A complete guide to the evolution of the memory foam mattress, and what it means for you.

Millions of people around the world have begun to love memory foam mattresses. These mattresses offer the right amount of comfort and support. Many people think that memory foam mattresses were created within the last ten years. Let’s look at the evolution of the memory foam mattress.

NASA designed the memory foam mattress in the 1970s. NASA’s intent was to develop a product that could decrease the amount of pressure that the astronauts experienced during lift-off. This product was actually never used in the space program. However, it didn’t take long before the medical industry discovered memory foam. Memory foam mattresses were used originally for patients who had to spend extended periods of time in bed. For instance, patients who had recently experienced a paralyzing stroke were put into beds with memory foam mattresses. Before, these patients had to lie on extremely firm mattresses. These mattresses actually decreased their blood flow and caused bed sores or even gangrene. Once memory foam mattresses were introduced, the amount and severity of such problems decreased dramatically.

Initially, memory foam mattresses were only used in hospital settings because of how expensive they were. They were much too expensive for general use. However, it eventually became more cost-effective to produce the “miracle” mattresses. Since it doesn’t cost as much to manufacture memory foam mattresses, they are now widely available.

You can get memory foam products in more than just a mattress. There are memory foam pillows, mattresses, mattress toppers, etc. Memory foam is also used in wheelchair cushions, hospital bed pillows, and padding used for people with long-term pain or postural problems. For instance, chronic neck pain is sometimes alleviated with a memory foam cervical pillow. Memory foam’s heat retention has also proven helpful. Some pain sufferers find that this heat-retention property also helps reduce their pain.

Memory foam mattresses are more dense than other types of mattresses. They offer an unprecedented level of comfort and support for pain patients, long-term patients and ordinary people. Thank goodness NASA decided to create such a wonderful product. We know can experience exquisite comfort while sleeping every night.