Tuesday, December 11, 2007

Holiday Gift Coupons at Contour Living



Holiday Sale



Buy More, Save More with these exclusive savings:


  • Take
    $5 off $35 or more orders
    - enter coupon STOCKING during
    checkout.

  • Take
    $10 off orders of $50 or more!
    - enter coupon FROSTY
    during checkout

  • Take
    $15 off orders of $100 or more!
    - enter coupon MERRY
    during checkout



Hurry,
these coupons expire 12/15/07!



Shop Contour Living
Now!



Choose from
these wonderful gift ideas, or browse our online store for a huge selection
of support pillows, better sleep aids and products to support and improve
your back.




Please pass this savings opportunity on to your friends. We're happy
to provide uniquely designed products for your comfort and support.
Try our foam support pillows including the super popular Twist Pillow, or
our innovative Mattress Genie adjustable wedge. Maybe you need a
better head support pillow for improved sleep quality, or a new mattress pad
for improved mattress comfort. If you need a quality product for back
support or better quality rest, chances are we have a solution in our store.




Order Now !









Special Offers for newsletter subscribers:











Wednesday, December 5, 2007

New Anti-Snore Pillow Reduces Snoring!






Comfortably position your head and neck for improved airway alignment to reduce the most common causes of snoring, like sleeping on your back. A built-in air chamber in the center of this pillow allows adjustable support to help keep you off your back during the night. Simply inflate the air bubble with the connected tube to the desired height.


The anti-snore pillow is made of natural latex foam flocks that regulate moisture and warmth and provide a soft, supportive sleeping surface. The pillow is curved to accommodate your neck area, and its anatomical shape ensures proper support during the night. The high quality Euro soft cotton cover is quilted for added comfort and luxury, and can be removed for washing. The pillow fits a queen size case and looks normal on your bed. The Anti-Snore pillow is backed by a five year guarantee.


stop snoring pillow




  • Adjustable anti-snore air chamber positions your head and neck to help prevent snoring via an easy to use inflate valve.



  • The pillow’s curved shape accommodates your neck area.



  • Open cell, natural latex foam regulates moisture and warmth and provides a soft, supportive sleeping surface.



  • Promotes side sleeping.




  • Family members will sleep better with reduced snoring.




  • Quilted cover is removable for washing




  • Fits in queen size pillow case.




  • Backed by a five year guarantee.




  • anti-snore pillow reduces snoring



New Holiday Coupons



Shop now and take advantage of these exclusive savings:
· Take $5 off $50 or more orders - enter coupon SHOPNOW during checkout.
· Take $15 off orders of $100 or more! - enter coupon SHOPNOW2 during checkout

Hurry, these coupons expire 12/10/07!

Shop Contour Living Now!

Shop now and beat the Rush for the holidays! Choose from these wonderful gift ideas, or browse our online store for a huge selection of support pillows, better sleep aids and products to support and improve your back.
Holds any position for perfect comfort and support
Support and align your lower body at night
Stretch your spine for a healthier back

New European Anti-SnoreSupport Pillow
Soothe back muscles with calming massage and fantastic support

Foot and leg massage also supports lower body at night

Transform your mattress into an adjustable bed
Re-align your spine to its natural position
Inversion therapy best known back pain relief method

Please pass this savings opportunity on to your friends. We're happy to provide uniquely designed products for your comfort and support. Try our foam support pillows including the super popular Twist Pillow, or our innovative Mattress Genie adjustable wedge. Maybe you need a better head support pillow for improved sleep quality, or a new mattress pad for improved mattress comfort. If you need a quality product for back support or better quality rest, chances are we have a solution in our store.

Tuesday, November 27, 2007

Latest Coupons for Contour Living

Greetings Contour Living and Back to Health subscribers. Welcome back from the Holiday vacation. Take advantage of these savings for Cyber-Monday and beyond.

Take $5 off $50 or more orders - enter coupon TURKEY during checkout.

Take $15 off orders of $100 or more! - enter coupon TURKEYLEG during checkout

Hurry, these coupons expire 11/30/07!

Shop Contour Living Now! http://www.contourliving.com

Shop now and beat the Rush for the holidays! Choose from these wonderful gift ideas, or browse our online store for a huge selection of support pillows, better sleep aids and products to support and improve your back.

Tuesday, October 9, 2007

Freedom Back Lumbar Chair Video on YouTube

The original TV commercial for the Freedom Back lumbar support pad is available on You Tube. See for yourself how this pad supports your entire back, with emphasis on the lumbar area, and can turn any chair into an ergonomic chair. Perfect for office, task and computer chairs, but also suitable for car seats and practically anwhere else you might require ergonomic back support.

Buy your Freedom Back Lumbar Support Pad at Contour Living.


Tuesday, October 2, 2007

Tips for Keeping Your Back Safe while Skiing

Winter is a time when many people take to the slopes to enjoy the sport of snow skiing. Snow skiing, however, poses special risks in part because most people have not had formal lessons. The possibility of back injury is great especially because skiing is a sport that abruptly twists and jerks the spine. Just as most people are not trained skiers, they also do not know the correct way to fall either, whether at the end of a tow rope or skiing down a steep mountain.

Risk is also associated with the skier's level of conditioning. The out of shape weekend warrior is the most vulnerable of all. If you are planning a ski vacation, you should really begin getting into shape at least six weeks prior to the trip. One of the best training exercises is the pillow jump. Place a pillow on the floor and practice jumping with both feet facing sideways, from one side to the other. This exercise will help strengthen your legs as it simulates the turning motions you will make on skis. At the same time, it will help build your stamina. A good muscle building exercise is the wall-sit. Lower your back against a wall as if you were sitting down into a chair. You are in proper position when your thighs are parallel to the floor. Hold the position for as long as you can without discomfort. Try to increase your time over the coming days. Then, by the time you hit the slopes you will have toned some of the most heavily relied upon muscles for skiing.

Once at the slopes, be sure to stretch your muscles prior to slipping into those skis. Lunge and calf stretches will help to prepare your legs, but don't forget about your arms. Stretch one arm at a time by stretching to the opposite side of your body, holding your arm parallel to the ground and keeping a slight bend in your elbow. Also, bend over and touch your toes, stretching out those back leg muscles.

Now, you may also want to consider taking a lesson, especially if you are unsure of your abilities or have had limited experience on skis. Not only can your instructor show you how to maintain control of yourself through proper leg movements, but he can also help to ascertain your level of skill and can show you how to fall down, if need be, decreasing the risk of injury.

By following this simple advice, much of the danger associated with skiing can be eliminated. It is almost inevitable, however, that you will experience some soreness after your ski vacation.
For a full line of products designed for comfort and support of your legs, back and total body, visit Contour Living online store.

