Hospital Beds

Should You Sleep In A Hospital Bed With Feet Elevated?

SonderCare Learning Center

Should You Sleep In A Hospital Bed With Feet Elevated? Many people enjoy relaxing with their legs elevated. But did you know that there’s likely a therapeutic reason for wanting to kick up your feet? Getting one’s feet above the upper body, especially after a long day, feels great because it takes the pressure off the veins and helps the blood flow. Hospital beds make it easy for seniors and patients to raise their legs to their preferred setting – but should they sleep with their feet elevated? For many users, it can bring about many benefits; however, they should always consult their doctor.

Learn About Feet Elevation In A Hospital Bed

When Should I Elevate My Feet While In A Hospital Bed?

If a senior is looking for nighttime relief, changing the adjustable base to elevate the legs may affect the circulation in the feet and legs. A slight incline uses gravity to bring stagnant blood from your feet to your knees, to your upper legs, back to the core of the body for filtering and recirculation. Sleeping with elevated legs can be a therapeutic solution for blood flow problems; much of the research affirms the principles you’d find in meditative exercises like yoga.

Elevation of the legs during sleep could have a positive effect on reducing inflammation. Though the medical studies are behind the times in supporting these claims and more information is needed, reducing blood pooling in your legs and feet can potentially affect pressure, swelling, and blood pressure for the better. Many patients find that sleeping with their legs elevated at night positively affects their lower body inflammation and back pain. Many seniors also develop a form of inflammation called phlebitis or varicose veins; this can be a source of discomfort, pain, itching, or throbbing.

For injuries in the legs, elevating the feet can be essential for recovery. Many athletes recover using the RICE method: Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation. While not every part of this acronym will be relevant to the injury of you or your loved one, it’s safe to try the elevation tactic. Research suggests that the level of the heart also helps eliminate unpleasant swelling and make the user more functional.

Raising the feet above the upper body could also relieve some pain for those with sciatica. Sciatica is nerve pain from an injury or irritation to the sciatic nerve, originating in the gluteal part of the body. If a patient is experiencing severe nerve pain, they may find relief from it while sleeping or resting during the day.

Should I Sleep With My Feet Elevated In A Hospital Bed?

Sleeping with your feet, legs, and lower half elevated comes with many benefits. However, patients should always follow their doctor’s orders. The decision is ultimately up to you and your primary care physician. It’s always wise to see a doctor who can diagnose the issue and make recommendations.

There are a few reasons not to elevate the legs, and they might be relevant to the patient’s unique condition. It can feel uncomfortable for those who turn when they sleep or because of their medical condition, distracting them while getting comfortable. Be sure you’re doing right by your doctor’s orders – discuss any health conditions and the possible solutions with them. While beneficial for some, the position might not be ideal for everybody.

What Is The Best Position To Sleep In A Hospital Bed?

While sleeping with one’s feet elevated is a possibility in a hospital bed, these models make it easy for seniors and patients to take on their preferred sleeping position. It’s essential, as everyone has their favourite way to sleep. SonderCare hospital beds whatever suits you and your sleep needs best. If a patient wakes up with aches or pains, they may benefit from changing their position in the adjustable bed.

A hospital bed with adjustable capabilities is key. While many people use pillows, it’s a fact that, in our sleep, we shift and adjust. We may not realize when we’ve kicked them out from underneath. Using only one or two pillows won’t make a significant difference, either, because, for many, the objective is to raise the feet higher than your heart.

Whether you’re employing this sleep position to help with a problem you already have or to prevent future issues, there is no denying its effectiveness for a wide range of conditions. If it’s a recommended strategy for the health and wellness of you or a senior loved one, trust the SonderCare line of hospital beds to meet your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Elevating Feet In A Hospital Bed

Is it OK to sleep with your feet elevated?

While sleeping, elevate your legs to improve circulation and reduce discomfort. It’s ideal to raise your legs above your level of the heart. This is made easier with wedge-shaped pillows. To improve circulation, you can also raise your legs in bed using pillows or folded blankets.

Is it better to sleep flat or inclined?

Sleeping on an elevation is beneficial to your back, especially if you suffer from back pain. While lying on a level surface may not relieve pressure or provide relief in specific areas, resting in an adjustable bed can.

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