Looking for the best mattress for back pain relief that will prevent and relieve back pain? Do you want a product that will offer you perfect rest and allow you to wake up feeling refreshed? We have researched and put together a buying guide to make your work easy as you choose the best mattress for back pain relief. We have also included reviews for five of the best mattresses for back pain to assist you in making the right decision.
Even as you mull over the best mattress for back pain to buy, you should settle on a mattress that is likely to meet most of your needs. Several features make for the best mattress for back pain relief. It is important to be mindful of these factors whenever you shop around for mattresses for back pain.
Maximum spinal support
Mattress support is the ability of a mattress to maintain to the body level of the sleeper. Research shows that support plays a significant role in preventing and offering relief for pain, specifically in the shoulders, hips, and back.
Some of the factors that can potentially undermine mattress support are excessive firmness and excessive softness. However, according to complaints by mattress owners, the most common factor that undermines support is sagging. Sagging is brought about when part of the mattress becomes compressed and is positioned at a lower level than the rest of the mattress. Since this part will usually be the middle part, sagging puts the sleeper’s spine in an unnatural position, a factor that can result in back pain. Side and stomach sleepers are at a higher risk of developing pains due to sagging.
Mattresses with greater sagging depth are more likely to result in pains both when in bed and when out of bed.
Conforming ability
Conforming ability means how well a mattress can mold to the curves and contours of the person sleeping on it. When all of a person’s body is supported by a mattress equally, the mattress is said to have a good conforming ability.
When there is inadequate conforming ability, there is bound to be gaps in support. One part of the body, for instance, the lower back will be placed in a position that is unsupported, unnatural and therefore becomes stressed. Such a position is likely to lead to discomfort and pain.
When side sleepers sleep on a mattress that lacks conforming ability, some of their body parts will feel more pressure than others. This is because a lack of conformability results in unequal support for the different body parts. The uneven pressure is likely to be a source of discomfort or pain.
Mattress firmness
Mattress firmness is another feature that plays a major role in preventing and relieving back pain. There are different levels of mattress firmness.
Mattress type
There are different types of mattresses, each with its features that can help to relieve back pain. The mattresses are more supportive, have a great conforming ability, are less likely to sag and are more effective at reducing back, shoulder and hip pains. While some brands may go against the findings, the best mattresses for back pain relief are Futon, Innerspring, Water, Hybrid, Latex, Memory Foam and Air, in that order.
Longevity
In general, the frequency and extent of usage of a mattress are what will determine its working life. There is no standard life span for mattresses. The best mattress for back pain relief should allow you comfortable sleep without painful symptoms for a considerable period. Such a mattress should help you in maintaining a healthy posture and spine. On average, the best mattress for back pain should serve you for around 7 to 10 years.
Pillow loft
Besides mattress support, conforming ability and firmness, other factors can prevent and relieve back pain. Your choice of a pillow will complement the mattress in relieving back pain. A pillow that is compatible with your mattress, especially when it comes to firmness, will effectively prevent discomfort and pains to the shoulders, head, upper spine and neck.
Price and warranty
While price does not necessarily mean quality, you should not compromise on quality just to ease pressure on your wallet. With sufficient research, it is possible to find the best mattress for back pain relief at relatively affordable prices. A good mattress will also come with a manufacturer’s warranty to prevent any defects in materials or craft.