Could we optimize the hours we spend sleeping to enhance our overall health? This is the idea behind a variety of innovative devices and products that claim to “restore” different parts of the body during the night. Adrian Monti sought the opinions of experts to evaluate some of these products, which we have then rated.
FOR WRIST PAIN
Epitact Carp’ Immo-Night Use, available for £24.95 on epitact.co.uk, is a fabric brace that is recommended for individuals with carpal tunnel syndrome, inflammation, musculoskeletal disorders, or inflamed wrist tendons. The creators assert that this support holds the wrist in a neutral position, promoting a peaceful night of restful sleep. Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when pressure is applied to the median nerve, which supplies sensation to the fingers and thumb, as it passes through a narrow tunnel in the wrist. Symptoms include numbness, pain, or tingling in the fingers. Consultant hand and wrist surgeon Gavin Schaller states that there is strong evidence supporting the effectiveness of night splints for mild to moderate cases of carpal tunnel syndrome. By preventing the wearer from flexing their wrist, these splints can lead to improvement within six weeks of use. Rating: 8/10
FOR DRY EYES
Eyeseals 4.0 Hydrating Sleep Mask with Clear Lenses, priced at £43.50 on eyewear-accessories.co.uk, resembles swimming goggles and is designed to protect the eyes from drafts, dust, and low humidity. The manufacturer claims that this sleep mask creates a moisture-rich environment over the eyes. Dry eyes can worsen at night due to reduced blinking, which helps spread tears over the surface of the eyes. Behavioral optometrist Bhavin Shah explains that for individuals with dry eye syndrome, where there is insufficient tear production, these goggles may be helpful as their sealed environment can prevent tears from evaporating too quickly. However, there is a potential risk of bacterial growth in the moist environment, so it is advisable to try more conventional methods such as eye drops containing sodium hyaluronate and warm compresses before resorting to these goggles. Rating: 4/10
FOR FOOT PAIN
The Powerstep UltraStretch Plantar Fasciitis Night Sock is priced at £24.99 per sock on shoeinsoles.co.uk. These nylon socks, which are designed to be worn during sleep or while resting, aim to alleviate heel pain associated with common overuse injuries such as plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis. The sock consists of a nylon material with two adjustable straps, with one attaching to the calf muscle and the other to the toe-end of the sock. Consultant orthopaedic surgeon Kumar Kunasingam states that plantar fasciitis is a common condition often seen in individuals who are overweight or engaged in sports activities such as running. These socks have long been considered a useful treatment option since plantar fasciitis is often caused by tightness in the muscles further up the leg. By stretching the calf muscles while resting, these socks can provide relief from pain. However, they may be uncomfortable to wear and are not preferred by most patients. Rating: 8/10
FOR DENTAL HEALTH
Floe Dusk Lavender Mint Remineralising Natural Toothpaste is priced at £5.50 for 75ml on hollandandbarrett.com. This “evening toothpaste” claims to protect and remineralize teeth while sleeping by containing a high concentration of hydroxyapatite (HA), a naturally occurring mineral in teeth. It also contains fluoride, coconut oil, and lavender. Dentist James Goolnik states that the percentage of HA in the product is not indicated. While HA has shown remineralization effects on teeth in laboratory settings, its effectiveness in the mouth with saliva present is uncertain. Additionally, the inclusion of coconut oil and lavender in toothpaste has no proven dental benefits. Goolnik also expresses concerns about the foaming agent cocamidopropyl betaine, which some individuals may be allergic to. While fluoride can fight decay and reduce sensitivity, it offers no additional benefits compared to other toothpastes. Rating: 4/10
FOR CRACKED HANDS
O’Keeffe’s Working Hands Overnight, priced at £10.50 for 80ml on boots.com, claims to provide visible results in one night for extremely dry, cracked hands. The product contains glycerine, sweet almond oil, and shea butter, offering intense and restorative hydration. Consultant dermatologist Dr. Hayley Leeman explains that all hand creams can be used both day and night, but overnight use may yield better results due to less interference from regular handwashing. For optimal outcomes, wearing cotton gloves after applying the cream allows deeper penetration into the skin layers. Glycerine is an effective humectant that draws moisture from the air into the skin, while almond oil and shea butter act as emollients, creating a protective barrier and locking in water. Regular nightly use can lead to significant improvement, although this cream does not stand out from other options on the market. Rating: 9/10
FOR SWOLLEN JOINTS
Osmo Patch is available for £27 for ten patches on osmopatch.co.uk. These adhesive patches, similar in size to large sticking plasters, are designed to treat swelling around sore joints or muscles while asleep. They claim to absorb excess fluid from the body and reduce swelling. The patches contain the mineral tourmaline, which is believed to have infrared properties that heat the skin and draw fluid from inflammation into the patch. Physiotherapist Tim Allardyce expresses skepticism about their claims, as no research supports the idea that the patch can draw fluid in this manner. It remains unclear whether this product is more effective than traditional methods such as using ice packs or heat pads. Additionally, the price may not be justified, as tourmaline is simply a gemstone. Rating: 3/10
FOR PAIN DURING THE NIGHT
Panadol Night Pain, priced at £5.29 for 20 tablets on chemist-4-u.com, contains the painkiller paracetamol and di-phenhydramine hydrochloride, an antihistamine that induces drowsiness. These tablets are helpful when pain is preventing sleep and provide relief for headaches, toothaches, and muscle pain. Pharmacist Ashley Cohen suggests dealing with pain separately on a 24-hour basis, using various painkillers and anti-inflammatories, before resorting to sleep aids. Ideally, addressing the underlying pain issue first will lead to improved sleep quality. However, these Panadol tablets can provide quick relief for the specified types of pain when used correctly. Rating: 8/10
Denial of responsibility! VigourTimes is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
