If you struggle with getting comfortable at night when you’re trying to fall asleep, chances are you also suffer from chronic pain associated with your sleep position. One way to improve your quality of sleep and adopt a healthier sleeping position is by using a wedge.
Partners in Physical Therapy in Lake Charles strongly recommends the use of wedges for our patients dealing with chronic pain in the legs, hips, and back. To learn about wedges and how they’re used, contact our clinic in Lake Charles today for more information.
How are wedges used?
Wedges are triangle shaped orthopedic pillows that are designed to help you get a more comfortable, restful sleep. They can also help to alleviate some problems associated with chronic health issues as well, such as those that increase inflammation (arthritis).
Wedges are especially useful for elevating your legs while you rest or sleep. They can also be extremely useful for those that prefer to sleep on their backs but can’t because they are unable to relax with their legs resting in an extended position.
Wedges allow you to get into your preferred sleeping positions without discomfort. They also help to alleviate pressure and pain on your back and hips.
How to use a wedge pillow
Wedge pillows lift your upper body or your legs by about 6 to 12 inches. Although this doesn’t seem like much, it can make a world of difference in your levels of comfort while you sleep!
There are several benefits to using wedge pillows, and a Partners in Physical Therapy physical therapist can make recommendations to you on the best position for your condition. However, a couple common ones are as follows.
For those who enjoy sitting up in bed to read or watch tv, you can place the wide end of a wedge pillow flat down on the mattress. The flat side should be touching the headboard or the wall behind your mattress. With this position, you can recline comfortably without adding strain and pressure to your neck and back.
If you like to sleep on your back but tend to snore or exhibit symptoms of sleep apnea, wedges can help to elevate your body to decrease these issues. Place the wedge pillow beneath the upper body, with the thinnest part of it under the middle of your back. The incline of the pillow will open up your airway to make it easier for you to breathe.
Contact our clinic in Lake Charles
You deserve to get a good night’s rest, regardless of your condition. Using a wedge pillow could make that more attainable for you. Partners in Physical Therapy in Lake Charles carries wedge products for purchase in our clinic, but if you are unable to make the trip in person, here is an option to purchase online.
Not sure if a wedge pillow is right for you? Call our clinic today to set up an appointment to have your sleeping posture and position assessed!
