Kirk
During the 8-year life span of a mattress, we spend on average 20,761 hours lying on it. That means it’s a hugely important investment for our long term general health and wellbeing. An uncomfortable night’s sleep can cause more than tiredness during the day, it can mean waking up with aches and pains that won’t go away, and for those already suffering from back pain it can be even worse. Therefore doing some research to find the best mattress for back pain is worth the time and the effort.
In this article we’ll look at what the different kinds of mattresses are and establish the qualities of the best mattresses for back pain, so making the right decision will become easier.
The most popular mattress include pocket spring, memory foam, open spring and latex. Pocket spring mattresses are made from small springs which are contained in their own pocket, meaning each one moves independently, giving some support to the body. Open spring – also known as open or continuous coil – contain a piece of metal wire coiled into springs, with a border wire to provide structure. Memory foam mattresses respond to weight and temperature and also have hypo-allergenic properties and will adapt to shape of the body and relieve pressure on its joints. Latex mattresses are filled with latex foam which is very breathable so that overheating at night is kept to a minimum.
The best way to decide which is the best mattress for back pain is to visit a store and test some out. However, there are a few things to think about before that. Generally, people with bad backs need to find a mattress that supports them in a way that helps maintain a straight spine. It could be a soft or firm mattress depending on the amount of pressure an individual puts on the springs or foam, which varies depending on their weight. An orthopaedic mattress is not necessarily the best buy for someone with a bad back – it may be suitable for someone who is very heavy, but its no indication that it has been professionally assessed or recommended and is often a term used by manufacturers to refer to their extra firm models.
A mattress that is too hard can put too much pressure on the areas of discomfort, whereas one that is too soft may not provide the right support, allowing the spine to spend long periods in unhealthy positions. For people who have lower back pain, a slightly firmer mattress is advised because this area often needs more support – a memory foam mattress will provide this wherever it is needed and allow for adjustment to the body where required.
As well as ensuring that we have the best mattress that for back pain, there are other things that can be done to improve the posture whilst sleeping. Lying on the right-hand side with the knees bent up slightly is good for the blood flow as the smaller and lighter left lung rests on the heart, which maximises the flow of blood.
So research, as always is key, and for people with back pain, a good mattress can improve the quality of life immensely.
