A good mattress is essential for a good night’s sleep. You may not realise it, but the way you sleep and the type of mattress you choose are crucial factors to consider when it comes to alleviating any nagging aches and pains. Whether you’re a back or front sleeper, or you prefer to sleep on your side, there is a supportive mattress for you that can help reduce discomfort. Below, we’ll look at some of the best mattresses for lower back pain. 

When to upgrade your mattress? 

If you suffer from back pain, it could be caused by an old, unsupportive mattress, but how do you know if it’s time for a new one? You can decide whether it’s your mattress causing you back pain by checking for these signs. If your mattress is beginning to sag in places or has formed lumps that you’ve not noticed before, this could mean you need to replace it. Another of the most obvious signs that your mattress is wearing is that you’re not sleeping as well as you used to – you may find that you’re more tired, or you’re suffering from interrupted sleep. 

Sleeping positions 

The type of mattress that you choose all depends on the way you sleep. The position that you prefer to sleep in can also mean you’re more prone to back pain, especially if your mattress doesn’t support you well. Here are some of the most popular sleeping positions, and mattresses that could benefit you. 

• Back sleepers: Sleeping on your back means your mattress must support your whole body, and there shouldn’t be an area of your body that is not touching the mattress, as your spine needs to remain aligned. Because of this, back sleepers may benefit from a firmer mattress.

• Side sleepers: Side sleepers do well on foam mattresses. They mould to the shape of your body, relieve pressure points, and keep your spine in alignment. This can help reduce aches and pains.

• Front sleepers: Sleeping on your front puts pressure on your lower back and can contribute to strains and tension. If you find sleeping on your front the most comfortable, a memory foam mattress or an innerspring mattress may be the best option when it comes to reducing back pain.

Mattresses for back support 

When it comes to choosing a new mattress to help alleviate back pain, it all depends on what type of sleeper you are, and how your mattress can support you during the night, so you can wake up feeling refreshed and free of aches and pains. Below, we’ll look at some of the best mattress types for back pain, their attributes and if they would suit you. 

Hybrid mattress 

Hybrid mattresses are a great option for people that sleep on their front, and therefore put pressure on their lumbar area. They have combined pocketed springs and foam layers so you can feel support from the springs, and the comfort of foam. If you are a warm sleeper, air can flow through these mattresses so you can feel cooler. The support means your spine will be aligned, and it also moves with your body if you change position during the night. 

Foam mattress 

Memory foam mattresses mould to the shape of your body. They can be good for side sleepers as they can support but relieve pressure from the hips and shoulders, and work to keep your spine aligned. They can create a comfortable, yet supportive feel – they absorb movement, so if you sleep with your partner, and you’re a light sleeper, this could be advantageous. If you are a warm sleeper, you may choose to opt for a foam mattress with a gel topper, as all-foam mattresses are particularly warm for sleeping. 

Innerspring mattress 

An innerspring mattress is one of the most traditional models that we will all be familiar with. They can help to alleviate back pain that stomach and back sleepers may experience because they are supportive and have a uniform sleeping surface. They will keep your spine aligned from your head to your toes, so you won’t wake up feeling any strains or aches. They are breathable so great for keeping cool, and they are affordable and durable due to the materials they are made from.