We offer a variety of additional sleep therapy options and education

Positional Therapy

Positional therapy can treat sleep apnea in people who primarily sleep on their backs.

 

It can be used along with other sleep apnea treatments such as CPAP or oral appliances. However, it is solely recommended for mild to moderate sleep apnea.

 

Positional sleep therapy simply forces patients to sleep on their sides in order to prevent the airway to collapse. Many different devices can accomplish this.

Here are some available products :

• The tenis ball: A tenis ball is attached with a belt to the patient’s back or inserted in a pocket on the back of a shirt.
• The bumper belt: A belt with 3 inflatable bumpers worn on the patient’s back
• The Back-pack: A back-pack filled with a cushion, a big ball or a bulky item.
• Body pillow: placed alongside the patient’s body.
• Posture alarm: An alarm is triggered whenever a patient is on their back.

Sleep Hygiene

We spend about one-third of our life sleeping; sleep plays a crucial role in good health and wellness. Therefore, establishing a good sleep hygiene is very important.

What do we mean by good “sleep hygiene”?

Sleep hygiene regroups different habits and environmental factors implicated in promoting a good night sleep. For example, establishing a routine that respects your internal clock can improve sleep quality.

Here are some recommendations:

Your sleeping environment: Keep your room dark, quiet and cool. Make sure your bed is comfy and associated only with sleep and relaxation. Keep all electronics away and keep your alarm away from your bed.

Establish a routine : Get as much light as possible during the day, establish a regular bedtime routine and practice relaxation techniques before sleeping. The body needs between 6 to 8 hours of sleep.

Avoid: All stimulants such as energy drinks, caffeine and stimulating medication should be avoided 5 hours before sleep-time.

Smoking and alcohol: Cigarettes and alcohol consumption may cause fragmented sleep which is harmful on a long-term basis.

Promote Healthy food: Do not eat 3 hours before bed-time. Avoid fatty and spicy foods which are harder to digest.

Exercise regularly: Exercise reduces stress and depression and improves continuous sleep. However do not exercise before bedtime because endorphins are released and these can keep you awake.