Should I have a softer bed?

Question

I sleep on a firmer bed, but have been waking up with a sore back. I also wake up about 2 or 3 times overnight. It also doesn't help that I work in a job where I use my back a lot. Should I be sleeping on a softer bed? Do you think it could be as simple as buying one of those foam covers? Would it help keep my back from hurting? HELP!

Answer 1

The problem probably isn't the matress, but you not sleeping in the correct position. I have problems whether the bed is soft or firm.

On a soft bed, the springs allow my spine to bend unnaturally (since I weigh more in the middle than my head or feet). On a firm bed, I can twist any way I like, but if a part of me isn't supported, gravity stretches me in a weird way too. I don't have any problems falling asleep in odd positions, but waking up is awful.

As for foam, IT IS BAD!!! Polyurethane foam is created by a chemical reaction of polyols and isocyantes (a known carcinogen). With the exception of the steel springs, this kind of bed was created almost completely with synthetic materials derived from petroleum and natural gas. When this breaks down, it releases tiny particles, which you breathe in all night long. This retains your body heat and acts like an oven, which raises your body temp and makes you sleep lighter. Light sleep is not restful sleep and this could also be a source of your back pain. Your body isn't getting a chance to really rest.

I read somewhere that you should sleep on your side with a single pillow under your head and a pillow between your knees (they make body pillows, but I think that's a little too girly for me). My back pain has been greatly reduced. I also found that working out (on a back extension machine) makes me feel much better if I fall asleep on the couch.

You wrote that you use your back a lot at your job. Unless you're a human table or something, you probably need better technique at lifting or a back brace. A $30 back brace is cheaper than a $30,000 workman's comp claim, so your boss should be happy to buy one for you.

Answer 2

my dad had a really sore back when i was growing up and he always found it was more comfortable to sleep on a hard surface. most nights he would end up sleeping on the floor to find relief. I'm not sure but my thoughts are that softer is going to provide less stability and allow your back to move into more uncomfortable positions, while a firmer bed will provide more support for you. Just my thought but I'm not positive if i'm correct or not. Talk to a bed store and just ask them if hard or soft is better for a bad back. Don't tell them which way your leaning, and you will probably get a more honest answer.

Answer 3

Actually, your bed could be TOO soft. Try getting a foam cover and use it for about a month or two. If this doesn't help, try getting a new, firmer mattress. I had the same problem, and I had to get a firmer mattress, and that solved my problem. Good luck!

Answer 4

They say that firmer beds are better for people with back problems. I have a herniated disc in my back and my former bed was so hard it hurt my back. I would start with a foam cover. They are under 20 bucks.

Answer 5

You are waking up alot at night because your spine is out of alignment and unfortunately you probably have a subluxation (injured vertebrae). You should seek chiropractic care and if you are going to purchase another mattress, you really should invest in a sleep by number bed. This bed has been clinically proven to improve sleep and posture.

Answer 6

The foam pads are great, but even better are the thick memory foam mattresses.

Wear support while you work and do exercises to strengthen your stomach muscles.

Drink plenty of water to be sure your kidneys are not the problem.

Answer 7

Easy to find out; try sleeping on your floor for a night. Too hard?
go to walmart and buy those cheap egg crate things. Guage it from that, if you start adding feather ticks and such, yes, get a softer mattress. Start with harder first (cause it's already there)

Answer 8

No. Soft beds are worse for people with back problems. Those temperapedic beds are great, but if you cant get one right now, try those pillow tops first.

Answer 9

I attempted the tough mattress however it used to be too tough, then I attempted the tender mattress it used to be to tender, then I discovered the wee little mattress & it used to be simply proper I laid down & believe proper to sleep, ha.