Try the MiniMax Multi-Position Wedge

Great news! There’s now a mini version of your favorite wedge pillow. Meet the MiniMax, a small but mighty way to stay comfortable and supported throughout the night. It’s compact size makes it perfect for traveling or storing, though many prefer to keep this cozy model ready for use at all times. It’s versatility makes it perfect for lounging, watching TV, reading, playing video games, or all of the above.

Each model comes with two separate pieces that can be combined and rearranged to create a number of positions. Its wedge creates the perfect leaning surface while reading, while folding and readjusting can help support the torso or legs. You can even use a single cushion to add rear support wherever you may be sitting. Overall, the MiniMax can adjust into five different positions. It’s the perfect pillow for addressing all your comfort and joint pain needs all in one, portable package. 

The MiniMax is great for

• Elevating legs, especially when the back or legs are sore and tired
• Elevating knees – each MiniMax offers a 30-degree incline, the doctor recommended height
• Cushioning the rear – whether sitting on a hard or sagging surface, the MiniMax offers its much-needed support
• Supporting the back when sitting or lounging. Opt for its wedged position to lean when reading, watching TV, or playing video games.
• Reducing acid reflux. Relax on the steeper incline to reduce acid reflux symptoms, or sleep on its gradual rise to keep pains away on a long-term basis.

When shopping for a new pillow, or nighttime support system, there are several types of options. However, the MiniMax combines five different treatment pillows into one, affordable wedge. And it’s comfortable!

Start shopping for access to ongoing joint support and paid reduction. Order today to earn free shipping – available for a limited time! 

Continue Reading

Natural Ways to Stay Pain Free This Fall

Now that the first day of fall has officially taken place, it’s time to think about everything fall. Cooler temps are already upon us, and the changing weather can mean any number of upcoming changes. Whether that be recipes, clothing, or how you deal with pain management – dropping temps and an increase in moisture can lead to some serious joint pain. 

By taking preventative measures and being aware of this upcoming pain, patients can greatly reduce the effects brought on by changing weather. Tactics such as supportive pillows and eating healthier can help the body to eliminate its own pain-inducing symptoms. Patients can also keep an eye on the weather so they’ll have a better idea as to when the most significant changes might take place. And when barometric drops are predicted, stretching or exercises can help reduce tension by strengthening muscles. 

Natural substances, such as teas or herbal remedies can also soothe joints by offering anti-inflammatory capabilities. (And let’s face it, sometimes they just make us feel better on cold and rainy days.) Certain diet changes can also work to strengthen joints and muscles, while plenty of water can increase circulation and blood flow, which is a proven method to reduce aches and pains. As for days when the body is aching as a whole, it might just be time for a hot bath, which is also a good way to heat up on cold nights. (You can also talk to your doctor to explore available medical options.)

Changing weather is an inevitability, especially in regions that receive all four seasons. However, that doesn’t mean you have to suffer during the transition from hot to cold and dry to wet. 

Test out these natural tactics to keep your body feeling its best through even the most severe of weather changes. 

Continue Reading

Sciatica Sufferers: Have you Fell to These Common Myths?

Those with sciatica know just how much the condition affects everyday life. From sitting and standing, to lying down, to just walking from place to place, your lower back can flare up at any minute. Which is why folks look to every possible solution to heal it sooner rather than later. But did you know there are several common myths surrounding the condition? New patients often look online to find advice, while long-term sciatica victims might find old wives tales – anything new fangled that might help ease their pain.

No matter your situation, however, avoid these common myths. And, to get the facts straight, talk to your doctor about sciatica and how you can best treat your back pain any time of day.

The myths:

Sciatica is Only Caused by Certain Conditions

While this can be true, it’s not the only cause of the sickness. There can be any number of muscle, spinal, even organ-based conditions that can lead to sciatica. Unfortunately, this is why it’s so hard to treat. As a secondary side effect, first treating the original cause is the only way to stay pain free on a long-term basis. 

Leg Pain without Back Pain Can’t be Sciatica

Depending on how the nerve is affected, sciatica can manifest in the legs rather than the back (or the rear). Though this is rare, it still takes place in various sciatica patients. However, it’s important to have your leg pain examined by a doctor as sciatica can be mistaken for a leg injury and vice versa. 

Sciatica Patients Should Rest

While it might be the first thought that comes to mind, especially on a day when pain is worse than others, this generally isn’t the case. Stretching and moving can work to reduce pain over time, even if just by strengthening or loosening one’s muscles. 

Surgery is the Only Treatment Option

Wrong. There are multiple ways to address sciatica rather than going under the knife. Physical therapy, lifestyle changes, exercise regimens, and more can all work to reduce sciatica symptoms.

