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August 31, 2023
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Revealed: The Best Mattresses for Back Pain in 2023
By Endy Admin
Back pain can make life challenging but it doesn’t have to ruin a good night’s sleep! If you have back pain, you’re not alone: Estimates of lifetime prevalence are as high as 84% in the adult population (source).A good rest is key for recovering from back pain. And a good mattress is your best friend when it comes to getting over a bout of back pain.If you suffer from back pain, it’s important to select a mattress that helps you manage your back pain rather than worsens it. Good news: We’re here to help you find the best mattress for back pain!
‘Back Pain’ Covers a Wide Range of Issues
Back pain can range from a dull, constant ache to a sudden, sharp pain (or spasm). You may know exactly why you’re feeling it: A day of lifting boxes or heavy objects, pushing yourself too hard when working out, or even sleeping in an awkward position can lead to a sore back. But the cause may also be more ambiguous: A general sense of weakness or wear that causes aching.Pain can also manifest in different areas of your back. While the most common area is the lower back, you might also feel pain in your shoulders and upper back or the base of the neck. Understanding the cause of your back pain will go a long way to helping you manage it in the long term (with support from your healthcare provider). Here are some of the different kinds of back pain:
Acute Back Pain
This type of back pain occurs suddenly and typically lasts for a short duration, usually a few days to a few weeks. It can result from a specific injury, strain, or sprain. Some good news: Acute back pain often resolves on its own with rest, over-the-counter pain medication, and self-care measures.
Chronic Back Pain
Chronic back pain refers to persistent or recurring pain that lasts for more than three months. It may result from an initial injury, medical condition, or a combination of these. Chronic back pain can significantly impact daily life and often requires comprehensive treatment, including medical intervention, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes. A new mattress that provides better support can definitely be part of those lifestyle changes.
Mechanical Back Pain
Mechanical back pain is also known as non-specific back pain and is typically related to the structures of the spine, such as muscles, ligaments, and joints. A very common experience many of us share, this can be caused by poor posture, muscle imbalances, overuse, or improper lifting techniques. Sore after a day or moving or an intense workout? This is your culprit.
Radicular Pain
Radicular pain is caused by irritation or compression of a spinal nerve root. It often radiates along the path of the nerve, resulting in pain, tingling, or numbness in the buttocks, legs, or feet. This is less common and caused by conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or sciatica can cause radicular pain.
Referred Pain
Referred pain occurs when pain experienced in one area of the body is felt in another area. For example, back pain originating from internal organs, like the kidneys or pancreas, can be felt in the back. Referred pain can make it challenging to identify the precise source of the pain.
What to Look for in a Mattress to Help Relieve Back Pain
When looking for a mattress to help with back pain, there are several features you should consider. Here are some key features to look for:
Optimal Support
Optimal support is crucial for alleviating back pain. Look for a mattress that provides proper spinal alignment by supporting the natural curvature of your spine. The mattress should evenly distribute your body weight, preventing excessive sinking or sagging.
Medium-Firm Firmness
While personal preference plays a role, a medium-firm to firm mattress is generally recommended for back pain. A mattress that is too soft may not provide enough support, while one that is too firm can create excessive pressure points. Aim for a balance between comfort and support.
Pressure Relief
A mattress that effectively relieves pressure points can help reduce back pain. Look for materials that contour to your body's curves and distribute pressure evenly. Foam and hybrid mattresses are often good options for pressure relief.
Spinal Alignment
The mattress should promote proper spinal alignment. It should support the natural curves of your spine, keeping it in a neutral position. This helps reduce strain on the back and minimizes pain. Pay attention to how the mattress feels in different sleeping positions to ensure it maintains proper alignment.
Motion Isolation
If you share your bed with a partner, consider a mattress with good motion isolation. This feature reduces the transfer of motion from one side of the bed to the other. It can help prevent disturbances from your partner's movements, allowing for better sleep and less back pain.
Durability
Choose a mattress that is durable and retains its supportive qualities over time. A mattress that quickly sags or loses support can exacerbate back pain. Look for high-quality materials and consider factors like the mattress's warranty and customer reviews to gauge its durability.
Temperature Regulation
Some individuals with back pain find that heat can exacerbate their symptoms. Look for a mattress with cooling properties, such as breathable materials, to help maintain a comfortable sleep temperature.
Look No Further! Two Amazing Mattress Options for Back Pain
While no mattress can promise to cure back pain, getting a good night’s sleep will help your body heal and recover and alleviate the frustration that comes from sleepless nights caused by back pain. At Endy, we have two mattresses that are both solid (well, erm, medium-firm ;)) options for people with back pain.
1. The Endy Hybrid Mattress
The Endy Hybrid Mattress is a customer favourite among those struggling with back pains. It combines the benefits of our acclaimed Endy Comfort foam with durable pocket springs (aka an innerspring mattress.) Canadian-made steel coils bring extra support to the areas that need it most, balanced by a plush, quilted top layer.You can rest assured: The Endy Hybrid Mattress is proudly made in Canada. Our latex-free mattresses are made of medium-firm foam poured locally at facilities in Ontario and Quebec for quality you can trust.
2. The Endy Mattress
Another great option (at a lower price point) is the Endy Mattress. It boasts optimal firmness and pressure-point relief. Plus, you can stay cool and comfortable all night long with Endy’s breathable open-cell foam layers. It’s designed to provide better airflow and comfort than traditional memory foam. Even better! All our mattresses arrive in a handy box to make your life easier. No in-store mattress appointments or in-home staircase pivoting is necessary!
