It also has a low profile of 2.5cms which provides the same comfort as at least double the thickness of memory foam. It can either be stored in the pop top space or neatly stored away in it's bag for later use. See our video below to see the difference it can make to the standard pop top bed mattress!
]]>
University rooms are known for having plain interiors. It is important to add personal touches to your room in order to make it as comfortable as possible. Whether it be decorating the walls with your favourite photos or bringing personal items and ornaments to furnish your room, it is evident that personal touch will help to make your room feel more comfortable.
University can be tiring. Whether you have been studying all day or enjoying the local bars and clubs a good night’s sleep is essential. The rustic-homeTM is the perfect investment for your time at university. Providing the ultimate comfort, your bed will feel luxurious.
Plants are the best edition to a room. They provide improved psychological well-being and improved physical human health, while also bringing a bright energy into your room. Affordable, while varying in many sizes and species, houseplants are perfect for brightening up your room.
There is nothing more uncomfortable than a bad smelling room. University rooms have been inhabited by many students throughout the years, so it is important to make sure your room smells and feels fresh. This can easily be solved with scented candles, diffusers and incense.
We believe gadgets are a great edition to your university room, as they can help you to relax and unwind. Bring a speaker to play your favourite music - to enjoy by yourself or with your friends. Additionally, bring a laptop. After a long day of typing and studying, nothing is better than crawling into bed and logging onto Netflix.
]]>Our mattress toppers are
designed to provide extra cushioning and support, ensuring a good night's sleep even when you're camping in the great outdoors. With a mattress topper, you can say goodbye to uncomfortable nights spent tossing and turning on a thin mattress or sleeping bag.
One of the key benefits of our mattress toppers is their ability to regulate temperature. Whether you're camping in the heat of summer or the chill of winter, our mattress toppers will help keep you comfortable throughout the night. Say goodbye to waking up sweaty or shivering in the middle of the night.
Our mattress toppers are easy to clean and maintain, making them the perfect addition to your camping gear. Simply remove the outer cover to give it a wash when needed. No more struggling with bulky, hard-to-clean mattresses or sleeping bags.
Despite their thin profile, our mattress toppers are lightweight, compact, and easy to transport. They can be rolled up and stored in your roof tent box without taking up too much space, leaving you with more room for other camping essentials.
So why settle for a mediocre camping experience when you can enhance it with our mattress topper? Upgrade your roof tent box setup today and enjoy a comfortable and restful night's sleep wherever your outdoor adventures take you.
]]>
At RUSTIC, we specialise in innovative pressure-relief products designed to support comfort, mobility, and wellbeing. This awareness week is an important reminder of why the right support surfaces, alongside good care practices, can make a life-changing difference.
Pressure injuries (also known as pressure ulcers or bedsores) occur when prolonged pressure, shear or friction reduces blood flow to the skin. They most commonly develop on bony areas such as heels, elbows, hips and the lower back.
Without early intervention, these can progress from mild redness to deep wounds that may become infected and require complex long-term management.
People at higher risk include:
Individuals with limited mobility
Wheelchair users
Those with reduced sensation or neurological conditions
People recovering from surgery
Long-term care residents
Pressure injuries are often preventable with the right combination of movement, skin care, and support surfaces. Prevention is not only better for patient comfort and dignity, it reduces the strain on healthcare staff and the wider system.
Stopping the Pressure Week raises awareness of:
Early risk assessment
Repositioning and mobility
Skin inspection
Hydration and nutrition
Appropriate equipment choices
This is where high-performance support surfaces become essential.
RUSTIC products use advanced 3D spacer fabrics to create airflow, distribute weight evenly and help minimise the build-up of heat and moisture, all factors known to increase pressure injury risk.
1. Breathability & Airflow
Unlike foam, our 3D structures allow constant airflow, helping the skin stay cool and dry, reducing maceration and improving comfort.
2. Pressure Distribution
The spring-like structure responds to the body's natural movements, spreading load evenly and lowering peak pressure points.
3. Lightweight, Washable, Hygienic
RUSTIC cushions and mattresses are fully washable, quick-drying and maintain their performance over time, ideal for hospitals, community seating, and home users.
4. Suitable for Everyday Life
From wheelchair cushions to mattress toppers, RUSTIC is designed to support daily comfort without bulky medical equipment.
This week is a reminder that prevention is a shared responsibility - across clinicians, carers, families, and manufacturers. By combining education with effective equipment, we can help reduce the number of people living with avoidable injuries.
At RUSTIC, we are proud to contribute to that effort by offering breathable, clinically-informed products that support pressure care across a range of environments.
