Is firm or soft better for back pain?

Choosing the right mattress for back pain can be a difficult decision. It’s important to consider both the type of mattress and its firmness level when evaluating whether it will provide you with the support and comfort necessary to alleviate your pain.

When it comes to mattresses, firmness is typically divided into three categories: soft, medium, and firm. Soft mattresses have been known to provide more body contouring while providing cushioning for pressure points. This can be beneficial for people with chronic lower back pain who need extra support in specific areas. Medium-firm mattresses are a good choice for those who want a balance between being supported and comfortable. Lastly, firm mattresses offer more support but may be too hard for some people. It's also best to avoid overly soft mattresses as they don't give enough support to keep your spine properly aligned.

Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference but here are some key tips to help determine which kind of mattress you should get:

1. Consider how old your current mattress is—generally anything older than 8 years should be replaced
2. Ask yourself what kind of sleeping position you prefer; side sleepers generally need softer beds while back/stomach sleepers benefit from firmer ones
3. Take advantage of retailer trial periods so that you can try out different types before making an investment
4. Visit physical stores or speak with customer service representatives if possible so that they can advise you based on your needs
5. Don't forget about pillows; investing in high-quality ones may help further reduce neck and shoulder strain

Choosing the right mattress and pillow combination is essential if you're looking to find relief from chronic lower back pain so make sure that you take all factors into consideration before deciding on which one will work best for you!