How to Alleviate Back Pain with the Right Mattress

If you have lower back pain or stiffness as soon as you wake up in the morning, the chances are high that your mattress needs to be replaced. Sleeping on the wrong mattress can cause or worsen lower back pain. Lack of support from a mattress reinforces poor sleeping posture, strains muscles and does not help keep the spine in alignment, all of which contribute to low back pain, according to SpineHealth.com.

“Sleep comfort is also sacrificed if a mattress does not match one's individual preferences. A mattress that provides both comfort and back support helps reduce low back pain, allowing the structures in the spine to really rest and rejuvenate during the night.” You'll want mattresses with extra support for back pain that help you maintain neutral alignment, whether sleeping on your back, stomach, or side.

Many people wonder if new premium mattresses will really help with relieving back pain and, if so, what kind should they buy. The answer is yes; there are various ways to ease these pains, one of which is to purchase back pain relief mattresses. While it’s not the only thing that matters when it comes to relieving back pain, it is perhaps the most important. After all, a good night’s sleep is often the best way to alleviate back pain, stiffness and soreness.

So where do you start in your search for mattresses for back pain? Several factors will influence your buying decision. When perusing and choosing, you should consider:

1. Mattress Firmness and Sleeping Position: A medium-firm mattress can provide enough support without putting too much pressure on your spine. However, the ideal firmness depends on your body weight and sleeping position. Heavier people may need a firmer mattress, while softer mattresses may be better for people who prefer a softer lie. A mattress that's too soft can cause your spine to sink out of alignment, while a mattress that's too firm can create pressure points. Many consumers believe in error that firm mattresses are best for back pain and soreness. Contrary to that belief, an unusually hard surface isn’t the answer. The best mattress depends on your sleep style and body type. According to the mattress experts at Saatva:

a. back sleepers should opt for a slightly firmer mattress with ample cushioning for spinal alignment.

b. Stomach sleepers need a medium-firm to firm mattress for pressure relief.

c. Side sleepers should opt for a soft mattress to support natural curves.

d. Combination sleepers will benefit from a medium-firm mattress with latex for easy movement.

2. Mattress Pressure Relief Capability: A good mattress for back pain should relieve pressure on your joints and the bony parts of your body.

3. Mattress Materials: Different materials can affect the level of support and comfort a mattress provides. Popular options include memory foam, latex, and innerspring mattresses. Memory foam and latex are the most commonly recommended mattress materials for back pain. Both materials conform to your body and provide pressure relief where you really need it. 100% memory foam mattresses and hybrid mattresses -- which combine springs with memory foam and/or latex -- are both good choices.

Sleep Architecture Mattress Store has some recommendations and top mattress choices for back pain relief:

1. The Posh + Lavish Flux Mattress is a plush, all-natural latex and memory foam premium mattress. The materials offer more contouring while you sleep, making you supremely comfortable and easing pressure points and back pain.

2. The Magniflex Dolce Vita Dual 14 Mattress allows you to choose different comfort levels by flipping the cores: a soft side for a cozy sensation, and a medium-soft side for extra support for your back.

3. The M Lily Fusion Orthopedic Mattress is a firm hybrid mattress option that provides awesome support for those with back pain or joint issues. It distributes body pressure evenly for joint and back support and includes a layer of ventilated gel AeroFusion memory foam to provide added breathability.

4. The Balance ErgoMax 13” Cusion Firm Hybrid Mattress provides the ultimate in memory foam zoning comfort and support. It properly supports the sleeper by reducing pressure points at the shoulders, hips, and lower legs while bridging support to the lower back area and the upper legs.

As you can see, you can find luxury mattresses for back pain relief with some effort and research. Stop into the Sleep Architecture Mattress Store showroom anytime and let a highly trained Sleep Architect guide you or peruse our back pain mattresses here. In the meantime, remember:

1. The mattress should keep your spine properly aligned.

2. Test drive your mattresses for a good 10-15 minutes each.

3. Tell your salesperson about your specific pain and sleeping position.

4. Choose medium-firm if you have any doubts, not plush.