Contour Products is the brand leader in ergonomic products designed specifically for comfort and support. Products include orthopedic pillows, cushions, chair pads, mattress pads and more. Visit http://www.ContourLiving.com for more information on solutions

Headache Types Explained

Close to 90% of the population will suffer from some type of headache during the year. The good news is that about 95% of all headaches are just that - headaches - in that they are not caused by some type of underlying condition. Only about 5% of all headaches fall under the category of secondary, meaning that they are caused by another condition such as sinusitis, meningitis, brain tumors, etc.

Tension headaches account for about 85% of all headaches. Pain usually centers around the back of the neck and on the scalp, and is generally considered mild to moderate. Contrary to popular belief, men and women suffer from tension headaches at an equal rate, and the pain can last for just a few hours or up to a full day.

Migraine headaches are the second most common primary headache, and they affect women more often than they do men. Pain ranges from mild to debilitating, and often is concentrated on one side of the head, sometimes behind the eye, although the pain can shift from side to side. Symptoms can also include changes in vision, such as seeing spots, nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. If headaches occur frequently, it is advisable to seek professional help, as over the counter medications are often not effective in targeting these types of headaches.

The least common and most painful type of primary headache is the dreaded Cluster. The name is appropriate since the pain occurs in clusters that can last for a few minutes to a few hours, at least once a day for several weeks/months, often at the same time of day. Men are affected more often than women, and those who smoke and/or drink heavily are at greater risk. Symptoms of cluster headaches are unusual as well and include red, watery or swollen eyes, facial swelling and nasal congestion. Cluster headaches also have a tendency to strike a few hours into one's sleep.

There are many different "triggers" for headaches, ranging from environmental factors such as weather and air quality, foods, food additives and posture. Since it can be difficult to determine the cause of your headaches, it might be useful to keep a headache journal. Note the time of day your headache begins, the duration, any pain relievers taken, what you ate, where you were and what you were doing.

Meanwhile, an easy fix is simply to ensure that you are maintaining proper posture both during the day and at night. Poor posture for even brief periods can directly result in headaches and related problems. Contour Living is a leader in the comfort and support industry and provides many products designed to alleviate these problems.

Contour is the brand leader in ergonomic products designed specifically for comfort and support. Products include support pillows and back and bed wedge cushions and more. Visit Contour Living for more information on solutions to improve posture, sleep better, correct support problems and live more comfortably.

Simple Tips To Ease Back Pain

Millions of Americans suffer from restless, uncomfortable sleep. Poor body support during the night may be the cause of the problem. Aligning your body in a natural way can minimize tossing and turning, relieve aches and pains and alleviate morning stiffness. This in turn can help you feel better all day.

Dr. Scott Donkin, (an ergonomics specialist who has created an educational pamphlet series including Sleeping Fit and author of "Sitting On The Job,") states that the importance of leg support at night is often overlooked. "Stress and discomfort often result from the upper leg and knee being unsupported during side sleeping. The sleeper instinctively shifts the upper knee forward, causing the hips and spine to rotate, putting a twisting force on the lower back. This often leads to low back pain at night and can aggravate an existing condition.

"The solution is to place a leg pillow between your lower thighs. This keeps the upper legs even, eliminating pressure on the knees and drastically reducing the tendency to twist the hips. Maintaining a comfortable open side posture helps keep your spine in a natural, relaxed position for a great night's sleep."

"Sleeping with better alignment is easy and affordable if you know what can help," says Scott Davis, CEO of Contour Living, a leading U.S. ergonomic sleep and comfort company. "Consumers are beginning to recognize the effectiveness of sleep support and alignment products as a natural means for getting good rest and minimizing aches and pains."

Here are some tips to help you properly align your body for restful sleep:

• The National Institutes of Health recommends sleeping with a pillow between your legs as a treatment for low back pain.
• Head pillows should be shaped to support the curve of your cervical spine.
• Leg pillows should fit the shape of your legs to comfortably stay put at night. (Try the Contour Leg Pillow)
• Look for mattress pads that support the curve of your lumbar spine, rather than just a flat piece of foam.
• The two most important features to consider when choosing body alignment products are shape and material. Memory foam best relieves pressure points, while fiberfill offers a softer feel and more ventilation.

Proper support is important for good sleep. Using a leg pillow like this one from Contour Living is an easy, low-cost way to help relieve back, hip and leg aches at night

Contour Products is the brand leader in sleep and support comfort products. We design, manufacture and sell support foam pillows, mattress toppers, memory foam mattresses, back support products and more Visit our Contour Living online store today!

Thursday, September 6, 2007

Contour Leg Pillow Commercial

Here is the As Seen On TV commercial for the original Leg Pillow by Contour Products:


New YouTube Video for Contour Pillow

See the original Contour Pillow in action:



Tuesday, September 4, 2007

BackSaver Office Chairs Now at Contour Living

Whether your outfitting your office cubicle or home office, or searching for the ultimate comfort in a relaxation chair, you can now find solutions online at Contour Living. We're proud to offer BackSaver brand office chairs and zero-gravity recliners as additions to our line of support and comfort solutions.

BackSaver™ is the originator of the zero-gravity recliner and they have transferred their mark of quality and ergonomic support into their office chair line as well. You need an ergonomic seating solution to provide support throughout the day and help you relax at night, and you demand superior quality.

Ergonomic Office Chairs

Today's "office chairs" are used in a variety of applications - from hours behind the computer at the office and again at home, desk applications, drafting and drawing, phone work and much more. More so then ever, you need to know your back and lumbar area are supported correctly and comfortably. These BackSaver office chairs achieve that balance between comfort and support.

Learn more about BackSaver Ergonomic Office Chairs here

Wednesday, August 1, 2007

BackSaver Zero Gravity Chairs now at Contour Living

Contour Living now offers several options for zero-gravity: Multiple models of BackSaver™ brand zero-gravity recliners and Back Max wedge cushion recliners.

The 120-degree angled position (zero gravity recliner) places the body in its most relaxed state, where the heart and nervous system have to do the least amount of work to pump blood through the body.NASA astronauts assume this stress-free position for lift-off, minimizing physical stress on their bodies.

The zero-gravity technology is credited to the scientists and doctors at NASA and was utilized in the space program to reduce the amount of compressional forces exerted on the spine by the extreme speed at which the astronauts blast into space. During take-off, astronauts recline with their feet higher than their hearts with a torso to leg angle of 126 degrees +/- 7. The reason zero-gravity is a preferred posture for astronauts is any slight amount of disc compression will be exemplified by the speed and force of take off.

