Choosing a new mattress that is comfortable, supportive, and high quality is important to help people with low back pain get a sound night's sleep. And marketing messages, promotions and special features can make shopping for the right mattress a challenge.
By understanding the physical composition of a bed mattress and being prepared to ask questions about the interior of a mattress, individuals can accurately evaluate and compare mattresses. Some mattress stores will offer cutaway views of the interior; this is a good aid in understanding and gauging mattress quality.
Mattress springs and coils provide back support. The wire in the coils comes in different thicknesses, where a lower gauge number denotes thicker, stiffer wire and a firmer mattress. A higher concentration of steel coils may indicate a higher quality mattress, but this does not mean that the highest number is best: patients should use their own judgment regarding which mattress is best suited to provide support and help alleviate their low back pain. Remember, this will also benefit your posture and wellbeing in a major way.
Middle padding in a mattress. This type of mattress padding is just below the quilted top layer and is usually made with foam. When looking at a cross-section of the mattress, softer foams feel almost moist to the touch while firmer foams won't spring back as quickly. Keep this in mind and make sure you cross compare mattresses when looking to purchase. Lie down and think if you realistically will want to sleep on the mattress.
Mattress foundations. The mattress foundation or box spring adds another level of support to the mattress. Foundations usually consist of a wooden or metal frame with springs. A plain wooden frame may make mattresses feel harder than a frame with springs. A wood mattress foundation should only be purchased if the wood has no cracks and is straight. Look on both sides and make sure the retailer is not trying to hold back on any information or hide any damage which may have been incurred.
Asking questions, requesting written product information and examining each mattress thoroughly will help patients become more educated consumers. By following the practical guidelines for selecting a new mattress, patients will be well equipped to find the best mattress for sleep comfort, back support and reducing low back pain. More crucially, they will also be able to expect to have a good nights sleep.
By understanding the physical composition of a bed mattress and being prepared to ask questions about the interior of a mattress, individuals can accurately evaluate and compare mattresses. Some mattress stores will offer cutaway views of the interior; this is a good aid in understanding and gauging mattress quality.
Key aspects of a good mattress
Mattress springs and coils provide back support. The wire in the coils comes in different thicknesses, where a lower gauge number denotes thicker, stiffer wire and a firmer mattress. A higher concentration of steel coils may indicate a higher quality mattress, but this does not mean that the highest number is best: patients should use their own judgment regarding which mattress is best suited to provide support and help alleviate their low back pain. Remember, this will also benefit your posture and wellbeing in a major way.
Middle padding in a mattress. This type of mattress padding is just below the quilted top layer and is usually made with foam. When looking at a cross-section of the mattress, softer foams feel almost moist to the touch while firmer foams won't spring back as quickly. Keep this in mind and make sure you cross compare mattresses when looking to purchase. Lie down and think if you realistically will want to sleep on the mattress.
Mattress foundations. The mattress foundation or box spring adds another level of support to the mattress. Foundations usually consist of a wooden or metal frame with springs. A plain wooden frame may make mattresses feel harder than a frame with springs. A wood mattress foundation should only be purchased if the wood has no cracks and is straight. Look on both sides and make sure the retailer is not trying to hold back on any information or hide any damage which may have been incurred.
Asking questions, requesting written product information and examining each mattress thoroughly will help patients become more educated consumers. By following the practical guidelines for selecting a new mattress, patients will be well equipped to find the best mattress for sleep comfort, back support and reducing low back pain. More crucially, they will also be able to expect to have a good nights sleep.