Finding the perfect mattress for your back is a personal quest. Whether you’re team firm or team soft, it all comes down to what suits your unique needs.
You can use several strategies to find the perfect mattress for your back health.
Is My Bed Causing Back Pain?
Lack of proper sleep affects hormone production needed for healing, potentially causing pain. It’s possible the type of mattress you own contributes to your discomfort.
Here are a few signs that your bed might be the issue:
- Your pain is worse when you wake up
- You can’t seem to get comfortable throughout the night
- You get your best night’s sleep on vacations
- You have pre-existing conditions
Advantages of a Firm Mattress
Increased Stability
Firm mattresses offer increased stability by providing better motion isolation. This means one person moving won’t disturb the other. They also tend to maintain their shape over time, so they’ll last you longer.
However, the durability and stability depend on the mattress’s construction and the quality of the materials, so be sure to buy from a reputable manufacturer!
Pressure Point Relief
A firm mattress can provide pressure point relief by evenly distributing support. This can reduce stiffness in the morning — especially for those with hip and shoulder pain.
It’s recommended for a person to test out a firm mattress first before committing, as some firm mattresses may actually increase pressure. Your mattress might be too firm if you feel intense pressure on certain body parts while lying down.
Proper Alignment
Proper alignment is key for individuals seeking relief from back pain. A firm mattress can help keep the hips, shoulders, and spine aligned during sleep, preventing excessive curvature and reducing pressure on the back. Using pillows strategically can also help maintain proper alignment.
Advantages of a Plush Mattress
Pressure Point Relief
Feel increased pressure points on a firm mattress? Then a soft mattress might be what you need.
Plush, cozy layers can help ease pressure points as they mold to your body’s natural curves, offering top-notch support and comfort. Soft mattresses are also known for easing pressure on core muscles, alleviating pain in areas like the hips, shoulders, and knees.
Comfort for Side Sleepers
Side sleepers often benefit from a softer mattress because it allows their hips and shoulders to sink in, maintaining proper spinal alignment. This can prevent discomfort and stiffness that might occur with a firmer mattress.
Reduced Joint Pain
For individuals with chronic joint pain or conditions like arthritis, a soft mattress can be particularly beneficial. The cushioning effect of a softer mattress can help reduce stress on the joints, leading to a more comfortable and pain-free sleep.
Best Firmness Choice for Back Pain
When looking for back pain relief from your mattress, it’s important to consider firmness options. Your mattress should support your spine and keep your body aligned while you sleep.
If it’s too soft, your spine will sag and put extra pressure on your muscles and joints. Conversely, a mattress that’s too hard will cause your muscles to tense up to compensate for the lack of cushioning.
Consider the Mattress Firmness Scale
The mattress firmness scale is a numerical system used to rate how soft or firm a mattress feels. The scale ranges from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest and 10 being the firmest.
- 1–3 (Very Soft): These mattresses offer a cradling feel and conform closely to the body. They are ideal for side sleepers who need pressure relief on their shoulders and hips. However, they may not provide enough support for back or stomach sleepers.
- 4–5 (Soft): These mattresses offer a good balance of comfort and support. They are suitable for a wider range of sleepers, including side and combination sleepers.
- 6–7 (Medium): This is considered the “medium-firm” range and is the most popular choice for mattresses. It offers a balance of pressure relief and support, making it suitable for most sleeping positions.
- 8–9 (Firm): These mattresses offer a firm and supportive feel. They are ideal for back sleepers, stomach sleepers, and heavier individuals who need more support. However, they may be too firm for side sleepers who require pressure point relief.
- 10 (Very Firm): These mattresses are the firmest option and may feel almost like sleeping on a board. They are typically not recommended for most sleepers unless they have specific back problems requiring very firm support.
A good mattress will last about 10 years. If your mattress is showing signs of wear and your back pain is keeping you up at night, it’s time to start mattress shopping.
Medium-Firm Mattresses for a Pain-Free Night
Looking for a medium-firm mattress type that will give you the perfect blend of comfort and support?
The Scarsdale
The Scarsdale is perfect for those who want a firm mattress with a bit of cushioning. It features a supportive foam layer that provides excellent spinal alignment, and a pillow top that ensures a comfortable night’s sleep.
The 8.5" Latex
The Latex is suitable for those who want a firm mattress with excellent bounce. It features latex construction that helps to reduce motion transfer and provides top-notch support. What’s more, latex’s natural properties help keep you cool and comfortable all night.
Your Perfect Mattress, Your Healthy Back
A medium-firm mattress is generally ideal for back health, as long as the support layers maintain the body’s proper alignment. Choosing a mattress that provides comfort and support is vital for a good night’s sleep, and ultimately comes down to your needs and preferences.
If you find that your back pain is getting worse after sleeping on a soft mattress, it may be time to switch to another mattress. Let Mattress Insider help you improve your sleep quality and alleviate back pain.
Questions? We’d love to help! Feel free to contact us below.
