QUESTION FOR QUIX

[sandie490]

Hey Quix,

I had this question posted to Lu, but she said this is probably you.  A while back in the post or poll about sleeping problems by I think Dr Park, you had stated that you sleep in a recliner, and have been I think you said 3 yrs.  If that is  the post and that is what you had said and I got it correct, my questions to you are, What happens when you try to sleep in a bed? Is this because of ms? Have you found out any answers from your Dr's as to what or why this is the case.  The reason why I ask is, I am having the same problems with my sleeping arrangements.  It's been about 3 and a half  yrs for me.  I seem to be able to fall asleep fine.  Some time in the middle of the nite, I wake up in excruciating pain from head to toe, and can't fall back to sleep unless I sit up and prop up my arms, cause my arms and shoulders hurt so bad.  I've tried every type of mattress, and nothing matters.  I've come to the conclusion that I need to sleep slightly elevated, so the recliner seems to work.  I'm in the process of being dxed.  It started 2 surgeries ago.  Anyway do you think it has anything to do with ms?  I  also, get this nerve shock through my head when I start to fall asleep, about 3-5 times before I fall asleep.  
Thanks,  Hugs! Chiao Sandie

[sandie490]

Hey Quix,

You know there is a new bed out there that's adjustable, like a hospital bed.  That's what I need so I can sleep slightly sitting up.  The mattress I have now is way to soft, and like yourself, I am heavy.  But, I have tried every kind of mattress, soft hard med and it doesn't seem to matter.  There is a bed they sell that is adjustable that I am going to look into.  I'll let you know if I find it, otherwise I'm gonna have to graduate to a more expensive recliner, with all the perks, my own fridge, and cup holder massae center, although I can't handle too much massage it hurts.  My hubby says that's it! he's not letting me back into bed he's too used to having it all to himself.  Oh Boy!  Anyway, Quix, is this problem because of the ms? Because the spasicity is from the ms right, so would you say this problem of no being able to sleep in a flat position is as a result of the ms?  Were you ever told by your doctor that it is or have you ever told your doctor about this problem?   Veeerrrrry Interesting!   Thanks alot guys.  Have a wonderful day!
Sandie

[Lulu54]

Q-
I'm wondering if you have ever looked into have a botox injection in that specific muscle that give you such fits? I just read something  about that today....   L

[Quixotic1]

Hi, I am indeed the recliner sleeper - In fact, I hold the World Indoor Endurance Reclining Championship Title!

My problem is extensor spasticity in the right side of my back extending down the right leg.  If I lie flat for more than about 10 minutes or stand for more than 30 minutes or so, my back tightens into a knot and I can't do much of anything.  I don't really have back problems, per se, just this localized spasticity.  I am most comfortable if I can sleep with my hips flexed close to 90 degrees.

I stretch it out all day, but as you all know, with spasticity, stretching is needed to keep from turning into a pretzel.  It doesn't cure the spasticity.

If I could find the right mattress, then I am sure I could sleep in an adjustable (hospital-type) bed also.  I have one, but the mattress is too soft, I am heavy, and I sink in curving my back.  Also, it is visco-elastic memory foam and is darned hot.  I think I need a very firm old-fashioned foam mattress.  Just haven't gotten around to looking for one yet.

My new bedroom is going to have two relciners in it.  One for watching TV and another just for sleeping.  It's going to look just like a living room!

Quix