by Katy Lindamood
Finding a mattress to reduce back pain provides a boost to your overall health. Because different types of back pain require different types of solutions, there is no cookie-cutter method to eliminating it. For most sufferers, though, there are specific mattress solutions that allow them to manage their pain most effectively. Take a look at the article below to learn about the best mattresses for back pain.
Osteoarthritis: For osteoarthritis sufferers, it's important to find a mattress that supports joints and allows a refreshing night's rest. Often, sufferers report that they feel better after sleeping on their sides, so a bed with a firm center may do the trick. A soft-centered bed will encourage sleepers to roll toward the center during their sleep cycle, thus removing the benefit and relief gained from sleeping on their sides.
Spinal stenosis: Adjustable beds are best for people who have spinal stenosis. Spinal stenosis pain and stiffness can be alleviated by sleeping curled up in a fetal position, but it's often difficult to sleep in that position for any length of time. The tendency of the body is to lie flat. A mattress that features independently adjustable head and foot sections is ideal; by raising the head and the feet, the position of the body more accurately resembles the fetal position.
Herniated disk: For sleepers with a herniated disk, a mattress with both adjustable firmness and geometry is essential. Based on the position of the disk, a firm mattress may not be the best choice. For patients with a paracentral herniation of the disk, sleeping on the stomach offers some relief, and a hard mattress can make this difficult and painful. A softer mattress is better for sleepers who must lie on their stomachs; they make it easier to breathe, too.
Degenerative disk disease: Commonly causing lower back pain, the symptoms of degenerative disk disease can often be mitigated by using a softer mattress. Using a soft mattress and placing a pillow beneath the hips while sleeping on the stomach can alleviate many of the symptoms of degenerative disk disease. Soft mattresses make it easier to place a pillow under the hips without affecting overall sleep geometry.
Nonspecific localized pain: For lower back pain without a definitive cause, it's often best to use an adjustable mattress. Back pain can often be alleviated by elevating the knees above the level of the rest of the body, which helps in reducing strain on the lumbar region.
The content on this site is not intended to substitute for the advice of a qualified physician, pharmacist or other licensed health-care professional. The products may have additional information and instructions on or inside the packaging that you should carefully read and follow. Contact your health-care provider immediately if you suspect that you have a medical problem.
