In Search of a Better Sleep and Relief from CFS, Fibromyalgia, and Back Pain

A Review of the LoungAir

Because my budget is now dictated by a work schedule set by my Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Fibromyalgia, and Multiple Chemical Sensitivity fatigue levels rather than by my work ethic and goals, needed accessibility changes come slowly around my place. I did recently add a LoungAir to my “arsenal” of ways to help battle my back pain and muscle spasms in the hopes of getting better sleep, but as you’ll discover in this review (of sorts), I’m still not using it as its intended — or in a manner that will provide me with the most benefit. Someday™!

The LoungAir is an inexpensive inflatable multi-use mattress that Dr. M. J. Gimeno (The Stress and Phobia Center, Clearwater, FL) says he recommends “for patients with chronic pain, it relieves a lot of pressure” and Dr.

Arden Gifford says is “helping people sleep well and combat Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.” Pretty good endorsements for a $99 bed alternative. (For more information on what the doctors have to say about the LoungAir, see How Two Doctors Recommend Using the LoungAir as a Part of Fibromyalgia and Back Pain Therapy.)

In the bed position, the LoungAir is the size of a standard twin mattress (75” x 38” x 10”), which means that it doesn’t require expensive custom-made sheets; twin-sized sheets fit the LoungAir perfectly.

When not in use as a bed, the LoungAir easily converts to a chair with a 38” x 42” footprint and 42”-high backrest. As a lounger, it measures 75” x 38’ with a 32”-high backrest. Or, you can use the LoungAir as a recliner, angling the backrest to match your comfort level by inflating the inclination of the backrest to between zero and approximately 45 degrees. In the recliner position, the LoungAir length varies according to the inclination angle of the backrest. (I’m currently using a modification of this in the manner that I’m using the LoungAir on my bed. I don’t inflate the “bed” portion of the LoungAir; I inflate the backrest portion only, and then use a pillow to support my neck.)

Inflation is easy, if not somewhat noisy: The LoungAir comes with what the company calls a Fast Fill Pump (FFP) system that includes 3 universal inflation adaptors. For those concerned about odors or other possible sensitivities to the materials used in the LoungAir, its no-leak valve system features individual inflation and fast-deflation ports, each with a neoprene gasket that forms an airtight port seal once they are tightened. (The loungair valves are 100% guarranteed not to leak.) The LoungAir itself is made from a non-allergenic, puncture-resistant heavy-gauge vinyl with a velour-like finish and has extra-wide, electronically welded seams. (I’m very sensitive to odors and, except for a slight aroma when I release air from one of the valves, I detect none from the LoungAir that I’m using. Rather than risk a reaction to exposure to the surface material itself, I keep my LoungAir covered with a 100% cotton sheet.)

The LoungAir also has its own travel or storage bag — a drawstring-closable carrying case with a heavy-duty strap.

For around a month, I’ve been using the LoungAir to help elevate the head of my bed. As mentioned earlier, I have it on top of my mattress, in a semi-inflated state.

An occasional problem will occur in anything mass-produced. Glitches can slip through, but I haven’t experienced any with the LoungAir I have. According to company literature, inflation sometimes needs to be adjusted periodically because the material can stretch. I’m finding that I must adjust the inflation whenever I go to bed. (But, bear in mind, I am not using my LoungAir in the normal manner.) Arden Gifford, MD told me that he exchanged his first LoungAir for another because of inflation problems, and has experienced no further problems since that time.

The LoungAir, invented by architect Victor Kasatshko and developed by medical product developer Nicholas Webb, was created with the goal of providing an orthopedically correct improvement over the flat inflatable bed. It carries the prestigious Orthopaedic Research Institute Seal of Approval.

Note: Earlier I’d mentioned that I’m not using the LoungAir in “a manner that will provide me with the most benefit.” That’s because I am no longer coordinated enough to get up and down off of the floor. As soon as I can fit it into the budget, I plan to have my brother-in-law build me a daybed frame. That will give me a way to put my LoungAir on a solid surface. Until that time, I’ll continue to improvise. I believe I am benefiting by using the LoungAir to elevate the upper half of my body while I sleep.

For additional information, you can read my interview of two doctors who recommend the LoungAir for back pain, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, and Fibromyalgia patients.

LoungAir Web site

Other related information:

Things to Help You Keep Better Sleep

Related posts:

1. What is Fibromyalgia?
2. Fibromyalgia Awareness T Shirts and Other Fibromyalgia Support Gift Ideas

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