If you’re exploring pressure relief solutions for yourself, a loved one, or a patient, our team is here to help you choose the best options for long-term comfort and protection.
Driving Towards Inclusivity
In the realm of accessibility and inclusivity, there exist champions whose tireless efforts are shaping a world where mobility is not a privilege but a fundamental right. Among these champions stands the Wheelchair Alliance, a beacon of advocacy and empowerment for individuals with mobility challenges. With a mission to break down barriers and foster a more inclusive society, the Wheelchair Alliance is driving transformative change across England.
Empowering Mobility, Embracing Diversity
At the heart of the Wheelchair Alliance lies a commitment to empowering individuals with mobility impairments. Through advocacy, education, and
collaboration, the alliance strives to dismantle the physical, social, and economic barriers that often restrict the freedom and independence of wheelchair users.
Central to their approach is the recognition of diversity within the wheelchair user community. The alliance acknowledges that everyone’s needs and experiences are unique, advocating for solutions that cater to a spectrum of abilities and preferences. By embracing this diversity, the Wheelchair Alliance ensures that their initiatives are inclusive and representative of the community they serve.
Advocacy and Awareness: Shifting Perceptions, Driving Change
A key pillar of the Wheelchair Alliance's work is advocacy. By amplifying the voices of wheelchair users and advocating for their rights, the alliance challenges societal perceptions and norms surrounding disability. Through campaigns, policy initiatives, and grassroots activism, they push for systemic changes that promote accessibility and equal opportunities for all.
Moreover, the alliance is dedicated to raising awareness about the challenges faced by wheelchair users and the importance of creating inclusive environments. Through workshops, seminars, and media outreach, they educate the public about accessibility issues and foster empathy and understanding towards individuals with mobility impairments.
Innovation and Collaboration: Building a More Accessible Future
Innovation lies at the core of the Wheelchair Alliance's efforts to enhance accessibility. By collaborating with engineers, designers, and technology experts, the alliance explores innovative solutions to improve wheelchair design, mobility aids, and assistive technologies. From lightweight and customizable wheelchairs to smart navigation systems, these advancements not only enhance mobility but also promote independence and inclusion.
Furthermore, the Wheelchair Alliance actively collaborates with businesses, governments, and organizations to create accessible environments and inclusive policies. By advocating for universal design principles and accessibility standards, they ensure that public spaces, transportation systems, and digital platforms are accessible to all individuals, regardless of their mobility status.
A Call to Action: Joining the Movement for Inclusion
As the Wheelchair Alliance continues to champion accessibility and inclusivity, their work serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of collective action in driving social change. Whether through volunteering, supporting advocacy campaigns, or promoting inclusive practices, each of us has a role to play in building a more accessible and inclusive society. 
By joining forces with the Wheelchair Alliance and supporting their mission, we can collectively pave the way for a world where mobility is not a barrier but a pathway to empowerment and equality. Together, let us drive towards a future where everyone has the freedom to navigate the world with dignity and independence.
Recognizing bed bugs is crucial for early detection and effective elimination of an infestation. Here are key signs to help you identify bed bugs:
Now let’s talk prevention! From simple habits to strategic measures, these tips will empower you to create a bed bug-resistant environment, ensuring your sleep remains a rejuvenating experience rather than a battleground against these nocturnal pests. Let's dive into a world of proactive measures and protective practices that will help you bid farewell to the potential headache of bed bug infestations.
mattress topper that are designed to keep bed bugs out. Using specialist textiles, these toppers are hypoallergenic which means bed bugs cannot live or grow there. Make sure to regularly wash and replace the topper to maintain their effectiveness. See RUSTICs product here.Remember, the key to success lies in early detection and consistent efforts to keep these nocturnal pests away. By staying vigilant and implementing the tips outlined in this guide, you're not just safeguarding your home; you're reclaiming the peace and comfort that your bedroom should provide.
So, sleep tight, knowing that you've armed yourself with the knowledge and strategies to keep bed bugs at bay. With these tips in your corner, you can confidently bid farewell to the worry of unwanted bed bug guests and embrace the serenity that a good night's sleep brings. Here's to sweet dreams and peaceful nights!
3D spacer fabric mattress toppers can be machine washed but it is always advised to check the care label or the manufacturer’s guidelines. Generally, these toppers can be machine washed at 40℃. Always ensure the topper is completely dry before putting it back on the bed or into storage to avoid any damage to the product.
Memory foam toppers should not be machine washed, as they can be damaged by excessive moisture. Instead, spot clean any stains with a mild detergent and warm water. Use a damp cloth to gently clean the affected area and then allow it to air dry thoroughly before putting it back on the bed.
