People often ask, how do adjustable beds work and do they improve comfort? We have the answers and can help you decide whether this is the best choice for your needs. When we talk about adjustable beds, we are referring to the flexible electric bases that allow users to angle the head and foot using a hand control. Once classified as “hospital beds”, today’s modern electric adjustable beds are at home in any bedroom, offering luxury, convenience, and function. By combining adjustable bases with supportive mattresses, you are able to find the perfect position for reading, watching TV, and sleeping at the touch of a button.
How do Adjustable Beds Work?
Adjustable beds are generally able to lift the head and feet up to at about 70 degrees and raise the legs to about 45 degrees. The bases feature a segmented construction with individual motors to allow for independent movements. This enables the user to accommodate special needs such as elevating the feet to decrease the pooling of blood and increase circulation, or raising the head to help drain lungs and sinuses. It also helps increase comfort options, particularly when combined with a memory foam mattress that contours to the body, providing optimum support.
Most adjustable bases provide a steel frame that is strong enough to support the mattress and user (weight capacities will vary depending on manufacturer). They may have a wood or plastic platform base on which the mattress rests, and are typically covered with ticking or microfiber to resemble a standard mattress foundation. Underneath, you will see the frame and motors, and an electrical cord for power. Motors may be either A/C and D/C, referring to the currents used. D/C motors provide a quiet and smooth operation while being a little less expensive than A/C versions. A/C motors are able to carrier bigger weight loads, but some find them a little louder. Some models have battery backups as well, which would also be located beneath the bed frame.
The original Gatch Bed some may be familiar with was adjustable using manual levers, however new models operate easily and quietly using a remote control. Remote control options offer smooth operation that allows the user to adjust the bed as needed for their comfort and activities without having to get up. Some bases use wired controls, while others use wireless remotes or even cellphone applications.
One of the drawbacks of earlier models of adjustable beds was their bulky, institutional appearance. While they may have provided a therapeutic advantage they were not considered attractive enough for home use by most people. Newer models have eliminated that concern and provide the same aesthetics associated with the appearance of traditional home furnishings. Several also included massage functions, as well as other features like built in alarms and an anti-snore control.
What are the Benefits of Adjustable Beds?
Creating a comfortable position through minor or major elevation changes for the head and feet allows users the ability to correct sleeping positions at the touch of a button. Providing knee support combined with a slight elevation of the upper body has been shown to reduce lower back stress. The spine’s natural curvature is supported with a memory foam mattress that is slightly elevated which alleviates multiple pressure points throughout the entire body. At the touch of a button, the entire position can be changed in the night without having to find and prop up pillows or wedges for support. Sufferers of chronic pain caused by the following may find relief with an adjustable bed combined with a memory foam or latex mattress.
- Suggested for people who suffer from ailments including poor circulation, acid reflux and breathing problems including asthma.
- Osteoarthritis sufferers constantly fight compression of their joints. Achieving a nearly weightless sleep position (zero gravity) allows them to reduce pressure points and associated pain.
- Spinal Stenosis sufferers are not comfortable standing straight, but require support that allows them to lean slightly forward. Many people suffering from stenosis sleep in recliners and would likely find an adjustable bed considerably more comfortable.
- Degenerative Spondylolisthesis benefit from the added support an adjustable base can provide under their knees. This in turn reduces their lower back pain.
- Otherwise healthy people can also benefit from taking stress off the lower back, and from watching TV and relaxing in more ergonomic positions.
Mattresses for Adjustable Beds
Choosing a mattress that will complement the adjustable base proves essential to getting the greatest comfort benefits. Innerspring mattresses are often too stiff and inflexible to provide the benefits that are available from sleeping on an adjustable bed. Their construction does not offer the flexibility to contour to the shape of the underlying support system, entirely decreasing the advantages. Memory foam mattresses and latex mattresses are inherently flexible, and perfectly complement the functions of adjustable beds. They are able to contour not only to your body but to the shape of the underlying frame, to provide the ultimate in comfort and support.
Finding a comfortable bed can help provide a solid night’s sleep so that you are more refreshed and awake the following day. This helps chronic pain sufferers cope, but is also beneficial to anyone. Choosing a combination of adjustable bases and memory foam or latex mattresses can create a nearly weightless sleeping position. A memory foam or latex mattress used with an adjustable bed can provide the following advantages:
- Helps to increase circulation by removing pressure points.
- Reduce aches and pains by supporting the natural shape of the spine.
- Contours to the movements of the bed to allow users the full range of motion.
Benefits conferred by adjustable beds allow people to sleep in a position that meets their personal needs, and enjoy their bedrooms while relaxing as well. While there is much more that goes into the technical aspect of adjustable bed operation, the key aspects to consider when shopping are the frame of the base, the motor system, degree of adjustability, and the controls. But the base is not the full story, as finding a complementary mattress proves essential to the function of the overall system as well. Hopefully this introductory guide to adjustable beds has made your shopping process a little easier!