Many people see a mattress as just another purchase, but for others—like those with chronic back pain—it can be a life-saving game-changer.
Consider this: Around eight percent of all adults have some kind of persistent back pain—which comes out to roughly 16 million people. And health care costs associated with back pain add up to over $12 billion a year.
However, as we all know, not all mattresses are created equal. So which types of mattresses are best for back pain?
First, let’s make one thing clear: do not Google “which mattresses are best for back pain”. Not only is every person different but many mattress review websites are paid for by mattress manufacturers and have an editorial bias toward those brands.
The answer to this question is complicated and involves many different factors, but William Wellauer, co-owner of ESC Mattress Center, has some helpful advice.
“A lot of what you need in a mattress depends on your sleeping position,” Wellauer explains. “Side sleepers need something different than back or stomach sleepers. Making sure you get good support is key. This doesn't mean a firm or hard mattress, it just means getting your spine in proper alignment.”
Proper alignment means your shoulders and hips sink in on your side so your spine is straight. On your back, you want to feel like your lower back is supported. And on your stomach, you don't want to feel like you're hyper-extending your back (i.e. bending backward).
For these reasons, different types of mattresses will fit people differently.
“For example, pressure-relieving foams can help keep you from tossing and turning all night because it allows your shoulders and hips to sink in properly,” Wellauer says. “But if you're looking for the best at spinal alignment and pressure relief, Technogel or Latex are top-notch options. And if you’re more of an innerspring fan, going for a higher coil count (1000+) will give the mattress more points of conformability to provide superior spinal alignment.”
Remember, everyone sleeps differently and there isn’t one mattress to rule them all. To find the mattress that works for you, think about how you sleep, talk to an expert about your pain issues, and figure out which material will give you the best night’s sleep.
Family Owned E.S.C. Mattress Center believes sleep is a pillar of good health and offers all of the top brands such as Technogel, Posh & Lavish, DreamCloud, Southerland Sleep, and King Koil. They give you a year to try any mattress $999 or over with no restocking fees.
E.S.C. Mattress Center is located at 10121 Evergreen Way, Ste. 30, Everett. They’re rated 5 stars on Yelp and Google, “A+” rated with the Better Business Bureau, and are the three-time winner of the Herald Readers’ Choice Award. For more information, call (425) 512-0017 or visit in person.