Normal sitting postures can load 150 pounds of compression into the lower back, while standing can load 100 pounds of compression, and lying in a horizontal position can load 25 pounds of compression. Even a minor back or spinal disc problem can be exacerbated with 25 pounds of compression.

See our line of Zero-Gravity recliners and Wedge Cushions here

Tuesday, July 24, 2007

Night-Time Relief for Sufferers of GERD and Acid Reflux

Night-Time Relief for Sufferers of GERD and Acid Reflux

GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, is a very common ailment affecting millions of people worldwide. GERD is known by many names, including Esophagitis, reflux, acid reflux, even (incorrectly) hiatal hernia. Gastroesophageal reflux is the term used to describe a backflow of acid from the stomach into the swallowing tube or esophagus.

The most common symptom of GERD is heartburn. Along with heartburn, other symptoms include pain swallowing, chest pain, coughing, sore throat, hoarseness, asthma, aspiration pneumonia, even tooth enamel decay, gingivitis and halitosis.

Treatments of GERD include over-the-counter medications like antacids and prescription strength medications. Heartburn and other symptoms associated with GERD may be mild to severe. If you experience severe discomfort or heartburn several times a week, you should consult a physician.

There are several lifestyle recommendations you can make to help ease the discomfort of GERD and acid reflux:

  • Control your weight / Lose weight if overweight
  • Eat smaller meals
  • Avoid reclining or lying down directly after a meal
  • Eliminate certain foods or food types that may trigger heartburn
  • Don't smoke
  • Raise the head of your mattress 6-9 inches. Experts recommend elevating the bed by inserting a wedge between the mattress and box spring (raising your head with pillows is not a good alternative)
The Mattress Genie bed wedge, manufactured by Contour Living, provides a simple solution for raising your mattress and alleviating the pain and discomfort caused by GERD symptoms. With just the touch of a button, you can raise your bed to the angle that best suits your needs. You'll love reading, watching TV, working or even eating in bed. The Mattress Genie comes with a remote control to raise and lower the mattress with a touch of a button.
Learn more about the Mattress Genie Adjustable Bed Wedge

Wednesday, July 11, 2007

New Soft Touch Memory Foam Mattresses

Sleep in blissful comfort with The Soft-Touch™ Mattress featuring a 2.5 inch thick layer of plush memory foam that conforms to your body’s every curve! Originally developed for NASA to cushion astronauts on lift-off, memory foam distributes your body’s weight more evenly, reducing painful pressure points that can cause you to toss and turn during the night. So you’ll enjoy a more restful, supportive and above all, comfortable nights sleep. Plus for a limited time, we'll include a free full-body bed massager ($200.00 value), free shipping ($59.00 value) and a 10 year warranty! when you order the 8" or 10" thick mattress today!

Below the layer of memory foam is our orthopedic foam support base. It’s made of high quality medical grade foam that provides support for your body and stability for the mattress. Our 8" thick mattress features a 5.5" base and the 10" thick mattress comes with a 7.5" base. The orthopedic base foam is specifically designed to compliment the memory foam layer and provide the ultimate combination of comfort and support.



The removable outer cover is made of jersey knit material that stretches around the mattress for a perfect fit. It’s washable and easy to spot clean so maintaining your mattress is a breeze. Just inside the cover is a special, interior fabric liner that provides a fire retardant barrier as required by the state of California, and by the entire country in July 2007. The bottom side of the cover is non-skid so your mattress always stays put.

The mattresses ship in compact, easy to manage 12” diameter rolls are vacuum packed for convenience. You’ll notice that they recover very quickly, about 90% within the first 5 minutes of unpacking, so you can begin using the mattress immediately. Beware - some companies offer a "mattress system" which is a mattress you create yourself when they ship separate foam pieces to you. This is NOT a "Mattress System", this is the complete top mattress, constructed with quality materials and permanently assembled at the production facility.

Monday, June 25, 2007

New Portable Back Lumbar Support

Support your back while traveling like never before with the Contour Travel Back. This lightweight and portable lumbar support flattens and easily fits into the smallest briefcase without posing a weight or space burden. Suitable to a variety of situations, the Travel Back is adjustable both in the degree of lumbar support and its position. No need to worry about blowing up an air chamber or deflating upon arrival, simply fold the travel back up and place in your bag. It’s that simple, and you’ll be amazed at what a big difference this small support makes for your back while traveling.
  • 4-position lumbar support
  • Folds flat for easy storage in purse, briefcase or glove-box
  • Built-in hook fasteners attach to virtually any seat back and allow for location adjustment
  • Winged sides fold in to protect adhesive
  • Ventilation holes provide breath-ability
  • Center slots provide softer comfort for spine

Check out the Travel Back Support Today

Monday, June 18, 2007

Wholesale Pillows from Contour Products


supplier and manufacturer of support pillows, neck pillows and leg pillowsContour Leg Pillow wholesale sleep and bedding supplyContour Living wholesale products and supplierCPAP sleep aid distributor for medical supplyWholesaler of Foam pillows



Contact us and set up your wholesale account today!


Contour Products is a worldwide wholesale distributor of unique bedding, mattress and support products for Catalog, Medical, Travel and all Retail stores, for both domestic and international markets. Since the introduction and success of our first innovation, the Contour Pillow, we have sold more than 20 million products in the United States and 80 other countries.

We partner with physicians, chiropractors and sleep experts and use customer feedback to develop the best possible products for the marketplace. As a result of our diligent research and development efforts, we currently own more than 60 patents and trademarks registered in the United States and 30 others abroad.



wholesale pillow company and manufacturer Contour brand pillows supplierMattress Genie available for drop shipping and retail storesback support cushions and wedge productsback support products distributormattress products at wholesale prices

Products available for wholesale distribution include:

  • Support Pillows - Our extensive line of wholesale pillows includes memory and support foam bed pillows, specialty support pillows for medical applications, neck pillows (includes the very popular Twist Pillow) and leg and knee pillows.

  • Mattress Products - Contour Products manufactures specialty mattress products including the Mattress Remedy solution for sagging mattresses, Contour Cloud memory foam mattress toppers and bed pads, and the Mattress Genie adjustable bed wedge - a low cost, innovative alternative to adjustable beds.

  • Wedge Cushions - Wholesale distribution of fully body foam wedge cushions, and back and leg wedge cushions.

  • Back Support Products - Products available for wholesale include lumbar support cushions and other back products.





    WHOLESALE NECK PILLOWScontour travel back - back support productsContour Cloud Mattress Topper for wholesale purchasetwist pillow - wholesale bedding and housewares supplymassage leg pillow inventory and warehouse supply

Product packaging is available for mail order, drop shipment, or retail, and are warehouse and/or display ready. To accommodate high volume accounts, we also offer a container program and we'll work with you to provide custom solutions to your packaging or shipping requirements.


