All You Need to Know About Deep Pressure Stimulation and Weighted Blankets
Weighted blankets work because of the principle of deep pressure stimulation, which the medical community embraces as a product of science.
Deep pressure stimulation is a type of therapy that uses firm pressure to stimulate the nerve receptors in the body. It can be performed and handed out through various methods, such as massage, pressure from weighted blankets or vests, or even from special deep-pressure chairs. Deep pressure stimulation helps treat autism spectrum disorder, sensory processing disorder, and anxiety.
Weighted blankets are an unconventional albeit popular means to provide deep pressure stimulation. They are typically made of heavy fabric and filled with weights or pellets, which provides a comforting hug-like sensation. Weighted blankets help treat autism spectrum disorder, anxiety, and insomnia.
Weighted blankets aren’t supposed to be used by people with claustrophobia or at risk of being smothered. They should also not be used on infants or children who cannot remove the blanket themselves. If you consider using a weighted blanket, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional first.
If you decide that a weighted blanket is right for you, it is important to choose the right size. The blanket should be big enough to cover your body and have at least 10 percent of your body weight in pounds. Too much weight can be dangerous, so start with a lower weight blanket and increase as needed.
Deep pressure stimulation and weighted blankets can be a safe and effective way to relieve certain conditions. If you’re looking into using one of these therapies, consult with a healthcare professional to find the right option for you.
Medical professionals and scientists are still exploring the potential benefits of deep pressure stimulation and weighted blankets. However, a substantial amount of anecdotal evidence suggests these therapies can be helpful for people with conditions like autism spectrum disorder, anxiety, and insomnia.
The principle of deep pressure stimulation is nothing new, yet it is only recently that this form of therapy has begun to be explored more thoroughly. The use of weighted blankets can be traced back to the early 1800s when they were used to calm and soothe psychiatric patients.
There’s been a resurgence of interest in weighted blankets in recent years due to their prospective perks for people with autism spectrum disorder, anxiety, and insomnia. One study found that children with autism who used a weighted blanket had decreased their heart rate and cortisol levels, which are associated with stress.
Another study found that adults with insomnia who used a weighted blanket reported a decrease in the time it took them to fall asleep and an increase in the quality of their sleep.
People should not use weighted blankets at risk of being smothered or who have claustrophobia. They should also not be used on infants or children who cannot remove the blanket themselves.
