Are memory foam mattresses good for back pain?

Can a memory foam mattress help with back pain?

The answer to this question is yes, a memory foam mattress can help with back pain as well as help improve your posture whilst you are sleeping too.

What is a memory foam mattress?

Memory foam mattresses are mattresses that are made from viscoelastic material. This material can mould into the shape of a person's body, which it does by using the individual's body heat.

Memory foam mattresses can help with problems such as back pain, however, before purchasing a memory foam mattress there are three things you should consider:

Memory foam mattresses are personal- if a mattress works and is suited to you and your needs this doesn’t mean it will work for someone else. This is something you should think about when you are doing your research and trying to find the best mattress for you.

There is more than one cause of back pain- there are a range of factors that could be causing your back pain other than your mattress, so purchasing a new mattress shouldn’t be the first thing you do when you are experiencing back pain. The other potential causes of back pain could be poor posture, arthritis, sprains, injuries, unhealthy spine curvature, etc.

Your pillow may be the issue- your mattress might not be the cause as your pillow can cause you to experience back pains too. A pillow that is too hard can cause your neck and the top part of your back to lift, which can also cause back pain. On the other hand, a pillow that is too soft can cause your head to tilt, which can result in straining the cervical area of your spine. It's important you have a good quality pillow that helps to keep your back neutral and prevents back pain.

Other factors to consider when purchasing a memory foam mattress:

• Your bed frame size
• Foam type
• Your sleeping positions