What is Weighted Blanket?
Weighted blankets are therapeutic blankets weighing between 5 and 30 pounds. The added weight pressure mimics a therapeutic technique called deep compression stimulation or compression therapy.
Benefits of weighted blankets
Many claims about the benefits of weighted blankets are anecdotal. Still, scientific research is beginning to explore the potential benefits of weighted blankets.
Some manufacturers claim weighted blankets are beneficial in certain situations.This section lists these terms along with the scientific evidence available to support or refute these claims. To do.
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fear
His 2020 systematic review of eight scientific studies found weighted blankets could be a useful therapeutic tool for reducing anxiety. However, the authors say more research is needed to determine how the weighted blanket produces this effect and whether it works in clinical practice.
Frustration
A 2013 review found an association between depression and low oxytocin levels. This hormone is involved in providing positive emotions associated with love and social connections.
A 2014 review found that light pressure on the skin triggers the release of oxytocin.Thus, using a weighted blanket can help alleviate symptoms of depression. However, more research is needed to validate this theory.
autism
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Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can have severe sleep disturbances.
A 2014 study investigated the effectiveness of weighted blankets in treating sleep disturbances in children with ASD. Each participant used a weighted or unweighted blanket for her 2 weeks and then switched to another blanket for her 2 weeks.
The researchers concluded that weighted blankets did not significantly improve sleep duration or quality compared to unweighted blankets.However, children with ASD and their parents prefer weighted blankets.
Few scientific studies have examined the effects of weighted blankets on children with ASD. However, a 2018 review suggested that a weighted vest that worked in a similar way might improve concentration in children with her ASD.
attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
Children with ADHD may have difficulty falling asleep. Anecdotal claims suggest that weighted blankets provide sensory feedback and may help promote restful sleep in children with ADHD.
A 2016 review examined whether using a weighted blanket improved sleep in her children with ADHD. This review includes studies from 2010 due to the lack of research in this area. According to Classroom, the results of the study show that the child who used the weighted blanket was able to fall asleep faster and her sleep-related attention and activity increased by 10%.
The review authors say more research is needed to investigate the potential benefits of weighted blankets for children with ADHD.
insomnia
Insomnia is a condition in which it is difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep. This condition often leads to daytime sleepiness, low energy, and negative mood swings.
A 2015 study found that using a weighted blanket improved sleep duration in participants with insomnia. Participants also reported that the weighted blanket improved their ability to fall asleep and felt more refreshed the next morning.
However, a 2020 systematic review suggests that there is currently insufficient evidence to determine whether weighted blankets are helpful for people with insomnia.
restless leg syndrome
Restless leg syndrome (RLS) is a condition in which a person experiences an overwhelming urge to move their legs. The condition is usually worse at night when it interferes with a person's sleep.
There is some anecdotal evidence that weighted blankets may have helped ease her RLS symptoms. However, there is currently no scientific evidence to support this claim.
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Weighted blanket risk
Weighted blankets can cause problems for people with certain medical conditions, such as:
Asthma: Weighted blankets can exacerbate breathing problems in asthmatics.Sleep Apnea: Sleep apnea is when a person stops breathing for short periods during sleep. Weighted blankets can cause more breathing difficulties for those with sleep apnea.
Diabetes: Diabetes can cause cardiovascular problems. Heavier blankets can further restrict blood flow in diabetics.
Claustrophobia: Weighted blankets can feel constricting and can trigger anxiety reactions in people with claustrophobia.
People with any of the above conditions should consult their doctor before considering a weighted blanket.
Where can I find it?
Weighted blankets are sold at drugstores, department stores, or online. You can also make your own.
Weighted blankets don't come cheap. They typically cost between $65 and $200.
Why Try Weighted Blankets?
Weighted blankets are used as an alternative treatment for a variety of conditions.
fear
Insomnia, rolling over, or other sleep disturbances
attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
An occupational therapist (OT) may use a weighted blanket to treat a child with anxiety and sensory disorders such as her ADHD.
how does it work
The theory behind these blankets is that body weight pressure offers therapeutic value.Just like a baby swaddle blanket, it soothes babies while they sleep. A weighted blanket can:
Calming Nerve Blankets Stress triggers a nervous system response that slows heart rate and breathing when anxious. This will help you fall asleep calmly. A weighted blanket can also help you stop tossing and turning in bed and lie down and fall asleep peacefully.
Induces natural chemicals. This stress triggers the brain to release a chemical called serotonin, which helps calm the mind and body.Serotonin stabilizes mood and helps you fall asleep.
Stress helps the body release oxytocin, which boosts the immune system response, reduces pain and stress, and aids sleep.Sensory therapy. Weighted blankets may help some people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or ADHD who are overstimulated by ambient noise. Squeezing the blanket before bed can give you a sense of security. They calm down and rest.
Recommended
work
There is no conclusive evidence that weighted blankets treat health or sleep problems.Studies have found that college students who sleep under a weighted blanket during a semester experience less anxiety and sleep better. People who had dental surgery and were covered in weighted blankets said the stress reduced their anxiety.
Studies have shown that weighted blankets do not improve sleep in children with autism. Children who sleep on blankets do not fall asleep faster, sleep longer, or wake up less frequently.
For insomnia, try good sleep habits such as using a weighted blanket and getting a good night's sleep. B. Go to bed at the same time every night or turn off your phone. You can also try proven techniques like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to improve your sleep.
Who Shouldn't Use Weighted Blankets?
Infants, toddlers, or very young children should not use weighted blankets. Falling particles and glass beads can be a choking hazard. A thick blanket can cover your child's face while they sleep.
If you suffer from sleep apnea, breathing problems, or other chronic health conditions, consult your doctor before using a weighted blanket. Please consult a therapist. Not safe for children with epilepsy, respiratory or heart problems, skin allergies, poor circulation, or who cannot remove the blanket themselves.
before buying
Choose a blanket that weighs less than 10% of your body weight and read the washing instructions first to see if it's easy to wash at home. Make sure you or your child likes the fabric and is comfortable with their weight.You don't want them to get hot or constricted under the weight of the blanket.
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How do I choose the right blanket for me?
Weighted blankets come in a variety of styles, sizes and weights. Their prices are also different. Weighted blankets typically cost between $50 and $250.
If you buy it, you need to make sure your weight is safe for your body. As a general rule, blankets should account for about 10% of your body weight. So someone weighing 100 pounds should look for a blanket that weighs about 10 pounds. Also, you should be able to safely remove the blanket.
Weighted blankets are padded differently and feel slightly different. If possible, test blankets before deciding.If not, read online reviews to find out which features you like the most.
Do not neglect the style and color of the ceiling. A visually appealing blanket will inspire you to use it more often.
Conclusion
Although more research is needed, weighted blankets are considered by many experts to be excellent therapeutic tools. It can help some people with problems.The only way to see if a weighted blanket is right for you is to try it yourself.You can buy weighted blankets at your local retail store or online. can find.
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