Find the Right Mattress for Your Back
By Sara Butler
Buying a mattress is a huge investment and one that is done only about once a decade. If you have back or neck pain, the kind of mattress you choose may be one of the most important decisions you make. After all, you spend about a third of your life in bed, so the mattress you buy is going to literally make or break your back and neck. Here are some pointers from a chiropractic perspective to help you get started.
Talk to Your Chiropractor
Before you begin even looking for a new bed and pillows, you should first discuss it with your chiropractor. This is because if there are underlying causes for the back or neck pain you suffer from, they can help point you in the right direction to start your search. Keep in mind your chiropractor is not a mattress expert, but they are an expert in the spine and have years of experience when it comes to dealing with patients who suffer from back and neck pain.
Try it Out
When you’re out mattress shopping, it can be a little awkward to lie down on the bed to try it out, but it’s a step you can’t skip. You need to lie on the mattress for at least 10 minutes, but 15 is even better. If you share a bed with a partner then you’ll want to bring them along so you can see how both of you fit in the bed together.
Buyer Beware
You may see a mattress described as “medically approved” or “orthopedic,” but these are just sales gimmicks to pique your interest. There is no official medical organization that certifies mattresses. A mattress may have features that make it orthopedic friendly, but you need to be aware that there’s not an organization that actually reviews specific mattresses and gives them a seal of approval.
If You Have Back Pain
Most of the time, a firm mattress isn’t going to be what you want if you suffer from back pain. A medium firm mattress is usually what you want to look for because you want something that is soft enough to mold to your body but firm enough to support the natural curvature of your spine. Comfort is largely a personal preference, but be aware that firmer isn’t always better.
If you have other questions about buying a mattress for your back pain, discuss it with your chiropractor during your next adjustment at The Joint!