Whether you are 20, 45 or 70, chances are at some point or another you will end up trying to identify the best mattress for back pain. Everyone suffers from such pains at some point. They do not always have a specific cause, but just an unhealthy lifestyle. Do you work in an office? You are exposed to such problems. Working in a building yard? Same story. It just happens to everyone.
While most people experience such pains at times, they end up going chronic if you fail to address them early. You do not always need medical attention. Instead, you need to keep the pain under control, then make some slight changes into your lifestyle. Since you spend around eight hours out of 24 in a bed trying to rest and recover, having a quality mattress could be one of the best investments.
A quality mattress for back pain will keep your spine aligned. This is your number one priority when dealing with back pains. On the same note, a good mattress will relieve the most important pressure points, which are responsible for the pain. With these ideas in mind, choosing the perfect mattress obviously involves taking your time and actually researching your options upfront.
Now, how do you choose the right bed? This is where most people get stuck. They sit on a mattress in a furniture shop, it feels comfortable, so they get it. They fail to realize that sitting for a couple of minutes is different from sleeping for eight hours – night by night. Things might get even more complicated if you want to shop over the Internet.
It is, therefore, important to know what to look for, but also to explore the best rated mattresses in this segment.
Linenspa’s best mattress for lower back pain is available in multiple sizes and packages. The queen size is the most popular one, but you may also opt for California king, king, full, twin XL and twin sizes. At the same time, you can get the mattress in a smaller thickness too – eight inches, with or without a bed frame.
The mattress is described to be a hybrid. What does it mean? You have some of traditional bouncy support of an innerspring mattress, but you can also take advantage of the plush comfort associated with memory foam. This mix is quite rare on the market, but it provides a medium and balanced feel.
The memory foam layer is thick and responsible for the medicinal support of this mattress. It makes more sense to imagine that a full memory foam mattress could be a better option, but memory foam tends to heat up under pressure, so you need a hybrid profile or at least some aerating technologies.
To prevent overheating, the manufacturer has also implemented gen infusions. Also, coils are encased individually. The mattress is compressed and shipped in a tight box for convenience – it needs a couple of days to regain its original shape and size.
Zinus has created the best mattress for back pain if you are after a bit of diversity. You will not have to make any compromises, as this mattress comes in eight different sizing standards, as well as four different thicknesses. There is literally something for every bed out there.
This model is not just about comfort and pain relief, but also about looks and style. The mattress is covered in knitted jacquard, which looks good and feels soft, regardless of how thick the bed sheets are. As for the memory foam in its composition, it is CertiPUR US certified – quality, performance and durability.
The mattress consists of multiple layers. You have a memory foam layer measuring 2.5 inches in thickness, as well as a base support foam – 5.5 inches – for a good airflow. There is also a pressure relieving layer – 2 inches. Each layer has its own role in the mattress construction.
The memory foam is infused with green tea, as well as castor seed oil. Not only are they bacteria repellent, but they also provide fresh and clean odors. When it comes to the comfort level, you have a firm surface – ideal for back pains. If you have always slept on ultra soft surfaces, it might take a few nights to get used to the firmer surface.
So, what is a good mattress for back pain? Hard to tell because what works for some people will not always work for everyone else, but Tuft & Needle’s best selling mattress is definitely worth some attention. It is tightly compressed when shipped, so give it up to three days to recover its original shape and size.
Now, when it comes to features, your back will benefit from adaptive foam. In other words, the mattress feels classic and bouncy, but at the same time, it is supportive and will take the shape of your body – it makes no difference what your favorite sleeping position is.
While also rated as memory foam, the material used in this mattress is high grade – a more professional type. The feeling is the same – you feel like you sink in. However, you will not feel stuck or end up struggling to run around. At the same time, you can forget about overheating – a common issue in memory foam.
