Adjustable Beds
Actively marketed to provide "a comfortable night's sleep", the choice in adjustable beds has exploded over the last 30 years (although they've been in use in hospitals much longer than that). People looking for an alternative to the flat bed experience, or maybe just wanting a bit more luxury, find that laying in a bed that can recline, elevate, heat and massage doesn't feel too shabby. Many also swear by the relief an adjustable bed provides for numerous health issues. For example, people suffering from acid reflux, (GERD), may benefit from using an adjustable bed, as elevating the upper body can assist in keeping acid down. Compared to a standard bed, these types of beds can provide comfort and support for individuals with back pain, osteoarthritis and multiple sclerosis.
Are all mattresses compatible with an adjustable bed? The answer is no. However, the two mattress types coil springs and air adjustable mattresses which need specific construction to move flexibly on an adjustable bed frame are available to buy. Other mattress choices, latex and memory foam are flexible enough making them compatible with an adjustable frame.
When talking about electric adjustable beds you’re really talking about the electrically operated metal frames or bases over which a mattress resides. If exploring your options online or at a sleep store, you will find that just about all electric adjustable bed frames are manufactured by a company called Leggett and Platt.
Posible features include:
- A whisper quiet motor
- A wireless remote control versus one that is hard wired to the bed
- A remote control that can be programmed to remember and return to favorite positions
- Back up power or a way to get the bed back to a flat position in the case of a power failure
- Wall hugger option: keeps the bed lined up with side tables when raised
- Built in massage
