Sleep should be peaceful, comfortable, and restorative. Your sleep quality, or lack thereof, can impact your performance throughout the day. In some cases, poor sleep quality can be caused by a bad mattress. An old mattress can cause you to toss and turn all night long and may not be as supportive as it once was. Unfortunately, your worn mattress will not only impact how well you sleep, but it can also cause ongoing issues with back pain, resulting in a stiff, sore back in the morning. This type of chronic pain can be very debilitating and may prevent you from carrying out everyday tasks and participating in the activities you once loved. So, how can you tell if your mattress is to blame for your chronic back pain and poor sleep quality in Grand Rapids MI? Let's find out.

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Is Your Bed Making Your Back Hurt in Grand Rapids MI?

In some cases, it can be difficult to pinpoint the reason behind your sore, stiff back. However, there are some signs that can indicate your mattress is the underlying cause.

Pain First Thing in the Morning

Many people have reported feeling fine at bedtime, but waking up in the morning with intense pain and stiffness. If you go to bed with no pain and wake up stiff, sore, and uncomfortable, this can be a big sign that your mattress is the culprit. Mattresses that are too firm can increase joint pressure in the hips, resulting in back pain. If your mattress is too soft, it can cause the spine to fall out of alignment, resulting in chronic back pain and discomfort.

You Have Trouble Finding a Comfortable Sleep Position

If you often find yourself tossing and turning in bed and wake up in the middle of the night due to back pain, this can be another major sign that your mattress is to blame. When lying down, if a mattress is worn out and unsupportive, it can be almost impossible to find a comfortable sleep position.

Your Mattress is Old

A mattress should be replaced every six to eight years. As your mattress ages, it losses its shape and ability to support your body the way it once did. Mattresses made out of memory foam will no longer be able to cradle the body at the hips and shoulders, the way it was intended to. Old innerspring mattresses can also begin to lose their shape and sag.

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Replace Your Problematic Mattress to Eliminate Back Pain

If your mattress is no longer comfortable, sags visibly in the middle, and it’s impacting the quality of your sleep, it’s time to upgrade. Don't go for the first cheap mattress you come across. A high-quality, supportive mattress should be considered an important investment.

To find the right mattress, you need to do a little research and look for one that will work with your personal preferences, budget, and needs.

The right mattress should provide support for the alignment and natural curves of the spine. A mattress that provides the correct amount of support can also prevent muscle soreness in the morning.

Studies have shown that high-quality medium-firm mattresses often provide more back pain relief compared to firmer mattresses.

Achieve the Right Balance with a Mattress Upgrade to Improve Sleep Quality

When you’re shopping for a new mattress, look for one that offers the perfect blend of comfort and support. When it comes to a good night's rest, a mattress that's comfortable is just as important as one that provides sufficient back support.

Firm or Medium-Firm Mattress?

While some people may prefer a thick, softer mattress, a too-soft mattress can contribute to your back pain. Additionally, a too-hard mattress can cause pain and soreness on pressure points. A high-quality medium-firm mattress allows the hips and shoulders to sink into the surface of the mattress, slightly, so it may be a more comfortable option than a firm mattress. People who prefer a firmer mattress for back support can also purchase a thick mattress pad for improved comfort.

Your Sleep Position Matters

To get the most out of your new mattress and to prevent back pain in the future, make sure you’re resting in the proper sleep position. The best sleep position to prevent back pain and keep the spine neutral is on your back. Sleeping in an unnatural position can contribute to chronic back pain. Studies have shown that sleeping on your stomach is the worst position because it flattens the natural curve of the spine.

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How to Deal with Ongoing Back Pain

Even after you have purchased a new mattress, you may find that you’re still experiencing back pain and have trouble sleeping throughout the night. This may indicate that the vertebrae in your spine are out of alignment. Replacing your old mattress is only part of the solution. The next step is scheduling an appointment with a chiropractor. A chiropractor can determine if your spine is out of alignment and will make the necessary adjustments to restore function and eliminate pain.

Meet with a Chiropractor

Following an exam and assessment, a chiropractor will create a personal care plan and recommend treatments that are designed to naturally treat your back pain, help you rest better at night, and help you achieve your wellness goals.

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Schedule an Appointment with The Chiropractic Doctors Today

If you’re experiencing back pain due to your old mattress, it’s time to schedule an appointment with The Chiropractic Doctors today. Our team of licensed chiropractors can provide the most progressive care available to improve your quality of life, eliminate your pain, and help you rest better at night.

Call our office to book your next appointment, and discover why The Chiropractic Doctors are consistently rated 5 stars by your neighbors!