When it comes to sizes and models, you have six different sizes. They are differently priced – the queen size is the best selling one though. There are no extra colors and styles, but white. Also, it works with all kinds of frames, including adjustable beds.
Signature is known for having one of the best mattresses for back pain and this one is among the front runners. It comes in four different sizes – king, queen, full and twin. At the same time, you can choose the ideal thickness for your problems – the eight inch one is the best seller.
The mattress consists of multiple layers. You have classic coils in the middle for a bouncing experience, but both the top and the bottom feature a thick 1.6 inch layer of high density memory foam. Given this design, you can flip it over every once in a while for maximum durability.
Coils are independently enclosed. You have 800 seven inch 15 gauge of them. As for the foam, it is CertiPUR certified. It is free of all kinds of harmful materials – heavy metals, lead, mercury, flame retardants and so on. VOC emissions are almost null. However, once unpacked, it needs up to 72 hours to recover its original size and shape.
The top comes with a knit fabric. It is breathable and goes along with pretty much any kind of frame – you can use the mattress for daybeds, bunk beds, box spring beds and so on. There is one thing about the cover though – it must be manually brushed and cleaner because it is not removable and it cannot be washed normally.
Live & Sleep's mattresses are designed to underline and feel like a luxury. This model is available in eight different sizes. It makes no difference which one you choose – quality standards are the same. Get ready for an extra thick profile that will make you feel like you sleep in a hotel.
The support base consists of high density foam. It is covered in a comfy 2.5 inch layer of infused foam to keep you cool without sacrificing comfort. You have breathability to avoid heating up, as well as quality materials and a soft plush experience. There is no coils or latex used in the composition of this mattress.
This kind of design will work on your hips, shoulders and pressure points – none of them. You will also turn and toss less for this reason. Even better – the CertiPUR certification ensures there are no harmful chemicals coming out of it. Your sleep will be sound knowing that you are safe.
The mattress comes with a fabric cover. It is soft and will not affect the original feeling. It is excellent for all kinds of furniture, so it works with any bed – even adjustable beds. Plus, you can count on a breathable profile. In terms of firmness, the mattress is rated between balanced and firm.
Back pains are some of the most common pains out there. The spine has three significant roles. First, it keeps the spinal cord safe – the communication system of the body. Second, it provides the right support for a proper posture – otherwise, you would have to walk on your legs and arms. Third, it eases the tactile movement.
An unhealthy spine will obviously find it impossible to perform these tasks by the book. Depending on how unhealthy it is, it might fail in one or more of them – not to mention the severity of these issues.
Back pains are usually categorized in two groups. Some of them are acute and last for up to 10 weeks. They are usually caused by injuries or accidents. Their causes are known and can be easily dealt with. On the other hand, chronic pains take longer than 10 weeks. They may also be caused by accidents, but they often represent the result of an unhealthy lifestyle.
Causes for these pains are extremely diversified.
When you think about it, damaging a vertebral disc can be extremely challenging. They come with thick and durable shields, but they also have some soft fillings. When damaged, the pain is almost instant because they get in touch with all the nerves in the area. However, surprisingly enough, some people with ruptured or bulging discs never experience any pains at all.
Muscular strain may occur from multiple reasons. Moving the wrong way can cause strain in all the muscles and ligaments in the area. The same rule applies if you lift something too heavy. When mixed with a poor physical health, this cause can cause acute pains.
Particular skeletal problems can cause back pain, as well as pressure. Some of these problems include scoliosis, kyphosis or lordosis. Sleeping on your back is probably the most comfortable way to do it, yet some people would rather sleep on a side with the support under the ribs or knees. At the end of the day, the sleeping position is irrelevant, as back pains will inevitably be part of your lifestyle.
Without quality spinal support, a bad mattress may also be the cause of back pains. On the other hand, choosing the best bed for back pain will provide a stable and even surface that helps from multiple directions. But then, your weight and position can affect the spinal alignment in a few different ways as well.
