Back and Neck Pain from your Mattress | Pain from Sleeping

Your mattress can contribute to back pain for several reasons, especially if it does not provide the proper support or is not suited to your sleep habits. Our Pain Management Physicians are Garden State Pain and Orthopedics specialize in all neck and back pain. Here are some common reasons why a mattress might be causing or worsening your back pain:

1. Lack of Proper Support

• Sagging Mattress: If your mattress is old or sagging in the middle, it may no longer support your spine in a neutral alignment. When your spine is not properly aligned, it can lead to muscle strain and discomfort, causing back pain.
• Too Soft: A mattress that is too soft can allow your body to sink too deeply, causing your spine to bend in unnatural positions. This can stress the lower back and lead to pain.
• Too Firm: On the other hand, a mattress that is too firm can create pressure points, especially in the shoulders and hips, and prevent your spine from maintaining its natural curve. This can lead to stiffness and discomfort in the lower back.

2. Incompatible Mattress Type for Your Sleep Position

• Back Sleepers: If you sleep on your back, your mattress should support the natural curve of your spine. A medium-firm mattress that provides support without excessive pressure is usually recommended.
• Side Sleepers: Side sleepers need a mattress that cushions the shoulders and hips while keeping the spine aligned. A mattress that is too firm may lead to pressure points, while one that is too soft may cause the body to sink unevenly, affecting spinal alignment.
• Stomach Sleepers: Stomach sleepers require a firmer mattress to prevent their lower back from sinking, which can cause strain. A soft mattress may allow your midsection to dip too far, creating stress on your spine.

3. Mattress Age

Over time, mattresses lose their structural integrity, which can lead to sagging or uneven support. A mattress typically lasts 7-10 years, and sleeping on one that has outlived its lifespan can cause discomfort and worsen back pain.

4. Inappropriate Mattress Size

If your mattress is too small for your body size or the way you sleep, you may end up in awkward positions throughout the night. For example, if you're taller or share a bed with a partner, a mattress that's too small can force you into cramped sleeping positions, contributing to back pain.

5. Underlying Health Conditions

If you have an underlying condition like sciatica, herniated discs, or muscle strain, the wrong type of mattress may exacerbate these issues. In such cases, finding a mattress that reduces pressure points and promotes spinal alignment is critical for managing symptoms.

How to Choose a Mattress to Avoid Back Pain

• Medium-Firm Comfort: Studies have shown that a medium-firm mattress is generally best for alleviating lower back pain because it provides a balance between support and pressure relief.
• Test Before You Buy: Many mattress companies offer trial periods so you can test how the mattress feels over a period of time.
• Proper Pillow Support: Make sure your pillow also supports proper spinal alignment, especially if you sleep on your side or back.
• Rotating Your Mattress: If your mattress is showing signs of wear, try rotating it to distribute the weight more evenly and extend its lifespan.

If your mattress is contributing to your back pain, investing in one that supports your body's needs can significantly improve your sleep quality and overall well-being. If you're unsure, consider consulting one of our healthcare professionals at Garden State Pain and Orthopedics. Our Pain Management Physicians specialize in all neck and back pain. 

Our pain management doctors focus on diagnosing and treating various types of pain using a wide array of medical and therapeutic interventions. Their goal is to help patients live more comfortably and regain functionality, especially when pain becomes chronic and interferes with daily life.

Appointments are available with our physicians in West Orange, Clifton, Jersey City, Hazlet, and Edison, New Jersey. You can learn more about our doctors by selecting the providers page.