Getting a good night’s sleep is absolutely integral to good spinal health. Sometimes, though that isn’t possible. According to the U.S. National Sleep Foundation, 92 percent of people believe that a comfortable mattress is important for good, restful sleep. A bad mattress, or one that is old, or one that is simply wrong for your body can contribute to sleep deprivation, lower back pain, headaches, stiff neck, and anxiety and depression. With so much at stake, it’s easy to see just how important it is to select a good mattress.
Ask about how the Mattress is Made
Learn about the construction of a mattress and what the different components mean for your comfort. Different mattresses have different coils and they are arranged differently. The padding can vary in thickness. The depth of the mattress can range from 7 inches to 18 inches on the average. Understanding the various components of a mattress can make it easier for you to find the one that is right for you.
Look for Comfort as well as Support
A good mattress is comfortable and has good support. Support is good but if you don’t have comfort your mattress won’t be effective.
If a mattress is too firm (too much support) it will cause pain on your body’s pressure points. You want your hips and shoulders to slightly sink into the mattress. However, if you prefer a mattress that is firmer to support your back, you can get one with padding on top.
Don’t let Price be the Determining Factor
You naturally want to get the most for your dollar, but remember that you get what you pay for. A cheap mattress can translate to a poor quality mattress.
Look for quality and value rather than price. If money is an issue, do some comparison shopping to find the mattress you want for the best price.
Sales are another way to save money on your mattress purchase, but look out for advertising gimmicks. Know the meaning of the terms that are used and know what you are looking for before you go for that so-called great deal.
Educate yourself on the Different Mattress Types
Do you want a memory foam mattress or would a latex mattress work better for you? What exactly is an innerspring mattress? Are adjustable beds really all they are cracked up to be? Do some research and brush up on the different types of mattresses so that you can approach your shopping trip with confidence and as an educated consumer. It will definitely work in your favour.
In the end, it’s all about personal preference
There is no mattress that is a one size (or type) fits all. Different people will respond differently to mattresses. The best thing to do is try them out. Spend at least 20 minutes laying on the mattress before you make the decision to purchase or not. There are even some companies now that offer free shipping and returns so you can try a mattress for a certain number of days in your own home.
Finally, if you find that your quality of sleep has recently gotten worse, that you are tossing and turning or wake up with pain in your back, neck, or head, it could be time to change your mattress – or pillow (see our post about pillows here). If you can see your mattress sagging, that could be another indication that it is time to get a new one.
Mattresses are designed to withstand a certain degree of wear and tear, but they don’t last forever. The quality of the mattress, the weight that is on the mattress, and other factors contribute to how quickly it wears out. So if you notice any of the warning signs it may be time to get a new mattress so that you can get back to peaceful, restful sleep. If you have any questions about what mattress might be right for your own conditions, Dr. Caulfield or any of us here at Surrey Family Chiropractic & Massage are happy to help.