Whether you want to replace your old mattress or are buying your first one, the process is often exhausting. There are lots of options, and choosing the best one for you can be tricky—especially if you have back pain and have to factor in back support. Still, if you usually wake up with back pain, you should try replacing your mattress. Here, we provide the best tips for buying a mattress for back pain relief:
1. Ask about the components of the mattress.
The support provided by a mattress comes from its inner springs, or coils. The number and arrangement of the coils in various mattresses differ, as does the depth of the mattress. In most cases, the depth of a mattress can range from 7 to 18 inches. Generally, inquire about inner springs and ensure that the mattress you choose has at least 300 springs; if it is a king-size mattress, it should have at least 480 springs. Still, the number of coils, kind of cushioning, and overall depth of the mattress should all be selected according to your individual preferences.
2. Find a mattress with back support
In most cases, you can prevent sore back muscles in the morning if your mattress has the right back support. The spine’s natural curves need to be supported, so the mattress you choose should allow for proper alignment. Moreover, one study discovered that medium-firm mattresses seem to provide better relief from back pain than firm mattresses. However, there is not much additional clinical evidence available to support this claim. Still, finding a mattress with back support can drastically reduce your chances of developing back pain.
3. Strike a balance between support and comfort
In addition to providing adequate back support, a mattress should also provide a comfortable sleeping experience for the user. For example, using an excessively firm mattress can result in aches and pains in certain pressure spots. Conversely, shoulders and hips can sink deeper into some medium-firm mattresses, making them more comfortable. For that reason, mattresses with more padding might be used by patients who need more support for their backs. When you strike a balance between support and comfort, you should be able to reduce your chances of getting back pain and improve your overall sleeping experience.
4. Consider your preferences
There is no one model or brand of mattress that can help all individuals with back pain. Any mattress that enables a user to sleep without pain and stiffness is ideal for that individual. Patients with back pain should select the mattress that satisfies their comfort and support requirements and enables them to sleep well.
5. Replace your old mattress at the right time
Sagging mattresses can be prevented from sinking in the middle by placing boards under them. However, this fix will only work in the short term. If the middle of your old mattress is sagging or no longer comfy, it’s time to replace it. Think of the cost of a new mattress as an investment in your comfort and sleep quality, both of which can impact your mood, energy levels, and productivity—in short, your overall quality of life.
