Adjustable Beds and Lymphedema: The Benefits for Better Sleep

The Amerisleep Adjustable Bed can be an effective tool for managing lymphedema symptoms, particularly in the lower extremities. Lymphedema is characterized by swelling and fluid accumulation in the affected limb, often causing discomfort, pain, and a sense of heaviness. By utilizing the adjustable features of this bed, individuals with lymphedema can find relief and improve their overall quality of life.

One of the key benefits of the Amerisleep Adjustable Bed is its ability to elevate the legs and feet. By raising the lower body, gravity assists in draining the excess fluid from the affected limb back towards the heart. This can help reduce swelling and alleviate the feeling of heaviness in the legs. The bed allows for a maximum foot tilt of 40 degrees, providing ample elevation to promote fluid drainage.

In addition to leg elevation, the Amerisleep Adjustable Bed offers a zero-gravity position. This setting is designed to evenly distribute body weight and reduce pressure points, creating a sensation of weightlessness. For individuals with lymphedema, the zero-gravity position can be particularly beneficial as it minimizes pressure on the affected limb, further promoting fluid drainage and reducing discomfort.

The adjustable bed also allows users to find the most comfortable sleeping position for their individual needs. By adjusting the angle of the head and feet, users can alleviate aches and pains associated with lymphedema. For example, slightly elevating the head can help reduce swelling in the upper body and improve breathing, while raising the feet can provide relief from lower limb swelling.

The wireless remote control that comes with the Amerisleep Adjustable Bed makes it easy for users to customize their sleeping position. The backlit buttons allow for easy adjustments during the night without having to get out of bed. The remote also features programmable memory settings, allowing users to save their preferred positions for quick and easy access.

Furthermore, the Amerisleep Adjustable Bed is designed with ultra-quiet motors, ensuring that any adjustments made during the night do not disturb sleep. The bed also comes with a 10-year limited warranty, providing peace of mind and protection for this investment in better sleep and lymphedema management.

Complementary Therapies and Exercises

In addition to using an adjustable bed frame, there are several other therapies and exercises that can help manage lymphedema and swollen legs.

Compression Therapy

Compression therapy, which involves wearing special stockings or bandages to apply pressure to the affected limb, can help stimulate circulation and reduce swelling.

A 2016 study Verified Source National Library of Medicine (NIH) World’s largest medical library, making biomedical data and information more accessible. View source looked at women with breast cancer related lymphedema and examined how night-time compression bandaging or garments helped with their sleep. The study’s conclusion suggests that appropriate night-time compression may help alleviate some of the sleep disturbances associated with lymphedema.

A 2018 observational study Verified Source National Library of Medicine (NIH) World’s largest medical library, making biomedical data and information more accessible. View source similarly evaluated the use of a custom-made night-time compression garment in patients with lymphedema. Most participants reported that the garment was comfortable and easy to use, and they experienced improved quality of sleep.

Exercises

Ankle pumps and other simple exercises can also be performed while the legs are elevated to further encourage fluid movement. Regular movement and stretching throughout the day can help activate the muscle pump effect, which squeezes the veins and pushes fluid back toward the heart.

See also our guide to stretches you can do in bed, where Dr. Devon Hoffman demonstrates five easy-to-do examples.

Preventative Measures

Preventing lymphedema and swollen legs is often easier than treating them once they develop. One of the most effective preventative measures is to take regular breaks from sitting or standing and to go for short walks every 30 minutes.

This helps activate the muscles in the lower extremities and promotes better circulation. Maintaining an active lifestyle and engaging in regular exercise for sleep can also help keep the lymphatic system and veins functioning properly.

When to Speak to a Doctor About Lymphedema

If you suspect that you might have lymphedema or are experiencing symptoms related to this condition, it’s essential to speak with your doctor. Some signs and symptoms that warrant a conversation with your healthcare provider include:

• Swelling in your arms, legs, fingers, or toes
• A feeling of heaviness or tightness in your limbs
• Skin changes, such as tightness, redness, or thickening (see also our guide to itchy skin at night)
• Difficulty moving the affected limb
• Recurrent infections in the affected area
• Persistent discomfort or pain in the swollen limb

If you have recently undergone cancer treatment, Verified Source National Library of Medicine (NIH) World’s largest medical library, making biomedical data and information more accessible. View source particularly involving lymph node removal Verified Source National Library of Medicine (NIH) World’s largest medical library, making biomedical data and information more accessible. View source or radiation therapy, Verified Source National Library of Medicine (NIH) World’s largest medical library, making biomedical data and information more accessible. View source you may be at a higher risk of developing lymphedema. In this case, it’s crucial to discuss your risk factors and any preventive measures you can take with your doctor.

Additionally, if you have been diagnosed with lymphedema and are experiencing sleep disturbances, such as insomnia or obstructive sleep apnea, it’s important to bring this up with your healthcare provider. They can help you develop a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses both your lymphedema and sleep-related issues.

Remember, early detection and intervention are key to managing lymphedema effectively. Don’t hesitate to speak with your doctor if you have any concerns about your symptoms or overall health.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I wear at night for lymphedema?

When sleeping with lymphedema, it is best to wear loose, comfortable clothing that does not constrict the affected limb. Compression garments designed for nighttime use can be helpful in managing swelling and discomfort.

These garments are typically made from softer, more breathable materials than daytime compression stockings and provide a gentle, consistent pressure to help promote circulation.

Is lymphedema worse at night?

Lymphedema symptoms can often worsen at night due to the effects of gravity and the body’s natural tendency to retain more fluid while lying down. This is why elevating the affected limb(s) while sleeping can be particularly beneficial.

If you notice that your lymphedema is consistently worse at night, it may be a sign that you need to adjust your sleep position or consider using an adjustable bed frame.

What should you not do with lymphedema in your legs?

When you have lymphedema in your legs, it is essential to avoid activities that can exacerbate the condition. This includes sitting or standing for prolonged periods without taking breaks, wearing tight clothing or shoes that constrict the legs, and engaging in high-impact activities that put excessive strain on the affected limbs.

It is also important to avoid extreme temperatures, such as hot tubs or saunas, as heat can cause the blood vessels to dilate and worsen swelling.

Is an adjustable bed good for lymphedema?

An adjustable bed can be an excellent tool for managing lymphedema, as it allows you to easily elevate your legs above the level of your heart. This position helps encourage the flow of lymphatic fluid back toward the heart, reducing swelling and discomfort in the affected limbs.

By using an adjustable bed frame consistently, many people with lymphedema experience significant improvements in their symptoms and overall quality of life.

Are adjustable beds good for circulation?

Adjustable beds can be very beneficial for improving circulation, particularly in the lower extremities. By elevating the legs, an adjustable bed helps reduce the effects of gravity on the circulatory system, making it easier for blood and lymphatic fluid to flow back toward the heart.

This can help alleviate symptoms of poor circulation, such as swelling, pain, and fatigue, and may even help prevent the development of more serious conditions like varicose veins or deep vein thrombosis.

Is it safe to sleep with your feet elevated all night?

In most cases, sleeping with your feet elevated all night is safe and can be beneficial for people with lymphedema, swollen legs, or poor circulation. However, it is essential to listen to your body and adjust the elevation if you experience any numbness, tingling, or discomfort in your feet or legs.

If you have any concerns about sleeping with your feet elevated, it is always best to consult with your primary care provider or a specialist in lymphedema management.

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