Get 15% off your Mattress Genie Incline Sleep System today with coupon code COMFORT15!

It has happened to nearly all of us. You return home from a delicious meal out and are ready for a peaceful night of sleep. You drift off and before you know it, you wake up with a burning pain in your chest and throat that makes it impossible to fall back to sleep. This struggle is all too common for an estimated 70% of adults in the United States. Out of that 70%, for 1 in 3 Americans, the condition is chronic.

Imagine if you could reduce the discomfort associated with your Acid Reflux or GERD with a touch of a button. With the Mattress Genie Incline Sleep System, now you can!

The Painful Truth About Acid Reflux

GERD and acid reflux symptoms often occur more frequently at night when lying in bed because our bodies are in a horizontal position – our stomach and head are at approximately the same level. This position makes it easy for the highly acidic contents of the stomach to flow into the esophagus, causing the painful sensation of heartburn. More importantly, when the contents of the stomach do move into the esophagus, they tend to stay longer than they would during the day when gravity helps pull them back into the stomach. The longer they are in contact with the esophagus, the more time they have to damage the cellular lining. Symptoms of nighttime reflux can be quite sever and wake up even the soundest sleepers. Ultimately, reflux disease prevents many people from getting a full nights rest. With inadequate sleep, this may lead to other health related issues and reduce your quality of life if not treated.

The Best Known Secret for Living with Reflux

In addition to losing weight, avoiding trigger foods and limiting caffeine and alcohol intake helps alleviate your reflux pain. While doctors always push healthy life style changes, they also share the most effective solution to combating your reflux, which simply is elevate your body while sleeping. According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information’s Dr. Laura Gerson, “Head-of-bed elevation has been shown to be effective in terms of improving pH as well as GERD symptoms. Head-of-bed elevation is effective, particularly for subjects with nocturnal GERD, because of the fact that stomach contents containing acid will more likely reflux into the esophagus while patients are lying flat without the beneficial effect of gravity. Head-of-bed elevation has been associated with significantly fewer and shorter reflux episodes, faster acid clearing, and fewer reflux symptoms.”

Considering how effective elevated sleeping is for Acid Reflux and GERD, there are various solutions to help you reach the optimal incline if 6-8 inches to relieve your symptoms. Putting blocks under the head of bed is a simple and cheap way to raise your sleeping surface. However, this can be difficult to do if you are alone or elderly. The front legs of your bed also may not be strong enough to support the added pressure of the head of the bed being at an incline. Piling up pillows may seem like an easy fix, but this can actually be counterproductive as this position may cause your body to bend at the waist, adding to the upward pressure, or even worse, go flat. Pillows can also shift during the night and wedges can be unattractive and prohibitive to sleeping with a partner. Adjustable beds are an option but are often not in the budget. We think we’ve come up with the perfect solution.

Best Bed Wedge Solution for Back or Side Sleepers Struggling With Acid Reflux

Our new Mattress Genie Incline Sleep System is an inflatable bed wedge that is easy to install under any type of mattress and inflates easily by using the illuminated remote control. This inflatable wedge solution elevated your entire torso and hips up to 8 inches, which is the optimal include for treating heartburn and indigestion. With the full torso support, the Mattress Genie Incline Sleep System is the perfect solution for those who sleep on their back, side or multi-positions at night. When not in use, the Mattress Genie Incline Sleep System can be fully deflated, giving the appearance of any normal mattress. Standard  foam bed wedges are shorter in length than the ISS and which limits the sleeping surface, causing an unnatural bend at the hips which can increase pressure on the lower back and legs. The gentle slope provided by the Mattress Genie ISS virtually eliminates the possibility of slipping or sliding down which may occur when using a foam bed wedge or pillows.

There are many advantages to elevation therapy: it will reduce nighttime reflux episodes, promote faster acid clearing in the event of a reflux episode, and shorten the duration of stomach contents being in contact with the delicate lining of the esophagus, which will promote healing. Complications from nighttime reflux may be reduced resulting in improved quality of sleep which is so vital to our health and wellbeing. Visit https://www.contourliving.com/mattress-genie-incline-sleep-system-bed-wedge/ to learn more.  All of our Contour Branded products are covered under our 45 Day Comfort Guarantee and 1 Year Manufacturer’s Warranty. Start experiencing relief from the symptoms of acid reflux and GERD today with the Mattress Genie Incline Sleep System!

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Can a Wedge Help Acid Reflux?

Acid reflux is painful. It's uncomfortable, it makes it difficult to sleep. And at its absolute worst, no matter what you eat or when you eat it, you can feel the repercussions. 

How you sleep, however, can work to combat these same side effects each and every night; one of the best ways – you guessed it – is by sleeping on a wedge. Whether it's a specialized pillow , or pillows that are propped up and made into their own makeshift wedge, sleeping on an incline allows you to use gravity in your favor. 

