If you already own a memory foam mattress, you understand the fantastic benefits it offers. One particular benefit that is a huge bonus for those who suffer from lower back pain or fibromyalgia (musculoskeletal pain) is pressure relief. For those who don’t own one yet, you are missing out! In this blog article, we will unveil the secrets of pressure points and how memory foam mattresses can provide pressure relief.
Understanding Pressure Points
To understand how pressure relief works, you need to have a general understanding of pressure points. Pressure points are areas of the body that become sensitive to applied pressure of sitting or lying down in bed for long periods of time. Examples of pressure points include shoulders, lower back, hips and knees. Without support or relief, prolonged pressure can cause discomfort and pain in these areas, leading to poor sleep patterns.
How Does Memory Foam Offer Pressure Relief?
Memory foam, also known as viscoelastic foam and temper foam, was created by NASA-funded researchers in the late 1960s to use in spacecraft seating for shock absorption and improved comfort and protection during space travel. It wasn’t until the 1990s that memory foam mattresses were available to the public. This unique foam is made from polyurethane with the addition of chemicals for enhanced density and viscosity. What makes a memory foam mattress different from a traditional coil spring or pocket spring mattress is its natural ability to respond to heat and pressure.
Memory foam mattresses can offer pressure relief by:
1) Contouring Support
When you lie on a memory foam mattress, the top surface softens and contours to your body’s shape in response to your body weight and heat. This contouring support maintains your natural spinal alignment and alleviates pressure point areas, as we discussed earlier. As a result, morning body aches and pains are significantly reduced.
2) Even Weight Distribution
Another way memory foam mattresses can provide pressure relief is through its ability to distribute weight evenly during sleep. By doing so, this prevents excess pressure from forming in any area of the body. This is particularly beneficial for those who have limited mobility or recovering from surgery and spend extended time in bed, as these individuals often experience pressure ulcers.
3) Motion Isolation
Finally, memory foam mattresses were designed with motion isolation in mind. When you or your partner toss and turn during the night, the memory foam absorbs this movement and minimises its transfer across the bed. By providing motion isolation, you and your partner can enjoy sleep without interruptions caused by tossing and turning, and receive additional pressure relief.
Shop Memory Foam Mattresses & Topper at UK Bed Store
Now you know the secrets of how memory foam mattresses provide pressure relief, you should consider investing in one if you experience bed aches and pains. Pressure relief is only one of its many benefits. These mattresses are also durable, hypo-allergenic (great news for allergy sufferers), temperature regulating and provide long-lasting comfort.
Memory foam mattresses are also available in different variations to suit different sleeping needs and circumstances. For instance, UK Bed Store offers a wide range of solid foam and reflex foam mattresses, as well as mattress toppers for good quality mattresses that are too firm. We also supply pocket spring and coil spring mattresses with an added memory foam layer. Our memory foam adjustable beds are a fantastic aid for those who have limited mobility.
Shop our range today and receive free UK delivery (exceptions may apply). All of our memory foam mattresses and toppers are available in sizes from small single to super king. If you have any questions about a specific mattress, you can send us an online enquiry and we will be happy to answer them for you.