Research by the British Chiropractic Association has shown that 83 percent of people are stiff and have aches and pains when they wake up in the morning. This means that every morning, thousands of people wake up, stretch, and cringe because of pain in the back and neck. This pain in the morning is very common, and it may come as a surprise to learn that bad mattresses can be blamed for back pain. In most cases, something as simple as buying a new mattress can provide a better night's sleep, and a more comfortable morning.

How Do Mattresses Cause Back Pain

A good mattress will provide enough support to keep the spine and neck in a neutral position all night long. Mattresses that are old or worn out do not provide enough support for the spine and neck. This can be caused by sagging spots in the mattress or by lumps and springs poking through. Both of these situations will cause uneven pressure to be applied to the body, knocking the spine out of alignment, and causing needless pain.

When is it Time to Buy a New Mattress

To avoid unnecessary back pain, the Sleep Council recommends replacing a mattress every seven years, whether it looks as though it needs replacing or not. Even if a mattress is less than seven years old, it is a good idea to replace a mattress when it shows signs of wear and age. Here are some signs that it is time to buy a new mattress:

Mattresses & Back Pain

  • Replace the mattress if the springs are showing or can be felt through the top cover when light pressure is applied.
  • Replace a mattress that has sagging spots, lumps or is misshapen in any way.
  • Replace the mattress when it is visibly soiled, stained, ripped or shows signs of old age.
  • Replace mattresses that creak or groan when weight shifts.
  • Replace the mattress if it cause aches and back pain.
  • Replace any mattress that is older than seven years.
See our : How often should I change my Mattress

Tips for Buying a New Mattress

People spend about one third of their lives sleeping. The bed they sleep on should be worthy of this type of time commitment. Buying a new mattress should be treated as a big decision, much like buying a new car. Like a new car, a new mattress should be an investment. Don't give in to the temptation to buy a low quality mattress to save the expense. Following are several more tips to follow when buying a new mattress:
  • Plan to take a lot of time shopping and comparing mattresses to find one that is just right.
  • Partners that share the same bed should always shop together to find a mattress that will be a good fit for both people.
  • When testing a mattress, choose one that provides good support and keeps the spine in a neutral position.
  • Test the mattress with a pillow to get the best idea of how it will be to sleep on the mattress.
  • Always look at quality over price when it comes to making the final decision on a new mattress.
Everybody has to sleep, but that sleep should be healthy and productive. Morning aches and frequent back pain don't have to be a part of life. A new mattress will help reduce back pain and provide a better night's sleep.
Confused About the Best Type of Mattress for You? Human beings spend, on average, about a third of their lives sleeping, so it stands to reason that you'd want your bed to be the most well-chosen piece of furniture in your home. Your lifestyle, physical health, and personal habits can all have an effect on the sort of mattress that is best for you, and the mattress you choose can have a major impact on your quality of sleep. Be sure that the mattress you choose suits your needs. Read More Simon Johnson is dedicated to the Perfect Nights Sleep at My Next Mattress