Why Is Back Pain Worse When Lying Down
But why does your back pain occur when youre getting into bed? Most people who experience back pain have strained muscles. Not sitting up straight at the desk or lounging unsupported on the couch can cause specific muscles to contract over long periods.
You may not notice it at the moment or when youre up walking around because theres no pressure on them. But when your back hits an unsupportive bed, those sensitive, strained, and damaged muscles are agitated.
And that added pressure on the affected part of your back causes those muscles to hurt.
What Is Memory Foam
First designed in the mid-1960s for NASA airplane seats, memory foam is made from a substance called viscoelastic. It is both highly energy absorbent and soft.
Memory foam molds to the body in response to heat and pressure, evenly distributing body weight. It then returns to its original shape once you remove the pressure.
In addition to protecting against impact, these properties make memory foam very comfortable. After its “virgin flight” for NASA, memory foam made a foray into other applications. For example, it was used as cushioning in helmets and shoes. Medicine found a use for it in prosthetics and products to prevent pressure ulcers such as seating pads for people who are severely disabled.
Then, memory foam really took off. It’s now well known for its use in pillows, mattress pads, and mattresses, which come in different densities and depths.
How Do I Know Whether A Mattress Is Right For Me
Ultimately, the best mattress for a bad back will depend on your needs and symptoms. Everyone has a different sleeping style, so the right mattress for you is one which will support your individual sleeping posture. Take a look at our guides to the best mattress and pillow for side sleepers, front sleepers, and back sleepers to learn which bedding is the right choice for your sleep styling.
At Dormeo, we understand what a big decision choosing the right mattress can be, especially if you suffer from back pain. We know that a mattress may seem comfortable when you first try it out but, after a few days, you may realise that its not the right style for you. That’s why we offer a 60 Night Comfort Guarantee, so you can be sure your mattress is the perfect model for you. So, if you’re still not enjoying your best-ever sleep after 60 nights, or your back pain isn’t improving, then you can return your mattress for a full refund, or exchange it for an alternative model.
At Dormeo, we want you to order with confidence, so if you’re still unsure about anything, then contact our team of Sleep Experts, who will be happy to help. Our sleep expert blog and advice centre are also great resources if youre looking for more information on all things sleep.
Customer Service:
Recommended Reading: Bolster Pillow For King Size Bed
Best Mattress For Back Pain Video
Watch our video below to learn more about our labs top mattress picks for sleepers with back pain.
Below are the mattresses that weve awarded the highest ratings for sleepers with back pain, and each one has received an accolade showcasing its strongest points. Scroll down for detailed information about each mattress, including how and where to buy them. Weve also included a buyers guide further below that covers why people experience back pain in bed, which types of mattresses are best for back pain, and how to pick out the right mattress based on its materials and construction. If youre looking for more bedding solutions to help with your back pain, check out our list of Best Mattress Toppers for Back Pain.
A Zoned Model Thats Firm In The Middle And Softer At The Edges
- Materials: Pocketed coils, wool comfort layers
- Firmness level: Medium-firm
- Trial period: 100 nights
Made with layers of pure New Zealand wool and 100% organic cotton, the Parachute Eco Comfort Mattress is another eco-friendly mattress that can help alleviate back pain. It has two layers of pocketed steel coils, and its designed to be firm in the middle for back support and softer at the head and feet for pressure point relief and spinal alignmentgreat for combination sleepers. In between the coils is a comfort layer made from real wool, and the whole thing is wrapped in an organic cotton cover.
Memorial Day sale: While supplies last, everything is 20% off at Parachute. Act fast to take advantage of serious savings on this mattress and other bedding must-haves.
Read Also: Does Aleve Help Back Pain
Read Also: Can I Put A Nectar Mattress On A Box Spring
Why Does My Memory Foam Mattress Hurt My Back
Memory foam mattresses are supposed to be the ideal foam for getting rid of back pains. However, when instead of reducing the pain, the bed starts to magnify it, what do you do?
Generally, memory foams are an excellent reliever of back pains, but it may not work for everyone. Heres why your memory foam hurts your back.
- Bed Foam Topper
The thickness and density of your bed foam topper can make all the difference when it comes to stopping backaches. This is especially so for back sleepers. It determines how firm the topper will be and also how effective itll be in providing body support. A too firm or too soft topper is no good.
When it comes to memory foams, your physique and the shape of your body matters a lot. Typically, memory foam work more for slim and skinnier body types. This is because their bones stick out and need more support. For people that have Fuller bodies, a semi-firm mattress with a density lower than 5 pounds will be ideal.
How Do I Know If My Mattress Is Causing My Back Pain
In general, memory foam mattress doesnt usually cause back pain. Most sleepers prefer memory foam to innerspring mattresses. The only thing that might trigger your back pain is your body weight and shape. Some people easily sink into the memory foam while creating misalignment on their spine which can cause your back pain.
