A peaceful night’s sleep is the key to a happy day and a healthy life. Several different factors will contribute to this – the room temperature, stress level, comfort – but even with these in check, a restful slumber can only be achieved by starting with basics. And your mattress makes up a very significant part of the sleep equation. If you have been strolling down a bedding store or been in the market for a new mattress, you have probably noticed the dizzying array from which to choose.
How can you tell which mattress is best for you? Essentially, your choice of a mattress has to be able to support your body and pressure points in a neutral position for proper alignment to avoid a scenario that may result in an achy morning. That said, the following are effective tips for choosing a mattress:
Type
The four common types of mattresses are spring, pocket spring, latex and memory foam. Spring mattresses are much lighter than most others and tend to be less supportive making them more ideal where they are occasionally used or need regular replacement. Pocket spring mattresses are more breathable and thus great for those who get too hot at night and can cater for people of different weights minimizing the risk of rolling.
Latex mattresses are incredibly durable, and an excellent option for people with allergies and asthma but they tend to develop dents and lumps over extended periods of use. Memory foam mattress for back pain is made from a moldable material that responds to weight and temperature and has hypoallergenic properties. Generally, memory foam mattresses have been acknowledged for providing better support that ensures reduced chances of suffering from pressure point pains.
Firmness
Mattress firmness usually depends on your weight, height and sleeping position. Side sleepers and those who often change positions while sleeping are better suited to soft mattresses that mold to their body’s natural position as pressure is already relieved from the spine. Back sleepers have a better chance of getting lower back support by using a mattress of medium firmness.
Firm mattresses are ideal for stomach sleepers and those suffering from back pain as they keep the back relatively stable and comfortable preventing you from sinking when you sleep and averting the risk of back pain.
Body Weight
Your weight pretty much affects the kind of mattress you need regarding size and firmness. If you are heavier, you will need a firmer mattress. A mattress needs to be able to accommodate your weight while providing better support when coupled with the frequency of sleep and pressure applied to it.
This should be able to minimize the risk of long-term back pain. If you go for a mattress that’s relatively soft, you skip the luxury of proper support for pressure points and increase the chances of waking up to an aching body.
Verdict
A good mattress has to provide both comfort and support for everyone including those with back problems. While firm mattresses are often recommended by most retailers, find a mattress that aligns perfectly with your body when sleeping and one that relieves pressure points along the joints and spine.
This has a lot to do with such factors as your weight, the type of the mattress and its firmness. However, it’s best to try a mattress before buying to be sure it’s best for you as there are retailers who offer a trial period and a money-back guarantee.
