How to Raise the Top Half of a Bed

Raising the head of your bed 4 to 6 inches is recommended to prevent nighttime symptoms of acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease. It works by preventing the flow of acid upward. When the digestive tract is kept at an angle, acid is unable to make its way to the throat. According to Dr. George Fantry, of the University of Maryland Medical Center, propping your upper body with pillows is not effective and will increase the likelihood of acid reflux symptoms.

Things You'll Need

• Wood blocks
• Wood glue
• Nails
• Hammer

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Instructions

• 1

  Remove the mattress and box spring from the bed frame to make lifting it easier. Enlist a friend to help with moving if possible.

• 2

  Select a wide wood block that is 4 to 6 inches tall. Alternatively, use wood glue to attach several smaller blocks to reach a height of 4 to 6 inches.

• 3

  Lift one corner of the bed and attach the wood block to the leg at the head of the bed using a long nail. Hammer the nail in flush to the wood and be sure that it goes through the wood and into the leg of the bed.

• 4

  Lift the opposite corner of the bed and repeat the above step. When both sides are blocked, shake the bed vigorously to ensure that the blocks will stay in place.

• 5

  Replace the mattress and box spring on the bed frame.