Waking up with an aching back often comes down to one thing: the wrong mattress. The right level of support keeps your spine aligned through the night. Here's how to choose a mattress that helps with back pain.
Firm, medium or soft?
Contrary to popular belief, the firmest mattress isn't always best. Most people with back pain do well on a medium-firm mattress — firm enough to support the spine, with enough give to cushion the hips and shoulders.
Mattress types explained
- Orthopaedic: Extra-firm support designed to reduce pressure on the back and joints.
- Memory foam: Moulds to your body and relieves pressure points — great for side sleepers.
- Pocket sprung: Individually wrapped springs that support each part of the body independently and reduce roll-together.
- Hybrid: Combines pocket springs with a foam comfort layer for support and cushioning.
Match the mattress to how you sleep
Back and front sleepers usually need firmer support; side sleepers benefit from a little more cushioning at the shoulders and hips. Your body weight matters too — heavier sleepers generally need firmer support.
Don't forget the base
A supportive base makes a real difference. Pair your mattress with a sturdy divan or ottoman base, or consider an adjustable bed to raise your knees or upper body and take pressure off your lower back.
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