For purchases, product information and sales inquiries, in the USA, please contact sales@contourliving.com


For product information and sales inquiries, for distribution outside the USA, please contact internationalsales@contourliving.com


ContactS: Joe Safrit, National Sales Manager, jsafrit@contourliving.com, (704) 527-6133 x197 Julia Ciaccio, International Sales Manager, jciaccio@contourliving.com, (704) 527-6133 x114







Wednesday, June 6, 2007

Butterfly 3-in-1 Massage Pillow’s™ Unique Hinged Design


Addresses Multiple Comfort & Support Problems


FORT LAUDERDALE, FL, (June 1, 2007) – Contour Products™, a leader in the ergonomic support and comfort industry, introduced today the new Butterfly 3-in-1 Massage Pillow™. This product is the next generation of the popular Contour Leg Pillow, which continues to sell successfully at numerous major retail chains nationwide.

The pillow’s hinged design, which allows it to open and close to provide comfort to different parts of the legs, prompted the “Butterfly” name and the application for patents on this unique innovation. The pillow’s massage feature also offers additional relaxation for maximum comfort.

In the closed position, the Butterfly Leg Pillow rests between the user’s thighs for better low body support and hip alignment, just like the original leg pillow. This position relaxes back muscles and reduces painful pressure on hips, knees and joints. In the open position, the pillow can sit on the floor and cradle the user’s feet for a soothing massage or lie under the user’s ankles to elevate the legs, relieving pressure on the lower back. People suffering from swelling or edema in their legs also benefit from assuming this leg-elevation position. The massage function can be activated in any of the positions with just the flick of a switch.

“This product takes the idea of the original leg pillow several steps further,” Scott Davis, president and CEO of Contour Products, said. “The item’s ability to convert from a traditional leg pillow to a foot- or calve-massage pillow separates it from anything else in the marketplace.”

When opened to cradle the thighs, calves or heels, the pillow’s massage feature can relax tense muscles in each leg while the user lays on his or her back or stomach. When closed, the user can place the pillow between the legs for a soothing inner-thigh massage. The pillow’s memory foam molds to fit the exact shape of the user’s knees, thighs, calves, ankles or heels for a custom fit, superior support and unsurpassed comfort.

Buy the new Butterfly Multi Purpose Massaging Leg Pillow Here


Product & Sales Contact:
Joe Safrit, jsafrit@contourliving.com, (704) 527-6133 ext. 197
Media Contacts:
Diane Dancer, diane@cobertpr.com, (214) 674-8970
Heidi Cobert, heidi@cobertpr.com, (440) 309-5703

Thursday, May 24, 2007

Mattress Genie Review on About.com

Review of Mattress Genie inflatable bed wedge.



read more digg story

Wednesday, May 23, 2007

Benefits of Inversion - Summary

Inversion is a natural form of traction that uses your own body weight in combination with gravity to decompress weight-bearing joints. While the body is rotated and suspended, gravity’s force applies traction, resulting in a customized stretch that elongates the spine, increasing the space between the vertebrae, which relieves the pressure on discs and nerve roots. Less pressure means less back pain.
Inversion may be best known as a method to relieve back pain, but it’s also an effective way to stretch and relax muscles, reduce stress and tension and provide healthy movement for ligaments. Inverted decompression helps to:
· Relieve back pain
· Reduce stress
· Stimulate circulation and lymph flow
· Improve posture
· Reduce muscle tension and stress
· Strengthen ligaments
· Increase flexibility and range of movement
· Reduce the effects of aging caused by gravity
· Achieve functional fitness, a state of flexibility, strength and balance that supports youthful movement and activity

Since 1981, Teeter Hang Ups has set the standard for quality inversion and back care products. Commitment to quality creates superior products for a better back and a better body™. Contour Living is proud to carry Teeter Hang Ups Inversion tables. Visit our Inversion Table category for full selection.

Wednesday, May 9, 2007

Rationale and efficacy of conservative therapy for gastroesophageal reflux disease.

Rationale and efficacy of conservative therapy for gastroesophageal reflux disease. Kitchin et al. Arch Internal Med (1991).

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), also known as acid reflux disease or in mild cases heartburn, is an increasingly common condition in the developed world, characterized by frequent regurgitations of stomach acid into the lower esophagus. GERD can often be caused by a hiatal hernia, a condition where part of the stomach slips above the diaphragm to contact the esophagus. If left untreated, damage caused by severe GERD can cause replacement of the normal cells lining the esophagus by other tissue types (a condition known as Barrett’s esophagus), eventually leading to an increased risk of esophageal cancer. While acid-suppressive medications can be used, their potential side effects and complications can be avoided through a variety of simpler treatment measures. This review article finds significant clinical evidence for the efficacy of lifestyle-based treatments for heartburn and GERD, including elevation of the head of the bed.

Sleeping on a wedge diminishes exposure of the esophagus to refluxed acid. Hamilton et al. Digestive Dis Sciences (1988).

Using continuous monitoring of pH (acidity) within the esophagus among several alternative positions at rest, this randomized clinical trial detected a significant decrease in the time that the esophagus was exposed to highly acid conditions when using a foam wedge to elevate the head, and also showed a decrease in the time necessary for the acid to be cleared. Interestingly, use of a wedge-shaped mechanism was significantly more effective than elevation through the use of standard bed blocks.

See how the Mattress Genie Wedge Can Help

Davis C. Ryman

MD/PhD candidate, Case Western Reserve University

Lamb lab, Departments of Neuroscience and Genetics

dryman@po.cwru.edu

Thursday, April 19, 2007

Tips for Night-Time Relief of GERD & Acid Reflux Symptoms

GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, is a very common ailment affecting millions of people worldwide. GERD is known by many names, including Esophagitis, reflux, acid reflux, even (incorrectly) hiatal hernia. Gastroesophageal reflux is the term used to describe a backflow of acid from the stomach into the swallowing tube or esophagus.

Experts agree: Raising your upper mattress 6-9" helps alleviate many of the symptoms of GERD, acid reflux and heartburn*

The most common symptom of GERD is heartburn. Along with heartburn, other symptoms include pain swallowing, chest pain, coughing, sore throat, hoarseness, asthma, aspiration pneumonia, even tooth enamel decay, gingivitis and halitosis.

