to come by. Over the past few years, researchers and sleep scientists have placed more emphasis on the fact that the sleep environment, especially the mattress, contributes a significant portion to the quality of sleep, as well as the prevention of sleep disorders. Although stress, screen time, and diet have been identified as the leading causes of sleeping problems. And we believe the role of the appropriate mattress is not taken seriously.
This quick blog addresses the effect of mattresses on sleep health, the science behind their effectiveness in sleep disorders prevention, and how the correct choice of a mattress would change your nights and overall health.
Learning About Sleep Disorders
One should first know the nature of sleep disorders before proceeding to know the role of mattresses.
Sleep disorders definitely interfere with normal sleeping. They may include such mild problems as insomnia periodically or sleep apnea, or restless legs syndrome.
Although these disorders may be caused or exacerbated by numerous factors, such as stress, lifestyle, underlying medical conditions, and poor sleep surfaces, particularly low-quality or old-fashioned mattresses may be the cause or aggravating factor in these disorders.
We highly recommend going for the best orthopaedic mattress or memory foam mattress that might help combat sleep disorders.
The Science Of Sleep & Comfort
It is at the deep sleep stage, also referred to as NREM stages, that the body regenerates the muscles and tissues and also releases vital growth hormones. REM sleep, conversely, helps in memory, learning, and processing of emotions.
This may be caused by a mattress that does not support the body in the right way, hence interfering with these sleep cycles. Micro-awakenings can be caused by pressure points, misalignment of the spine, or pain, and can be very hard to remember, but they interrupt your sleep. This sleeping discontinuation may cause:
- Tiredness
- Iritability
- Permanent sleeping disorders
How Mattresses Impact Sleep Quality
- Spinal Alignment & Posture
A mattress has one of the most important roles to play, and that is to ensure that the spine is in the right position. When sleeping, the spine must be in its natural S position. An excessively soft mattress will make the body sink, thus resulting in the spine being out of position, and an excessively hard mattress will not be able to support the natural curves of the back.
Prolonged imbalance may add to back and neck pain, stiffness and tension of the muscles, all of which complicate the ability to fall asleep and remain asleep. These problems may, over time, progress to or make sleep disorders such as insomnia because the body will start linking bedtime to the feeling of discomfort and uneasiness.
- Pressure Relief
Pressure points arise due to strain on the:
- Shoulders
- Hips
- Lower back
A proper mattress helps in:
- Releasing pressure
- Providing relief all night long
- Reduces aches and pains
- Relieves muscle tension
- Cushions key areas
- Prevents pressure ulcers
- Motion Isolation
Motion transfer may be a silent sleep disruptor to couples. It can lead to:
- Reduced bounce and responsiveness
- Difficulty getting out of bed
- “Stuck” or “sinking” feeling
- Potential for overheating
If you have a mattress with motion isolation, it will provide the following benefits:
- Helps with pets and children
- Reduces partner disturbance
- Benefits light sleepers
- Improves sleep quality
- Aids those with restless sleep
Note: If you prefer mattresses with an excellent motion isolation feature, choose Sonno. They have something for everyone, like:
- Heavy sleepers
- Light sleepers
- Stomach sleepers
- Side sleepers
- Back sleepers
- Temperature Regulation
Body temperature will automatically decrease when sleeping, and an excessively warm or cold climate will disrupt that process. Trapped heat can lead to sweating and restlessness, especially foam mattresses that are old. Natural latex and gel-infused foam or hybrid layers allow circulation of air and thus control the temperature, hence an optimum climatic situation in sleep.
Final Thoughts
We get it, sleep disorders have been increasing, and we have to try our best to control them. The first thing is to invest in your mattress. This is something that is going to be with you for a very long time, something you should expect a lot out of for your health and well-being. If the situation persists and you cannot enjoy better sleep, then consult with a professional.
