Buying the Right Mattress to Avoid Back Pain

Do you wake up with an aching back? Are you sleeping on a mattress, which is more than 10 years old? Do you struggle to find a comfortable spot, as you hit lumps, crevices or springs?

It’s definitely time to buy a new mattress! Luckily, during the holiday season and many other times during the year, you can take advantage of mattress sales.

Check Firmness, Height and Angle

To help you get a good night’s sleep and protect your back, here are some tips for selecting the right mattress:

• Correct level of firmness: If you’re suffering from back pain, you may think that an ultra-firm mattress is the answer. Although you need the proper support, a mattress that is too firm can be equally problematic as one that is too soft. Select a mattress that balances adequate support for your weight with comfort. You can also consider sleep number options, which allow you to adjust the firmness each night.

• Right height for your size: If you’re twisting your back just trying to get into bed, it may be too high for your height. Ask about lower options without 4-inch pillow tops. Check about lower box springs, which will help those of a petite size sit comfortably before swinging their legs up on the mattress.

• Flexibility in back angle: Some advanced mattress models allow you to raise the back to a preferred height. Lifting the back of your mattress may ease the pressure on your lower back. Try different angles, so you can find a comfortable position. However, avoid going to extremes and placing additional stress on the lumbar region.

Stretch Out in the Store

When shopping for a mattress, be sure to stretch out on each one you’re considering in the store. Spend at least 5 minutes on your back. Then, turn to each side, and check your ease of movement maneuvering in and out of bed. Take your time selecting the right mattress for your own needs, so you can ease back discomfort and get restorative sleep.

If you continue to wake up with back pain, call Non-Surgical Orthopaedics at 770-421-1420 for immediate relief now.