Latex toppers can be washed, but it essential to check the care instructions provided by the manufacturer. Some latex toppers are not machine washable, and in such cases, spot cleaning is recommended.
Mattress toppers filled with fibrefill or down are generally machine washable. Use a gentle cycle with cool water and a mild detergent. You may need to wash them in a large front-loading washer to avoid excessive agitation. After washing, ensure the topper is completely dry before using it again to prevent mold and mildew growth.
Some wool mattress toppers are machine washable, but others may not be. Always check the care label or the manufacturers guidelines. If its safe to wash, use a gentle cycle with cold water and a mild detergent. Avoid using bleach or hard chemicals.
Feather toppers should not be washed as they can clump and lose their loft. Spot cleaning is the best approach for these types of toppers.
Remember, regardless of the type of mattress topper, regular maintenance and use of a mattress cover or protector can help prevent stains and extend the lifespan of the topper. If you’re unsure about washing your mattress topper, its best to reach out to the manufacturer or check their website for specific care instructions.
]]>
]]>
Getting a good night's sleep is important for our overall health and well-being. Here are some of the benefits of a good night's sleep:
Improved mental performance: A good night's sleep can help improve concentration, memory, and problem-solving skills.
Enhanced mood: Sleep plays a critical role in regulating our emotions. Getting enough sleep can help improve mood and reduce feelings of anxiety and depression.
Better physical health: Sleep is essential for repairing and restoring the body. It can help improve cardiovascular health, reduce inflammation, and boost the immune system.
Increased productivity: When we are well-rested, we are more productive and efficient at work or school.
Reduced risk of accidents: Sleep deprivation can impair our ability to think clearly and react quickly, increasing the risk of accidents and injuries.
Improved athletic performance: Getting enough sleep can help improve athletic performance by improving reaction time, speed, and accuracy.
Weight management: Lack of sleep can disrupt the hormones that regulate appetite, leading to overeating and weight gain. Getting enough sleep can help prevent weight gain and obesity.
Improved longevity: Studies have shown that people who consistently get enough sleep tend to live longer and have better overall health.
Overall, getting a good night's sleep is critical for our physical and mental health, and it can have a positive impact on our daily lives.
RUSTIC mattress toppers can help improve the quality of your sleep by providing comfort, support and airflow to maintain a consistent temperature.
]]>A recent research project carried out by Fellowes Brands took place with 7,000 office workers across Europe. Employees were interviewed in France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Spain and the United Kingdom. A staggering 39% suffered from back pain. See below for the full breakdown.
For those interviewed, “too many employers do not meet their obligations.” The key points covered were:-
Unless employers take action to address this problem, the long term physical and mental health of company employees could be harmed.
Most study participants believe employers care more about productivity, results and the competitiveness of their company than from the well-being of their employees.
RUSTIC mattress toppers can help as you are lying on a inch of air which helps to circulate and keep you cool. Developed for the healthcare industry our toppers are tried and tested and also provide comfort and support without taking up too much space. Our tips for a good night's sleep
A bad work environment can cause long term back and other problems. Having a good chair and seating support cushion can help greatly to prevent such problems and was recently featured in the East Midlands Chamber magazine .
Osteopath Sue Morrison, who practices in East Anglia, says she is seeing increasing musculoskeletal problems stemming from workers sitting for long periods of time on unsuitable kitchen or dining chairs.
Sue said: “We are dealing with a lot of spinal problems. During lockdown people’s everyday lives were restricted, so they couldn’t go to the gym or a Pilates class and instead they were spending long hours on their laptops.
“A laptop is not set up as well for them as their office station would be and these cushions are extremely good as they offer support to stop the back sagging.”
Employers have due diligence in this regard. The HSE states "Incorrect use of display screen equipment or poorly designed workstations or work environments can lead to pain in necks, shoulders, backs, arms, wrists and hands as well as fatigue and eye strain. The causes may not always be obvious."
RUSTIC can provide bespoke seating cushions with corporate logos. Please contact us at support@rustichomegoods.store for further details
]]>RUSTIC believes in encouraging physical and mental wellbeing in the workplace #happyhealthywfh work better and more efficiently. 
See our guide below on ergonomics.
Every person is different and sits differently. Using an RUSTIC seating cushion can provide support for the pelvis and encourage better posture. The seating position should be maintained in the upright position and ideally an ergonomic assessment should be done. Using a kitchen chair or similar in a bedroom where you are cramped over a laptop will lead to problems with the back. Back problems can last many years and be difficult to treat so prevention is everything.
Make sure you are sitting comfortably and correctly.
