3 Mattress Buying Tips to Help Relieve Back Pain

Investing in a high-quality mattress is one of the smartest choices you can make for your health and well-being. But let's be honest — shopping for a mattress isn’t always a smooth process. Between pushy sales tactics, countless options, and the financial commitment, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

The bottom line, though, is clear: the right mattress can play a crucial role in preventing or alleviating back pain. To simplify your buying journey, we’ve compiled three essential tips to help you choose the best mattress for relieving back pain and improving your sleep.

How Back Pain Impacts Your Sleep

Chronic back pain can significantly disrupt your sleep quality. When you’re not getting enough rest, it becomes harder to focus at work or school, and your overall mood and productivity suffer.

If you’re experiencing back pain, you may notice:

• Difficulty falling asleep — Discomfort makes it hard to relax and drift off.

• Trouble staying asleep — You might wake up frequently due to discomfort or pain.

• Constant repositioning — Finding a comfortable position can become an endless challenge.

A supportive, comfortable mattress can make a world of difference in managing these symptoms and promoting better sleep.

Common Mattress Types to Consider

Here’s a quick breakdown of the most popular types of mattresses and how they impact back support:

• Innerspring Mattresses — Traditional and widely available, these mattresses use steel coils for support. Modern versions often feature individually wrapped coils, which provide better motion isolation and contouring than continuous coil designs. They range from soft to extra firm.

• Memory Foam Mattresses — These mattresses contour to your body’s shape, providing excellent pressure relief and spinal alignment. Memory foam retains heat more than other materials, so some may sleep warmer on these mattresses.

• Latex Mattresses — Naturally firm and supportive, latex mattresses are a great option for back pain sufferers. They’re also durable and resistant to sagging.

• Hybrid Mattresses — Combining the bounce of coils with the contouring benefits of foam or latex, hybrids offer a balanced feel that suits many sleep preferences.

3 Mattress Buying Tips for Back Pain Relief

1. Comfort First: Be Realistic

At National Mattress, we always stress that the "best" mattress is the one that feels best to you. Many believe that an ultra-firm mattress is the best choice for back pain, but this isn’t always true.

You’ll want a mattress that supports your spine’s natural curve while still feeling comfortable. Spend at least 5-10 minutes lying in your preferred sleep position when testing mattresses in-store. Pay attention to pressure points — especially around your hips, shoulders, and lower back.

2. Take Multiple Trips to the Store

Shopping for a mattress can quickly become overwhelming if you try too many options in one visit. It’s easy for all the mattresses to start blending together, making it harder to decide.

We recommend visiting at least twice. During your first trip, focus on identifying 2-3 top contenders. Come back another day to compare those finalists when your mind is fresh. At National Mattress, our team encourages this process — no high-pressure sales tactics here!

3. Don’t Overlook the Foundation

Your mattress needs proper support to perform its best, so don’t forget about the box spring or foundation. An old or sagging foundation can compromise even the highest-quality mattress.

If your current foundation is squeaking, sagging, or outdated, upgrading to a new supportive foundation is a smart move. A stable, supportive base enhances your mattress’s lifespan and ensures your back gets the support it needs.

Is Your Mattress Past Its Prime?

There’s no universal rule for when to replace a mattress, as quality, materials, and usage all factor in. However, many experts recommend replacing your mattress around every 7 years.

Other signs it may be time for a new mattress include:

• Expired warranty — If your mattress is out of warranty, it’s likely nearing the end of its useful life.

• Visible wear — Sagging, lumps, or worn-out spots are clear indicators that the materials are breaking down.

• Discomfort — If you wake up feeling sore or notice your sleep quality has declined, your mattress could be the culprit.

The Most Important Question to Ask Yourself

With so many options, choosing the right mattress can feel daunting. Here’s the ultimate question to guide your decision:

Am I comfortable lying on this mattress for at least 5-10 minutes in my preferred sleep position?

If the answer is yes, that mattress is worth considering — but it’s still smart to compare a few options. Work with a knowledgeable salesperson to narrow your choices, review materials and support levels, and find the ideal mattress to keep your back pain at bay.