The Best Bed Mattress for Back Pain

Back pain is a daily struggle for many, particularly for those who suffer from a disability or reduced mobility. As many as 2.8 million people in the UK will experience back pain at some point in their lives, with chronic back pain being far more common in those aged 60 and over. For those managing this discomfort, back pain can greatly impact day-to-day life, making everyday tasks and mobility more difficult. Therefore, it is paramount to choose the right mattress, this is because a well-suited mattress can not only ease back pain but transform sleep quality too. In this blog, we’ll explore the best bed mattress for back pain.

Types of back pain

Back pain manifests in different ways, each with distinct and damaging effects on the body. It’s important to first identify the most common types of back pain and their unique characteristics to consider the best mattress for back problems.

Degenerative

Degenerative back pain is the most typical form of back pain in seniors. It occurs due to the body’s natural ageing process, where our bones and muscles weaken over time, causing nerve irritation and damage. Degenerative back pain creates inflammation, stiffness and lack of flexibility which can lead to degenerative disc disease or Spondylolisthesis, also known as a slipped disc.

Spinal Conditions

Spinal conditions, such as spinal stenosis, are caused when the gaps between our spinal discs narrow or deform, leading them to rub against each other. This inflammation can lead to misalignment of the body, causing persistent pain and reduced mobility.

Muscle Strains

When we position our bodies incorrectly or use parts of our muscles excessively, it can lead to muscle strain, creating intense pressure and pain. Muscle strain can range from mild to severe and can result in migraines, nausea and stiffness. Thankfully, muscle strains are the easiest form of back pain to treat.

Pinched Nerves

Pinched nerves occur when there is too much pressure pushing against the tissue of a nerve. This causes the muscle surrounding the nerve to tighten, creating a numb feeling and sharp shooting pain. Pinched nerves can make relaxing parts of the body more difficult.

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a slow-developing disease that weakens bones, making them fragile and susceptible to breaking. Mostly common in people aged 60 and over, Osteoporosis is only diagnosed following a fall or injury when a bone has broken. Living with the condition can be difficult, but managed with moderate exercise, a healthier diet and improved sleep.

Type of mattresses

Not all mattresses are made the same. There are a plethora of mattress options on the market, each with different properties that can be of benefit; be it through improved sleep, reduced pressure on joints and muscles or temperature regulation. Let’s take a look at the most common types of mattresses in the UK.

Memory Foam

Memory foam mattresses are a popular option for many. Crafted from dense foam, they react to a person’s body heat and pressure, molding to the shape of the body. Considered one of the best mattresses for bad backs, memory foam mattresses provide excellent pressure relief, ensuring more restorative sleep.

Best for: Keeping our customers cool

Memory foam mattresses are created with comfort in mind, with additional cooling gels which help to improve airflow and reduce heat retention. This is particularly important, as our body expels 300-400 millilitres of water each night. Memory foam mattresses help to regulate body temperature throughout the night and allow individuals to sleep for longer periods as a result.

Pocket Sprung

A pocket sprung mattress is made from individual springs which are encased in a fabric pocket, allowing each to move individually when the mattress is in use. For example, when someone lays on their mattress, the separate springs respond to the body's pressure, resulting in greater comfort and support.

Best for: Active sleepers

Pocket-sprung mattresses are great for active sleepers. This is because they provide greater support than other mattress types. The separated springs provide stability and adapt quickly to sudden changes in position and movement, helping an individual to feel better supported when tossing and turning. Additionally, pocket-sprung mattresses are great for those sleeping with a partner as they will be undisturbed by the motion of an active sleeper.

Latex

Latex mattresses are crafted from latex foam, providing a firm feel. In a similar way to memory foam mattresses, they conform to the contours of the human body, however, latex mattresses don’t create the same sinking feeling. Latex mattresses are a great option for those looking for a balance between comfort and support.

Best for: Back support

Latex options are some of the best mattresses for back problems. This is because they offer consistent support across the entire body. Latex’s natural elasticity supports better sleep posture and helps to maintain spinal alignment. These mattresses are particularly effective for those who require additional back support as the latex material helps to create the right pressure on spinal discs and back muscles. 

Medical Grade™ foam and PostureCell® technologies

Medical Grade™ foam, like that in our Mammoth mattresses, was developed and used in health settings to help people get the rest and recovery they need. Crafted with PostureCell® technologies, the mattress material cushions and moves independently, evenly distributing body weight, providing pressure relief and minimising partner disturbance.

Best for: Scientifically proven technologies

Medical Grade™ foam has been rigorously tested with Northumbria University’s Centre for Sleep Research and is scientifically proven to enhance sleep quality. The only mattress on the market to achieve this accreditation.

In a scientific study, participants using Medical Grade™ foam mattresses fell asleep 29% quicker, with 21% of those enjoying better sleep too. Additionally, participants experienced a 7% increase in sleep efficiency during REM and non-REM sleep, supporting them to wake up less throughout the night.

What are Mammoth mattresses?

Introducing our NHS award-winning Mammoth mattresses. Crafted using Medical Grade™ foam with PostureCell® technologies, they’re the preferred mattress for those recovering from an injury or living with an ongoing health condition, like chronic back pain or arthritis. Our Mammoth mattresses provide 69% better cooling technology when compared with traditional mattresses, help customers fall asleep more quickly and provide greater pressure relief too.

Can Mammoth mattresses be used on adjustable beds?

Absolutely! Our Mammoth mattresses can be purchased with every adjustable bed.

Because they’re crafted with PostureCell® technology, mammoth mattresses naturally conform to the different positions of an adjustable bed easily. Made from Medical Grade™ foam, wear and tear is also reduced when compared with traditional mattress types, making them one of the best mattresses for back problems.

Choosing the right mattress for you?

Choosing a mattress can feel like an overwhelming prospect. You want the assurance that the mattress you buy is right for your specific requirements and needs. Occupational Therapist, Samantha Shann explains that ‘alleviating pressure while you sleep can help relieve pain, improve joint and muscle recovery, and promote a more independent lifestyle so it’s important to find the right mattress.

Start by identifying how you sleep; side sleepers benefit most from softer mattresses, whilst those who lie flat will want something a little firmer to support their body and spine.

Chronic back pain affects as many as 80% of people, so it’s important to consider any underlying health conditions or concerns, both now and in the future.

Memory foam mattresses offer excellent pressure relief, whilst latex mattresses are known for their durability and support. When looking at mattresses, pay attention to factors like the level of firmness, the feeling and softness of the materials and whether a mattress will regulate body temperature. These are all important factors in finding a mattress that keeps you comfortable throughout the night.

Discover why Oak Tree Mobility is the ideal place for finding your perfect mattress

At Oak Tree Mobility, we believe everybody deserves the best night’s rest, and that starts with the right mattress. With the purchase of every adjustable bed, we provide the option of a high-quality pocket-sprung, memory foam, latex or award-winning Mammoth mattress. Whether you’re looking for extra support, pressure relief or unmatched comfort, our mattresses are designed to suit your specific needs and requirements.

To find out more about our adjustable beds, and accompanying mattresses, including our new Mammoth mattress, the only mattress scientifically proven to provide better sleep, please visit our website.