Guidelines to seating - working from home
Small (<1.62 m) or slender built people often struggle to sit comfortably and well supported in a standard office chair. The armrests are too far apart, the seat height, although in the lowest position, is still too high, or the tension of the chair mechanism to too strong. The solution is chair built in a modular fashion which can be adapted to the user’s weight and height.
Tall (> 2.0 m) or heavy (> 120 kg) employees often sit in an unnatural position. Often their wrists are bent, their shoulders hunched and their overall body posture is slouched. These postures increase the risk of complaints considerably.
Long (> 2.0 m) or severe (> 120 kg) employees often sit in an unnatural position. With bent wrists and shoulders hunched. Or slumped. These postures considerably increase the risk of complaints.
To explore RUSTIC's range of cushions for working from home click here
]]>
Perfect for working from home our back cushions and seating cushions will make you comfortable and prevent back pain.
We also offer a mattress topper our fabulous MT230 to go on a single bed. It can also be used on camping trips or for travel.
Package is as follows:-
1 - Back cushion R45 for the office chair or car
2 - R100 Seating cushion - choose from 6 colours in our range to provide comfort on your home office chair *
3 - Mattress topper - MT230 - our best selling mattress topper is breathable , washable and recyclable. It fits on all single beds.
Total value : £135
Closing Date: Monday 19th of July 2021
* You can choose more work from home seating cushions or back cushions if you do not want the mattress topper.
To Enter click here
]]>The new collection currently comprises of 3 colours. We will be expanding this range in the coming months. Our cushions have proven invaluable for so many people working from home. Long Zoom and Teams calls can be uncomfortable and RUSTIC's 3XD fabric technology is the best way to avoid "numb bum". Originally developed after 5 years of academic research RUSTIC set a new standard for wheelchair cushions. That seating technology is now available for all to benefit from.
The BURO R100 can be used on office chairs, kitchen chairs, arm chairs or in the car to keep you comfortable during long drives.
https://rustichomegoods.store/products/R100-buro-collection-seating-support-cushion
]]>
RUSTIC, the company behind RUSTIC has been in business since 1831. It created the high-performance mask in response to reports that disposable masks have led to a surge in plastic pollution during the pandemic.
It has been revealed that the UK public is sending 53.3m disposable facemasks to landfill every day, while globally 129bn face masks are being used every month.
RUSTIC, which designs, manufactures, and supplies a variety of technical textiles for markets including aerospace, military, medical and the automotive industry, launched its rustic-air Face Mask, with a pioneering Viral Off, earlier in the year. Recent testing on the fabric to ISO 18184 has proved 96% effective against Covid-19 after 30 washes.
It has now developed a 3D fabric with yarn made from crushed plastic drink bottles, creating sustainable masks which are highly breathable and water repellent.
Designed to be comfortable yet strong enough for use during manual labour or sporting activities, the rustic-air Sport is already being used by staff in several companies across the East Midlands.
So far, the high-performance fabric has passed tests for breathability, liquid repellence and buyer comfort while the specialist coating, called ViralOff has been accredited with reducing levels of Influenza A, BirdFlu, Norovirus and SARS by 99%.
Managing director Charles Wood, an eighth-generation owner of the family business, said: “There have been huge improvements in the quality of yarns made from recycled products and the fabric we have developed is soft and extremely comfortable.
“While it is perfect for wearing to the supermarket, the breathability of this mask makes it ideal for wearing while exercising or in workplaces where the labour is quite manual; it is already being used on the shopfloor at several companies in the East Midlands.
“While welcome news of a vaccine may mean we won’t need facemasks forever, we are expecting them to still be a requirement until at least Easter time.“Hopefully our environmentally-friendly masks will prevent both plastics and used masks ending up in landfill, or worse, abandoned in our streets, rivers and eventually the sea.”
To buy click here
]]>If you’re familiar with the phrase “tidy home, tidy mind”, then you may already know the psychological impact of cleanliness. Whether you love or despise cleaning, you can’t ignore the positive effects.
Not only does regularly tidying up improve the aesthetics of your home, but you’ll also feel a lot more relaxed because it’s a job you no longer have to do. This doesn’t have to be one ginormous chore either — instead, create a routine so that each day has its equal share.
There is no better feeling than settling in for the night, knowing that everything around you is in the right place so that you can start fresh the following day.
On the topic of sleeping, it’s also essential that your bed is a place of exceptional comfort. Admittingly, this makes it a lot harder to get up in the morning, but then you can look forward to returning after a productive day.
Plush pillows and knitted blankets are wonderful options, but you can go one step further with a pressure relief mattress topper. Layer this on top of your mattress to support your neck and back — it’ll feel like hotel comfort every night of the week.
