Today, these blankets have become popular in the mainstream, made with or without their traditional pellet weighting.
What Is a Weighted Blanket?
Weighted blanketsare designed to apply gentle pressure to your body when you are sleeping or curled up snugly.
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Sometimes called gravity blankets, they are sold in specific sizes and weights.
Others use alternative fabrics for filling, or you could make them yourself.
What Are the Benefits of a Weighted Blanket?
Weighted blankets work in the same way to reduce anxiety and improve sleep for all users.
They may have specific benefits for certain health conditions, but the research remains inconclusive.
The COVID-19 pandemic added to that stress in 2021.
Talk to your healthcare provider about your symptoms and seek appropriate care.
That was the finding of a systematic literature review of eight studies that evaluated the evidence.
This may involve lifestyle changes that include:
3.
Reduces Pain
The use of weighted blankets may be a strategy when treating other health conditions, includingchronic painandfibromyalgia.
At least one study suggests there may be some benefit to this approach.
The respondents then described their feelings of pain intensity, anxiety, and ability to sleep.
Creates Feeling of Security
Weighted blankets are meant to provide a healing touch through their firm pressure.
The blankets may be a welcome addition for anyone who prefers the sense of weight while sleeping and relaxing.
As a general rule, they are safe for healthy adults, older children, and teenagers.
Who May Benefit From a Weighted Blanket?
People diagnosed with certain conditions may benefit from a weighted blanket.
People With Autism Spectrum Disorder
Weighted blankets may help autistic adults and children who experience sensory processing disorders.
People with this disorder have difficulty coping with sensory input that includes sounds, light, and movement.
What About Deep Touch Pressure?
As in other situations, there is limited evidence from research studies but scientists are learning more.
Do Weighted Blankets Actually Work?
The therapeutic benefits of a weighted blanket rely on what’s called pressure therapy.
It is a way to enhance the positive feelings of security that gentle but firm pressure often evokes.
It’s a neurotransmitter, a chemical used to transmit signals from nerves to other nerves or cells.
This appears to bring benefits to people with mental health conditions or agitation, as withdementia.
Some weighted blanket models are made with metal chain material sewn into them.
They’re used to treat insomnia, or the inability to sleep, in people with serious psychiatric conditions.
Many studies suggest the blankets actually work with specific benefits, though more research is needed.
Are Weighted Blankets Safe to Use?
There is little risk for most (but not all) people in trying the blankets.
Summary
Weighted blankets are designed to create firm pressure on the body.
This may benefit people who have anxiety or stress, as well as other mental or physical health conditions.
In most cases, there is little risk in trying one if you like.
Frequently Asked Questions
Generally, the frequency is a matter of personal preference.
Most blankets can be machine-dried and fluffed periodically during the dry cycle.
Check the specific recommendations of your blanket manufacturer, though.
For children, use a lighter-weight product.
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A new blanket might help.
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