Deep Pressure Blankets: A soothing operation
Deep pressure blankets, aka Ball blankets & heavy blankets, are designed to help with sleep problems and restless moods, involving both motor and psychological unrest.
The blanket exerts pressure on the body, leading to a sense of safety and security. This wondrous instrument is a blessing for individuals who are suffering from hyperactivity, overstimuli, relaxation problems, ADHD, Huntington's disease, Korsakov, pain, depression, or dementia.
How does it work?
Deep pressure blankets work by stimulating the body pointwise, which makes a feeling of security and comfort. The pressure of the blanket stimulates both superficial if deeper sensations This technique is known as "deep pressure stimulation," and it has multiple positive effects on the body. It stimulates the production of melatonin, the sleep hormone, and serotonin, its lucky hormone. Moreover, the blanket contributes to reducing cortisol, the stress hormone.
Patient Experience
The impact of the deep pressure blanket is clearly visible in patients. For example, in a patient who is physically restless, the blanket can slow and calm the movements in the body. Although the body takes some time to get used to the blanket, its use results in a feeling of rest, security, safety, and warmth. What's even more interesting is that the blanket may be used throughout the night.
When removed, the patient may fall asleep again quickly or immediately. Even when the patient wakes up in the middle of the night, the blanket can be re-used to help the patient fall asleep.
Benefits and Considerations
Deep pressure blankets offer significant benefits, including a feeling of security and the possibility of faster and deeper However, it is important to note that the use of these blankets can be considered as a freedom-limiting intervention. Therefore, careful consideration and professional advice is needed when implementing them, in order to ensure that the benefits outweigh the possible disadvantages.