There’s nothing more heart-warming than a heavy dose of nostalgia, which is all the more reason to add your personal touches and memories to the space around you. Do you have a favourite photo? Frame it. Or a piece of art you got on holiday? Put it on the wall.
We work hard to have a home, so make the most of it and showcase absolutely anything that makes you smile or brings you comfort.
Adding a touch of indoor greenery is a great way to add some tranquillity to your home, and it’s much easier than you may think. Treat your home to a bouquet of fresh flowers once a month to add a punch of colour and life to your everyday environment. They don’t have to be expensive or overly-fancy; supermarkets offer plenty of pretty options, which are easy to pick up and enjoyable to arrange in your favourite vases around the house.
Additionally, it’s also a nice idea to grow a couple of plants in the home. A little green can do wonders for your wellbeing and will generally brighten and fill up space around you to create a comforting ambience.
Warm lighting is an excellent way to increase the comfort of your home and you can use it in a couple of ways. Using the lights and lamps you’ve already got, experiment with a few different bulb shades. Incandescent bulbs produce a warm, glowing light, so these are useful for the living room and bedrooms where you don’t necessarily need bright light to carry out intricate tasks.
Lastly, you can never have enough candles. Whether you like tealights, scented candles or lanterns, they all add a soft glow that make you feel happy to be there.
Adding a rug is a super quick fix to soften up any hard wooden floors. Not only does a great rug provide comfort for your feet, but it can also warm up a cool room, and well — it just ties the whole room together. It’s certainly a finishing touch for a comfortable home.
rustic-air face masks have set the standard in performance for non-medical face masks. Now available in 6 colours for Autumn/Winter you can still look stylish when you are out and about.
To view the new range click here
For wonderful interiors and more visit
https://sarahburgharddesigns.co.uk
]]>For information on our rustic-air Face Masks click here
#rustic-air #NHS #Nottingham
]]>So what makes a good face mask?
]]>In these days of working from home, the chances are you spend hours of the day glued to a chair. You might find yourself stretching and exercising different parts of your body as aches and pains grow from a continuous routine of sitting in an office chair, typing away at a computer.
There are a few solutions to this prevalent problem and it all starts with maintaining a good posture. Of course there are excessive measures that can be taken, like completely replacing your office chair or booking an appointment with a physiotherapist. However, we recommend a quick and immediate remedy in the shape of the Lumbar Support Pillow — a back support cushion to put an end to back pain.
But what is a Lumbar Support Pillow and how do I use this Lumbar Support Pillow? Below you will discover exactly why a lumbar support pillow is good for your back and how to use one.
A Lumbar Support Pillow is a light and portable pillow made of memory foam. It is ergonomically designed to provide maximum support of the spine, relieving pressure and helping to improve a user’s posture or solve musculoskeletal conditions. Using pressure mapping and a breathable memory foam the Lumbar Support Pillow provides an effective distribution of weight while adapting to the natural curvature of your back.
The materials used in a Lumbar Support Pillow are highly breathable yet hygienic, allowing for ample airflow but prioritising comfort. This airflow means that a microclimate prospers inside the cushion and promotes the dissipation of heat and perspiration With most Lumbar Support Pillows nowadays an elastic, adjustable strap allows you to attach it to your seat, thereby improving your posture wherever you may be.
Given how much use chairs and desks receive, they are known to become prone to germs and bacteria. Lumbar Support Pillows are non-allergenic, contaminant and odour resistant but also come with a soft velvet cover that is machine washable so you can give it a clean whenever it is needed.
If you spend several hours of a day in the same seated position you could be doing unnecessary but serious harm to your posture and consequently your spine. Whether you are an office worker, lorry driver, wheelchair user or simply somebody who has a bad back, back support cushions like the Lumbar Support Pillow are an immediate and effective remedy.
They are designed to improve your posture but primarily are designed to keep your seated position as comfortable as possible. A Lumbar Support Pillow is effective whenever seated, before, during, and after you feel any ache or pain in your back, so there is never a time that they are not a useful accessory.
Once you have a Lumbar Support Pillow, you might wonder what you’re actually supposed to do with the product to make sure it is having it’s full effect. Having gone through so much testing it is important that you use it correctly to properly improve your posture.
When seated in a chair, a Lumbar Support Pillow should be placed vertically across the back of the chair so that it is flush against the lower part of the back. It should keep your ears, shoulders and hips in alignment so that the natural curvature of your spine is maintained. Do not necessarily put it immediately to wear you have your back pain. Place it below the curve of your back so that it supports your spine and keeps your posture straight.
