![]() But just as swaddling works for some babies and not others, weighted blankets won't be a miracle treatment for everyone, she says. "Blankets may be of help for anxiety or insomnia," says Dr. If you do decide to try a weighted blanket, be realistic about your expectations and realize that results may vary. Respiratory problems or other chronic medical conditions.Īlso, check in with your doctor or a trained therapist if you are interested in trying a weighted blanket for a child. Cusin says that there are certain people who should not use a weighted blanket or should check with their doctors before doing so, including people with Most weighted blankets cost at least $100 and often more than $200.īut Dr. While there is no robust evidence that weighted blankets are truly effective, for most healthy adults, there are likely few risks to trying one - other than price. "And it's unlikely that somebody would sponsor such a study," she adds. A blind comparison is impossible because people can automatically tell if the blanket is heavy or not. "A randomized clinical trial to test the blankets would be very difficult," she says. There are really no reputable scientific studies to back up the claims, says Dr. The question is, do they really work? While some people swear by these blankets, concrete evidence is unfortunately lacking. The blanket basically simulates a comforting hug, in theory helping to calm and settle the nervous system.Ĭompanies that sell the blankets typically recommend that you buy one that weighs approximately 10% of your body weight, which would mean a 15-pound blanket for a 150-pound person. The blankets are supposed to work much the same way tight swaddling helps newborns feel snug and secure so they can doze off more quickly. Patients who are in distress may choose different types of sensory activities - holding a cold object, smelling particular aromas, manipulating dough, building objects, doing arts and crafts - to try to calm down." "It is one of the sensory tools commonly used in psychiatric units. Cristina Cusin, an assistant professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School. ![]() "Weighted blankets have been around for a long time, especially for kids with autism or behavioral disturbances," says Dr. The idea of using weight as a calming strategy does have some basis in current medical practice. Sales of the blankets have surged in the past two years. Companies are marketing them as a solution for insomnia as well as nighttime anxiety and stress reduction. They typically weigh from 3 pounds to upwards of 20 pounds. These blankets look like regular blankets, but they're filled with plastic beads or pellets to make them heavier. One new approach that doesn't involve drugs or doctors is becoming increasingly popular: weighted blankets. ![]() If you often find yourself lying awake at night, staring at the ceiling, you may be looking for solutions to help you get back to sleep. They may provide benefits for people with insomnia and anxiety, but research is scarce. Weighted blankets have long been used for certain conditions.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |