Are weighted blankets good for arthritis? Why it works?

Arthritis can feel like an uninvited guest at the worst times. Those aching joints and stiffness can really mess with your daily rhythm and your nights, too. If you've been tossing and turning, hoping for some pain relief, you might have heard about weighted blankets. Could they really help? Let's break it down in simple terms and see why they're worth a try.

How do weighted blankets work?

Weighted blankets aren't just cozy sleep accessories—there's some science behind how they work. Filled with materials like glass beads or plastic pellets, weighted blankets offer gentle pressure across your body, also known as deep pressure stimulation (DPS). Think of it like a full-body hug that makes your nervous system go, "Ahh, finally, I can relax." The results?

• Calmed nervous system: When arthritis pain flares up, your body often stays stressed, producing high levels of cortisol, the stress hormone. Weighted blankets provide deep pressure stimulation and activate the parasympathetic nervous system, helping to lower cortisol levels and reduce anxiety.

• Happy hormones: The constant pressure from a weighted blanket stimulates the release of serotonin, the happy hormone, and melatonin, the sleep hormone. Together, these improve your mood and help regulate your sleep-wake cycle.

• Less muscle tension: Arthritis often brings along muscle stiffness from holding awkward postures or compensating for pain. The widespread pressure delivered from the weighted blanket mimics the sensation of a comforting touch, helping your muscles relax naturally. Over time, this can reduce the strain around affected joints, making you feel more at ease.

How can weighted blankets help with arthritis?

Arthritis is all about inflammation, pain, and stiffness. While a blanket can't cure arthritis, it can help manage its symptoms. Here's how:

• Promotes relaxation: Arthritis pain often triggers stress. A weighted blanket acts as your calming companion, helping your body switch from "fight-or-flight" mode to "rest-and-digest" mode. This makes you feel less tense and reduces the mental burden of chronic pain.

• Improves sleep quality: Let's face it: arthritis pain doesn't take a break when it's bedtime. Using a weighted blanket can help by making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep. The deep pressure makes your body feel safe and snug, which can lead to longer, more restful sleep.

• Eases joint stiffness: While it's not a direct remedy to joint pain, the gentle weight can encourage better blood circulation, which may help reduce inflammation over time. It's not like a deep tissue massage, but the light pressure can be soothing for managing arthritis symptoms.

• Provides comfort without movement: Arthritis can make even small movements, like adjusting your blanket, a chore. A weighted blanket stays put, meaning less need for repositioning while still keeping you warm and comfy.

Tips for choosing the right arthritis weighted blankets

If you're curious to give one a go, here's a quick guide to picking the right weighted blanket for your needs:

• Pick the right weight: Look for a blanket that's about 10% of your body weight. For example, if you're 190 pounds, aim for a 19-pound blanket. Too heavy, and it might feel more like a workout than a hug!

• Go for breathable materials: Arthritis can sometimes come with body temperature changes, so opt for fabrics like silk and bamboo that keep you cool.

• Opt for glass beads: Weighted blankets typically use either glass beads or plastic pellets for weight. Glass beads are smaller and denser, which makes them distribute weight more evenly across the blanket. This creates a smoother, quieter experience.

How to use a weighted blanket for arthritis relief?

If you're ready to give it a shot, here are some tips to maximize the benefits:

• Start slow: At first, use the blanket for short periods, maybe while watching TV or reading, to let your body adjust.

• Use it consistently: Make the weighted blanket part of your nightly routine for lasting results.

• Pair it with heat therapy: Combine your blanket with a warm compress or heated mattress pad for an extra dose of joint relief.

• Keep it within reach: Weighted blankets can be heavier than they look. Store it somewhere easy to grab without straining your joints.

Invest in a high-quality weighted blanket with Drowsy

Living with arthritis can feel like a constant battle, but little hacks like using a weighted blanket can make a real difference. While it's not a cure, the soothing weight can help arthritis patients relax, sleep better, and manage the mental load of chronic pain. At Drowsy, we're all about finding ways to help you unwind and feel your best.

That's why we've created weighted blankets designed to wrap you in comfort. Our weighted blankets are meticulously crafted from 22 momme mulberry silk, 100% bamboo filling, and precision quartz glass beads. They are currently available in 3 calming colors: the Dusty Gold Silk Weighted Blanket, the Midnight Blue Silk Weighted Blanket, and the Moonlight Shadow Silk Weighted Blanket. Choose yours and enjoy sweet dreams!