You may have heard that your mattress could be causing your back pain. You may be wondering what the correct mattress is for you. You probably know that lack of quality sleep can cause a myriad of problems and can worsen many existing conditions.
The most current studies suggest a medium-firm mattress for those suffering from back pain. This replaces the older recommendation of extra-firm. In reality, there is no one type of mattress that is going to be the best for everyone.
I believe the best course of action is to be aware of the return policy of the place you purchase a mattress. Most retailers will offer a time period within which you can exchange or return the mattress if you are not satisfied. It will probably take a few weeks to determine if you are resting more comfortably with any new mattress, so find out how long you have to test it out and take advantage of the policy. Mattresses are expensive and you are expected to have them for a long time, so don’t be afraid to keep trying until you find the one you like.
Two other popular options are the memory foam and the air mattress. Again, there are studies suggesting that both of these types can be beneficial to back pain patients. In my experience, it seems to be an individual choice.
One thing we know for sure is that an old, worn out mattress does not provide proper support and can exacerbate most spinal conditions. While expensive, a new mattress is an investment in your health so it is money well spent when you find the proper fit.
