Positional Therapy

Positional therapy is a non-invasive treatment option designed for people with positional sleep apnea. It aims to reduce breathing events that mainly occur when sleeping on the back.

By preventing the supine position, positional therapy can improve sleep quality, reduce snoring and decrease the severity of mild to moderate sleep apnea.

What is positional sleep apnea?

Positional sleep apnea occurs when breathing interruptions are significantly more frequent in the supine position (on the back) than when sleeping on the side.

For some patients, simply avoiding back sleeping can significantly reduce the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI).

How does positional therapy work?

Positional therapy relies on devices designed to prevent or discourage sleeping on the back. These solutions naturally promote a side-sleeping position during the night.

Modern devices are discreet, comfortable and suitable for daily use.

What types of positional therapy devices are available?

Available solutions generally include:

• positional belts or harnesses,
• smart vibrating devices worn on the chest or neck,
• ergonomic textile solutions integrated into sleepwear.

Who is positional therapy suitable for?

It is particularly recommended for:

• patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea,
• documented positional sleep apnea,
• people seeking a CPAP alternative or complement,
• patients intolerant to CPAP therapy.

Positional therapy vs CPAP

CPAP remains the gold standard treatment for moderate to severe sleep apnea. However, in strictly positional cases, positional therapy can be an effective and less restrictive solution.

Treatment choice should always be guided by medical diagnosis and professional sleep assessment.

Frequently asked questions about positional therapy

Is positional therapy effective?
Yes. In patients with positional sleep apnea, it can significantly reduce breathing events.

Is it an alternative to CPAP?
In mild to moderate cases, yes. In severe cases, CPAP is generally recommended.

Is positional therapy comfortable?
Modern devices are designed to be discreet, lightweight and comfortable for long-term use.