Lower back pain? Your bed might be to blame
Do you wake up in the morning feeling unrested? Maybe you’re tossing and turning to get comfortable? If you’re waking up with body aches – particularly lower back pain – then a new mattress might be in order. A poor quality bed or mattress can worsen or even be the cause of back pain.
Your mattress is responsible for a lot more than a good sleep – it supports your body throughout the entire night. Read on for tips on choosing the perfect mattress that will leave you feeling relaxed and rested when morning comes.
Get to know your sleeping style
We’re all different when it comes to sleep – from sleep positions to firmness levels. Becoming aware of how you prefer to sleep is an important first step when choosing a new mattress, so take some time to reflect on your personal preference.
While a soft mattress can be great to sink into at the end of a long day, too soft or too hard can actually cause or worsen back pain and also lead to bad posture. Instead, a medium to medium-firm mattress is great for side or back sleepers who experience lower back pain.
If you prefer to sleep on your stomach, a soft mattress can make lower back pain worse, because it causes your spine to bend upwards. A mattress on the firm side may suit you better, but remember, there is such a thing as too firm.
The best mattresses to choose if you suffer from back pain
If you suffer from back pain, a mattress that supports your spine and encourages good posture is essential for a great night’s sleep. Look for one with coils that can mould to your body, supporting various pressure points.
There is no one-size-fits-all, so it’s important to do your research and learn the best option for you. Read on to learn more about different mattress types and how they can help alleviate back pain.
Memory foam
Memory foam mattresses are a popular bedding choice for good reason. Memory foam mattresses mould to your body while you sleep and offer great support. They’re softer towards the top end, while the bottom is firmer, so they offer good support if you suffer from lower back pain.
Memory foam mattresses are a perfect option for side sleepers, but they tend to trap heat more easily than other mattress types. If you tend to run hot at night, this may not be the best fit for you.
Latex
Latex mattresses offer the ultimate comfort thanks to the natural springiness of the latex. Like memory foam, latex mattresses will conform to your body. The mattress gently supports weightier areas like your hips and shoulders, but won’t sink below your overall body weight. It’s also great for providing support to the neck and back to keep your spine in a nice natural alignment throughout the night.
Latex is also durable, meaning your mattress won’t sag and will remain firm for years to come!
Hybrid
Hybrid mattresses are a combination of memory foam and latex – offering you the best of both worlds. The memory foam sits on top of latex coils, offering you a great level of support for lower back pain. Keep in mind that hybrid mattresses are more expensive than just a latex or memory foam mattress, however they’ll last you for years to come!
Hybrid, memory foam and latex mattresses are all good options that provide support throughout the night. They also tend to last longer than other types, making them a great investment.
Coil mattresses
This is one of the most common types of mattress on the market. Coil, or innerspring, mattresses are made of a coil unit covered with a layer of cushioning. They’re designed to flex, allowing room for movement and pressure.
A coil mattress is a great long-lasting option and is more affordable than the above options, making it a great choice if you’re on a budget. There are two main types that provide great support for back-pain suffers: pocket coils and offset.
Offset coils create a firm mattress, perfect for back sleepers who need some extra support. Pocket coils are the most expensive type of innerspring mattress, ideal for those suffering from back pain with its high level of support.
Adjustable mattresses
Adjustable mattresses give you the option of changing the firmness, or elevating your feet or head. It’s a great way to get into a comfortable position, while catering for your body throughout the night.
If you or your partner experience snoring, you may want the option of sleeping with your head in an elevated position (or the option of sleeping in silence!).
It’s not just about the mattress
For a truly dreamy night’s sleep, we should really be investing in more than just our mattresses. Good quality bedding and a sturdy bed frame are also important considerations to make sure you get the perfect sleep. From sheets to help you keep cool to quilts that will keep you warm, there are plenty of other things to consider.
If you suffer from chronic lower back pain, a good quality mattress is an important investment that can really improve your quality of life.