Treatments of GERD include over-the-counter medications like antacids and prescription strength medications. Heartburn and other symptoms associated with GERD may be mild to severe. If you experience severe discomfort or heartburn several times a week, you should consult a physician.
There are several lifestyle recommendations you can make to help ease the discomfort of GERD and acid reflux:
  • Control your weight / Lose weight if overweight
  • Eat smaller meals
  • Avoid reclining or lying down directly after a meal
  • Eliminate certain foods or food types that may trigger heartburn
  • Don't smoke
  • Raise the head of your mattress 6-9 inches. Experts recommend elevating the bed by inserting a wedge between the mattress and box spring (raising your head with pillows is not a good alternative) (*source: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/heartburn-gerd/DS00095/DSECTION=9)

The Mattress Genie bed wedge, manufactured by Contour Living, provides a simple solution for raising your mattress and alleviating the pain and discomfort caused by GERD symptoms. With just the touch of a button, you can raise your bed to the angle that best suits your needs. You'll love reading, watching TV, working or even eating in bed. The Mattress Genie comes with a remote control to raise and lower the mattress with a touch of a button.

The Mattress Genie bed wedge is designed to compliment existing treatments of GERD, heartburn and reflux, including drug therapies and any treatments prescribed by your doctor.
Now Anyone Can Enjoy the Comfort & Luxury of an Adjustable Bed!

This universal bed lift, exclusively from Contour Products, Inc., transforms your mattress into an adjustable bed for a fraction of the cost of a mechanical adjustable bed.
What Our Customers Are Saying:
"Thank you so much for your wonderful invention! ... I can read, eat, sleep or sit up to watch TV for hours .." - Mrs. Lynne McGarity
"... my aunt is now able to get out of bed by herself! She is VERY happy with her Mattress Genie!" - Doris Skiba

"... I travel a lot ... and have severe acid reflux ... before I had to travel with a large wedge pillow ... with your Mattress Genie ... traveling [is] so much easier...Thanks again for coming up with the Mattress Genie!" - Gary Dolsey
What the Media is Saying:
Read the Mattress Genie Review at About UsNBC Affiliate Channel 2 Salt Lake City - "Let Bill Buy It" Review of the Mattress Genie...Read Now/Watch Video
Featured on NBC's Today Show (March 1, 2005)
Additional resources:Read about the Mattress Genie at About Us
Recommended diet: Jackson / Siegelbaum Gastroenterolgy
general GERD health information: STS Patient information
Medical Studies Supporting Raising a Bed to reduce GERD and Acid Reflux at Night
Support Pillows and


Wednesday, March 28, 2007

Proven National Comfort Leader Announces Innovative Offerings

Contour Living Launches On-the-Go Support for Travel, Home & Office; Company Adds Massage Feature to Best-Sellers; Also Introduces 'Cure' for a Sagging Mattress

CHICAGO, March 8, 2007 /PRNewswire/ -- Contour Living(TM), a leader in the ergonomic support and comfort industry, introduces a variety of new products that focus on improved comfort at home, in the office or on the go.

"We've tapped into two important trends with the roll out of our newest products," Scott Davis, Contour Living president and CEO, said. "First, so many people today spend almost as much time in a plane or car as they do in their own homes, and consumers are looking for comfort solutions while they travel. Second, this hectic lifestyle means that consumers are also looking for items to help them relax more easily and quickly at the office and at home, making comfort innovations like these vital for everyday life."

Two of the new products Contour Living is featuring at the International Home & Housewares Show are the next generation of the company's best sellers, upgraded with a new massage component.

The patented Contour Freedom Back Massage is designed to provide optimum back support while sitting upright in a chair. Contour Living added the new massage feature to complement the product's existing design features, all of which focus on relieving stiffness and pain in the upper and lower back, legs and tailbone. Attaching the Freedom Back Massage to an office chair or leaning against it while in any seat now provides users a soothing back massage with a flip of a switch.

The patent-pending Twist Massage Pillow is a portable and bendable pillow that twists and stays put in almost any shape. The new massage feature enhances the Twist's unique ability to mold to different parts of the body, creating a body massager that can target many different muscle groups. As the ideal travel pillow, the Twist Massage can bend around a traveler's neck and up the side of the person's head to stay put when leaning to rest in a plane, car or train.

Another new Contour Living item is the TravelBack(R), which gives portable, lightweight back support while traveling, at the office or at home. The TravelBack design offers adjustable support with four possible positions. It is compact, easy-to-use and fits into even small briefcases or purses without adding much weight. Even though it's small, users will find that the TravelBack can make a big difference in their back comfort while sitting.

Another standout item in Contour Living's latest offerings is the Mattress Remedy, an inflatable support system that sits between a mattress and bed springs to restore the support of a sagging mattress. With research indicating that even new mattresses can begin to sag within six months' time, the Mattress Remedy is an affordable solution for extending the life of a mattress and providing adjustable support for individual comfort.

Wednesday, March 21, 2007

Staying Fit After Forty

Have you ever heard of “boomeritis?” It is actually
a term that has been coined by the American Academy of Orthopaedic
Surgeons, referring to a growing number of sports related injuries
among baby boomers. In fact, the problem is so extensive, that the
AAOS has developed a web site, www.boomer-it is.org geared toward
helping active baby boomers avoid and cope with injuries.

Of course, the AAOS is not in any way discouraging boomers from staying active
and fit, on the contrary, the organization recognizes that the benefits
of exercise far outweigh the risks of injury. But don’t forget,
it’s a good idea to get your doctors approval before starting
any exercise program. So once that’s done and you’re
ready to roll, how do you avoid being sidelined by an injury?

Follow these five tips, and you’ll be well on your way:

1. Stay Balanced! Be sure to incorporate a good mix of stretching,
flexibility exercises and cardiovascular activity. The more well
rounded the exercise program, the less likely you are to sustain
an injury.

2. Variety is the Spice of Life! Mix it up a little bit. Don’t
do the same routine every day. Walk a few days a week, bike or go
to the gym and use the treadmill. By doing this, you accomplish two
things: You’re less likely to get bored with your routine and
quit, and by varying more likely to avoid injuries stemming from
overused muscles.

3. Stay Loose! Stretching seems to help keep injuries at bay. Tightness
can spell disaster, and since muscle tissue elasticity decreases
with age, older muscles are even more at risk.

4. Gear Up! Go for the bicycle helmet, make sure running shoes fit
properly and by all means, wear the wrist, elbow and kneepads while
skating or roller blading. Safety equipment can keep you out of the
emergency room and into your routine.

5. Take Your Time! Don’t try to do too much at once. Limit
yourself to increases of just 10% per week. For example if you’re
running for 20 minutes one week, increase to just 22 minutes the
next, and build from there. A rapid ramp up can be a real shock to
your system.
Contour is the brand leader in ergonomic products designed
specifically for comfort and support. Products include orthopedicpillows, Wedge cushions, chair pads, mattress pads and more. Visit
Contour Living for more information on solutions to improve posture, sleep better,
correct support problems and live more comfortably.

