Tips for Choosing a Mattress to Alleviate Hip Pain
One of the main causes of sleep problems among older adults is pain caused by underlying medical conditions such as osteoarthritis, sciatica, and bursitis. Besides sleeping in the right position, choosing a good mattress is particularly important for people suffering from hip pain. This article highlights three tips for selecting a mattress that alleviates hip pain.
Firmness Levels
A Harvard Medical School study conducted by Medicine and Orthopedic Professor, Jeffrey N. Katz M.D., advises people who want to alleviate hip pain to choose a firm mattress over a soft one. Soft mattresses tend to dip in when you lay on them. This adds pressure on the pain points and the spine. Firm mattress options offer much needed joint support, cushioning hips, and other pain points from pressure. A firm mattress is, therefore, better suited to protect joints against pressure than softer options.
Ultimately, the level of firmness will depend on your personal preference and comfort. Some people suffering from joint pains find firm mattresses uncomfortable. The selection of firm mattresses should be pegged to your sleeping position and weight.
- Side Sleepers. If you sleep on your side, opt for softer firm mattresses to protect your shoulder, arm, and hip from pressure.
- Stomach Sleepers. Stomach sleepers tend to place more pressure on their spine. Thus, if their mattresses sink in, they can increase pelvis and hip pain. Further, stomach sleepers should go for medium or firm mattresses to lessen the pressure on their hips, spines, and shoulders.
- Back Sleepers. Back sleepers can use any firm mattress of their choice. Since this sleeping position ensures even distribution, it reduces pressure on the joints and spinal cord, allowing sleepers to use a firm mattress.
Even though sleeping positions determine how much weight is distributed on the sleeping surface area, people who weigh more are better off resting on firmer mattresses.
Look Out for Memory Foam and Latex Foam Mattresses
Memory foam mattresses and pillows conform to the body and evenly distribute weight across the surface area. Originally designed by NASA for use in space, memory foam is made up of lightweight materials that do not sink in, making them perfect cushions for the spine and joints.
Memory foam aids those sleepers seeking comfortable, painless, sweat-free, and restful nights. If you prefer organic and environmentally friendly bedding options, then latex foam mattresses should be your top pick. Latex foam mattresses are more flexible than memory foam and permit you to toss and turn without feeling the impact on your joints. These are made from organic rubber and are suitable for people with hip pain and other joint pains.
Non-Toxic Materials and Mattress Certifications
Toxic materials in mattresses and other bedding is one of the triggers of pain and flare-ups for autoimmune and allergy diseases. When exposed to toxic beddings, people with such pre-existing conditions will toss and turn, ending up with joint pains. This makes a non-toxic mattress a top priority for autoimmune and allergy sufferers who want to avoid or reduce hip pain.
While many mattress companies have several non-toxic and organic bedding certifications, consumer reports rank Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) and Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS) as the highest quality qualifications. These certifications can guide you in choosing a safer mattress that protects you from harmful chemicals and hip pain.
Conclusion
Hip pains make it difficult to sleep and rest well during the night. Even though the above tips can guide you in choosing a mattress for hip pain, you must test the discussed options and select whatever gives you comfort. Look out for money-back guarantees and favorable return policies to avoid spending so much money on uncomfortable bedding.
You can visit our mattress store in Tarpon Springs or contact us for more information about choosing the perfect mattress for your needs.
