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Dec 4 Fleece Weighted Blankets Comfort: Sleep Better

Exploring the Benefits of Fleece Weighted Blankets for Chronic Pain Relief

Fleece weighted blankets are specialized blankets designed for enhanced comfort and relaxation during sleep. These blankets are crafted with two primary components: fleece fabric and added weight. The fleece material provides a soft, plush feel, while the added weight is distributed evenly throughout the blanket. Chronic pain, as the name suggests, is persistent and lasts much longer than acute pain. It can occur in various parts of the body and for a multitude of reasons. While acute pain is usually a signal from your body that something is wrong, chronic pain is different. It persists, often for months or even longer. Chronic pain can limit mobility and reduce strength, endurance, and flexibility, making it challenging to get through daily tasks and activities.

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People suffering from chronic pain often experience periods of increased pain, known as flare-ups. These can be triggered by changes in weather, physical stress, or emotional stress. Living with chronic pain not only affects the physical well-being of a person but can also lead to emotional and psychological distress. It can disrupt sleep, decrease appetite, and lead to mood changes.

Understanding chronic pain is the first step to finding the right kind of treatment and pain management strategy. It's essential to remember that chronic pain is not just a symptom but a condition on its own. It needs to be treated differently from acute pain, and it often requires a multifaceted approach.

What is a Fleece Weighted Blanket?

A fleece weighted blanket is an innovative product designed to provide comfort and relief from various conditions, including chronic pain. This product is exactly what it sounds like - a blanket filled with materials like glass beads or plastic pellets to add weight. The outer layer is made of soft, comforting fleece.

The concept of a fleece weighted blanket is not entirely new. Weighted blankets have been used in therapeutic settings for years. Recently, they have gained popularity in the mainstream market as more people discover their benefits. The fleece material adds an extra layer of comfort, making them even more appealing.

Fleece weighted blankets come in various weights and sizes. The weight of the blanket you choose should be about 10% of your body weight. This ensures that the blanket provides the necessary pressure without being too heavy or uncomfortable.

How Fleece Weighted Blankets Work

Fleece weighted blankets work on the principle of Deep Pressure Stimulation (DPS). This is a type of therapeutic touch that involves applying gentle, sustained pressure to the body. This kind of pressure can stimulate the release of serotonin, a hormone that helps regulate mood. It can also decrease the activity of the nervous system, helping you to relax.

When you wrap yourself in a fleece weighted blanket, the weight of the blanket applies this deep pressure across your body. It's like receiving a firm hug, a sensation many people find comforting. This can help reduce anxiety and promote feelings of calm.

The fleece material of the blanket also provides a soft, comforting touch. It adds warmth, making these blankets perfect for cool nights. The combination of weight and soft touch helps create a sense of security and comfort, which can aid in relaxation and pain relief.

The Science Behind Weighted Blankets and Pain Relief

The science behind weighted blankets and pain relief is still being explored, but initial research is promising. Studies have found that deep pressure stimulation can help reduce chronic pain symptoms. This is because the pressure can help relax tense muscles, reducing pain and discomfort.

One study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that deep pressure stimulation significantly reduced pain intensity and anxiety in adults with chronic pain. Another study in the American Journal of Occupational Therapy found that weighted blanket use resulted in lower anxiety, lower physiological measures of stress, and positive calming effects.

The soft fleece material of these blankets also plays a role in pain relief. The warmth provided by the fleece can help soothe sore muscles, further reducing pain and discomfort. The comforting touch of fleece can also stimulate the release of oxytocin, a hormone that promotes feelings of relaxation and well-being.

Benefits of Using a Fleece Weighted Blanket for Chronic Pain

Using a fleece weighted blanket for chronic pain can offer multiple benefits. Firstly, it can provide pain relief. The deep pressure stimulation and warmth from the blanket can help relax tense muscles, reducing pain and discomfort. This can be particularly beneficial during flare-ups.

Secondly, a fleece weighted blanket can improve sleep. Many people with chronic pain struggle with sleep due to discomfort. The weight and warmth of the blanket can promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. Better sleep can result in less fatigue and improved pain management.

Lastly, a fleece weighted blanket can enhance mood and well-being. Chronic pain can lead to stress and anxiety. The deep pressure stimulation from the blanket can stimulate the release of serotonin and oxytocin, hormones that promote feelings of happiness and relaxation.

Choosing the Best Fleece Weighted Blanket for Chronic Pain Relief

When choosing the best fleece weighted blanket for chronic pain relief, there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, the weight of the blanket is crucial. The blanket should be about 10% of your body weight to provide the necessary pressure without being too heavy.

The quality of the fleece is also important. Look for a blanket made from high-quality, soft fleece for maximum comfort. The blanket should be well-constructed to ensure the weight is evenly distributed.

Where to Buy the Best Fleece Weighted Blanket

You can purchase a fleece weighted blanket from various sources. Many home goods stores and online retailers sell these products. When shopping online, make sure to read customer reviews to get an idea of the product's quality and effectiveness.

If you're seeking the best fleece weighted blanket, consider brands that specialize in therapeutic products. These brands often use high-quality materials and have conducted research into the effectiveness of their products.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a fleece weighted blanket can be a beneficial tool for managing chronic pain. Its deep pressure stimulation can provide relief from pain and discomfort, improve sleep, and enhance mood. When choosing a blanket, consider factors such as weight, fleece quality, and care instructions. With the right flleece weighted blanket, you can find comfort and relief from your chronic pain.

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Sources:

Baumgartner, J.N., Quintana, D., Leija, L., Schuster, N.M., Bruno, K.A., Castellanos, J.P. and Case, L.K. (2022). Widespread Pressure Delivered by a Weighted Blanket Reduces Chronic Pain: A Randomized Controlled Trial. The Journal of Pain, [online] 23(1), pp.156–174. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpain.2021.07.009.
Penn Medicine (2022). 4 Ways Weighted Blankets Can Actually Help You. [online] Pennmedicine.org. Available at: https://www.pennmedicine.org/updates/blogs/health-and-wellness/2022/march/weighted-blankets.
Sweeney, S. (2022). Do weighted blankets really work? [online] Welia Health. Available at: https://www.weliahealth.org/2022/08/do-weighted-blankets-really-work/ [Accessed 17 Nov. 2023].