Over the past few decades, memory foam mattresses have turned from novelties into popular alternatives to classic mattresses. Basically, they are quite affordable now. Since leading options on the market are based on memory foam, this material has become the top choice – a common recommendation from doctors as well. But then, what kind of benefits does it bring in?
Memory foam has the advantage of spreading your body weight all across the surface of the bed. In other words, each part of the body is supported. No matter what your curves are like, the mattress will take your contour. It will also keep your back in a neutral position for a sound sleep.
When compared to spring mattresses, the weight is concentrated everywhere and not just on contact areas. At this point, your hips and shoulders will bear most of your weight – the same goes for the lower back if you sleep on aside.
Most people sleep in the desired position. Many others would rather sleep in a different position, but they cannot because of the pain and discomfort during the night. No matter what your sleeping position is, memory foam can accommodate anything. The foam will take your contours for proper support.
Such mattresses also come with different levels of firmness, depending on your personal needs.
Dust mites are everywhere. Almost every home out there has some. They love bedrooms because mattresses provide fluffy paddings and lots of room on the inside. Believe it or not, there are up to 10 million dust mites inside a classic mattress. However, the good news is that they are harmless, yet they are often responsible for lots of indoor allergies.
While this aspect has nothing to do with your back, the thick and dense design of memory foam mattresses will keep dust mites away. There is not so much room for them to establish and congregate. In other words, having such a mattress, covering it with a hypoallergenic cover and keeping it clean will ensure dust mites will never be a problem again.
Memory foam relieves pressure points and provides support. Such benefits involve preventing further points as well. You will notice these changes in your pressure areas, such as your shoulders, hips and back. The comfort? Noticeable the first time you lay down. Pain prevention and relief? Part of your life after a few nights.
With these aspects in mind, memory foam is just as helpful for those with chronic problems that cause pains – fibromyalgia, arthritis and others. Comfort will improve right away. Since pains are drastically reduced, sufferers will benefit from a better and deeper sleep too.
Memory foam was initially used in medical institutions and hospitals. Its main role was quite obvious – extra cushioning, comfort and protection for patients. It was more common in intensive care units, but it was also used to cushion wheelchairs.
The general idea was fairly simple – if someone sits or lays in the same position for ages, their soft tissues and circulation will be affected, not to mention muscles and bones. Memory foam was used to prevent all these problems – no more pressure sores and almost no pain at all.
This is one of the reasons wherefore memory foam is so widely appreciated these days. This is not the type of material that will force you to contour to its interior. Instead, it will adjust to your shape. It will not push back like springs and will never put upward pressure on you. This is why the best mattress for back problems will always be based on memory foam.
Unless you sleep alone, motion will always be a problem. Whenever you move, your partner will feel it. Even if they do not always remember it, they will wake up dozens of times a night – and you will move a lot with a classic spring mattress. The same goes with you.
Such problems will be even more obvious for light sleepers or those with different sleeping schedules.
When it comes to memory foam, the material will absorb motion. It will isolate it, so you can literally turn around a hundred times trying to fall asleep – your partner will not really feel it. Whether you roll over or get out of bed, your partner will keep sleeping. Forget about bouncing around.
Memory foam is known to retain body heat. The first models on the market used to get quite hot. Practically, they were comfortable, but they became slightly uncomfortable due to the heat. The problem was quickly solved though – lots of aerated layers and holes to allow a proper air circulation. Plus, most people can adjust their thermostats to enjoy a comfortable sleep anyway.
Other than that, memory foam is often associated with an unusual chemical smell. The process is referred to as offgasing. Sorting it out is fairly simple – once unpacked, the mattress should be aired for at least a day or two before covering it with sheets.
Most manufacturers have found a better way to ensure their customers follow directions. They pack mattresses in tight packaging. The mattress will look a bit unusual at first, so it needs at least two days to recover its shape and size. This way, the smell will also dissipate.
