Weighted blankets – operation, advantages, prices. How to choose a weighted blanket?

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In recent years, weighted blankets, also known as sensory blankets, have been gaining more and more popularity among both children and adults. Their gentle pressure on the body gives the impression of an envelope and ensures a good night’s sleep. These blankets are also used in the sensory therapy of children on the autism spectrum or with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Many people also find that weighted blankets help fight insomnia. Is it true?

1. Weighted blankets, also known as sensory blankets, are recommended for people on the autism spectrum, with Asperger’s syndrome, Down syndrome and ADHD
2. These blankets stimulate the proprioceptive system, which leads to the increased production of serotonin and melatonin
3. It is important that the material from which they are made is natural. The recommended filling is glass beads or glass granules
4. Its beneficial effects against insomnia have not been officially confirmed
5. People suffering from diseases such as asthma, sleep apnea, epilepsy, circulatory problems, etc. cannot use sensory blankets
6. More information can be found on the Onet homepage.

Proprioception, or deep feeling, is a sense that allows us to recognize the position of our body without having to look at its individual parts. Due to their gentle pressure, the weighted blankets stimulate the proprioceptive system, thus increasing this awareness. Increased awareness, in turn, affects the increased production of serotonin, also known as the happiness hormone and melatonin, which is responsible for proper sleep.

By using a weighted blanket, we first of all become more relaxed. Its effect also positively affects our concentration, reduces the feeling of anxiety, stress and ensures a good night’s sleep. Sensory blankets are recommended in particular to people on the autism spectrum or Asperger’s syndrome, as well as people with Down syndrome and ADHD. However, it should be remembered that a sensory blanket may not be a good choice for everyone. There are also some contraindications to its use.

See also: The worst habits before falling asleep

Weighted blankets – effect on insomnia

The studies conducted so far do not allow for an unequivocal assessment of the impact of the weighted blanket on sleep. It cannot therefore be concluded that it is an effective treatment for insomnia. However, the sensory blanket has great potential in relieving the symptoms of anxiety and stress disorders. Many people also say that these duvets really help them with problems related to insomnia.

Unfortunately, the characteristic weight of the weighted blanket makes it impossible to perform a randomized controlled trial. This study is based on dividing its participants into at least two groups, one of which is an experimental group, while the other is a control group. The basis of the study, however, is the lack of knowledge of its participants about which group they are in. In this case, the subjects would quickly recognize which duvet they are dealing with – which unfortunately would make it impossible to obtain an objective result.

Also check: Hypoallergenic bedding – what to pay attention to?

Further part below the video.

Weighted blanket – does it actually work?

In addition to existing research, there are many recent and promising studies that provide even more evidence that weighted blankets can provide relief from physical pain or the symptoms of other medical conditions.

For example, a 2020 study published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine, conducted by Swedish scientists, found that weighted blankets improve sleep in people with major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety disorder and ADHD. In the study, 120 people received a light duvet or weighted duvet with a chain. After 4 weeks, people who used a weighted blanket had fewer problems with insomnia and experienced less fatigue, depression, or anxiety during the day.

In turn, another study published in the Scandinavian Journal of Occupational Therapy in 2021, also conducted by Swedish scientists, found that weighted blankets helped adults and children with autism spectrum disorder or ADHD fall asleep and stay asleep. The study involved 48 children and 37 adults who found it easier to relax during the day using weighted blankets for sleep. Yet another study published in the journal Sleep in 2020 looked at 28 participants with falling asleep problems. By using a weighted blanket for 6 weeks, improvements have been reported in nighttime sleep, sleep quality, and faster falling asleep.

In a 2020 study published in the Journal of Integrative Medicine, Florida researchers measured the effects of weighted blankets on people in a psychiatric hospital. Of the 122 participants, 61 who chose to use a weighted blanket had an objectively lower anxiety level than the 61 participants who did not.

Although these studies target small groups of people, they corroborate the anecdotal experiences of many who claim that weighted blankets can help relieve physical pain, reduce anxiety, and improve sleep.

See also: Anxiety neurosis, or generalized anxiety disorder – causes, symptoms, treatment

Weighted blankets – advantages of use

Researchers investigated the effectiveness of weighted quilts in alleviating physical and emotional symptoms. While more research is needed, the results so far indicate that they may have benefits in many conditions.

Weighted blanket and anxiety

One of the primary uses of the Weighted Quilt is to treat anxiety. Stimulating deep sensation can help reduce autonomic arousal. This agitation is responsible for many of the physical symptoms of anxiety, such as an increased heart rate.

See also: Correct heart rate – norms, how to measure? Fast and slow heart rate

Weighted blanket and autism

One of the hallmarks of autism, especially in children, is sleep problems. A small scientific study published in Occupational Therapy International in 2017 found that for some people with autism, stimulating deep sensation (massage and squeezing) has positive benefits. These benefits may also apply to the weighted blanket.