Pillow Selection Also Plays a Huge Role!
We’d be neglectful if we didn’t also mention the importance of your pillow selection. The right pillow will ensure proper spinal alignment and offer support to your neck and head. If you’re investing in a mattress, it’s a great opportunity to upgrade your pillows too! Here are our top picks:
Best Bet: Our Memory Foam Pillow
Endy’s Memory Foam Pillow provides optimal cushioning for all sleep positions. By comfortably cradling your neck and supporting your head, your body will thank you each morning. Our quick-response, memory foam pillow is super breathable, allowing for a cooler sleep all night long.
Better Yet: A Pillow Made Just For You
Endy’s Customizable Pillow is tailored just for you, and a perfect choice for all sleepers. With the combined breathability, comfort, and support needed for sound sleep, you’ll truly find everything you need in this pillow. The height and firmness of your pillow can be personalized for your unique sleeping needs.
6 Considerations When Sleeping With Back Pain
If you're experiencing back pain and finding it difficult to sleep, here are some general best practices that may help improve your sleep:
1. Supportive Mattress and Pillow
Ensure that your mattress and pillow provide adequate support for your back. Consider choosing a mattress and pillow that align with your preferred sleeping position and provide proper spinal alignment. A foam or hybrid mattresses can be good options for back pain sufferers.
2. Optimal Sleeping Positions
Your normal sleeping position may exacerbate back pain. So, experiment with different sleeping positions to find what works best for you. Generally, sleeping on your back or side with proper pillow support can help relieve pressure on your back. Placing a pillow between or under your knees can promote spinal alignment and reduce strain.
3. Proper Pillow Support
Use a pillow that supports your neck and keeps it aligned with your spine. This can help maintain a neutral position and reduce strain on your back. Different pillow types, such as memory foam or customizable pillows, can provide better support for your head and neck.
4. Relaxation Techniques
Engage in relaxation techniques before bed to reduce stress and promote better sleep. Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, progressive muscle relaxation, or gentle stretching can help relax tense muscles and prepare your body for sleep.
5. Heat or Cold Therapy
Applying heat or cold therapy to your back before bed can help alleviate pain and relax the muscles. Experiment with warm showers, heating pads, or cold packs to see which provides the most relief for your specific condition.
6. Consult with a Healthcare Professional
If your back pain persists or worsens, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional or a specialist, such as a physical therapist or chiropractor. They can look into the underlying causes of your back pain, provide personalized advice, recommend specific exercises, or suggest additional treatments tailored to your condition.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sleeping With Back Pain
How firm of a mattress do I need for back pain?
The ideal firmness of a mattress for back pain can vary depending on individual preferences and the specific underlying cause of the pain. While there is no one-size-fits-all answer, here are some general guidelines to consider:
Medium-Firm to Firm Mattress
In many cases, a medium-firm to firm mattress is recommended for individuals with back pain. A medium-firm mattress provides a balance of support and cushioning, promoting proper spinal alignment. However, some people with specific conditions, such as degenerative disc disease, may find a slightly firmer mattress more comfortable.
Spinal Alignment
The goal is to maintain a neutral spinal alignment while lying on the mattress. Your spine should be in a natural, straight position without excessive sagging or excessive arching. A mattress that is too soft may not provide enough support, leading to poor spinal alignment and increased pain.What kind of mattress is best for back and hip pain?When dealing with both back and hip pain, it's important to find a mattress that provides adequate support, and pressure relief, and promotes proper spinal alignment. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a mattress:
Supportive Mattress
Look for a mattress that offers excellent support to help maintain proper spinal alignment. It should evenly distribute your body weight and prevent excessive sinking. A mattress that is too soft may cause your hips to sink too much, leading to misalignment and increased pain. Opt for a mattress with a supportive core, such as high-density foam or pocketed coils.
Pressure Relief
Find a mattress that effectively relieves pressure points, particularly around the hips. A foam mattress like the Endy Mattress can contour to the body's curves, alleviating pressure on sensitive areas. Look for a medium to high-density memory foam that provides adequate support and cushioning.
Are memory foam mattresses good for back pain?
Memory foam mattresses contour to the body to offer support and pressure relief. However, it's important to note that memory foam mattresses or mattresses with a memory foam layer can vary in terms of firmness and quality. Moreover, memory foam tends to retain body heat. This can result in a warmer sleeping surface in an all-foam mattress, which may be uncomfortable for hot sleepers.Endy Comfort Foam is not like traditional memory foam, which tends to sink in the summer and feel firm as a rock in the winter. Because Endy foam is temperature insensitive, your mattress maintains a consistent feel through every Canadian season, no matter the temperature. Plus, our foam's open-cell technology enhances breathability and cooling throughout the night, with better airflow and comfort than traditional memory foam.
Can a memory foam mattress cause back pain?
Memory foam mattresses are designed to contour to the body's shape, so they should help relieve pressure points and promote spinal alignment. However, if a memory foam mattress is too soft, it may not provide adequate support for some individuals, potentially causing or exacerbating back pain.Traditional memory foam mattresses are also known for retaining heat, which can be uncomfortable for some individuals. Moreover, some people with back pain find that heat can exacerbate their symptoms. Look for a mattress with cooling properties, such as Endy’s breathable open-cell foam, which is designed to provide better airflow and comfort than traditional memory foam.