Choosing the best mattress for back pain involves a bit of education and research. Having the top selling products at your disposal will, indeed, help. But then, you need to know what makes one mattress better than another.
Your bodyweight will help you choose the right level of firmness. As you will see, memory foam mattresses come with different levels of firmness.
Someone who weighs less than 130 pounds will feel better on a mattress with a medium or soft profile. After all, they are not too heavy, so they need less firmness for the foam to capture their contours. This rule is even more obvious for those who sleep on their sides.
On the same principle, someone who weighs over 230 pounds will most likely do better with a firm mattress – medium firm or even firmer. At this kind of weight, too much softness will have you sink down. While sinking can be comfy, going too far can have the opposite effect.
What is your favorite sleeping position? Everyone has one. Some people love sleeping on their stomachs, while others can only do it on their backs or sides. If you sleep on your side, there will be lots of pressure on hips and shoulders. You will do much better with a soft mattress. It allows you to sink down a bit, so you will have pressure relief and support for your entire body.
On the other hand, if you sleep on your stomach, firmness is a must. Otherwise, you will sink too deeply below the stomach. The same goes for back sleepers – you want softness and comfort, but you also need firmness.
Sharing the bed almost always asks for a memory foam mattress. But then, there is a little inconvenience in the process. What if you need a firm mattress and your partner needs a soft one? What if they simply cannot comply with the firmness you need?
Fortunately, bed manufacturers have thought about this aspect already. These days, you can find memory foam mattresses designed with dual levels of firmness. One side is firmer and the other one is softer. This might be a good mattress for back pain when you share, but make sure you bring your partner shopping.
The best way to get a good mattress involves trying it out. The bad news is that even if it seems comfy as you lay down, it may not feel so good when you have to spend eight hours on it. On another note, shopping online does not really involve trying the mattress – unless you try it out in a local store and buy the exact same model online at a better deal.
In order to avoid such issues, online manufacturers – and local manufacturers later on – have decided to offer sleeping trials. You buy the mattress and try it out for a particular amount of time. Make sure you have at least a month – usually, you will get around 90 days.
If you are not happy with it, you can normally get a refund or exchange it for a different model.
Most people believe shopping online will never give them a good idea about the firmness. There are, of course, some ratings in this industry – the indentation load deflection (ILD). The higher this number is, the firmer the mattress will be.
To help you get an idea about what to expect, if the ILD is 12, you should expect a very soft mattress – not soft, but very soft. If the ILD is 50, the mattress would be very firm. Lots of manufacturers opt for middle ranges – around 25.
You will notice that some of the top mattresses out there come with multiple layers. In other words, a top layer might have a 12 ILD for comfort, while the next layer could have a 40 ILD for firmness.
Choosing a good mattress for back pain also involves considering the foam. There are more types of foam out there and each of them comes with its unique particularities. So, what should you know before spending your money?
Traditional memory foam is the classic option. It hit the market in the 1990s and comes with basic advantages. It will provide support by eliminating pressure points and decreasing tension on joints, but it will also improve your circulation.
On a negative note, it tends to heat up under pressure. It also absorbs heat. If you tend to sleep hot anyway, this option may not necessarily be the best mattress for back pain for you. If you tend to use a blanket year round, it could do the trick.
Open cell memory foam responds much faster, so you will no longer experience sinking. It tends to stay at a normal temperature, so it disperses heat much easier than classic memory foam. In fact, it responds to the body temperature in the attempt to keep you comfortable for the entire night.
Gel memory foam takes technology even faster. It is currently the most innovative idea on the market because it keeps you cold and comfy. It disperses heat like no other type of foam. At the same time, it reduces pressure points at a more efficient rate.
As a short final conclusion, it takes a little research before investing in a mattress for back pain. You want its medicinal properties to be flawless, but you also want comfort, durability and a good experience. Knowing what to look for can lead you in the right direction.
Last update on 2024-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