Browse a wide range of back support and pressure relief cushions at RUSTIC now. All cushions and pillows offer optimum comfort, hygiene and practicality and come in a variety of sizes and thickness.
November only - Use GoJoe for 15% off rustic-air TM Face Masks - Click here
]]>
During the creation of the new pressure cushions, RUSTIC worked alongside many different organisations including Alzheimer’s Society and The Care Workers Charity. The team of RUSTIC professionals have lots of experience in the care industry and wanted to create a cushion to help those with dementia.
The cushions are designed to look like a standard household cushion and are made out of a comfortable and breathable material – 3D spacer fabric. RUSTIC says that this fabric is a more effective method of providing pressure relief.
To provide peace of mind for individuals, the range’s non-clinical look means that they are not daunting for people with dementia.
]]>Below, we take a closer look at what type of pressure relief products there are, as well as why they’re useful and who they’re beneficial for.
]]>Below, we take a closer look at what type of pressure relief products there are, as well as why they’re useful and who they’re beneficial for.
A pressure relief cushion is specially designed to distribute your weight effectively to prevent pressure ulcers. This health concern is unfortunately common, but often completely avoidable.
Any part of the body that is under pressure can sustain pressure ulcers — injuries to the skin and underlying tissue caused by prolonged pressure on the impacted area. However, you’ll usually find them on the skin covering bones close to the surface, such as the hips, heels, elbows and base of the spine.
Pressure ulcers can happen to anyone, but they usually affect people who sit in a chair or wheelchair for long periods. Here are three scenarios which demonstrate how using a pressure relief cushion is useful:
As wheelchair users have a high risk of developing pressure ulcers, prevention is the best course of action and this can be achieved with the everyday use of a pressure cushion. This practical comfort aid provides superior relief — however, it’s important to choose one of the right size and material. You can learn more about how to do this in our post on How to Choose a Wheelchair Support Cushion.
Many people choose to stay at home in older age, which they can successfully manage with the necessary support and helpful living aids. As pressure relief cushions are light, portable and machine washable, they can offer great assistance to this demographic when sitting down around the home.
For employees who drive every day, such as lorry, taxi and delivery drivers, chauffeurs, public transport drivers and tour guides, an occupational health hazard is developing pressure ulcers. However, a simple cushion on the driver’s seat can keep an employee comfortable all day long.
If you struggle with back pain, our back support cushion has been ergonomically designed to help improve your posture when you’re sitting down for long periods.
Travelling usually involves long periods of sitting down — especially on long-haul flights and road trips. However, a back support cushion, is a great preventive for back pain, especially after many hours cooped up in your seat. Back support cushions are also light and portable enough to fit in your hand luggage.
If you work full time in an office, that’s approximately seven hours a day at your desk — or 35 hours a week, 140 hours a month, and 1680 hours a year. Sitting in an office chair for prolonged periods is a contributing factor for back pain, but one that can be easily helped using a back support cushion. These usually come with an elastic strap to attach them firmly to your seat.
Those who struggle with sciatica pain, may experience back pain, as well as stabbing, burning or shooting down one side of the body. While it’s recommended that you keep moving to get rid of sciatica fast, it’s also important to rest correctly too. A back support cushion is especially useful to help you to sit and relax comfortably.
Lying in the same position for a long time can also put you at risk of developing pressure ulcers, so it’s important to consider the practical comfort of anyone with limited mobility or who confined to a bed.
Why use a mattress topper? This is a beneficial aid as it helps to distribute pressure effectively and provides comfort all day long.
If your mattress has seen better days, this is likely to be a contributing factor towards any back pain you may be experiencing. For example, if your mattress is too firm, muscles have to work harder to get comfortable, which can strain your tendons and lead to pain.
Therefore, when choosing a mattress, it must offer the correct support for your spine to help or even cure back pain. You should also consider using a mattress topper, which you stack on top of your mattress to change how it feels — as well as how it supports your neck and back. A mattress topper provides excellent pressure relief and effectively distributes your weight to avert morning stiffness, soreness and aches. Read our blog post on What Does a Mattress Topper Do? Everything You Need to Know for more information.
Getting a good night's sleep is essential to looking and feeling our best, so it’s essential to eliminate any factors that may be affecting this. A comfortable bed can greatly help with this, but if your mattress is fairly new and it’s still giving you aches and pain, consider using a mattress topper instead. Our Microclimat TM Pressure Relief Mattress Topper will ensure you sleep soundly and wake up feeling happy and refreshed.
RUSTIC has designed a unique range of pressure relief products which provide greater comfort. View our products today.
