Spine Wellness

Up to 25% of a person’s day can be spent sleeping – assuming they get eight hours of sleep. So needless to say, the importance of the quality of sleep is important, and your mattress does affect how you sleep. Your mattress is also important to your spine health. This spine wellness blog entry will address a few common questions asked by patients about mattress selection. 

How often should I change my mattress?
It is typically recommended that you change your mattress every ten years. Other signs that it is time to change your mattress are if your bed is uncomfortable, your mattress looks old/worn or your box spring squeaks. Also if you wake up tired and sore – this may be a sign that it is not providing the right amount of support.

What brand of mattress is the best? 
We do not recommend any specific brand. What is more important are the features and qualities of the mattress you are selecting. 

Do firmer mattresses offer more back and body support? 
A mattress that is too firm – may not support the body evenly and may contribute to pain in the pressure points. A mattress that is too soft – will most likely sag and not provide enough back/body support. Generally a medium mattress will provide both comfort and support.

What should I look for in a mattress? 
When selecting a mattress, it is important to choose one that allows your spine to maintain its natural alignment similar to standing. By maintaining your natural spine alignment, it allows your muscles to relax.

Should I “test” the mattress out?  
Yes! When purchasing a mattress, it is important to lie down – and turn over like you normally would during sleeping. Also, different manufactures may not use descriptive terms of the mattress consistently – so a firm mattress with one manufacture may be described as medium firmness with a different brand. So it is always good to try before you buy!