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The best mattress for back pain, recommended by an osteopath
According to Gibson, some mattresses are better for managing back pain than others. “The main thing is to get roughly medium-firm support, which is best for lower back pain sufferers because it keeps the back in neutral alignment,” he says. “Keeping the spine, neck and mid-back aligned theoretically means your muscles are going to relax.”
Soft mattresses, he warns, may worsen the pain by allowing the spine to dip out of alignment. At the right firmness, both pocket sprung and memory foam mattresses can be effective. “What you really need is good support from springs or foam, and which type you choose is a personal preference,” says Gibson.
Cushioning at pressure points such as the shoulder and hips are also important, especially for those with discomfort in these areas. Finally, Gibson advises against sleeping on your front as it often makes lower back pain worse.
Consult our guide on how to choose a mattress for more tips.