In other words, not all sleepers can take advantage of memory foam mattresses. If your weight is evenly distributed through your body, then you can benefit from memory foam. Heavy sleepers, on the other hand, may not enjoy the same experience as their weight is heavier in specific areas. As a result, they easily sink into the memory foam which gives them spine misalignment and back pain.
Ideally, a memory foam mattress can adjust to different body shapes while making sure that bodyweight is evenly distributed throughout the surface of the mattress. In return, it relieves your spine and neck from extra pressure. If you keep on having back pain issues upon waking up, then its likely that your mattress is causing the problem.
Read Also: Vacuflat Queen Mattress Bag
You May Like: Are Memory Foam Mattresses Good For Side Sleepers
How Can You Tell That Your Mattress Is Causing Back Pain
Theres a good chance that your mattress is the cause of your back pain if you wake up with back ache that dissipates throughout the day only to return the next morning you wake up in the night frequently, you toss and turn, and/or your mattress is more than 8 years old but you should always consult with your doctor to be sure.
A Buoyant Design That Contours To Your Body And Keeps Cool
Type: Hybrid | Firmness: Luxury firm | Delivery: Bed in a box | Trial: 120 nights | Warranty: Lifetime
The Nolah Natural 11-Inch Mattress is a layered hybrid mattress that utilizes Talalay latexone of the most premium mattress materials you can findto provide targeted pressure relief. Theres one 2-inch latex comfort layer that conforms to your joints and pressure points, and another inch of higher density latex that supports your body weight so you dont sink into the mattress, which is a common reason for back pain. The latex is reinforced by a zoned coil base that allows some give where you need it, but extra support where you dont. These layers are sandwiched between organic wool and cotton that offer breathability and natural temperature regulation, a bonus for hot sleepers .
What the reviews say: Talalay latex layers gently contour pain points, shares one expert review via SleepFoundation.org. My spine felt supported all night and I didnt wake up achy from sinking too far into the mattress.
Also Check: How To Return Box Mattress
Cost Of A Memory Foam Mattress
Memory foam mattresses were first popularized in the 1990s. The varying degrees of foam are soft, firm, or a combination of the two. Some people prefer memory foam over innersprings because of its unique ability to mold to the shape of your body and alleviate pressure points. However, memory foam does not provide the same amount of spinal support as an innerspring mattress. To get the best of both worlds, you should consider a hybrid mattress. The downside is that hybrid mattresses can be expensive.
One of the best things about memory foam mattresses is their cooling properties. This is important for people with back pain, because most other materials have cooling properties that dont actually stay that cool. A mattress that is cool to the touch isnt always the best option even if it is the best option. Memory foam tends to sleep warm, so be prepared to spend a little more on a cooling mattress.
If youre interested in learning more about memory foam mattresses, there are some good reviews online. In addition to writing product reviews, Camryn Rabideau is a freelance writer who contributes to several outlets. She holds a B.S. in textiles and merchandising from the University of Rhode Island. Elizabeth Yuko is an experienced health writer who suffers from back pain on occasion and is constantly looking for solutions to her sleep problems.
Are Memory Foam Mattresses Good For Your Back
Can a memory foam mattress help you to sleep better at night and support a healthier sleeping posture? It just might! If youre not getting enough restful and restorative sleep at night, or you wake up in the morning with a sore, stiff back, then your mattress may be to blame. You might be willing to try just about anything to improve your sleep situation, but is memory foam the answer? Heres what the chiropractors at The Joint have to say about his subject!
What is Memory Foam?
First and foremost, all chiropractors want people to know that every single person is different as is their body. What works for you may not work for someone else, so you have to keep that in mind as you seek out answers for your sleeping problems. Quite simply, mattress experiences are subjective, so your neighbor may swear by their memory foam but it may not be right for you. In order to have an idea if its the answer to your nighttime problem, you first need to learn about the good and the bad of memory foam.
The Pros and Cons
The pros of memory foam include:
- Long lasting, durable material
The cons of memory foam include:
- Can give off an offensive odor when new
- Dense material that results in a heavy mattress
- Traps heat causing the user to become uncomfortable
You May Like: How To Use An Inversion Table For Lower Back Pain
Recommended Reading: What Size Twin Mattress For Bunk Bed
Can A Mattress Cause Back Pain 11 Warning Signs
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice.
Can a mattress cause back pain? If you constantly wake up with a stiff, sore back, you may wonder if your mattress is the culprit.
If your mattress is old, isnt a good match for your body, or is otherwise not ideal for supporting your favorite sleep position, it could be contributing to back pain. Lets take a look at some signs that your mattress may be a factor.
You May Like: How Long Can Back Pain Last
Nothing Nothing Helps You Sleep Better Than This Mattress
Review of prior model .
For people looking for a personalized sleep setup with luxurious features.
