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Best mattress for back pain
Do you wake up during the night because your back is aching? Are you enduring back pain and wondering what you can do besides taking pain medicine?
According to our Sleep Census, 3 in 5 people have woken up with back pain at some point. Back pain is highly prevalent among older adults. A recent 2024 survey by Hong Kong Sanatorium and Hospital found that 48% of older adult respondents in Hong Kong reported musculoskeletal back pain, making it the most common complaint.
A common question amongst sufferers is, “Can a bad mattress cause back pain?”
The correlation between back pain and your mattress
Back problems have a range of causes outside of our control, from genetic diseases to injuries; those that are within our control include things like your choice of mattress and your pillow.
Studies have found that when subjects with back pain tried sleeping on a new, quality mattress, they slept better and their back pain was reduced. So, why does it make a difference?
Your spine has a natural curvature and it requires a neutral posture for optimal health. Your neutral posture is evident when you are sitting or standing straight up and looking forward.
You can sleep in a natural position by lying flat on your back on a mattress that supports the lower lumbar region. It is also possible to maintain a neutral spine when on your side with your legs just slightly bent and the mattress supporting your side. When your spine is neutral, the muscles surrounding it can relax.
What truly separates a good mattress from a bad one?
The answer lies in targeted support. A good mattress employs specific technologies to deliver the right level of support precisely where your body needs it most — from your shoulders to your hips — promoting proper spinal alignment throughout the night.
Don't overlook the age of your mattress. Even a mattress that was once perfect for you can become a source of back pain over time. Materials break down, support structures weaken, and a mattress that has lost its integrity simply cannot hold your spine correctly anymore. Recognizing when your mattress has passed its prime is crucial for long-term comfort and back health.
Is your mattress causing back pain?
You may be wondering, “Will a new mattress help me?” A new mattress may help ease your back pain if your current mattress is contributing to the problem. To find out, analyse it.
How long have you had the mattress? Does the manufacturer prioritise proper support and comfort in its products? Is it sagging or worn out? When you lay down, is it comfortable? Does it support you so that your spine is neutral? Answering these questions may help you decide if it's time for a replacement.
Is a firm mattress really the best?
One study performed at the Back Research Center in Denmark tested the relative influence of different mattress types on 160 people with chronic lower back pain. The three mattress types were a waterbed, a foam mattress, and a hard mattress. Upon conclusion of the study, it was discovered that the foam mattress and waterbed helped back pain more positively than the hard mattress.
Another study, conducted by the Scientific Department at the Kovacs Foundation in Spain, assessed 313 adults who complained of back pain after getting out of bed each day. The subjects were assigned either a firm mattress or a medium-firm mattress. After 90 days, the study found the medium-firm mattress improved pain and disability better than the firm mattress.
In summary, for spine support,the firmest mattress might not necessarily be the best option as they may lack the conformance needed to offer posture support for your back. When unsure, it is safest to pick medium firm. However, everybody has different needs and mattresses that are too soft can be equally as problematic.When choosing a mattress, it's essential to prioritize your personal comfort and preferences, selecting one that matches your desired level of firmness while also ensuring it offers sufficient support.
Sealy mattress backed by an Orthopaedic Advisory Board and leading orthopaedic science, providing a sleep experience that balances both comfort and support through their patented coil technology.
How to choose a mattress for back pain
When choosing the best mattress for a bad back, it's important to find a manufacturer that prioritises orthopaedic support and comfort. Sealy Posturepedic offers a range of comfort levels from extra plush to firm, as well as collections from standard to luxurious. The first step is to try using our Mattress Selector. This tool will ask you a series of questions about your sleep position and preferences before offering a tailored solution.
When you have an idea of the kind of mattress that is suitable for you, we recommend visiting a retailer in comfortable clothes in person. Spend time lying down on mattresses in your normal sleep position before choosing.
Back problems are frustrating at best and debilitating at worst. The good news is, one of the main contributing factors is within your realm of control. Follow the steps above to find a quality mattress that will help you get a restful night's sleep and give you the best chance at waking up with less pain.
Visit your nearest Sealy Galleries or Counters to seek their expert advice and experience first hand our innovative and luxurious mattresses for yourself.