Tuesday, March 20, 2007

Nighttime Solution for GERD, Acid Reflux and Heartburn Symptoms

GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, is a very common ailment affecting millions of people worldwide. GERD is known by many names, including Esophagitis, reflux, acid reflux, even (incorrectly) hiatal hernia. Gastroesophageal reflux is the term used to describe a backflow of acid from the stomach into the swallowing tube or esophagus.

The most common symptom of GERD is heartburn. Along with heartburn, other symptoms include pain swallowing, chest pain, coughing, sore throat, hoarseness, asthma, aspiration pneumonia, even tooth enamel decay, gingivitus and halitosis.

Treatments of GERD include over-the-counter medications like antacids and prescription strength medications. Heartburn and other symptoms associated with GERD may be mild to severe. If you experience severe discomfort or heartburn several times a week, you should consult a physician.

There are several lifestyle recommendations you can make to help ease the discomfort of GERD and acid reflux:
  • Control your weight / Lose weight if overweight
  • Eat smaller meals
  • Avoid reclining or lying down directly after a meal
  • Eliminate certain foods or food types that may trigger heartburn
  • Don't smoke
  • Raise the head of your mattress 6-9 inches. Experts recommend elevating the bed by inserting a wedge between the mattress and box spring (raising your head with pillows is not a good alternative)**
The Mattress Genie bed lift wedge, manufactured by Contour Living, provides a simple solution for raising your mattress and alleviating the pain and discomfort caused by GERD symptoms. With just the touch of a button, you can raise your bed to the angle that best suits your needs. You'll love reading, watching TV, working or even eating in bed. The Mattress Genie comes with a remote control to raise and lower the mattress with a touch of a button.

Best of all, this universal bed lift transforms your mattress into an adjustable bed for a fraction of the cost of a mechanical adjustable bed.

**Source: www.MayoClinic.com/health

Wednesday, March 14, 2007

Mattress Wear Described

As mattresses age, the core support begins to degrade causing sagging and reduced comfort. This is a significant cause of back pain and general discomfort during sleep.

Over time, mattresses wear in the center area, generally in the shape of a large clover. Typically, the loads placed on the mattress surface results in weakening of the springs and the support material on either side of the springs. The sag is not always visually evident, but, the concavity becomes much more apparent when weight is applied - like a person. Different size mattresses tend to wear in very different patterns, depending on the width of the mattress and number of people sleeping on the surface. Read on to discover typical wear patterns of different sized mattresses and how the Mattress Remedy is designed to effectively combat each unique problem.

Twin Size Mattress Wear: Twin size mattresses wear in a simple pattern. Since the twin bed supports one person, generally in the center of the mattress. Wear starts in the middle, concentrated where the hips are, and progresses to where it affects back support and overall sleep quality and body comfort. The Contour Mattress Remedy is very effective at reducing this sag.

Based on recent trials, the twin mattress can actually become extremely supportive, even to the extent of hyper-elevating the middle area which is much more comfortable for stomach sleepers. The level of support varies by individual preference and is controlled by an adjustable valve on the side of the unit. From the mattress side view, as the Mattress remedy is inflated, you can easily see the transformation and improved support of the spine.

Full and Queen Size mattress Wear: In Full and Queen size mattresses, the wear pattern generally starts on either side of the center line, where people tend to sleep (assuming two people in the bed). Initially, there are two locations of the sag. However, as the wear progresses, the two depressed areas combine to form one, larger depression. The reduced support in this area is evident, resulting in sore back and hips and an overall poor sleep experience.

An additional problem occurs as two people using the bed tend to roll toward the middle and interfere with each others sleep. It becomes very difficult to maintain respective positions on each side of the mattress. For the Full and Queen size bed, the Mattress Remedy is designed in one larger size to solve this specific wear pattern. Support is restored and people can sleep with improved spine alignment, plus stay in their respective and desired separate. Quality of sleep is improved.

King Size Mattress Wear: Mattress wear in a King size bed is different as well. The king size wear patterns (sagging) typically are located in two distinct areas of the mattress, matching the sleeping patterns of two people. The wear pattern is similar to that of two twin size beds. This is due to the larger size of the king mattress and the tendency of people to maintain their separate locations even though support is diminishing. For this reason, the King size Mattress Remedy is designed with two separate support units, linked with one inflation device. Proper support is restored to the sagging areas, providing a vastly improved sleep experience.

As an added benefit, two control valves allow each person to adjust the support and comfort level of their side of the mattress. This feature allows one side of the mattress to be firmer or softer than the other. It solves many problems that couples have with mattresses.

Research has shown that even new mattresses can begin to sag in only six months. The Mattress Remedy will extend the life of currently owned mattresses by restoring support capability and dramatically improving back support. Eliminating mattress sag will also reduce tossing and turning, proving more restful sleep. Find Solutions at www.contourliving.com.

Sleep Surfaces Affect Quality Of Rest

As human beings, one of our most basic needs is sleep. In fact, the effects of sleep deprivation can be devastating to us both physically and mentally. It has been shown that a lack of sleep can lead to a compromised immune system, leaving us more vulnerable to sickness and disease. Many studies have linked sleep deprivation to a decrease in daytime productivity. Getting less than 6 hours of sleep per night on a consistent basis, as is the practice of about 15% of the population, means that these people experience an increase in stress, fatigue, sadness and anger during the day, and work performance almost always declines. On top of that, these people are more likely to suffer injuries than their well-rested counterparts.
Additionally, many sleep-deprived people have a difficult time getting along with others. Studies show that sleep affects things like reaction time, mathematical ability and other cognitive functions, and the results were consistent and clear: the more sleep you get, the better your performance. Other studies have shown that sleep deprivation can cause judgment and decision-making abilities to decrease by 50%; communication skills can go down 30% and memory down by 20%. With this type of research out there, it doesn't take a genius to make the connection between sleep and well-being.
There are many reasons why people might not get enough quality sleep. For many, the reason stems from their sleep surface. Did you know that the average person tosses & turns 40-60 times during the night? So much for getting that much needed shut-eye. Firm, flat mattresses aren't very good at distributing the body's weight, and as a result pressure hot spots develop along the body. People toss and turn from one position to another mainly to relieve these pressure points, which occur at various places along the body, where you come into contact with your mattress. Back sleepers are likely to experience pressure points on the back of the head, along both shoulder blades, on hip bones and heels. For those of us who sleep on our sides, shoulders and hips tend to take the brunt of the pressure.
If you are one of those people who can't get comfortable at night, you may want to consider what you are sleeping on. In order for something to be supportive, it must have a shape that is consistent with your body's shape, and it must have some cushion. There are a number of options available in sleep surfaces today in a range of prices. The solid memory foam mattresses have gotten very popular due to their ability to distribute the body's weight more evenly, reducing pressure points and improving support. These mattresses can sell $2,000 or more! Contour Living has just introduced the Soft Touch™ Memory Foam Mattress starting at only $350 for the Twin size. You'll realize savings of up to 85% and still get the same top quality memory and orthopedic foam as the more expensive brands. Plus, order now and you will receive free shipping and a free full bed massager with your order. Read More now at our Contour Living Store.
Another option might be the Contour Cloud Mattress Pad. It can be used with your existing mattress to provide a more cushiony, better supporting sleep surface, and is an affordable alternative to the more expensive memory foam mattresses. Prices start at less than $90 for a twin size.
The Contour Cloud Mattress Pad's 2-1/4" thick triple layer design features a top layer of heat sensitive memory foam that molds to fit every curve of your body. The middle layer acts as a lumbar support for your lower back, filling in the gap that flat beds tend to leave to more evenly distribute your body's weight and relieve pressure points on your shoulders and hips. The base layer is made of high quality, dense foam that prevents the mattress pad from bottoming out beneath your body's weight. Click here for more product information

