Tips for The Right Mattress for Lower Back Pain

Choosing the Right Mattress for Lower Back Pain

We have all experienced the discomfort of waking up with lower back pain and how it can ruin your day before it even begins. But have you considered that the culprit might be right under you – your mattress? Dr. Deryk Harting, a member of one of the highest rated auto injury care medical facilities in the Tampa Bay area, discusses the importance of choosing the right mattress for lower back pain. Sleeping on the wrong mattress can not only cause but also worsen lower back pain. It affects your sleeping posture, strains your muscles, and fails to keep your spine aligned, all of which contributes to discomfort.

One important factor to consider when choosing a mattress is personal preference. There’s no one size fits all solution for people with lower back pain. The best mattress is the one that allows you to sleep without pain and stiffness. It should meet your standards for comfort and support to ensure you get a restful night’s sleep. The mattress that works great for your friend might not be ideal for you. To make an informed choice, it is important to understand the physical components of a mattress:

• Coils and Springs: The coils or inner springs in a mattress provide support. The thickness of the wire, called the gauge number, determines firmness. A lower gauge number indicates thicker, stiffer wire and a firmer mattress. However, it is not just about the number of coils … you should find the right balance of support and comfort.
• Padding: Padding on top of the mattress can vary in thickness and materials. Materials like polyurethane foam, polyester, or cotton are commonly used. Thicker padding often provides more comfort, but it may come at a higher cost.
• Middle Padding: Located just below the quilted top layer, this foam layer can significantly affect how the mattress feels. Softer foams feel almost moist to the touch, while firmer foams won’t bounce back as quickly. The thickness of cotton batting can vary, creating different levels of firmness within the mattress.
• Insulation: This padding lies on top of the coil springs, preventing them from being felt from the top of the mattress. It also protects the coils from damaging the top layers.
• Ticking and Quilting: The outer layer of a mattress consists of ticking, usually made of polyester or a cotton-polyester blend in higher quality mattresses. Quilting attaches the ticking to the top layers of padding. Examine the stitching quality for consistency and unbroken stitches.
• Foundations: The mattress foundation or box spring adds an extra level of support. While plain wooden frames may make mattresses feel harder, frames with springs provide more cushioning. The Better Sleep Council recommends purchasing a foundation and mattress as a set to preserve the mattress’s longevity.

An ideal mattress should not only provide back support but also comfort. Sleeping on an overly firm mattress can lead to discomfort and pressure point pain. Look for a medium-firm mattress that allows your shoulders and hips to sink in slightly. If you need more back support, choose a mattress with thicker padding for added comfort.

Sometimes it is not about choosing a new mattress but recognizing when it is time to replace your old one. If your mattress sags visibly in the middle or is no longer comfortable, it is probably time for a replacement. Temporary fixes like placing boards under a sagging mattress are just that – temporary and may even result in more discomfort. When you are out shopping for a mattress, consider these tips to make a smart choice:

• Value over Price: Look for the best value and quality rather than fixating on price alone. A higher price tag does not necessarily guarantee better comfort or support. Mattress stores often have sales, so take your time to compare options. Don’t forget to read reviews and customer feedback if possible.
• Beware of Gimmicks: Be cautious of mattresses claiming to be “orthopedic” or “medically approved.” There is limited research on mattresses and back pain; be diligent to determine if extra features truly enhance comfort and support.
• Test It Out: In the store, lie on the mattress for several minutes and assess its comfort. Try sleeping on different makes and models in hotels or at friends’ homes. If sharing the mattress, both partners should test it simultaneously to confirm there is adequate space and comfort.
• Trustworthy Stores: Purchase from reputable stores or companies that offer good customer service, including delivery options, warranties, and old mattress removal. Ideally, look for a store with a return policy that allows you to return the mattress if it does not meet your comfort and quality standards after a trial period.

Once you have found the perfect mattress, make sure to increase its longevity by regularly repositioning it. Every six months, rotate it 180 degrees and flip it lengthwise to ensure even wear. Avoid placing your mattress on a box spring or foundation that is not designed to go with it, as this can reduce its lifespan.

Selecting the right mattress is crucial for a rejuvenating night’s sleep, especially if you suffer from lower back pain. While the market offers a vast variety of mattresses, understanding their physical components and following useful guidelines can help you make a well-informed decision.

— This article is written by Deryk Harting, DC, one of the members of Chambers Medical Group’s team of car accident chiropractors who offer a variety of treatments and therapies ranging from diagnostic testing to various soft tissue therapies for car accidents and injuries in Florida.

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Have you been in a car accident? If you or somebody you know has been in a car accident, be sure that you seek medical attention from a car accident doctor or car accident chiropractor to treat your injuries. Visit Chambers Medical Group  to receive world-class medical treatment for your injuries.

Chambers Medical Group has car accident medical clinics in the following locations:

• Car Accident Medical Clinic in Tampa
• Car Accident Medical Clinic in Plant City
• Car Accident Medical Clinic in Brandon
• Car Accident Medical Clinic in Lakeland
• Car Accident Medical Clinic in Sarasota
• Car Accident Medical Clinic in Louisville
• Car Accident Medical Clinic in Lexington
• Car Accident Medical Clinic in Florence