Sleep to Live Institute Highlights New Findings from First-of-its-Kind Sleep Research and Unveils New bedMATCH™ Technology at Sleep Summit 2011

MEBANE, N.C., Jan. 5, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- The Sleep to Live Institute today convened Sleep Summit 2011 in New York City featuring world-renowned sleep experts. Panelists presented the latest scientific research on sleep, the role of good sleep habits in overall health and provided solutions for consumers on how to achieve a good night's sleep.

Sleep Summit 2011 included veteran medical journalists Nancy Snyderman, M.D., and Bob Arnot, M.D., as well as leading sleep researchers Robert Oexman, D.C., Director of the Sleep to Live Institute, Thomas Roth, Ph.D., of Henry Ford Hospital and Sonia Ancoli-Israel, Ph.D.,  of University of California at San Diego School of Medicine.

Andrew Krystal, M.D., Director of the Insomnia and Sleep Research Program at Duke University School of Medicine, presented findings of the 'Mattress Matters' study which was conducted in collaboration with RTI International. To date, no other study has analyzed the impact of mattresses on sleep and quality of life. The study found that mattresses really do matter when it comes to sleep quality and common health complaints, most notably daytime pain.

"The findings from the Mattress Matters study are remarkable," said Krystal. "After analyzing 128 healthy, pain-free adults, we discovered that there is a statistically significant correlation between how mattress support affects sleep quality, pain and daytime function. We were also able to document that participants were generally unable to select the best mattress for their sleep needs."

Based on the Mattress Matters study, Sleep to Live Institute scientists and engineers developed the bedMATCH™ system. Unveiled at Sleep Summit 2011, this unique and innovative diagnostic system uses statistical measurements and calculations to help consumers pick the best mattress for them, regardless of brand or price point.

"The bedMATCH system is the culmination of clinical research and collected sleep profiles from millions of consumers," said Oexman.  "For the first time we're able to show the scientific link between mattress choice and a person's health and wellbeing. Buying a mattress is a major purchase and bedMATCH simplifies the process."

The bedMATCH system is expected to be in select stores starting spring 2011. For more information, visit www.sleeptoliveinstitute.org.

About Sleep to Live Institute

The Sleep to Live Institute is dedicated to the science of sleep. A state-of-the-art sleep research center located in Joplin, Mo., the Institute works with engineers and scientists dedicated to developing real-world technologies that can advance the science of sleep and offer real-world benefits to customers. The Institute is supported by the Sleep and Wellness Board who are renowned researchers, medical specialists and physicians dedicated to helping people lead better, healthier lives through improved sleep habits. For more information, visit www.sleeptoliveinstitute.org.

SOURCE Sleep to Live Institute