Choosing the right Bed
Look after your back - choose the right bed
Every year up to 40% of the population - over 16 million of us - will suffer a bout of back pain and if you're one of the unlucky ones, you will find that the state of your bed will quickly become a priority. A good bed, providing correct support and comfort, has an important role to play in relieving and preventing back pain. Here are some tips:
Don't just buy a bed because it says it's good for your back. A bed that's supportive and comfortable is key. But it is important to remember that people's requirement for support will differ depending on their weight, shape and build.
Firmness is not determined by price, although comfort, luxury and durability and added features such as adjustability come with higher price tags.There's no single right bed to ease a back problem and each different back problem also may require a different solution. The best approach is to research the options carefully, take time to try them out and choose what you personally find supportive and comfortable, regardless of labels or even price tags.
Look for a supportive rather than a hard bed. Do not assume that orthopaedic or firmer beds are the best option. Often a medium firm bed with proper cushioning is better. A bigger bed will be of benefit both for the back pain sufferer and for their partners - with less partner disturbance.
Is your bed helping, or is it part of your back problem?
1. The majority of mattresses need to be turned regularly (between six weeks and three months). Do get someone to help you to avoid the strain of turning your mattress. Alternative foam mattresses do not need turning.
2. The mattress should be supportive enough to take the weight of the body without sagging. If you are used to a soft bed, don't suddenly change to a very hard bed; the difference may prove difficult to adapt to. However, the mattress does need to be firm enough to allow for shifts of posture during the night. This is necessary to lessen fatigue and relieve the prolonged stress on soft tissues.
3. The mattress needs to be comfortable to lie on and soft enough, with sufficient 'give', to support and cushion the body's lower back, hips and shoulders keeping the spine straight.
4. In one study 85% of doctors believed that allergic disorders, such as asthma and eczema could be aggravated by sleeping on beds which harboured dust and mites. Hygiene and ventilation of the bed and covers are important; special protective covers may also help. Foam mattresses are hypo allergic and dust mite free. So this could significantly help allergy sufferers.
5. A 'standard double' bed is 4 feet 6 inches wide but a 'standard single' bed is 3 feet! It is therefore evident that a large double makes more sense for two to sleep in especially if one individual moves a lot in bed. A larger bed may also be longer too.
If you require further advice on a back problem seek advice from a local osteopath.