]]>While this used to be common wisdom, the latest research now tells us that there isn't one type of mattress that's best for everyone, including people with chronic back pain. In fact, sleeping on the wrong mattress can lead to or worsen back pain.
Additionally, according to one study on patients suffering from lower back pain, those using medium-firm mattresses reported less pain when lying in bed as well as less pain-related disability compared with those using firm mattresses.
But with so many products on the market, making the right choice can be tricky. Just because a mattress feels good when you lie down on it in a showroom, this doesn't mean you're going to be happy sleeping on it for the next seven years.
Here are a few tips to guide you on picking the right mattress for your back
The most important thing when choosing a mattress is to choose one that offers correct support for your spine — one that keeps your spine straight when you lie on your side or in its natural curve when you lie on your back.
If your mattress is too firm, this can cause pinching of nerves, reduced blood flow and even numbness or pins and needles. Muscles have to work harder to get comfortable, which can strain your tendons and lead to pain. If your mattress has seen better days, it’s likely to be a contributing factor to any back pain you may be experiencing.
Subsequently, buying a new mattress that provides the right level of comfort and support will help or even cure back pain.
Firmness describes the feel of a mattress specifically in terms of comfort. For example, sleeping on concrete would be an extreme level of firmness, while the opposite would feel like floating on a cloud.
This is often said to be very subjective because what may feel comfortable to one person can be uncomfortable to someone else. For this reason, mattresses are offered in a number of different firmness levels so you can find a model to suit your preference.
Medium is a common firmness level that offers a middle-ground with some plushness but more limited sink. Medium-firm mattresses usually offer the best overall support because they have enough contouring to reduce pressure points, yet there’s not an excessive sinking into the mattress. Spinal alignment for most people is best maintained on a mattress of this firmness.
Sleepers in all positions tend to do well with medium-firm mattresses, and these mattresses also tend to work best for combination sleepers (who sleep in multiple positions) and couples who may not sleep in the same position.
It is important to try out a variety of mattresses to find the one that is most comfortable for you. Size matters so opt for the biggest size you can and spend as much as you can afford. For added reassurance that the mattress you’re buying is safe, clean and honest look for the NBF Approved ‘big tick’ label. If you have a back or skeletal problem, you should consult your GP or Specialist before buying.
Before you run to the shops to buy a new mattress, consider using a mattress topper instead. These are usually made out of polyester, memory foam, latex, wool, feathers or fibres and you stack it on top of your mattress to change how it feels, as well as how it supports your neck and back. As a result, a mattress topper provides superior pressure relief, and the effective distribution of your weight will avert morning stiffness, soreness and aches.
For more information about mattress toppers, read our blog post on What Does a Mattress Topper Do? Everything You Need to Know.
No matter the source of your back-related problems, sleeping well with minimal stress will ease the pain and let your back recuperate.
Our Microclimat TM Pressure Relief Mattress Topper will ensure you sleep soundly and wake up feeling happy and refreshed. We know you’ll love our products, but we also offer a 14-day refund guarantee just in case you aren’t fully satisfied.
]]>They can happen to anyone, but what many of us don’t realise is how much we toss and turn as we sleep, which helps to redistribute the pressure between our bodies and the mattress. However, if you’re confined to bed due to illness or injury, you may move very little, if at all. Therefore, those who are confined to a bed or who sit in a chair or wheelchair for long periods of time are far more at risk.
Pressure ulcers can affect any part of the body that's put under pressure, but they’re most common on bony parts of the body, such as the heels, elbows, hips and base of the spine. They often develop gradually, but can sometimes form in a few hours. Read quick ways to grade pressure ulcers for more information on what each stage looks like.
As with anything, prevention is always better than cure, so what can you do to avoid pressure sores? It can be difficult to prevent them completely, but here are five suggestions that you or your care team can do to reduce the risk.
Regularly reposition yourself or your patient to avoid putting consistent stress on your skin, which helps to prevent pressure ulcers. If you use a wheelchair, shift your weight every 15 minutes and ask for help with repositioning about once an hour. Some speciality wheelchairs allow you to tilt them, which can also relieve pressure.
If you’re in bed for long periods of time, adjust the elevation, if this is an option, to prevent shearing. If your bed can be elevated at the head, raise it no more than 30 degrees.
RUSTIC pressure relief cushions are an easy way to relieve pressure and help to ensure your body is well-positioned. Every cushion provides airflow as you move to maintain a comfortable temperature, which keeps you cool and comfortable all year long. They are also machine washable, come in a variety of shapes, styles and colours to fit your needs, and are more comfortable and longer lasting than memory foam or gel cushions.
