An adjustable bed is a specialized frame that uses a motor to articulate the sleeping surface, typically raising the head and/or foot sections. This technology allows for a customized sleep posture beyond a flat surface. For people who prefer to sleep on their side, evaluating the benefits of an adjustable base requires looking at their unique anatomical needs and how the frame’s features can be optimally utilized.
Unique Support Needs of Side Sleepers
Side sleeping is the most common position, yet it presents distinct biomechanical challenges for maintaining proper posture. When lying on one side, the body’s weight is concentrated onto the shoulder and the hip, creating two prominent pressure points. This concentration demands a surface that can adequately cushion these areas to prevent discomfort and nerve compression.
The primary goal for a side sleeper is achieving neutral spinal alignment, meaning the spine should remain straight from the neck down to the pelvis. On a flat mattress, the spine can sag or bend if the mattress is too firm, or sink too far if it is too soft. This misalignment often leads to lower back pain or neck stiffness upon waking. The shoulders and hips, being wider than the waist, require the mattress surface to allow them to sink just enough to keep the spinal column horizontal.
Adjusting the Base for Pressure Relief and Alignment
An adjustable base can contribute to spinal alignment and pressure relief for side sleepers, although the ideal adjustments are more subtle than for other positions. The common “Zero Gravity” position, which elevates the head and feet to create a 120-degree bend at the hips, is not typically used for full side sleeping but can be modified. For a side sleeper, slightly elevating the head can help open the airways, which may reduce snoring or ease breathing difficulties without causing neck strain.
A minimal elevation of the foot or knee section can also reduce tension on the lumbar spine. This slight bend relaxes the hip flexors and takes pressure off the lower back, which can be highly beneficial for those who experience lower back pain. The benefit of the adjustable base is not in extreme angles, but in finding a small, customized “sweet spot” that conforms the mattress surface to the body’s natural curvature.
This minimal contouring helps the mattress fill the space between the waist and the sleeping surface, which is often left unsupported on a flat bed. This minor articulation helps the side sleeper feel more contoured and supported, especially in the hip and shoulder areas. Customizing the angle allows the user to fine-tune the weight distribution, reducing the strain on the shoulder that bears the body’s weight and minimizing pressure points.
Selecting the Right Mattress for Side Sleepers on an Adjustable Frame
The functionality of an adjustable base depends highly on the flexibility of the mattress placed on top of it. For side sleepers, the mattress must be highly conforming to cushion the shoulders and hips while remaining flexible enough to bend with the articulating frame. All-foam mattresses, such as memory foam or latex, are generally the most suitable, as their construction allows them to flex easily without damage or undue strain.
A medium to medium-soft firmness level is often recommended for side sleepers, as this allows the broader body parts to sink adequately for proper spinal alignment. Memory foam excels at this by molding closely to the body’s curves, providing superior pressure point relief for the hip and shoulder. Hybrid mattresses, which combine foam layers with pocketed coils, can also be compatible if they are specifically designed for adjustable bases.
Traditional innerspring mattresses are generally a poor fit for an adjustable base because the connected coil system lacks the necessary flexibility to bend with the frame. For a side sleeper using an adjustable frame, selecting a mattress with good pressure distribution is paramount. A flexible mattress ensures that the benefits of the base’s articulation are translated into contoured comfort rather than resistance.
Factors to Consider Before Purchasing
The investment in an adjustable bed involves considering several practical factors beyond therapeutic benefits. Adjustable bases represent a significant added cost compared to a standard, non-articulating bed frame. Potential buyers should also account for the physical dimensions and space requirements of the base, as some models do not fit well inside existing bed frames and may require clearance for the motor and articulation mechanisms.
Noise level is another practical consideration, as the motor that adjusts the frame can produce sound that might disrupt a partner’s sleep. Many modern bases feature quieter motors, but it is wise to check reviews or test the sound level if possible. For couples with differing sleep preferences, a split king or split queen option allows each side of the bed to be adjusted independently, ensuring both partners can find their optimal sleeping position.