An adjustable bed is a flexible base that uses mechanical articulation to raise and lower the head and foot sections, typically controlled by a remote. This movement positions the sleep surface into a variety of inclines and angles, moving beyond the flat plane of a traditional foundation. Many assume these bases only benefit those who sleep on their back or sit up to read. This overlooks the significant compatibility and potential benefits an adjustable bed offers to individuals who sleep on their side, improving comfort and alignment.
The Side Sleeper’s Challenge
Sleeping on a flat mattress presents challenges for the side sleeper. The body’s weight is concentrated on a small area, creating high-pressure zones at the hip and the shoulder. The shoulder resting against the mattress often bears substantial compression, which can lead to discomfort or restricted blood flow.
A flat surface struggles to support the natural curvature of the spine when a person lies on their side. Ideal alignment requires the spine to remain straight, but the torso often sags or curves unnaturally without targeted support. This misalignment puts strain on the ligaments and muscles in the back, resulting in morning stiffness or chronic pain.
Adjustable Beds and Pressure Relief
Adjustable beds mitigate side sleeping problems by using articulation to redistribute body weight. Slightly elevating the head and foot sections allows the bed’s surface to contour around the body, shifting the load away from the hips and shoulders. This cradling effect reduces the concentrated force that causes pressure points.
The ability to raise the foot section is effective for side sleepers experiencing lower back or hip discomfort. Gentle elevation under the knees and lower legs relaxes the hip flexors and pelvis, promoting a more neutral alignment for the lower spine. This adjustment prevents the hips from sinking or twisting, creating a continuous, supportive curve that better matches the body’s silhouette than a rigid foundation.
Optimizing the Position for Side Sleeping
Side sleepers achieve optimal comfort by utilizing a gentle contouring position, involving slight adjustments to both the head and foot sections. The goal is not to sit up but to introduce a subtle bend that supports the body’s natural curves. Head elevation should be minimal, usually between 5 to 10 degrees, to prevent neck strain.
Slightly raising the knees and feet replicates a modified “Zero Gravity” position by elevating the lower extremities. This elevation helps keep the pelvis level and reduces tension in the lumbar region, contributing to full spinal alignment. The general principle is to use the articulation to minimize the pressure felt on the hip and shoulder. Placing a pillow between the knees is still recommended to prevent the upper leg from pulling the spine out of alignment. Furthermore, a supportive pillow must fill the gap between the head, neck, and the mattress surface to ensure the cervical spine remains straight.
Mattress Considerations and Compatibility
The success of an adjustable bed depends on pairing it with a flexible mattress that can bend and conform to the new angles. All-foam mattresses, such as memory foam or latex, are the most compatible due to their inherent flexibility.
Specialized hybrid mattresses that incorporate pocketed coils and supportive foam comfort layers also work well, as they are designed to flex with the base. Conversely, traditional innerspring mattresses with rigid wire frames should be avoided, as they cannot articulate effectively. For a side sleeper, the mattress firmness should be in the medium-soft to medium range, allowing the shoulder and hip to sink slightly while the adjustable base provides the underlying support.