How to Choose a Bed for Scoliosis?
What is Scoliosis?
Scoliosis is a condition that occurs when the spine bends abnormally to the side and is commonly known as "spinal curvature". The spine is the body's natural support structure and extends from the lower back to the neck. A healthy spine has natural curves when viewed from the side, but appears straight when viewed from the front or back. In scoliosis, the spine deviates at least 10 degrees to the right or left, creating a "C" or "S" shaped curvature. This condition is particularly noticeable in the chest or waist area, and asymmetry may occur in different parts of the body depending on the type of scoliosis. For example, one side may appear higher than the other in the rib cage, shoulders or hips.
Symptoms and Causes of Scoliosis
The symptoms of scoliosis vary depending on the degree of curvature and the area where the curvature is. Common symptoms include:
Shoulders or hips are not symmetrical,
Disorder in body posture,
Unsteadiness in walking,
It occurs when one of the ribs stands out more than the other.
The disease is usually noticed in childhood or adolescence, but it can also occur later in life. Although the exact causes of scoliosis are unknown in most cases, there are some risk factors:
Genetic Predisposition: Scoliosis is thought to be related to genetic predisposition. If there is a family history of scoliosis, the likelihood of developing scoliosis increases.
Neuromuscular Diseases: Nerve and muscle diseases such as muscular dystrophy and cerebral palsy can lead to scoliosis.
Congenital Abnormalities: Congenital scoliosis may occur due to the incomplete formation of the vertebrae during the baby's development in the womb.
Traumas and Infections: Serious blows, traumas or infections to the spinal area can trigger the development of scoliosis.
Changes with Age: Scoliosis can develop in adults as a result of wear and tear on the spine. This condition is called “degenerative scoliosis” and is usually seen in older ages.
What Kind of Bed Should Scoliosis Patients Choose?
There are some important points that scoliosis patients should pay attention to when choosing a bed. Bed selection is important for proper alignment of the spine and reduction of pain due to scoliosis. It is useful to consider the following criteria when choosing the right bed.
Bed Selection for Scoliosis Patients
Choosing a suitable mattress that will support the spine health of scoliosis patients is important for both a comfortable sleep and spinal alignment. When choosing a mattress, factors such as hardness, size and material come to the fore.
Mattress Hardness
For individuals with scoliosis, medium-firm mattresses are usually the best option. A firm mattress can help align the spine because the mattress supports the body in a balanced manner. However, mattresses that are too firm can put too much pressure on the spine, causing pain. On the other hand, mattresses that are too soft can cause the body to sink into the mattress, causing the spinal curvature to increase. Therefore, a medium-firm mattress is recommended as the most suitable mattress for scoliosis patients. Medium-firm provides adequate support for the spine while also relieving pressure points.
Bed Size
Bed size should be determined by factors such as the height, weight, age, sleeping position and width of the room. It is important for scoliosis patients to choose a bed that is wide enough to be able to change positions comfortably in bed. Preferred bed sizes include:
Single: 90x190 cm and 120x200 cm
Double: 150x190 cm, 160x200 cm and 180x200 cm
Wider beds may be more suitable for comfortable movement during sleep and for positions that support the spine.
Bed Material
The material of the bed is also a factor that affects sleep quality for individuals with scoliosis. It is important for the bed material to be breathable in order to ensure proper alignment of the spine and to balance body temperature during sleep. Natural latex or viscoelastic materials in particular are recommended options for scoliosis patients because they provide airflow and adapt to body shape. It is also important to avoid materials that may cause allergic reactions, as allergic reactions can negatively affect sleep quality.
Paying attention to these three factors when choosing a bed for scoliosis patients will help support the spine properly during sleep and may reduce pain.
What Kind of Bed Should Scoliosis Patients Choose?
Since the basis of the disease is the spine and spinal deformities, the choice of bed is very important. Otherwise, the existing spinal problem may increase due to the wrong bed selection. It is a problem that can be seen from childhood onwards. Therefore, orthopedic features should be taken into consideration when choosing a bed for babies and children. In this way, future spinal problems can be prevented. Adults should prefer beds that are suitable for their body shape.
How Should a Scoliosis Patient Sleep?
The most recommended sleeping position for patients is to sleep on their back. The reason for this is that the load on the spine needs to be distributed evenly. In this way, the formation of curvature in the spine and the increase of curvature are prevented. There is no obstacle for scoliosis patients who want to sleep in the side position. They just need to sleep with their legs pulled up to their stomachs and put a pillow between their legs. In this way, they reach the correct position.
Sleeping on your stomach is not recommended. This sleeping style is not healthy in general, not just for scoliosis patients. It creates pressure on the organs. The mattress selection should be medium hard.