Thursday, March 8, 2007

The Connection Between Fibromyalgia and Sleep

    The Connection Between Fibromyalgia and Sleep

    Fibromyalgia is a syndrome distinguished by widespread musculoskeletal pain in the muscles, ligaments, tendons and joints. While not considered to be a true form of arthritis, it is a type of rheumatism of the soft tissues and muscles. It is a fairly common condition, affecting about 5 million people in the United States, although the cause of Fibromyalgia remains a mystery. Over 75% of those who have FMS are women between the ages of thirty-five to sixty, however it can affect anyone at any age, but in preadolescent children, the condition strikes boys and girls equally as often.

    Over 90% of FMS sufferers experience significant sleep disturbances. Specifically, stage four sleep, the deepest, most restorative level of sleep, is deficient. This is when muscles and other parts of the body typically have an opportunity to regenerate for the next day. Medical experts agree that muscle pain occurs in Fibromyalgia patients because the muscles are deprived of the rejuvenation process that would otherwise occur during sleep. Sleep problems among FMS patients vary. While some may have trouble falling asleep, others awaken numerous times during the night, tossing and turning, and may be unable to fall back to sleep at all. Still others wake up far earlier than what would be considered normal.

    It should be no surprise then, that fatigue during the day is also an issue for FMS sufferers. The ability to function normally and in a productive fashion is greatly diminished in a number of FMS patients. Often times, a person with FMS is exhausted at the end of the day, and in desperate need of a good nights sleep, but is robbed of that night after night because of the syndrome.


    People who have FMS should take extra steps to help ensure the best nights rest possible. The Contour Living online store carries several products that provide better support and cushion for your body during the night. Specifically, our Contour Cloud pillow provides the correct balance of firm foam for head and neck support and 100% memory foam for unsurpassed comfort. Likewise, our Contour Cloud mattress pad supplies the same level of support for your entire body. The pad covers your bed and provides firm foam support where needed with a top layer of contoured memory foam. Other better sleep products include the leg pillow, BackMax lounger, Mattress Genie and more choices in pillows.

    With the proper nighttime support and a new level of comfort, FMS sufferers may be able to minimize the toll that this condition can take on restorative sleep, reduce aches and pains, and maintain an active and productive lifestyle.


Sleep Apnea and Sleeping with a CPAP Mask

Sleep Apnea / CPAP Mask Sleep Aid Information
What is Sleep Apnea?

The Greek word “apnea” literally means “without breath.” Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder that occurs when a person’s breathing stops for 10 seconds or longer during sleep. It can be mild, moderate or severe, depending on how many times in an hour a person’s breathing stops (apnea) or becomes very slow (hypopnea). Apnea episodes may occur from 5 to 50 times an hour.
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) sleep apnea affects more than 12 million Americans. However, due to a lack of public awareness as well as a lack of awareness on the part of healthcare providers, it is thought that the majority of cases remain undiagnosed despite the seriousness of the disorder and its consequences.

There are three types of sleep apnea: obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), central sleep apnea, (CSA) and mixed sleep apnea, (MSA). OSA is the most common type of sleep apnea and is caused by a blockage of the airway, usually when the soft tissue in the rear of the throad collapses and closes during sleep. In CSA, the airway is not blocked but the brain fails to signal the muscles to breathe due to instability in the respiratory control center. Mixed apnea is a combination of the two.

What Are the Effects of Sleep Apnea?

With each type of apnea, the brain briefly arouses people, triggering them to start breathing again, causing fragmented, poor quality sleep. As a result, sleep apnea may also cause poor performance in everyday activities, such as work and school, motor vehicle accidensa and academic underachievement in children and adolescents.

If left untreated, sleep apnea can result in a growing number of health problems including hypertension, stroke and heart failure, irregular heartbeats and heart attacks. Additionally, memory problems, weight gain, headaches, even impotency can occur as a result of sleep apnea when left untreated.

Who is at Risk for Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea can affect anyone at any age, even children, however risk factors include the following:
  • Being overweight
  • Having a large neck size (17 inches or greater in men and 16 inches or greater in women)
  • Male gender
  • Being over the age of forty
  • Having a family history of sleep apnea
  • African Americans, Hispanics and Pacific Islanders have a greater risk of sleep apnea than Caucasions. Additionally, African Americans tend to get sleep apnea at a younger age.
  • Women who have been through menopause. After menopause women get sleep apnea at a rate similar to men.
  • Conditions that may cause head and face abnormalities such as Marfan’s syndrome and Down Syndrome.

Being Evaluated for Sleep Apnea

If you suspect that you have sleep apnea, check your insurance policy before making an appointment, as you may be required to get a referral to a sleep specialist from your primary care physician. You may also be required to go to a certain testing facility. Some insurance policies exclude coverage for the diagnosis and/or treatment of sleep disorders and some do not cover the durable medical equipment, and diagnosis and treatment can be a significant expense, usually over $1,000.
Doctors who know sleep medicine may be pulmonologists (specializing in lungs), neurologists (the brain), otolaryngologists (the ears, nose and throat), psychiatry (mental health) or primary care physicians. Some doctors may be certified through the American Board of Sleep medicine (ABSM)., or hold degrees that meet the requirements of this board.
At any rate, you will likely be referred to a sleep center. If your doctor does not refer you to a specific sleep center, you can visit http://www.aasmnet.org/ for the most up to date list of accredited member sleep centers and laboratories.

