How Are Weighted Blankets Good For Arthritis?

Arthritis can make everyday tasks challenging and disrupt sleep due to chronic pain and discomfort. Weighted blankets, known for their therapeutic benefits, have gained popularity for their ability to provide comfort and alleviate symptoms of various conditions. When it comes to arthritis, these trusty sleep aids can offer several advantages, though it’s essential to understand how they work and the best way to use them.

Let’s dive in!

What Exactly Are Weighted Blankets?

Weighted blankets are designed to provide deep pressure stimulation (DPS), a form of tactile sensory input that is often described as a gentle, constant pressure. This sensation can mimic the feeling of being hugged or held, which has been shown to increase serotonin and melatonin levels while reducing cortisol levels. These hormonal changes can promote relaxation, reduce anxiety, and improve sleep quality.

Can Weighted Blankets Help with Pain?

Yes! Weighted blankets can help reduce perceptions of pain by applying gentle, even pressure across the body. Like briefly mentioned above, this pressure can increase the production of serotonin, a natural mood stabilizer

So, does this mean weighted blankets are good for arthritis? Let’s talk about this next!

Are Weighted Blankets Good For Arthritis?

Yes, weighted blankets can be good for managing arthritis pain. Here’s how:

1. Pain Relief

The deep pressure from a weighted blanket can help alleviate pain by increasing the production of serotonin, a natural mood stabilizer and pain reliever. This can be particularly beneficial for arthritis patients who often experience chronic pain.

2. Improved Sleep

Arthritis can make it difficult to get a good night’s rest due to discomfort and pain. The calming effect of a weighted blanket can help improve sleep quality, which is crucial for overall health and pain management.

3. Reduced Anxiety and Stress

Dealing with chronic pain from arthritis can be stressful and anxiety-inducing. The use of a weighted blanket can help reduce these feelings, providing a sense of calm and security.

With this in mind, you may be wondering how to go about choosing your very own weighted blanket, so let’s take a look at this next!

How to Choose the Right Weighted Blanket

When selecting a weighted blanket for arthritis, consider the following factors:

1. Weight: The general guideline is to choose a weighted blanket that is about 10% of your body weight. For instance, if you weigh 150 pounds, a 15-pound weighted blanket would be appropriate. However, personal comfort should always take precedence over these guidelines.

2. Material: Choose a weighted blanket made of breathable, hypoallergenic materials to avoid irritation. Cotton, TENCEL, or bamboo are good choices for their breathability and comfort.

3. Distribution of Weight: Ensure that the weight is evenly distributed across the blanket. This can help provide consistent pressure and avoid creating any additional discomfort.

Consider our chunky-knit Cotton Napper, which exceeds all these considerations. Made of only soft, sustainable cotton, our Napper is hand-knitted to bring cozy comfort and calm to your body, the natural way. Given its knit design, the Napper is perfectly breathable and has even weight distribution ensuring that you stay cozy without overheating.

Next, let’s discuss whether or not it’s alright to cozy up in your weighted blanket every night.

Is It Okay To Use A Weighted Blanket Every Night?

Using a weighted blanket every night is generally considered safe for most people, provided it is used correctly and is the appropriate weight for the individual. Here are some factors to consider to ensure its safe and effective use:

1. Start Gradually: If you’re new to using a weighted blanket, start by using it for short periods, such as during naps or while relaxing in the evening. Gradually increase the duration to get used to the sensation.

2. Monitor Comfort: Pay attention to how your body responds to the weighted blanket. If you experience any discomfort, difficulty breathing, or other adverse effects, discontinue use and consult with a healthcare professional.

3. Maintain Cleanliness: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and maintaining the blanket to ensure it stays in good condition and remains hygienic

One common concern with using weighted blankets every night is worry around whether or not this could affect blood circulation. Let’s talk about this next!

Do Weighted Blankets Affect Circulation?

Weighted blankets are generally safe for most people and are designed to distribute weight evenly across the body without restricting circulation. However, their impact on circulation can vary depending on individual health conditions and how the blanket is used.

Generally, we recommend that your weighted blanket should be about 10% of your body weight. If a weighted blanket is too heavy or not used properly, it could potentially restrict blood flow, so it is crucial to adhere to this recommendation.

In the next section, we share sleep hygiene tips to help you rest easier if you experience arthritis pain.

Sleep Tips For People With Arthritis

Here are several strategies that can help improve sleep quality when managing arthritis pain:

1. Establish a Consistent Sleep Routine: Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day helps regulate your body's internal clock, making it easier to fall asleep and wake up feeling refreshed.

2. Create a Comfortable Sleep Environment: Use a mattress and pillows that provide adequate support and align your spine. Our Cuddler body pillow is ergonomically designed to support you as you sleep, whether on your back, side, or stomach.

3. Gentle Exercise and Stretching: Engage in low-impact exercises, such as swimming, walking, or yoga, during the day to keep your joints flexible and reduce pain. Stretching before bed can also help relax your muscles and ease joint stiffness.

4. Healthy Sleep Hygiene: Avoid long naps during the day, as they can interfere with nighttime sleep. Refrain from consuming caffeine, nicotine, and large meals close to bedtime, as they can disrupt your sleep. Establish a calming pre-sleep routine, such as reading, taking a warm bath, or practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation.

5. Adjust Your Sleep Position: If you’re a back sleeper, use a bolster pillow under your knees to reduce lower back strain. When side sleeping, place your bolster pillow between your knees to keep your hips aligned and reduce pressure on your joints.

6. Maintain a Healthy Weight: Excess weight can put additional strain on your joints, exacerbating arthritis pain. Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise can help alleviate some of the discomfort.

7. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your joints lubricated and reduce inflammation.

8. Pain Management: Take any prescribed pain medications or over-the-counter pain relievers as directed by your doctor. It also helps to apply a heating pad to painful areas before bed, as this can reduce pain and inflammation.

If pain or sleep disturbances persist, consult with a healthcare provider. They can offer additional treatment options, such as physical therapy, sleep aids, or other medications to help manage arthritis and improve your sleep quality.

Conclusion

Weighted blankets can be a valuable tool for managing arthritis symptoms by offering pain relief, improving sleep quality, and reducing anxiety. By choosing the right weighted blanket and using it properly, you can maximize its benefits and enhance your overall well-being. Remember to listen to your body and adjust your usage as needed to ensure the most comfortable and effective experience.