To better understand your sciatica, talk with your doctor today. 

Continue Reading

The Best Lawn Chairs for Back Health

With stores looking to reduce their hot weather merchandise, it might just be the perfect time to stock up on summer gear. Especially larger items such as patio pieces, or benches – ones that can be enjoyed throughout the fall months as well. However, when looking into purchasing this type of equipment, a few areas must be considered, such as comfort, ability to support, and more. After all, when buying outdoor furniture, you want it to last for the long haul, and cheaping out with items that won’t support – whether you or itself – is sure to send you back to the store next year.

When choosing chairs that will best support the back, look at surface, weight distribution, and more. Cloth versions are more likely to sag in the middle, but come with easier travel. However, versions that are made to stay put can better support through firm cushions or weaved fabrics. And while benches might make a nice decorative statement for the yard, those that come with a sturdy back can better offer long-term comfort. Especially when not placed in front of a garage or wall. Metal chairs are also yard staples, but can become cold quickly as the temperature drops. And thought this might not directly affect one’s back health, it can also cause them to tense up and tighten their muscles.

To get the best sitting experiences out of your yard events – including those that don’t leave you in pain the following day – consider stocking up on the right types of chairs. Ones that offer plenty of rear and back support, while also come with cushion and temperature control or insulation. Not only will these versions last longer for outdoor entertainment, they’re also an easy way to increase muscle and overall back health.

Consider an upgrade today to take advantage of these yard-based benefits. 

Continue Reading

Multitask your Pillow with the Butterfly Leg Pillow

Spines have been supported and made pain free with Contour products for years. One of our favorites (and best sellers), the Contour Leg Pillow, has been providing leg and back comfort since its debut. Now, however, its cousin has a chance at offering the same levels of relief to all ages of users. Not only does it come with the same shape that cradles and lifts the legs into place, the Butterfly Leg Pillow is far more versatile. Sleep with it between your legs, then split the pillow open to host feet or calves after waking up. Plus, it comes with a massage feature so it can gently soothe muscles back to health.

Named for its ability to “butterfly” into an array of shapes with a unique hinge design (but without uncomfortable hardware), this pillow is perfect for sore or achy muscles. Whether just offering them support, or a soothing massage that coaxes blood flow back into sore areas. Use it at night, pack it along for your next vacation, or keep it on hand for whenever your back pain starts to flare up. 

The pillow also comes with:

          • Easy massage function that turns on and off with the flip of a switch
          • Thigh cradling abilities (great for pregnant ladies who are carrying extra, yet uneven weight).
          • Proper lower body alignment features.
          • The ease of providing relief and added blood flow to tired feet or legs.

The Butterfly Leg Pillow offers users three functions in a single device, cutting down the need for multiple (and expensive) pillows and extra storage. It’s even on sale, coming with free shipping when shoppers buy two or more. 

To get started with your very own pillow-based comfort today, head to Contour Living’s product page and start shopping!

Continue Reading

Football Traditions That Can Leave you Down in the Back

Fall means football, one of America’s favorite pastimes. And with it comes a heavy dose of tradition. Aside from the actual games themselves, people will travel from miles around to barbeque, tailgate, play backyard games, and more. All in support of this beloved sport. However, just because said pastimes are enjoyed, doesn’t mean they don’t (or can’t) leave you hurting in their wake.

To stay healthy and fit all through football season, remember these side effects that can occur from all the tailgating fun.

Actually Playing Football

Most of the time it’s left to the players, but throwing around a football before the game can cause serious injury. Whether in the back, shoulders, or outside muscles, playing too rough of a game is sure to leave you hurting well past the fourth quarter.

Heavy Tailgate Gear

Tailgating can often mean some serious equipment hauling. Rather than lifting items that are too bulky for travel, consider easier methods instead. Such as coolers with wheels, or lightweight tents that can be held in place by ropes or pins. These simple gestures can do wonders for the body and leave you pain free the following day. 

Sitting in Bench Seats for the Entire Game

We’ve all sat in the cheap seats. Where no back supports are given and we’re left to our own devices to sit up straight. And while sometimes they’re a necessity, they can also leave your rear screaming for some cushion. Next time you’re left with a bench seat, remember to bring a retractable back or pillow to help ease some the sitting pain. 

Unhealthy Foods

Chowing down on dips might be tasty at the time, but they can also do a number on your digestive system. Remember to take these snacks in stride, or to pack along some healthier alternatives for a stomach that isn’t rumbling during the big game.

To make the most out of your football team’s season, follow these simple health-friendly tips. 

