The memory foam mattress is still a relatively new product on the global marketplace. The original concept from Memory Foam actually began as sleeping material for Astronauts. NASA's Ames Research Center tested the material extensively for use on the Space Shuttle. The original plan for memory foam was to not only provide a comfortable place to sleep but also to help insulate against the g-force pressure of flight lift-off.
NASA grew tired of testing the potential of memory foam and opted to sell the method for making visco-elastic polyurethane foam in the early 1980's to a large company named Fagerdala World Foams of Sweden. The company saw potential for memory foam in consumer products and began to engineer product applications for retail sale. The successes of Fagerdala lead to the technology spreading to foam manufacturers around the world.
In the beginning memory foam mattresses were introduced and marketed as a way to manage pain symptoms. This was done by relieving tension in key pressure points of the body. They were first known as "Swedish Beds" before manufacturers everywhere began to market them. The Swedes were already known for innovative health products and healthy living, so the popularity of the consumer foam mattress was virtually instantaneous.
As you can imagine, the impact of the memory foam mattress had a tremendous effect on the traditional spring mattress and coil industry. Consumers looking for pain relief and luxury mattress such as adjustable mattresses were eager to explore this new space-age technology. Particularly if it meant a better night's sleep. Consumers also became aware of the pitfalls of traditional spring and coil mattresses like the accumulation of dust and debris which creates respiratory issues for individuals with asthma or allergies.
There are health benefits provided to consumers who purchase memory foam mattresses. The nature of the memory foam makes it more difficult for dust mites and other allergens to become trapped within the material. Individuals with respiratory issues or allergies breathe a little easier and have fewer reactions.
Some of the relief experienced by consumers who purchase memory foam mattresses include an alleviation of lower back pain, shoulder and neck discomfort. Because the memory foam does a perfect job of cradling the human frame, pressure points are lessened. This means less wear on the joints of the body during sleep. Relief from headaches are frequent side effects of using memory foam mattresses and pillows as well as relief for individuals suffering from arthritis or other chronic inflammatory medical conditions.
Today there are hundreds of manufacturers around the world that produce consumer products using memory foam. From full mattresses to memory foam bed toppers and pillows, from furnishings to pet beds the market for comfort shows no sign of slowing down as people continue to enjoy the comfort of memory foam mattresses and other products. That means quite a few more people getting the rest they deserve.