Back pain affects millions of people worldwide. Most of us have experienced it at some point in time or another. While various factors can cause back pain, one frequently overlooked factor is our sleeping habits and the mattress we snooze on.
The right mattress will support pressure points, promote good posture, and allow us to sleep more deeply. The wrong mattress, however, can cause us to wake up with aches and pains—or worse, cause irreparable damage and spine problems. After all, we spend about a third of our lives sleeping, and a comfy mattress is key to all of that!
So, in this article, we look at the importance of choosing the right mattress and all the features that you should look for when picking one.
The Importance Of A Good Mattress
A good mattress will give you the support to keep your spine aligned, alleviating pressure points and reducing the likelihood of aches and pains when you wake.
As you may be aware… Quality sleep is critical to overall well-being. A lack of sleep is detrimental to physical and mental health and is linked to impaired psychomotor function, mood swings, stress, and even dangerous situations when driving a vehicle or operating machinery.
Yet, an inferior mattress can cause you back and neck pain, hindering your night’s sleep and giving you spine problems in the long run. So, what type of mattress should you look for to fix your morning aches and pains?
Different Types Of Mattresses
Your choice of mattress depends deeply on your personal preferences, body, and health. What works for someone else might not work for you. So, here are some common types of mattresses in the market.
1. Spring Mattress
These mattresses are often more budget-friendly than others. They are constructed with steel spring coils that provide support and bounce, often pocketed. This means if you are sleeping with someone else, their tossing and turning won’t cause your “side” any movement.
While spring mattresses have better airflow and the coil systems usually offer enough support, the pressure relief and comfort might not be as good as other types like latex or memory foam.
2. Memory Foam
Memory foam mattresses are made from foam that conforms to the shape of your body and the pressure points, offering personalised support and relief. These mattresses distribute your weight evenly and are a hot favourite of those that have back pain or joint problems.
You can buy these mattresses in different firmness ratings. They are also excellent at isolating motion, which is a plus if you’re sleeping with someone else. However, they can retain heat and can be uncomfortable for hot sleepers.
3. Latex
Latex mattresses can be made from natural or synthetic latex, which offers incredible support and durability. They remain cool and comfortable over long periods, but they also can be pricey. They are also less common, so finding them might be tricky.
4. Hybrid
Hybrids combine spring and foam mattresses, so you’ll enjoy the benefits of both. They typically have a layer of coils for support with a topping that’s foam or latex.
Overall, it can help to go into a mattress shop and lie on the mattress to see how it suits you. It may further be beneficial to consult with a spinal expert beforehand who can offer advice pertinent to you and your situation.
So, if you’re suffering from back pain, you might need to retire your old mattress and get something more supportive for your spine! For optimal spine health, book an appointment with Bradford House Chiropractic & Wellness Centre. You have one body, and we would love to help you take care of it.