Pressure relief mattress toppers are also an effective weight distribution option to avert morning stiffness, soreness and aches. Read our blog post on What Does a Mattress Topper Do? for more information.
Pressure ulcers can develop in as little as four hours, so it is important to check your skin every day for anything new.
If you or someone you know is at risk of developing pressure ulcers, it’s essential to know what to look for. Make regular body checks, and if you notice anything different, compare the patch against the four pressure ulcer categories. Read our blog post on Quick Ways to Grade Pressure Ulcers for more information.
If you don't see improvement in 24 to 48 hours, contact your doctor. Seek immediate medical care if you show signs of infection, such as a fever, drainage from a sore, a sore that smells bad, or increased redness, warmth or swelling around a sore.
Another effective way to prevent bed sores is to put pillows between parts of your body that press against each other. You can place them under your tailbone, shoulders, heels and elbows — anywhere that you know is vulnerable. If you are lying on your side, it is better to put the pillow between your knees and ankles.
When it comes to preventing pressure sores, maintaining the health of your skin is crucial, which means paying careful attention to nutrition. This is because weight loss, inadequate protein intake, a poor variety of vitamins and minerals, and a very low or very high body mass index, could slow down the wound-healing process where pressure sores already exist.
Therefore, eating a healthy, balanced diet is an important part of maintaining good health, and can help you feel your best, so try to consume the right amount of food and drink to achieve and maintain a healthy body weight.
If you’re struggling with pressure ulcers, RUSTIC has designed a unique range of products that provide greater comfort and protection for relief, including pressure relief cushions and pressure relief mattresses. Each cushion is made from at least three layers of fabric, which spread the weight between them so that the pressure isn’t localised on one small area. View our products today.
]]>Using the Dartex MIC 200 cover we got some great results. Click here to access the report.
]]>Let’s take a look at what exactly a contour pillow is and assess whether or not it’s a recommended solution to reduce pressure ulcers.
]]>Let’s take a look at what exactly a contour pillow is and assess whether or not it’s a recommended solution to reduce pressure ulcers.
Also known as pressure sores, these are injuries to the skin and underlying tissue primarily caused by prolonged pressure on the affected area. Any part of the body that is under pressure (from the bed or chair) can sustain pressure sores, but you’ll usually find them on bones close to the skin, such as the heels, elbows, hips and base of the spine.
For more information on how to assess the symptoms of pressure ulcers, read our article on Quick Ways to Grade Pressure Ulcers.
A contour pillow is designed using orthopaedic guidelines to correct your body position while you’re sitting down (for prolonged periods) or in bed. This is to ensure that specific parts of your body have the right placement to provide you with the necessary support.
Contour pillows are traditionally made out of foam or fibre but can also be manufactured out of memory foam, a heat sensitive material that obtains the shape of the body lying upon it.
There are many types of contour pillows to suit almost every part of the body, each with their own purpose. Here are a few of the most popular.
A lumbar pillow is a light and portable pillow used to keep your seated position as comfortable as possible. It is ergonomically designed to improve a user’s posture or solve musculoskeletal conditions.
A neck pillow is mostly used by travellers to keep their necks straight while sleeping sitting up onboard a plane. It’s shaped like a horseshoe to snugly fit around the neck so that your head has a natural resting position.
A body pillow is an oversized pillow that moulds itself to your body to provide total support to your back. It can also eliminate pain at pressure points such as the knees or elbows.
This triangle-shaped pillow is placed at the top of the mattress to raise your head during sleep. This position is especially helpful to relieve the symptoms of acid reflux and gastroesophageal reflux disease.
A cervical pillow has a curved design that adapts to head, neck and shoulder contour for back and side sleepers. These are used to relieve a stiff neck, frozen shoulder and headaches — and can also assist your breathing and reduce snoring and sleep apnoea symptoms.
This pillow is placed in between the legs to stabilise the pelvis and to restore the alignment of the back, hips and knees.
So, the answer is yes — contour pillows do work well to alleviate the pressure off your body, but which one is the best option to prevent pressure ulcers? Really it depends on where you develop sores. So, you can select the correct contour pillow type once you know which area of the body to target.
For example, if you tend to lay on your side, you can use a contour leg pillow to stop your ankles and knees touching each other. Or if you often develop pressure ulcers on your buttocks and thighs (particularly if you use a wheelchair), the lumbar pillow (or pressure relief cushion) is recommended.
Browse a wide range of back support and pressure relief cushions at RUSTIC now. All cushions and pillows offer optimum comfort, hygiene and practicality and come in a variety of sizes and thickness.
]]>