The weighted blanket and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

There are very few studies like the one published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine in 2020 that investigate the use of weighted blankets in ADHD. However, in a 2014 study published in The American Journal of Occupational Therapy, researchers used weight jackets to treat ADHD to improve attention and reduce hyperactivity. The study showed promising results for participants who used a weight vest during a continuous performance test. These participants experienced a reduction in leaving and fidgeting.

Weighted blanket and insomnia and sleep disorders

There are many factors that can cause sleep disturbances. Weighted blankets can help in a few simple ways. According to a study published in Occupational Therapy International in 2017, extra pressure may help calm your heart rate and breathing. This can make it easier to relax before we acclimatize to a good night’s rest.

Solve a test: How does sleep affect your life?

Weighted blanket and osteoarthritis

There are no scientific studies on the use of weighted blankets in osteoarthritis. However, a study published in Pain Medicine in 2017 may shed some light on this issue. In this small study, 18 participants with osteoarthritis received a massage on one of their knees for eight weeks. Study participants noted that massage therapy helped reduce knee pain and improve their quality of life.

Massage therapy is all about putting deep pressure on the joints with osteoarthritis, so it’s possible that you may experience similar benefits while using a weighted blanket.

Weighted blanket and chronic pain

Chronic pain is a difficult diagnosis. However, people who live with chronic pain may find relief through the use of weighted blankets.

A 2021 study published in The Journal of Pain by UC San Diego researchers found that weighted blankets reduce the perception of chronic pain. Ninety-four participants with chronic pain used a light or weighted blanket for a week. Those in the weighted blanket group were relieved, especially if they were also struggling with anxiety. Weighted blankets, however, did not reduce the level of pain intensity.

The weighted blanket and medical procedures

There are benefits to using a weighted blanket during medical procedures.

A 2016 study published in the Journal of the Formosan Medical Association experimented with weighted blankets on participants undergoing wisdom tooth extraction. Weighted blanket users experienced lower anxiety symptoms than the control group. Moreover, researchers conducted a similar follow-up study on teenagers using a weighted blanket during molar extraction. These results also showed less anxiety when using a weighted blanket.

Since medical procedures tend to induce anxiety symptoms such as an increased heart rate, the use of weighted blankets may be beneficial in alleviating these symptoms.

Weighted blankets – how to choose the right one?

Weighted blankets are made of natural materials such as cotton, bamboo fibers or silk. Since they have natural ventilation, they are hypoallergenic products. They are also perfect in summer, as they provide a pleasant feeling of cooling. However, it is worth paying attention to the filling of the duvet. Glass balls or glass granules also have hypoallergenic properties. In addition, their characteristic sound made when the quilt is moved may also have a therapeutic effect. In this case, natural resources such as buckwheat or cherry stones should be avoided. They are more difficult to maintain and susceptible to moisture and mold. Duvets with such filling cannot be washed.

The appropriate weight of the sensory blanket is also very important. The pressure that the duvet exerts on our body must be balanced. If the quilt is too heavy, it may have a counterproductive effect. It is recommended that the weight of the duvet is between 5 and 10%. body weight.

Are you looking for a weighted blanket? Check the offer of quilts available on Medonet Market. You will find duvets for adults and children made of soft minky fabric. The duvets come in different sizes and loadings, so you are sure to find one that suits your needs.

Having trouble sleeping? Check out Harmonix – supplement for insomnia

Weighted blankets – contraindications

However, sensory blankets cannot be used by everyone. Both age, weight and health condition may constitute contraindications for the use of this type of quilt.

First of all, weighted blankets can pose a serious risk to children under 3 years of age or weighing less than 22 kg. In extreme cases, they can even lead to suffocation. The use of a weighted blanket in older children should be preceded by a consultation with a pediatrician or therapist. The specialist will make sure that there are no contraindications to its use and will help you choose the appropriate weight for the individual needs of the child. However, it should be remembered that children should not use such a quilt on their own. Adult supervision is required.

Health contraindications

There are also certain diseases and disorders that preclude the use of a sensory blanket.

1. Asthma
2. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
3. Sleep apnea
4. Heart and circulation problems
5. Hypotension (low blood pressure)
6. Skin problems, including allergies
7. Epilepsy
8. Any physical and movement problems that would make it difficult to remove the weighted blanket on your own

Weighted blanket – prices

As for the cost of the blanket, the price depends on its size, weight and manufacturer. In the case of small and relatively light weighted blankets, their cost ranges from PLN 120 to PLN 300. In turn, these heavier and larger weighted blankets cost from 400 to even 800 PLN.