A facial, a pedicure, and a sleep study? Should we look closer at this headline: “Sleep Disorders Fuel Hot New Spa Trend in 2007” ? ?

I just saw this issue resurface on the newswire in the form of a new market report, and as it captures my attention again, I continue to wonder if this trend will be thought of by sleep medicine and technology professionals as a "watering-down of the science of sleep.” Recommending patients learn relaxation techniques is one thing, but if I was prescribing treatment for sleep disorders, I know I would want to know what a spa or resort program consists of before sending a patient there.

Due to the March 12 Millennium Research Group analysis report and press release that spurred the newswire headline, “Sleep Spas Will Help Expand the US Respiratory and Sleep Management Market to over $2.4 Billion by 2011, According to Millennium Research Group,” such news may also fuel the Sleep Community to examine this issue a bit closer.

Looking at the concept from a 10,000-foot view, it concerns me to think that someone with a parasomnia, or some other sleep disorders besides insomnia, would seek help from a spa rather than from a qualified sleep specialist. Certainly a lot of factors impact such issues.


What do you think? Do you believe that we as a community should examine this issue closer. With stakes as high as $2.4 Billion, and the mainstream media likely being all over this headline today, I believe spas will certainly have the time to pay attention...


Sleep well, Be Well,
Theresa