When we think of therapy for sleep apnea or snoring, we usually think one-dimensionally; of one therapy that is. CPAP, custom oral devices made by a board certified sleep dentist, or surgery are what is discussed for most patients. However, each of these therapies may also benefit from being used in combination with positional therapies, such as Slumberbump and Zzoma, that may be recommended to patients at our Spark Sleep Solution’s offices. These therapies may help reduce CPAP pressure or oral appliance advancement, and can help improve residual OSA in both therapies.
Similar Functions
From a cursory glance, Slumberbump and Zzoma look identical. Essentially, patients strap the product to their back before falling asleep. The large “bump” on your back prevents you from sleeping in the supine position. As a result, side sleeping promotes an open airway.
Slumberbump and Zzoma share a few similarities, such as:
- Comfortable straps wrapping around the chest area for a snug fit
- Soft material makes the “bump” comfortable as you move in your sleep
- Sleeping is only allowed on the stomach or sides
Speaking to our sleep apnea doctor in Santa Cruz is the best way to decide on the right positional therapy for you. Discuss your questions about Bay Area sleep apnea solutions with us today!
Foam or Air Bladder
According to Zzoma, their product comes with a semi-rigid foam section acting as the “bump.” With this design, Zzoma is lightweight and durable under any sleeping conditions.
In contrast, Slumberbump offers an air bladder. To use, simply position the bladder within the strapped bag and blow it into the nozzle. The bladder fills up in a matter of seconds.
Although both devices provide the same solution, some patients might prefer air over semi-rigid foam. Also, an air bladder allows you to easily travel with the device.
Prescription Requirement
Zzoma’s manufacturers make it clear that they can only sell the device when it’s prescribed by a doctor. Certainly, they have good reason to be particular about their device. On average, Zzoma only treats about 30% of sleep apnea patients. The remaining patients need other treatments for proper management. Ultimately, Zzoma wants to be sure the device is being used by the proper patients.
In contrast, Slumberbump doesn’t require a prescription. Purchase it online, and wear it as necessary to calm sleep apnea.
FDA Considerations
With Bay Area sleep apnea solutions, our team always verifies your patient’s needs and matches them to the proper treatment. According to Slumberbump, their product isn’t FDA-approved or cleared. As a result, they can sell the item to any consumer in the nation.
In contrast, the Zzoma device is FDA-cleared. By definition, this device is safe to use because it’s virtually similar to other devices in the marketplace. More importantly, Zzoma isn’t FDA-approved. Truthfully, there’s no reason to approve this device because it’s not as complex as a prescription drug or similar product. Wearing a strapped item on your back at night doesn’t pose a health risk to most people.
Although positional therapies aren’t solutions for every patient, they can make a difference for many other people. Working with our sleep apnea doctor in Santa Cruz is the first step.
Contact Spark Sleep Solutions for a consultation today!