Acid reflux is caused by stomach contents (along with acid) that creeps back into the esophagus. This is most common when eating heavy or spicy foods, as they require more time and effort from the stomach to break down and digest. This slightly more vigorous process can mean acid that's felt higher into the chest and resulting in pain. 

One of the best natural methods of combatting the acid reflux process is with gravity. Giving acid a steeper slope to climb before it's felt up into the chest will help naturally keep it down in the stomach. 

A wedge also provides a comfortable sleeping surface so you can rest soundly while combatting the pains of acid reflux. (In contrast to home remedies that require uncomfortable positions or staying completely upright.) This can allow for ample amounts of sleep that are uninterrupted by pain, and all while receiving quality support. 

Can a wedge help with acid reflux? Absolutely, and with an incredibly easy fix. If you're a regular sufferer (or even an occasional sufferer), consider this simple and effective healing method. Talk to your doctor to learn more, or ask a Contour Living representative about your wedge pillow options today. 

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Wedges and Elevations for Different Conditions: Mid-Level Inclines

Last week we talked about the wedge and how sleeping or just resting on an incline can better your health. Today we take that same concept a step further and focus our attention on mid-level wedges. Slightly taller or steeper than their shorter friends, there's plenty that the mid-level wedge can do. Just like its lower counterpart, it offers pain relief, circulation increases, and all-around comfort.

But just who should use it? And what conditions are best to take on with a mid-level wedge? 

According to medical research and scientific designs, it's best for reaching the middle of the back. Pains, misalignments, as well as ongoing injuries can all be reached with this size of wedge. Its efforts then trickle down into the lower back, hips, and knees, as well as up into the shoulders and neck. Mid-height wedges are also great for surgery recovery, allowing you to elevate the chest, or to prop legs and increase circulation. Just like in the hospital, but in the comfort of your own home. 

Or, if you suffer from heartburn or GERD, mid-sized wedges can help more severe cases. Because there's more height, the wedge lets gravity do the work, keeping stomach acid suppressed by forcing a steeper climb. 

Many of our mid-height wedges come as part of an adjustable set, allowing the user to choose just how propped they'd like to be. This can be an ideal way to switch between sleeping and watching TV, as well as a supportive position for the couch. With versatility and healing all in one, you can gain multiple perks with a single incredible product.

Of course, you can always talk with your doctor about treatment options regarding your wedge pillow. Experiment to see what positions provide the best relief, and gain their medical advice to find the best outcome possible. 

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Wedges and Elevations for Different Conditions: Low-Level Inclines

You've heard that sleeping on an incline can help with various symptoms. Whether suffering from heartburn, recovering after a recent surgery, or just looking to reduce cold symptoms the natural way, there are an incredible number of ailments that can be helped by lounging on an incline. There's no doubt about it. The tricky part, however, is determining just how much of an incline you need, and what type of relief each level can provide.

First and foremost, talk with your doctor. After you've gotten their advice, you can work to find the best level for healing and comfort. You can also take personal preference into account – if you like a lower wedge, you might not be able to gain sleep on a more severe incline, and so on. Then it's time to look into what each height will best help solve.

Lower inclines – most often used for comfort, these short wedges are most often used for neck and back alignment. Use them to ensure your spine is settling as it should throughout the night. It's a simple move that can eliminate back pain, muscle aches, as well as headaches. 

Place these lower incline wedges under the rear to alleviate pain in the lower back and weight displacement. They can also be used for feet in order to increase blood flow back into the legs. This is most common after a knee or leg injury, and should be used with doctor approval. 

Why it works – by offering the back a proper resting surface that works with it, not against, you can keep your bones in proper alignment throughout the night. Unfortunately, when we fall asleep we can jar into all types of positions that disrupt the bones, which can then cause ongoing pains from being out of place. The wedge also works on other areas of the body by providing support at a gentle angle.

To learn more or start browsing, head to our wedge pillow page today. 

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What's the Difference Between an Adjustable and Standard Wedge?

Have you heard about seat or bed wedges? But maybe didn't know what they were all about? If so you're not alone. Though the wedge is one of our favorite products, not everyone has experienced just how wonderful it can be. But that's not all, even those who have experienced an inclined pillow don't understand the difference between standard and adjustable versions.

So just what is a wedge? And what are the perks that come with versatile models? 

A wedge is a piece of cushion or foam that's made of an inclined shape. Whether made to sit on, sleep against, or lounge upon, it helps support the body while allowing plenty of comfort on the process. They're used to add comfort while, as well as a healing prop to any number of medical conditions. Wedges help ease snoring, increase oxygen and blood flow, decrease symptoms of heartburn, GERD, etc. They can also help with pregnancy and post-surgery recovery. 

