Can the Right Mattress Eliminate Back Pain?

At any given point, 31 million people in the U.S. are suffering from low back pain. In fact, according to the American Chiropractic Association, up to 80% of all U.S. adults will experience back pain at some point during their lifetime. It’s among the most common reasons for visits to the doctor’s office and missed time at work.

There are many treatments for people who suffer from chronic back pain, but investing in the right mattress can be an effective first step. Of course, a new mattress shouldn’t replace medical guidance for health conditions, but it can help improve quality of life by allowing back pain sufferers to sleep easier at night.

Ideal firmness levels for back pain sufferers

Because everyone has unique needs and preferences, there isn’t a single best mattress for back pain. It’s best to go directly to a showroom and give several different models a test drive. The salesperson will inform you of the pros and cons of each model as you see how they support your back.

That being said, it can be helpful to do a little investigative work before you go mattress shopping. There are a few types of mattresses that are considered beneficial for back pain sufferers.

Previously, doctors told their back pain patients to only choose very firm mattresses. Fortunately, we know better now. Many patients actually do better on a medium-firm mattress, which is generally better than a soft mattress. This is because soft mattresses may not give your joints the support they need to stay properly aligned during sleep.

Types of mattresses to consider

Inner spring mattresses offer both the comfort and the support that back pain patients need in a mattress. You might also consider an inner spring mattress labeled as a hybrid, which means that it combines the superior cushioning of a memory foam mattress with the reliable support of an inner spring.

Another popular option for back pain sufferers are latex mattresses. Organic latex is a natural choice that does not feature springs or foam. Instead, it’s comprised of latex rubber topped by a comfortable knit cover. Latex may be ideal for back pain sufferers who desire the support of an inner spring and the comfort of a memory foam mattress. Although latex conforms nicely to the body, it still manages to uplift it for superior support.

If you have your heart set on a memory foam mattress, but you need more support than it can offer, consider a gel-infused memory foam model. This deluxe model is uniquely suited to individuals with back pain. It is a medium-firm mattress that conforms well to the body to relieve pressure points.

Find your new bed at Mattress World Northwest

With the largest selection of brand name mattresses in the Northwest, Mattress World Northwest is sure to have your ideal mattress at one of our 17 convenient locations. We focus on providing high-quality products at bargain prices to help our customers get their best sleep. Innerspring, pillow top, latex, memory foam, and so many more are all available here.

Give us a call today at (503) 713-6572 or stop by one of our Portland-area outlets.

Resources:

1. Harvard Medical School, What type of mattress is best for people with low back pain? http://www.health.harvard.edu/pain/what-type-of-mattress-is-best-for-people-with-low-back-pain
2. American Chiropractic Association, Back Pain Facts and Statistics, http://www.acatoday.org/Patients/Health-Wellness-Information/Back-Pain-Facts-and-Statistics

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