60% of the adult population in the US report having it - 12% are seeking health care for it. The two main reasons for this pain are degenerative disc disease, and ligament inflammation. Standing upright and also lying in a flat position actually put added stresses and strains on our discs and ligaments, aggravating the pain. Having the ability to articulate the foot and head gives us the ability to allow the spine to rest in its natural state, without any added stresses and strains of our own body weight. We do enough damage throughout the day on our discs and ligaments; we can’t afford to continue to do so while we are sleeping. Sleep is meant for mental and physical restoration, and we should allow our spine the time to heal and prepare for another day of physical activity - instead of starting our day in pain!
 

Acid reflux is one cause of gastro esophageal reflux disease (GERD), a disease in which stomach acid or, occasionally, bile flows back into your food pipe. Fifteen million people in the US suffer from acid reflux. When your head is elevated, it is harder for stomach acid to enter back into your food pipe than when your upper body is in a flat position. Getting a bigger pillow or sleeping with extra pillows only changes the angle of your neck, not your upper body, allowing acid to still flow into your food pipe and cause pain and damage.
 

OSA is a blockage or narrowing of the airways in your nose, mouth, or throat. This usually occurs when the throat muscles and tongue relax during sleep and partially block the airway. It is estimated that 1out of every 5 Americans suffer from mild OSA. The main symptoms of sleep apnea are loud snoring and feeling very sleepy during the day. Your bed partner may notice periods when you stop breathing during sleep. Other symptoms may include tossing and turning during sleep, waking up with a headache, and feeling irritated and unrested. When you stop breathing or breathe very slowly during your sleep, it may result in less oxygen in your blood. Over time, this lack of oxygen can lead to serious health problems. If you have sleep apnea, you may be more likely to get high blood pressure, abnormal heart rate, heart failure, coronary artery disease, and stroke. If you have sleep apnea, you may have difficulty concentrating and feel tired throughout the day. You may fall asleep during a conversation or while you are carrying out daily activities. You are also at higher risk for depression. Simply having the ability to elevate your head while sleeping opens up your airways, making breathing easier and unobstructed.
 

Poor circulation produces all kinds of problems. Symptoms of poor circulation include pain and swelling in the legs, low energy, tired and aching feet, cramps and cold hands and feet. Infections caused by bacteria spread quicker in areas of bad circulation and you may find that your legs, hands or feet have a habit of ‘falling asleep’, giving you that numb feeling. If left untreated poor circulation can lead to heart disease, strokes and in extreme cases amputation so it’s vital you get yourself medically checked out. Having the ability to elevate your legs allows gravity to help blood flow easier back to the heart, improving overall circulation.
 

Astronauts floating in space - a pressure-free environment - while sleeping, naturally have their feet and head slightly elevated. Their sleeping bunks are designed to simulate the same position as they experience naturally floating in zero gravity. This position takes pressure off of the spine, allows for easier breathing, and allows blood to circulate better to the heart.