Standard Vs. Custom

With a standard wedge, the user is given a static shape and angle to use throughout the length of their cushion's usage. While pillows can be added, they won't always stay put and will offer a different texture that can become lumpy or lopsided over time. 

With a custom wedge, however, the texture is much of the same, as well as the design. However, it also comes with additional features. The pillow can be folded or moved into different shapes or positions. With some versions, pieces even zip apart or together to maximize your functions. Adjustable wedges can be switched up for size – allowing users to create a travel model, or go full-out when lounging at home. Choose one that's inflatable, memory foam that forms to your body over time, or stick with static support.

Adjustable wedges offer users more options than their standard counterparts. Head to our wedge page to check out models, or live-chat an expert on our home page to learn more today.

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Why Do You Need a Wedge Cushion?

If you've never heard or a wedge cushion, or never experienced its magic, it can be hard to get hyped up about this little miracle. Sure it's a pillow, so it's obviously comfortable, but why does it need to be in a wedge shape? And what's so great about sleeping on an incline, anyway?

The wedge design, however, is actually a structural dream come true. Because the slope is gradual, it allows for as much comfort as possible. Yet without causing you to lounge on an extreme angle. This comes especially handy when you need to sleep on a wedge after surgery, with breathing issues, acid reflux, etc. Those who snore have found relief (or rather their sleeping partners have found relief) with a wedge pillow, as have folks suffering from a cold or allergies. Doctors often recommend this type of sleeping arrangement, allowing gravity to work with the body, yet many patients find it so comfortable that they never look back. 

Incline pillows can also be paired with additional head support when reading or watching TV. Or simply sleep on your incline for a comfortable way to rest each night. 

So why do you need one? 

They're versatile, help add cushion and alignment to the bed, and more. They help alleviate a number of symptoms, such as heartburn or discomfort that's associated with GERD or acid reflux. Wedge pillows can also aid in sinus drainage and clearing your throat when sick, as well as helping to reduce snoring. Besides, they're just plain comfortable. 

Convinced yet? Head to our wedge pillow page for our large selection of wedge solutions.. Or check out the reviews and see what praises others have for this cure-all pillow. It will revolutionize the way you're able to sleep and gain comfort, no matter what your resting needs might be. 

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The MiniMax Multi-Purpose Wedge, Now in Grey!

Great news for all of our MiniMax Wedge users out there. One of your favorite cushions now comes in grey! It's a move that's as fashion-forward as it is productive. Whether you have a wedge cushion version in the traditional tan, or are just looking to lounge in comfort … on a pillow that also matches your décor, this is an upgrade you can count on. It still provides all of your favorite MiniMax classics, just in a new and updated hue. 

Use your MiniMax to alleviate pain or add support to various sections of the body. Prop, adjust, elevate, and more with one single wedge cushion. All of which can be done throughout the neck, lower back, knees and legs, and even into the torso. Or use it in the car for added rear comfort when driving (or tagging along as a passenger). With its wide range of versatility, you can fold and adjust your way to all different types of relief with one versatile product. Purchase more than one and gain dual relief at the same time, or stock up on savings and hand out as a unique (and extremely sought after) gift. There's even the full-sized Multi-Purpose Wedge available if you're looking for a larger surface area.

However, because of its mobility, many enjoy the MiniMax, especially when using in bed or in the vehicle. But no matter your wedge of choice, because it's a Contour Living product, you're sure to get some much-needed comfort. As well as the ability to adjust and conquer your individual needs. Even if they change over time – or for some long-term sufferers, by the day. 

To learn more about the MiniMax Multi-Purpose Wedge (now in grey!), head to our product page. Or start stocking up on your holiday gifts!

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Work From Home With These Helpful Products

When certain things take place, sometimes it’s just better to work from home. To get a few things done out of the office, rather than risking to infect the entire place. Whether your contagious, have just suffered a family tragedy, or even just have a last-minute deadline you don’t want to wait around at work to finish up. Maybe you even work from home every day as a norm.

Whatever your circumstances, however, there are plenty of products to help you along the way. That can improve posture and circulation … all from the comfort of your own home. But while still getting plenty of work done! 

To gain the most of your home-working experience, try: 

The Flip Pillow

This Contour favorite is adjustable and perfect for typing in bed. Or while on the couch. It helps keep you upright and comfortable through a number of positions, with plenty of support along the way. Use it for the back, to prop your laptop, to elevate the feet and keep blood flowing. No matter how long the work session.

Click here to find out more.

Fleece Wedge

Another great work-from-home product comes in the form of the Fleece Wedge. With it, workers can perch and lean in comfortable fashion. Its ergonomic design offers a gentle incline without taking away from function. Turn on its massage feature to add to your relaxation!

Head to our website to keep reading. 

