Do you suffer from back pain? An orthopedic mattress is ideal for relieving pain. Stress, poor posture, aging... Many factors can cause back pain. An orthopedic mattress can help by promoting proper spinal alignment. If you’re looking to buy a mattress for back pain, this article can help! Which is the best orthopedic mattress, and how do I choose one? We’ll give you the key to buying an effective mattress for back pain.
What is an orthopedic mattress?
An orthopedic mattress is designed to provide optimal support for the spine throughout the night. It is on the firmer side and ensures that body weight is distributed evenly across the entire surface.
An orthopedic mattress is recommended for people who regularly suffer from back or lower back pain. This type of mattress provides excellent support for the spine, the cervical vertebrae, and the hips. It typically features 3 to 7 comfort zones that ensure proper weight distribution. These support zones help reduce back pain.
These mattresses are especially recommended for relieving muscle tension. Therefore, it is advisable to use an orthopedic mattress when sleeping at home after surgery.
The Difference Between an Orthopedic Mattress and a Medical Mattress
The term "orthopedic medical mattress" can sometimes lead to confusion. However, an orthopedic mattress is not the same as a medical mattress. An orthopedic mattress distributes body weight evenly to reduce pain in the neck, back, and hips. It is not sufficient for more serious health issues, such as pressure sores or disabilities. In such cases, you should opt for a medical mattress in combination with a nursing bed.
In addition, the medical mattress may be prescribed by a doctor and partially covered by health insurance. It is suitable for people who are bedridden following surgery or due to a loss of mobility.
In contrast, you do not need a prescription for an orthopedic mattress. This type of mattress is recommended for back or lower back pain, such as sciatica or herniated discs.
In what situations should you use an orthopedic mattress?
If you’re looking for a mattress to help with back pain, an orthopedic mattress might be the solution. The firmness of an orthopedic mattress provides a high level of comfort because it reduces twisting movements. This helps distribute body weight more evenly and relieves pressure points in the back, hips, and neck. An orthopedic mattress is also recommended for relieving stress that builds up in the spine. By promoting proper spinal alignment, it helps reduce stress-related back pain. In short, an orthopedic mattress is a valuable ally in the fight against back pain. Night after night, it will improve your posture and reduce pain.
How do you choose an orthopedic mattress?
Are you wondering which mattress is best for back pain? We've put together a list of criteria to consider so you can find the best orthopedic mattress.
The Hardness Level
Determining the ideal firmness level for a mattress depends on two factors: your body type and your sleeping position.
A soft mattress is therefore ideal for slimmer people and those who often sleep on their side. Conversely, people with a larger build who like to sleep on their back or stomach need more support. In that case, a firm mattress will be a better choice.
Here is a chart to help you find the right firmness level for your body weight.
Density
An orthopedic mattress must be especially comfortable to provide the best possible support. As we have already explained, the hips and shoulders require special support to relieve pain. Support is indicated by density, which is measured in kg/m³. However, this measurement depends on the materials the mattress is made of.
- Natural latex mattresses
The density of a natural latex mattress ranges from 65 to 95 kg/m³. For a soft feel, you should choose a density of 65 kg/m³; if you prefer a firmer feel, opt for a mattress with a density of 85 kg/m³. If you’re not sure which firmness level to choose, some brands offer reversible mattresses with two different densities and, therefore, two levels of comfort. The Kipli mattress, made of 100% natural latex, for example, has two sides, allowing you to choose your level of comfort based on your preferences.
- Foam mattresses
Some mattresses are made of polyurethane foam derived from petrochemicals. These mattresses have a density between 22 and 35 kg/m³, so the foam is lightweight. It is of medium density and provides fairly limited support.
- Memory foam mattresses
Memory foam mattresses, which are derived from the petrochemical industry, are designed to conform to the body and provide good support. Their density typically ranges from 55 to 85 kg/m³. The lower the density, the less support the mattress provides. Therefore, you should choose the density of a memory foam mattress based on your preferences and needs.
The Comfort Zones
An orthopedic mattress is perfect for back pain. A good mattress must be resilient to reduce pressure points and provide the best possible support for the spine. To relieve tension, you should therefore pay attention to the comfort zones available on an orthopedic mattress. The more support zones there are, the better the mattress distributes body weight. This brings the spine into ideal alignment to relieve tension in the back.
Mattresses with three support zones typically include the head, back, and legs. Mattresses with five support zones may also include the feet and shoulders. Finally, mattresses with seven comfort zones provide additional support for the calves and lower back.
The Dimensions
If you want to get the most out of your orthopedic mattress, it’s crucial to choose the right size. The size of the mattress depends on several factors. Do you sleep alone? Are you tall or short? How much space do you have in your bedroom? How big is your box spring?
The most common size is the 140x190 orthopedic mattress. It is large enough for both a couple and a single person. Generally, taller people or couples will choose a 160x200 or 180x200 orthopedic mattress.
The Materials
A good orthopedic mattress will relieve pressure points. To reduce back pain, you should pay close attention to the mattress materials. A highly elastic material such as natural latex is ideal. Other synthetic materials may also be suitable, such as memory foam or a spring core system. However, polyurethane foams tend to release volatile organic compounds that are harmful to health. It is important to check the labels and certifications of your orthopedic mattress to ensure that the materials are free of toxins.
A natural latex mattress offers ideal support and elasticity. If the mattress also features 7 comfort zones, it is especially recommended for relieving back pain.
In addition, latex is highly breathable, which means you can keep your orthopedic mattress longer. Good ventilation of your mattress is important for limiting bacterial growth. To optimize air circulation, we recommend investing in a high-quality slatted base, which also improves the mattress’s support.
The Different Types of Orthopedic Mattresses
To help you choose an orthopedic mattress, we have briefly summarized the features of the mattresses available on the market.
The Orthopedic Latex Mattress
As mentioned earlier, latex has natural elasticity that provides excellent support. This material also has anti-mite, antibacterial, and hypoallergenic properties. If you choose an orthopedic mattress made of 100% natural latex, you can be sure that it is free of harmful substances.
The natural latex mattress also has the advantage of being breathable and keeping the body at the right temperature. Its only drawback may be the price, which is, however, justified by the quality of the materials.
The orthopedic mattress made of memory foam
Memory foam mattresses use a technology designed to cushion impacts. The viscoelastic foam ensures that the sleeper’s movements are absorbed every time they change position. Orthopedic memory foam mattresses are generally affordable but not very breathable. The synthetic material tends to trap heat, which is not recommended for people who sweat heavily.
The Orthopedic Spring Mattress
You may also come across the term "pocket spring mattress" for this type of mattress. The springs provide good independence when lying down and are therefore recommended for couples. Spring mattresses are also recommended for people who tend to toss and turn several times during the night.
The Orthopedic Universal or Hybrid Mattress
As the name suggests, the orthopedic all-purpose mattress combines several of the technologies mentioned above. This hybrid design gives it a certain versatility: a soft feel, firm support, good breathability... It may be suitable for many types of sleepers. However, it is important to check the synthetic materials used to ensure you choose a healthy mattress.