How To Choose a Mattress when You Have Back Problems
Choosing a mattress is important because people spend a third of their lives in bed.It's important to strike the right balance between comfort and support if you have back problems.Too much pressure on joints and soft mattresses don't provide support, so choose a medium-firm option.Testing hotel or loved ones' mattresses overnight will help you better gauge your needs.Good sleeping posture is the best way to reduce back pain and get a good night's sleep.
Step 1: You can learn about mattress ratings.
There is no industry-wide scale for mattress firmness.Most mattresses are labeled on a scale from extrafirm to extra-plush.The ideal mattress firmness should be in the middle of the scale.When buying a mattress, ask the store salesperson if the mattress is soft or firm.Don't say you prefer one option over the other.You will have a better chance of getting an objective answer if you do that.
Step 2: A medium-firm mattress is a good choice.
A medium-firm mattress is the best choice for most patients.It provides support, but it also provides comfort.Support and comfort should be weighed equally.Stress and joint pressure will be increased by a mattress that isn't comfortable.
Step 3: Extra-firm or plush mattresses are not advisable.
Extra-firm mattresses were once recommended for people with back problems.More patients report better results after they switch to a medium-firm mattress.Extra-plush mattresses provide little support and cause the spine to move.
Step 4: The best buy is an innerspring.
The most affordable and longest lasting options are Innerspring mattresses.The best models have 600 to 1000 coils.The mattress firmness is determined by the thickness of the individual coils.Medium-firm to firm innerspring mattresses have coil sizes of 2.2 to 2.4 millimeters in diameter.A top foam or memory foam layer can be found in some inner springs.It is more important to pay attention to coil thickness than it is to the top layer.
Step 5: It's a good idea to splurging on an air.
Air mattresses are more expensive than innersprings and can be adjusted with an electric pump.Those who suffer from lower back pain can be helped by models that have an inflatable lumbar support.If you sleep with a partner, it's a good idea to have the option to adjust individual halves to your liking.There is no evidence that an innerspring is better for back problems than an air mattress.
Step 6: Consider the pros and cons of memory foam.
If you don't move while you sleep, memory foam works well, but it takes a while to mold to your body if you change positions.It's important to keep in mind that alternating sleeping positions help ease back problems.If you get hot at night, you might want to avoid memory foam.You can choose a high-density foam option if you like the feel of a memory foam mattress.Better quality foam mattresses have a higher density.
Step 7: Ask your doctor to give you a recommendation.
There are many issues that can cause back pain.If you haven't already, see your doctor or spine specialist for an accurate diagnosis.Suggestions on mattress selection and sleeping positions can help you with your condition.
Step 8: If you need more firmness, put plywood under your mattress.
Put a plywood board under your mattress if you think you need a firm mattress.If you wake up with less pain and sleep better, you should choose a firm mattress.The movement from the bedsprings is slowed by the plywood.It is possible to test your needs at home before buying a new mattress.
Step 9: Take your time testing the mattresses.
If you want to make a purchase, you should always try multiple models at different stores.You can learn more about what's available in your area and how soft or firm various manufacturers' products are.Spend about ten minutes in each of your sleeping positions.Taking in-store testing with a grain of salt is a necessary step.If you spend a lot of time testing a mattress at the store, remember that a model that seems comfortable for a short time won't offer a good night's sleep.
Step 10: Test mattresses in hotels and homes of friends and relatives.
In-store testing gives a rough idea of the comfort and support of a mattress.Getting a full night's sleep is a more thorough test.When you stay in a hotel, check the mattresses for model and serial numbers.Information about design, construction, and firmness can be found online.Track the models that are the best for your back problems.Booking hotel rooms is more expensive than staying with friends and family.If your loved ones have guest rooms, ask if you can try out their mattresses.Again, note model and serial numbers and keep track of those that offer the best results.
Step 11: Before making a purchase, you should check the return policy.
You can return a mattress within 120 days with a good return policy.For an extended period of time, you can test the mattress comfort and support at home.Many manufacturers charge a restocking fee.
Step 12: It's a good idea to replace your mattress every ten years.
As the Mattresses wear down, they provide less support.If you already have back problems, you should replace your mattress.Replacing a mattress can reduce back pain and improve sleep.
Step 13: Align your ears, shoulders, and hips while you sleep.
Proper sleeping posture is not a substitute for the best mattress.Don't use a head pillow that raises your neck and head.If you sleep on your side or back, your ears, shoulders, and hips should form a straight line.
Step 14: You can use a pillow for your legs.
Place a pillow under the backs of your knees if you sleep on your back.Place a pillow between your knees if you sleep on your side.If you have lower back pain, you can use a pillow or towel.Put it under your back to sleep.
Step 15: You should sleep on your back or sides.
Sleeping on your stomach makes your back problems worse.If you can, try to sleep on your back and side by side to avoid putting too much pressure on the joints.The best sleeping position is dependent on your back problems.Depending on where the disks are located on the spine, sleeping on your side can relieve them.Hip and sacroiliac pain can be alleviated if you sleep on your back with your knees elevated.Ask your doctor or spine specialist about the best sleeping posture for you.