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Avana Berkie Back Rest FAQ

I tried reading and web surfing with one of those expensive "bed wedges." It wasn't comfortable, and I kept sliding out of it. So why should I get the Berkie Back Rest? And what about those curves?

Great question! Most so-called "bed-wedges" are glorified pillows (with or without arm rests). They can keep your head elevated, but really aren't "back friendly." In order to be so, they would have to accommodate the spine's natural kyphotic and lordotic curves. They should also let you choose how erect you want to be. The Berkie Back Rest is designed to be in sync with the human form so it combines stability, versatility and comfort support.

What is the right way to use the Berkie Back Rest?

The Berkie Back Rest should be used in a bed against the wall or headboard, or on a sofa. Most people prefer the lower angle for relaxing or watching TV and the higher angle for more active pursuits like reading, writing, or using a laptop. Of course, since preferences vary, you should experiment to find your own comfort level.

Do I need a pillow with the Berkie Back Rest?

It is advisable. You can use your regular pillow, The Berkie Neck Rest or AvanaPillow.

My doctor recommended prolonged bed rest for me. Can I use the Berkie Back Rest?

As long as you're allowed to sit up, the answer is a definite yes. I would also recommend that you add the OneUp Leg Rest, especially if your confinement is required by a leg injury. Elevating the hips and flexing the knees increases comfort and stability. The OneUp Leg Rest is unique in allowing different levels of flexion for either hip or knee.

It seems like everyone I know has a bad back. What's wrong with us?

Here are some telling numbers:

• 85% of all US adults will suffer debilitating back pain during their life
• Back pain is the number 1 cause of lost work time
• The US spends $100 billion yearly on low back treatment, more on indirect costs
• The number of spinal fusion surgeries has tripled in the past 10 years

…and the most amazing number of all…

• Despite this huge investment, we're really not any better off!

Although there are many causes of back pain, the vast majority stems from injury, overuse or age related wear and tear (osteoarthritis). Common medical diagnoses include lumbosacral strain, herniated disc, degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis and osteoporosis. Together, these conditions account for over 90% of all low back problems.

The anatomy (structure) and physiology (biochemical function) of the spine render it uniquely vulnerable to injury and wear. Our spinal columns have the same basic design as those of four legged animals. Since humans spend most of their waking hours upright, gravity plays a major role in spinal disease.

I'm confused about what I should do for my arthritis. What kind of doctor should I see?

That depends. The best place to start is with your primary care provider. They can determine if they can handle the problem themselves, or if a specialist is needed. Generally, rheumatologists provide medical treatments for arthritis, especially in complicated autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus. Orthopedic surgeons offer medical and surgical treatments, like joint replacement. Any physician can prescribe physical therapy and/or orthotics (braces, etc.) for arthritis.

About Avana

Avana is a furniture line based on contemporary design, tactile fabrications and comfort experiences. The line’s origins are in the spare materials that are often overlooked by other designers and manufacturers. Their designers are inspired by zero waste ideals and strive to repurpose all of the raw materials that would otherwise become discarded byproducts of top sellers. Repurposing commonly used furniture components like foam into items that fit into an everyday lifestyle is also environmentally friendly. Each item meets high standards of quality, washability and functionality. As a vertically integrated design and manufacturing group, Avana takes pride in employing American labor and buying American raw materials. Avana finds this choice creates not only sustainable economy, but also cuts down on carbon emissions for sustainable ecology. Avana is about casual, comfortable and cool and comes in a variety of sizes and colors to fit in your space.