ORTHOPAEDIC MATTRESS

Orthopaedic memory foam mattresses

Memory foam quite literally revolutionised mattress construction when it was introduced as a bi-product of research performed at the NASA space research laboratory. Visco-elastic memory foam, as it is correctly known, introduced a number of new properties to mattress performance and, quite literally, re-defined the boundaries of what an orthopaedic mattress could and should do.

Memory foam characteristics

Traditionally high quality beds, and especially those with orthopaedic mattresses, Memory foam mattress and pillows were very firm or even hard. However the memory foam mattress took a new approach that saw the mattress re-shape and contour itself to the form of the body rather than simply providing a springy resting platform.

It was quickly recognised that this kind of mattresses performance supported the body in its most natural state and accommodated the body’s curves and movements in a way that conventional mattresses did not. Furthermore, initial research indicated that this kind of mattress was not only orthopaedically superior to spring style mattresses, but that most people also felt more rested and refreshed having slept on one. In essence, a mattress revolution had started and the popularity of visco-elastic memory foam was to go from strength to strength.

Memory foam technology

Memory foam technology sees a conventional coil and filling mattress replaced by a memory foam body comprising a single block of material.

In most cases the memory foam mattress is made up from two separate components. The first is a visco-elastic memory foam layer and the second is a core made from a special anti-vibration foam. The two materials combine to produce a mattress that is comfortable and has the ability to contour itself to any object placed upon it. This gives memory foam mattresses very good orthopaedic properties.

When it comes to selecting a memory foam mattress, memory foam can be specified using a grade called the Indentation Load Deflection (I.L.D.). The different grades acts to indicate how soft or hard a memory foam orthopaedic mattress will be. Alternatively, a 3lb density memory foam produces a bed that is fairly soft. A heavier and consequently denser foam produces a firmer mattress.

Who would benefit from a memory foam mattresses

Because of the way that memory foam contours and shapes itself to every user individually, memory foam should benefit anyone.

Memory foam mattresses offer superior back and spine support and avoid the build up of pressure around critical zones like the hips. They also improve the quality and restfulness of sleep and should lead to a more refreshed and rejuvenated feeling on awakening.

They are particularly good for those who are sensitive to the kinds of localised pressure that can result from coil mattresses and those who find traditional orthopaedic beds too hard.

On the downside, those who like a very firm bed may find the properties of memory foam too relaxing and elastic. However, in most cases this sensation is only an initial one and is simply the result of sleeping on a hard bed for many years and becoming accustomed to it.

Memory foam mattresses are naturally anti-bacterial, hypoallergenic, resistant to moisture build up and mould and dust mite resistant.

Buying a memory foam mattress online

Because the availability of memory foam mattresses is limited when it come to retailers, the internet still offers the largest selection and greatest range of memory foam products. You will also find that prices are considerably cheaper, you may be buying direct from a manufacturer or main agent, and there may be other buyer incentives like free delivery and even free memory foam pillows.

Memory foam mattresses – summary

Memory foam mattresses alleviate many of the aches and discomforts that affect the more sensitive areas of the body and that result from mattress resistance whilst sleeping.

Sleeping on a memory foam mattress is said to produce a sensation similar to that of weightlessness. This results from the even distribution of the body’s weight by the visco-elastic foam.

Memory foam beds offer superior support for the back and spine and have been proven to help with back problems of many kinds. They are frequently recommended for those who suffer from backache, troublesome joints, sciatica, tension and headaches.

Memory foam mattresses are suitable for those who suffer from allergies and asthma because of their anti-bacterial and hypoallergenic properties.

Memory foam mattresses are available in all standard bed sizes and their sleeping characteristics are such that, if you sleep with a partner, a memory foam mattress does not allow one sleeper’s movement to disrupt the other ones.

Memory foam mattresses are often recommended for those with sleeping difficulties, or anyone who suffers from disruptive sleep.

The one disadvantage of memory foam mattresses that some people notice is that they have a tendency to “sleep hot”. For most, this characteristic is not a problem, but those who like to feel cool all night may find that memory foam makes them feel too warm. Some of the more expensive memory foam mattresses have clever ventilation systems to keep them cool, however, Latex mattresses are a cooler alternative.

Although rarely significant to the buying decision, memory foam mattresses are heavier than conventional mattresses, however they are often delivered vacuum packed which makes handling easy.