If you’re one of the 2 million people in the UK suffering from Fibromyalgia, you don’t need us to tell you how horrible it is. 

It’s estimated that 3-6 percent¹ of the world’s population experiences chronic pain caused by the condition, but many people don’t even know they have it. 

We at Sleepbo are dedicated to finding accessible solutions for people who suffer from chronic conditions. In our research, very few tools have proved to be as useful in combatting Fibromyalgia symptoms as the weighted blanket.

We gathered testimonials, real scientific evidence, and advice for exactly how and why a weighted blanket can make Fibro symptoms more manageable

Keep reading to find out if a weighted blanket is the right tool for you.

The science behind it all

Since scientific studies take a lot of time and effort to conduct and produce, the hard evidence regarding the amazing benefits of weighted blankets is just beginning to pile up. 

Essentially, weighted blankets employ a well-established therapeutic technique called Deep Pressure Therapy (DPT).

DPT works by applying pressure to the body to calm the nervous system. When done correctly, this can trigger the body to switch from a sympathetic (fight or flight) to a parasympathetic (rest and digest) nervous system state.³This can lead to a great many health benefits that improve the quality of life for sufferers of chronic pain.

How DPT can help ease fibromyalgia symptoms

  • Improved sleep quality. Those suffering from Fibromyalgia have a hard time sleeping. ¹¹ DPT from a weighted blanket has been shown in studies to be beneficial in improving sleep onset time and sleep quality.⁴ ⁵ This is because DPT can increase serotonin and melatonin production³, both of which are necessary ingredients for good sleep. 
  • Reduced depression symptoms. Depression is a common overlapping condition in many who suffer from Fibromyalgia.¹¹ DPT can help by triggering the body to release hormones such as dopamine and serotonin, which help prevent depression, low mood, and anxiety.⁷
  • Decreased stress and anxiety. Anxiety is another common overlapping condition in those with Fibromyalgia.¹¹ DPT has been shown to lower cortisol, the hormone responsible for causing stress and anxiety.⁷
  • Reduced RLS. The horrible experience of restless legs is a common symptom of Fibromyalgia. ¹¹ The positive sensations of the hormones that are released by the body during DPT can possibly override the negative sensation caused by RLS.⁹
  • Decreased pain and discomfort. The chronic pain caused by Fibromyalgia can be triggered by a wide variety of things, including stress, anxiety, and fatigue.¹¹ When the nervous system is in a parasympathetic state, the body feels calmer. Muscles relax, heart rate slows, and circulation improves.³ All this can lead to improved sleep and relief from pain and discomfort. Studies also show that DPT can decrease pain reflexes in those suffering from chronic pain conditions.⁶
  • Improved mood and quality of life. It’s not hard to understand why someone with Fibromyalgia would struggle to maintain a cheerful disposition. But by using a weighted blanket, many of the burdensome symptoms of the condition can be lessened, leading to an increased sense of joy. Studies on the safety and effectiveness of weighted blankets have seen promising findings where 78% of users benefitted from calming effects of the blanket.⁸

Choosing the right weighted blanket

Weighted blankets are one of the most effective and accessible ways to try DPT.³ But with so many on the market, how can you know which brand is the best option for you? 

The right weight and size

Studies have tested that blankets up to 13kg can be considered safe and effective for adults.⁸ 

For the safety of both children and adults, we recommend a minimum weight of 4kgs to see therapeutic benefits, with anything above 10kg being too heavy to be certain of its safety. 

If you’re unsure, we recommend trying a blanket that is 5kgs.

The best quality materials

Always choose blankets that use BPA-free, anti-rustle glass beads instead of plastic pellets in their blankets. 

Both kuddly blankets use glass beads, and are crafted with either HydroCool technology or MicroCool fleece to prevent overheating.

Here is our list of the top 3 weighted blanket brands available in the UK.

#1 Kuddly

Our staff members have personally reviewed many of kuddly’s products and have been consistently impressed with their craftsmanship, quality, and customer service. 

Here’s a brief overview of what makes their company so special:

  • They are a UK-based company. We love shopping locally.
  • They specialise in all things cosy. Not only will your weighted blanket be effective, it will also be designed with comfort and cosiness in mind.
  • They have thousands of 5-star reviews, making them one of the most trustworthy brands we’ve ever encountered.
  • They offer classic and cooling options. You can enjoy the benefits of DPT in the summer or if you’re a hot sleeper.
  • Their blanket is the ideal weight. Our research has shown that 5kgs is ideal.
  • Incredible price. We’ve yet to find a brand that offers such high-quality blankets at this price.
  • Free shipping and a 30-night guarantee. Shopping with them is risk-free!
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Our team loves kuddly. You won’t go wrong choosing a blanket from them.

    Shop Kuddly Blankets     
    Shop Kuddly Blankets     

#2 Gravity

Gravity is a European company based out of Poland. They have gained success because of their high-quality blankets that come in multiple sizes, weights, and colours.

Please note that Gravity is not a UK-based company so even though their shipping states that it is free, UK shoppers will still have to pay VATs and import fees. Some shoppers even report being charged as much as half of the quoted price by FedEx after the delivery. ¹⁰

    Shop Gravity Blankets     
    Shop Gravity Blankets     

Mela Comfort is a great brand offering its blanket in a variety of sizes and weights. Similar to kalmkoala, their cover is two-sided for all-season use, but unlike the Koala Blanket, the Mela Blanket is made with cotton instead of renewable bamboo.

    Shop Mela Blankets     
    Shop Mela Blankets