Continue Reading

4 Ways you Should Never Sleep

Doctors and sleep experts alike are constantly giving out tips for better sleep. They let others known which positions increase circulation, as well as how to promote comfort … just by the position you lay in each night. And while there are an infinite ways to improve sleep quality by what you are doing, there are also plenty of ways to achieve the same results by what you don’t do. From positions to the time that you roll into bed each night, avoid these four common practices to gain better rest. 

Inconsistently

Heading to bed at a different time each night – and waking up at a different time –can throw your natural clock for a loop. Even when schedules change, consider keeping a regular sleep pattern to help naturally train the body when it’s time to sleep, and when it’s time to start the day. Weekends might be somewhat of an exception, but daily changes can often create the most damage. Even if you don’t notice it at the time. 

With Unsupportive Sleep Accessories

If your bed or pillow has seen too many years of use, they may not be supporting your alignment like they should. Though unnoticeable while sleeping, this lack of structural integrity can lead to aches and pains, or even a muscle related injury down the road. Instead, consider replacing these items or gaining the help of a mattress pad or pillow wedge. 

On Your Stomach

At least not exclusively. Stomach sleepers have a larger tendency to let the spine “sink” into the bed, which causes additional pain. Instead, talk to your doctor about which sleeping positions will be best for your body. 

On Outside Furniture

While it may be nice to snooze on the couch every now and then, doing it to often can cause some serious medical side effects. Same goes for the recliner. Or, if you must nap while watching the evening news, look to a back or neck prop that won’t leave you hurting the next day.

To learn more about these supportive products, head to Contour Living. 

Continue Reading

Proven Results From the Folding Bed Wedge

Looking for an excuse to get more comfortable each night? How about a mattress add-on that’s proven to offer real-time results? And one you can save money on in the process? Not only is the Folding Bed Wedge on sale, order two or more (one for you and one for your significant other, guest room, or whoever’s on your Christmas list) and shipping is free!

The Folding Bed Wedge has been helping Contour Living customers sleep since it hit the market. Need a little more convincing as to just how comfortable this product actually is? See what current and past users have had to say:

The Bed Product Reviews

“I am really enjoying my 12" pillow wedge. It helps me in more than one way: I've had back surgery and [an] acid reflux problem. Thanks so much.” August 2014

“This was the second wedge pillow I tried. The first brand was too soft and made my neck sore. This 7-inch one was firm and comfortable. It definitely relieved my acid reflex during sleep. Just give yourself a few days to adjust to it. It works well for side sleeping too.” July 2014

“Helped with sleep after surgery also helps with sleep apnea.” June 2014

“This product is awesome! I just got it last Wednesday and since then I have not coughed, nor had back and leg aches upon wakening in the morning. This says a lot since I am a cancer victim and have many aches and pains. I ordered the long one, 10" deep ... excellent product! Highly recommend it to everyone, ill or not!” May 2014

“Works for me!” April 2014

“Purchased 10-inch wedge. Only using for about a week but sleeping much better! Not waking up coughing from acid reflux and really helping with neck and back problems. Used to wake up with stiff neck and headache … not this week! :).” March 2014

“This product came very quickly and is exactly as described. I am very happy to receive it and use it. Thank you Contour Living for an excellent product.” February 2014

Head to Contour Living’s Folding Bed Wedge page to start shopping today! 

Continue Reading

Why Healthy Muscles Matter

Despite everything they do for us in a given day, it can be easy to overlook the body’s muscles. Unlike limbs or lungs that provide a very visible function, the muscles contribute to every single movement we make. Even the small ones … or ones that don’t require moving at all, such as sitting or standing. In fact, we have more than 600 muscles in the body, all of which help contribute to gestures, breathing, blood flow, and more. Yet they’re still overlooked. With their incredible responsibilities, however, we need to ensure each muscle is up to top working abilities. 

Without proper health, the body can suffer in function efficiency, strength, and more. Generally without us even knowing what’s taking place beneath the surface. 

When an injury does occur, it’s not only harder to use a specific body part, it creates a weakened space around the torn or pulled area. This can not only lower muscle strength, but decrease other body parts’ abilities in the process. 

What Healthy Muscles Can Do

Aside from the obvious, such as allowing us to play sports, and perform even the smallest of movements, muscles have a number of additional uses. They help keep joints strong and working properly, they keep the heart pumping and moving blood throughout the body. Additionally, muscles help hold bones and organs in place, while allowing them perform their duties as needed. Toned muscles will also allow you more strength not only physically, but when burning fat and digesting foods. Overall, it’s a team effort contributing toward the goal of total body health.

For all they do for us, be sure to take proper care of your muscles on any given day. This includes a proper diet, exercise, sleep, as well as hydration. It’s one of the healthiest ways to care from your body from the inside out. 

Continue Reading