Best Mattress for Neck and Back Pain
On February 16, 2025 By newsroom Topic: Shopping Skills
A mattress plays a critical role in alleviating neck and back pain. Here's what you need to know to find the best option for restful, pain-free sleep.
Adjustable Air Mattresses:
- Top choice for those with arthritis, neck, or back pain.
- Allows precise customization of firmness levels (e.g., Sleep Number beds).
- Benefits: Adjustability helps match firmness to pain levels that may change nightly.
Firmness Preference:
- A firmer mattress is generally better for back support.
- Provides better alignment and feedback on pain points, which helps users adjust sleeping positions.
Customization Matters:
- Mattresses that allow trial-and-error adjustments can help identify the best level of firmness for individual needs.
- Supports body alignment, particularly for the spine and neck.
Expert Insights
- Joel Press, M.D. (Hospital for Special Surgery, NY):
- Firm mattresses give instant feedback, aiding adjustments for comfort.
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Avoid mattresses older than 10 years, as they lose support over time.
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Jeffrey Goldstein, M.D. (NYU Langone’s Spine Center):
- Customizable firmness helps users discover the best setup for pain relief.
Pillow and Sleeping Position Tips
- Keep your neck in line with your spine to avoid bending or twisting.
- Use a supportive pillow to ensure proper spinal alignment.
- Example: Sleeping with your neck at a 45-degree angle is comparable to poor posture during the day—best avoided.
Summing it up
For neck and back pain relief, consider:
Adjustable air mattresses for personalized firmness.
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Replacing old mattresses for optimal support.
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Maintaining proper spinal alignment with the right pillow and mattress firmness.
A well-supported spine and neck lead to better sleep and less pain.