- Full suite of customizable features for a personalized sleep setup.
- Zero Gravity position helps relax your body for balanced comfort.
- Anti-Snore raises your head and chest to reduce pressure on your airway and keep you comfortably asleep.
- Wall-aligning technology keeps everything you need within reach.
- Personalized presets save your favorite positions.
For people looking for an elevated sleep setup with customizable features.
- Offers flexibility to cater your individual sleep needs.
- Zero Gravity position helps relax your body for balanced comfort.
- Anti-Snore raises your head and chest to reduce pressure on your airway and keep you comfortably asleep.
- Customizable presets save your favorite positions.
For people looking for sturdy support and simple setup.
- No-tool, easy assembly
For those who have aches and pains and want maximum support with cooling features.
- Top perforated foam layer increases airflow + 2 layers to keep you cool all night.
- A thin coating of cooling gel.
- Continuous ergonomic zones for full-body relief.
- Softer foam around the shoulders provides more relief to the upper body.
- Gel pods under the waist and lower back for healthy spine alignment.
For those who want a plush top layer without sacrificing support and cooling.
You May Like: How Can I Dispose Of A Mattress
What Is The Best Mattress For Side Sleepers With Back Pain
Memory foam and latex foam are two of the best options for side sleepers. They can fill the space around the waist and lower back while relieving pressure at the hips and shoulders. A hybrid is a good option for couples because it balances support with responsiveness. Hybrids can also be a good choice if you prefer a more responsive mattress. In general, a medium-firm or firm mattress, no matter the type, will be the best firmness for those with back pain.
What To Do If You Wake Up With Back Pain Because Of Your Tempur Mattress
I read some people are desperate because they spent a lot of money on their new bedding that gives them back pain and, now what ? They cant just throw it away or return the mattress.
If this is your case, consider purchasing a topper: not a Tempur topper, nor a memory foam topper either: you have back pain in the morning because you need more support during the night and yes, I know, buying a topper is spending more money, but you dont want to spend you nights in pain or wake up with back pain in morning, so if you cant return the mattress, a topper is an acceptable option.
Don’t Miss: Does Financing A Mattress Build Credit
What Makes The Tempur
- This high-end mattress topper will significantly soften a mattress, and its great for back and side sleepers.
- It features 3 of luxurious Tempur material.
- The TEMPUR-Topper Supreme is fantastic for a variety of different body types. Whether youre lightweight or heavier, this topper will provide soothing pressure relief.
Read our full TEMPUR-Topper Supreme review.
The TEMPUR-Topper Supreme is a soft memory foam mattress topper. It should be a good match for back sleepers, side sleepers, and fans of slow-moving memory foam.
Are Mattress Toppers Bad For Your Back
Mattress toppers are not bad for your back, but its important to find the right one for your needs. For example, stomach sleepers should look for something that will make their bed feel firmer, such as the Avocado or Lift By Amerisleep Support topper. Side sleepers may need more pressure relief, and they could benefit from the ViscoSoft or TEMPUR-Topper Supreme. If you want to find the best topper for you, check out our buyers guide!
You May Like: Why Is My Lower Back Aching
Don’t Miss: Is Zinus A Good Mattress Brand
What Are The Advantages Of Using A Memory Foam Mattress
While heat retention is a negative to some, it may be a positive to others. Heat retention can actually help to soften the memory foam and makes it easy to mold to your body. When you get up and remove the body heat, the memory foams elasticity comes into play and puts the foam to its original position. Because the mattress molds to your body, it helps support your body in a way that works for you.Memory foam mattresses also offer the benefit of pain relief for many users. Certain pressure spots are damaged with the use of regular mattresses. This is worse for individuals who have arthritis, muscle and joint pains, and chronic back pain. Memory foam is typically more forgiving in these problem areas, providing necessary cushioning for a better night’s sleep.One of the often overlooked advantages of memory foam mattresses? It’s better than regular mattresses for individuals with allergies. Most memory foam mattresses not only act as a allergen barrier, but they are often made using hypoallergenic materials. This means less problems for your allergies and better sleep.
What Is A Hybrid Mattress
A hybrid mattress combines foam with an innerspring mattress. It contains layers of spring coils and foam or natural fiber.
A hybrid mattress offers the qualities of both foam and spring mattresses. Innerspring coils provide support, firmness, and a slight bounce. The foam layers contour to the body and increase comfort.
Some pros and cons of a hybrid mattress include:
You May Like: How Much Should A Full Size Mattress Cost
Check With Your Doctor To See What He Or She Thinks
If you have a back or neck problem, talk to your doctor or physical therapist about your alternatives. Try to keep your neck and lower back neutral when lying on the mattress. This aids in the normal alignment of the spine. While doctors aren’t mattress experts, they are familiar with your medical history and may be able to provide helpful advice.
