When your back hurts, nothing you touch is comfortable, and most daily activities are a struggle. Sleeping is your body’s means of soothing and healing pain, so if you are not getting the sleep you need, that back pain is going to continue. By choosing the right mattress, though, you could reduce back pain and begin to feel better.
Best Mattresses
The mattress that will reduce your back pain is going to support you and hold your spine in perfect alignment. The spine is meant to curve gently in the lumbar region and near the shoulder blades. All of your vertebrae should be lined up and form a natural soft “s” shape.
The best mattresses provide enough support so that the heavier part of your body, your hips and pelvic region, do not sink into the bed. If you do sink into the bed, your spine is no longer parallel to the floor, and it starts to twist and curve. Anytime your spine bends out of its natural shape, pressure is put on the vertebrae, discs and muscles around it, and that can be the source of pain.
Conversely, if your mattress is too firm, it will hold your spine up straight, but it can cause muscle pain. Your weight against the mattress will cause blood flow to be interrupted to certain muscles and extremities. When you wake up, your muscles will feel stiff and sore.
Ultimately, comfort is what determines a good mattress. The longer you can remain in bed comfortably, the better night’s sleep you will get — which can help reduce back pain and improve your mood.
Best Mattresses for Side Sleepers
Sleeping on your back is the most ergonomically sound position for your back, and with the right mattress, your spine can easily remain in perfect alignment. It can be hard to change your sleep position, though. If you are used to sleeping on your side, you’ll need a good mattress to support your back.
Side sleepers are prone to more hip and shoulder pressure when they sleep. The best mattress for a side sleeper is soft enough for the hip and shoulders to sink in. It still needs to be firm enough, though, to keep the spine from bending unnaturally to one side or the other.
If you are a side sleeper, your best mattress could be made of foam. The softer surface reduces pressure on the hips and shoulders and does not create pressure points like an innerspring mattress does.
Best Mattresses Online
It is not hard to buy a mattress online if you already know what type of mattress you need. Based on your weight and sleep position, choose a mattress that will be comfortable. Most mattresses come with some type of return policy, so if they are not comfortable, you can get a different one. The best mattresses online are made of the same materials the in-store versions are made of.
Getting the best mattress for your body and sleep habits is important. A good mattress can reduce back pain and help you get good, restorative sleep — which can help you face the day easier.
If you have persistent back pain, contact the specialists at NJ Spine & Orthopedic for a consultation.