Beds, Sleeping and Back Pain

As we spend about a third of lives in bed investing in a good mattress and bed base is extremely important.

Old second hand beds contribute to back injury and could cause other long-term problems because they have been shaped to somebody else. Therefore choosing the right mattress is imperative.

Contrary to what some people think, rock hard orthopaedic mattresses are not good for bad backs, especially if you already suffer from back problems.

If you prefer hard beds and you don't have back pain then by all means choose a mattress that you feel comfortable with. However if you do have back problems and you are sleeping on a hard orthopaedic bed then the chances are it is making your back pain feel much worse.

On the other hand very soft mattresses can inhibit movement and they can make your back sag, which causes even more pain because it stretches, and strains the ligaments supporting your spine. So try to avoid sleeping on an old sagging mattress.

To see if your mattress is just right try out this little test:

Lay on your back on your bed. Now slide the palm of your hand in the small of your back. If there is a large gap between the mattress and your back then this indicates that your mattress does not support your natural curves. On the other hand, if you have to squeeze your hand into the gap then your mattress is too soft. You will know if your mattress is just right if your hand fits in very easily.

Buying a new bed is one of the most important investments you can make as it really can affect your health in the long term. Because of this, it is important to buy the very best that you can afford.

Test the bed thoroughly before buying it. It should feel comfortable and supportive. When you lay on it you will know when it is right because it will hold your spine level allowing you to move around very easily. It will also mould itself to the contours of your body providing lots of support for your hollows and curves, which will really help you to sleep much more soundly.

Here are some great tips to help you sleep much better at night and prevent back pain:

Try to sleep so that your back feels like it is in a natural position without causing strain.