This article is one of a series covering back pain — causes, symptoms, and the treatments we use at Back and Body Medical in Midtown Manhattan. For the complete overview, see the full guide:
While all our bodies follow a common “blueprint”, no two are the same. And back pain, whether in the lower back or elsewhere, manifests differently in different people.
And that, my friends, is why there is no such thing as the “ideal” mattress. There are no two people alike and no mattress is going to cover all your bases. But we can talk about the best mattresses (generally) for low back pain, due to their qualities of firmness and support for your spine and joints.
A medium-firm mattress is usually your best bet, as if it’s too firm, you may be causing pressure on joints. If too soft, you’re not getting the kind of support you need. So, think “happy medium” and then, make a point of asking if the manufacturer has a trial period. Your body takes about 30 days to fully adapt to a new sleeping surface, so taking a “test drive” in the showroom probably isn’t going to cut it.
The Gold Standard – Helix
I’m going to go out on a limb here and say that a customizable mattress is your best bet, if you’re living with low back pain. I’ve stressed that there’s no such thing as a globally ideal mattress for any kind of back pain, so one which can be made to order and directly answers your needs is the best way to go.
After answering a questionnaire, the manufacturer will match your preferences, creating a completely personalized experience. While a Helix may cost you little more, it’s guaranteed for 10 years and it’s your ideal mattress due to fine customization.
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Nectar Sleep
This mattress brand will appeal to many. Low back pain sufferers will be attracted to its five-layer construction. Consisting of varying layers of different types of memory foam, this mattress features a blend of support and softness.
A great feature of the Nectar Sleep is its significantly lower price point. Many will appreciate its 10-year replacement guarantee, also – free of charge. After the initial 10-year period, the company will repair your mattress if a defect in construction is found.
Layla Sleep
Similar to the Nectar Sleep, Layla is constructed of multiple layers of foam – 4 in total. The difference is that the layers include copper-infused foam, said to offer a cooler sleeping experience. The attraction for low back pain sufferers is the superior support offered.
Mattress shoppers will also thrill to the lifetime guarantee offered by the manufacturer, for any defects discovered in the mattress after purchase.
The price point for this mattress hovers between Helix and Nectar.
While the pillow top mattress has been considered the leader in sleep for years now, layers of foam have become the most desirable style of mattress construction. Two of the listed manufacturers follow this technique, with Helix being customized and extremely sophisticated, for a personalized sleep.
Back & Body Medical is an award-winning pain relief clinic in the heart of Manhattan. If you’ve been suffering from low back pain for a while, you may want to come see us.
Ready to get out of pain? Most new patients are seen within 24 hours — walk in or book online.
Dr Shan Sivendra MD is the founder and medical director of Back and Body Medical in Midtown Manhattan. A board-certified medical doctor, certified acupuncturist, and Director of House Physicians at St. Barnabas Medical Center, Dr Sivendra has been practicing in New York since 1995.
He completed his residency in Internal Medicine at Saint Barnabas Medical Center (affiliated with Mount Sinai School of Medicine) and received the Resident Research Award for three consecutive years.
Dr Sivendra has a background spanning internal medicine, pain management, and conservative spine rehabilitation, and was licensed in both the US and the UK.
At Back and Body Medical, he leads a multidisciplinary team of chiropractors, physical therapists, and acupuncturists dedicated to helping patients recover from pain without surgery or unnecessary medication.
Further Reading: Back Pain