Four Mattress-Buying Tips For People With Back Problems
The right mattress is a must if you suffer from spine issues or lower back pain. Consumer Reports advises that a mattress can last up to 10 years, but it may only last five years if you are older or suffer from joint and back problems. If you are feeling stiff and achy in the morning, or if your mattress is beginning to feel and look lumpy, it's time to replace it. The following guide can help you choose the mattress, like one from West Coast Mattress, to help you relieve your back pain.
Tip #1: Ask for Professional Guidance
Your doctor or physical therapist can be the best source for a mattress recommendation if you are currently under treatment for your back and spine issues. Often, the professionals will have specific sleep position recommendations, which may work best with a specific type of mattress. For example, if you are a back sleeper they may recommend a memory foam mattress that molds to your body to provide good support. Or, it may be better to opt for a firmer mattress if you have disc issues in your back and opt for stomach sleeping. Those with arthritis or general back pain may do better with an adjustable bed and mattress that allows for head elevation.
Tip #2: Know The Different Firmness Levels
A firm mattress is often considered the best mattress, but this may not always be the case. Overly firm or hard mattresses may actually put stress on the lower back, resulting in more aches during the daytime. Fortunately, mattresses come in a variety of different firmness levels, from exceptionally soft to very firm. A mattress with medium firmness is often a good choice. Lay down on several mattresses of different firmness ratings to see which feels most comfortable.
Tip #3: Consider an Adjustable Mattress
Mattresses with adjustable firmness levels can be perfect if you suffer from back pain. These allow you to dial in the firmness and support until it is just at the right spot to relieve the pressure on your back. An added benefit is that you can get these mattresses in split varieties, so each side can be adjusted independently. This is very helpful if you have different mattress needs than your partner.
Tip #4: Reconsider the Pillowtop
Pillowtop mattresses are very popular, but they aren't for everyone. These provide a cushy top over the supporting layer of the mattress. This means that a lightweight person likely won't compress a thick pillowtop sufficiently to get the support they need. The soft layer may feel comfortable at first, but the lack of support can make back pains worse after you lay on it for 8 hours. Opt for a thinner pillowtop or skip it all together if your weight is on the lighter side.