In addition to these wedge pillows, Contour shoppers can gain access to seat cushions, head supports, wrist relaxation, etc. All of which can work together (or separately, depending on each worker’s needs) in order to gain the biggest bout of support. Whether working from home every day or just when certain circumstances take place. Either way, Contour helps add function to any at-home work environment; consider expanding yours today. 

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Achieve Better Pregnancy Back Support with Proper Pillows

During pregnancy, the body goes through an almost infinite amount of changes. There are obvious ones, like weight gain, stomach growth, and the swelling it can cause. But there are also unseen changes within the body, such as hormone levels and back pain – both of which can greatly affect one’s day. Just because these bodily adjustments aren’t obvious doesn’t mean they affect women any less.

One of the best ways to combat aches and pains associated with pregnancy is to get the proper back and stomach support. By resting, sleeping, or relaxing with a happy and sturdy back, women can increase their chances of reducing swelling or growing pains. This can be achieved by sitting on a firm, padded seat, placing a wedged pillow behind one’s back, sleeping on a slight incline, or supporting the belly with one or more pillows. These extra sleeping supplies are not only comfortable, but allow your growing body to easily adjust to its increase in size and weight.

Because of the placement of the baby, women can quickly and easily become uncomfortable. (After all, they’re gaining 20+ pounds all in one portion of their body.) This also affects everyday tasks like walking, sitting, and bending over.  Oftentimes these comfort levels are diminished at night, when the body sits still for long periods of time. And after a few weeks or even days, this can affect sleeping patterns and quality, making your growing body tired throughout the day.

Pillow Adjustments

It can be difficult to know how or when to upgrade one’s pregnancy pillows. For some women, back pain and general uncomfortable-ness is a long-term effect of being with child. However, for others, rearranging one’s pillows can greatly reduce pressure and stress.

To work toward an all-around supported body, ask yourself which body parts hold the most pain, the most pressure, and the most relief. If it’s your back, work with a wedge or rounded pillow to hoist up the lower back when sitting, and gently elevate the upper back while lying down. If it’s the stomach, lay on your side with a pillow underneath. And so on. By identifying and then alleviating the problem, you can work to create an easier, more comfortable pregnancy term.

However, please note that pillow support is only intended to help with minor aches. Intense or irregular pains should always be consulted by a doctor.

To get shopping for your new pregnancy pillow today, head to our products page.

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Here is a Touching Review from a Contour Customer

Just had to share this note sent into Contour regarding a customer's experience with our BackMax cushions:

My husband has ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease). His symptoms began in June of 2007 and he was not diagnosed until May 2009. With this disease you lose all your voluntary muscles. Most do not have a problem with their diaphragm until the disease progresses. That was not the case with my husband. Even with the assist of a bi-level machine to assist his breathing, he needed to be in an upright position. We tried a wedge but it did not work. He would slip down and was unable to breathe.

For several months he slept in a recliner and I slept on the couch to be near him. I finally told him I had to go back to bed. That lasted 2 nights as he took a bad fall in the middle of the night…so back on the couch I went. I then began an internet search to try and find something to help. I came across the Backmax. I ended up purchasing one from the J.C. Penny catalog because it was returnable. I wasn’t sure this would work either. IT WORKED PERFECTLY!

My husband was back in bed with me and he was comfortable for the first time in months. (This was back in ’09.) Once again we were both getting a good night’s sleep. I can’t tell you how this changed both of our lives for the better. I made copies of the paper work that came with it and have educated more medical personnel than you could imagine.

I recently purchased the 3rd Backmax. Unfortunately, my husband has lost so much weight, and his spine is exposed, he only slept on it 3 nights and I had to switch him back to the one he had “broken in.” Once again all is well, but now we had this “new” Backmax I did not know what to do with. My plan was to take it with me to the next ALS support group meeting and see if someone else would like to have it.

Then a wonderful thing happened. My husband is now on Hospice and his nurse recently told me her husband has advanced prostate cancer. My heart broke for someone who is so kind to us to know that she is going through her own pain watching her husband suffer. Last Tuesday she left our home and called back in about ½ hour. She offered to buy the Backmax hoping that it might help her husband. I was very happy to give it to her and she took it home.

The following day she called; when she took it home, she put it on their bed and her husband lay down and went to sleep for 6 hours. She told me she could not remember the last time he was able to sleep that long. While she was telling me this story, I got goose bumps and tears in my eyes. Hospice will not allow her to accept this as a gift so whatever money she gives me, I will then donate to Hospice of the Valley.

I just wanted you to know how important this product is that you manufacture. When you can give your loved one relief and comfort, nothing can top that. I will continue to get the word out about your product. For my husband & I, it has made the difference of him in a hospital bed or being able to spend his final days next to me in our bed. Just imagine how important that is to both of us.

My most sincere thanks, D. Price

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