Can Mattresses Cause Back Pain? 6 Warning Signs
Have back pain? If so, you’re probably wondering “can a bad mattress cause body aches?” And the answer truly depends on your mattress and the type of symptoms you’re having.
Now, if you’re suffering from back pain in Baltimore, orthopedic specialists can help. But you’ll still want to consider replacing your mattress if it is the culprit.
So let’s cover whether or not your mattress is responsible, and how to tell if you should get a new one.
Can a Bad Mattress Cause Back Pain?
Ideally, mattresses should help you feel relaxed and pain free. They should promote a good night’s sleep and leave you well rested without discomfort in the morning.
But can mattresses cause back pain instead of relieving it? The answer is yes. Everyone’s body is different. However, if your mattress is older, too firm, or too soft, then it could lead to moderate or even severe back pain.
Read More: How To Sleep Better With Lower Back Pain?
How to Tell if Your Bed is Causing Back Pain
If your bed is causing your back to hurt, then you should begin looking for a new mattress immediately. If you don’t, you could have longer term back issues.
So let’s talk about how to know if your mattress is causing back pain and needs replacing. That way you can enjoy healthy, comfortable sleep.
Here are 6 big warning signs to watch out for:
1. You Wake Up With Temporary Back Pain
If your back pain is more noticeable in the morning, this could be a warning sign. If you notice that after stretching for around 15 minutes that your back goes away, then your mattress is likely the culprit. It means your back is stiff at night and not receiving blood flow.
2. You Struggle to Get Comfortable
If you’re finding it difficult to get comfortable at night, it could be due to your bed. For instance, if your bed is not supporting your hips and back correctly, then you will feel discomfort. A bed that’s too soft could create bad spine alignment.
3. You Wake Up Frequently
Waking up frequently through the night throws off your body’s natural circadian rhythm. You should be able to sleep for hours at a time, waking up very rarely throughout the night. So if you’re tossing and turning and unable to stay asleep, it could be time for a new mattress.
4. Sleeping In Other Beds Doesn’t Cause Pain
If you notice that sleeping in another bed — such as a guest bed, hotel bed, or another mattress in your house — does not cause you pain, then it’s a warning sign. There is probably something about your bed specifically that’s causing your discomfort.
5. Even Short Naps Cause Pain
When you lie down for a short nap, you should be able to wake up without any pain. If your back aches after even a 1 or 2 hour nap, then your mattress is probably at fault.
6. You Sink Too Much
A mattress that is too soft will create misalignment and curve your spine downward. If you feel like you’re “sinking” in your bed, then you should look for a more firm option.
How to Select a Mattress that is Good For Your Back
A good mattress will fit your personal comfort needs. Find a bed that is neither too hard or too soft for your preference.
A mattress that is too firm could cause extra pressure on your back’s pressure points and lead to misalignment.
On the other hand, a mattress that is too soft could create poor sleeping posture, leading to back pain when you wake up.
The perfect mattress will almost feel like you’re sleeping on air. It’s a little firm, but still has enough give – leading to a natural alignment while lying down.
Relieving Back Pain Caused By Mattresses
Can a bad mattress cause back pain? Absolutely, they can. If you are experiencing discomfort, you don’t have to suffer any longer. Discover the best options for relieving back pain and enjoying a renewed sense of health – schedule an appointment with the best specialists for back pain in Baltimore today.