At the sleep center, you can expect to undergo a sleep study, which uses several devices to record activity during sleep. These generally include an electroencelphalogram (EEG) to measure brain waves and an electroculogram (EOG) to measure eye and chin movement, both to monitor the different stages of sleep. An electrocardiogram (EKG) will measure heart rate and rhythm; chest bands to measure breathing movements and additional monitors to sense oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in the blood as well as monitors to record leg movement. None of the devices is painful and there are no needles involved.

Treatment Options for Sleep Apnea:

Generally, your doctor will prescribe lifestyle changes and CPAP(Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) therapy, but surgery is an option if these treatments fail to succeed. The American Sleep Apnea Association identifies CPAP therapy as the most common treatment for the condition. CPAP therapy works by preventing the airway from closing during sleep. It is administered at bedtime through a nasal or facial mask held in place by Velcro straps around the patient’s head. The mask is connected by a tube to a small air compressor. The CPAP machine sends air under pressure through the tube and into the mask, where it imparts positive pressure to the upper airways, preventing the tissues in the back of the throat from collapsing during sleep.

CPAP therapy can be an extremely effective form of treatment, however the biggest problem is non-compliance. It has been estimated that over 65% of patients use the machine for a maximum of just 4 hours per night when it should be used for the duration of the patient’s sleep. In many cases, patients report using the CPAP for just a few nights out of the week.

Discomfort is a major factor contributing to non-compliance. During side sleeping or stomach sleeping, the mask presses and rubs against the patient’s face, which is a major comfort problem and can also distort the mask, causing leaks and furthering the non-compliance problem.
The people at Contour Products have developed a solution to the issue of CPAP comfort and compliance, called the CPAP Multi-Mask Sleep Aid. It improves:

· Mask comfort
· Freedom of movement during sleep
· Multi-position sleeping for side, back and stomach sleepers
· Neck support and spinal alignment

It reduces:

  • Mask leaks
  • Mask pressure on face
  • Airway resistance du to better neck support

The Contour CPAP Pillow works with all major brands and styles of masks
For more information on the new sleep aid pillow, 

Back To The Basics: 10 Ways to Reduce the Risk of Back Pain

Back To The Basics: 10 Ways to Reduce the Risk of Back Pain

Low back pain affects 60%-80% of the U.S. adult population at some time during their lives. Back symptoms are among the top 10 leading reasons to visit the emergency room. With statistics like these, it only makes sense to do what is necessary to prevent problems from occurring in the first place. Here are ten easy ways to help maintain a healthy back:

  1. Always lift with your knees, never with your back. Squat down, knees bent, back straight and angled forward slightly. Lift the object and slowly straighten your knees as you go.

  2. Keep your back limber through exercise. When at the gym, don’t overlook the importance of back exercises. Doing back exercises along with your regular routine will keep you’re back strong and will help avoid injuries from back strain in the future.

  3. Keep trim. Excess weight puts enormous strain on your back. Any woman who has ever been pregnant can tell you how the extra pounds take a toll on the back muscles, especially during the last few months.

  4. Pay attention to the ergonomics of your work station. Be certain that you’re not crouching down to type at your computer. You should be able to maintain good posture at your desk.

  5. If your job requires heavy and/or repetitive lifting, consider talking to someone about wearing a lower back support. There are numerous styles available depending on your situation and needs.

  6. Keep your cool. Stress can aggravate many conditions, bad backs included.

  7. Stretch during the day. Take a few minutes midway through the morning and midway through the afternoon and stretch your body. You’ll be amazed at how refreshing this simple exercise can be.

  8. If you spend a good portion of your day behind the wheel, pick a parking space farther away from the building rather than choosing the closest one you can find. The walk will do you and your back a great deal of good.

  9. Maintain good daytime posture. Walk with shoulders back and even with hips. Mom was right, don’t slouch in your chair. Sit up straight shoulders back, low back slightly arched. Slouching can put tremendous strain on your back muscles. If you think that the assistance of a back and/or seat support would help you maintain good posture, by all means invest in one.

  10. Maintain good nighttime posture. The average person replaces his/her mattress once every ten years. Does this make sense considering that we spend 1/3 of our lives in bed? Pay attention to your sleeping surface. It should support a good sleeping posture. Even the best, most expensive mattresses can’t always provide proper support and alignment. You need something that matches your body’s natural contours. Consider purchasing a mattress topper to help maintain good support and alignment.

Contour Living (www.contourliving.com) provides a full line of ergonomic products designed to support and comfort your back. Visit now to see how you can sit, rest and sleep more comfortably. Top products include the Mattress Genie bed lift, Contour Twist Neck Pillow, and many memory foam pillows for head, legs and more.

Friday, March 2, 2007

Save Your Neck!

Save Your Neck!

The single most common reason for neck pain is poor posture, plain and simple. Sitting for prolonged periods hunched over a computer, for example, can do it, as can poor sleeping posture. Many people respond to stress by tensing up their neck muscles, which over time, can lead to neck pain as well as headaches. All of the above can cause painful conditions such as neck strain or even pinched nerves.

Neck strain is most often the result of sleeping in an awkward position. This puts tension on the muscles that run along the back of your neck. If you experience neck stiffness upon waking in the morning, this is most likely what has happened. A good way to relieve the pain and loosen muscles is to stand under a hot shower and lit the water run on the nape of your neck. Press your chin to your chest to stretch out those neck muscles for about 30 seconds. Then hold your head back, pause, and flex forward again. Now roll your neck from side to side a few times. This should help to ease the stiffness and pain.

It has been estimated that 70% of all pinched nerves are caused by poor posture. Basically, a pinched nerve means that a disc that sits between two nerves in the neck has probably been bumped out of place. In addition to the pain that you feel in your neck, you may also experience some numbness and/or a tingling sensation in your arms and hands. You’ll need to seek medical attention for this one. Your care giver will likely prescribe neck-stretching exercises to alleviate pain and improve your neck’s muscles to keep the disc in place. Something you can do at home? Improve your posture. Be sure that your head doesn’t bend forward too much. When you are seated in proper posture, you should be able to draw a straight line from your ears to your shoulders on down to the hips.

Below are some additional ideas that you can do at home to help cut down on neck pain:


  • Take a bath towel and fold it lengthwise. Wrap it around your neck before bedtime

  • Try aspirin, naproxen or ibuprofen to relieve pain and inflammation – use as directed

  • Massage your neck muscles

  • Relax - Take deep breaths, shrug your shoulders

  • Support your head and neck all night long with our Contour Cloud and Contour Crescent memory foam pillows

  • Use the Contour Twist Pillow for head and neck support while traveling, relaxing or almost any sedentary activity.