Good health and
sleep are closely linked. Just as you can invest in a gym membership for better
health, you should invest in a quality mattress to improve your sleep habits.
The alternative is a costly problem, both fiscally and physically. Most people
sleep about one-third of their lives. What else do you do for that amount of
time that affects the other two-thirds of your life?
Sleep should be a
priority and not just a negotiable need determined by your busy schedule. Good
sleep not only lessens costly back problems but also helps to prepare you for a
more productive, alert and safe day ahead.
According to the American
Chiropractic Association, between 40 and 60 percent of Americans report trouble
sleeping. Such variables as body temperature, sleep position and lighting should
be taken into account when planning a good night’s sleep. And so should the
right mattress. It can help alleviate both sleep disturbances and backaches by
keeping the spine in proper alignment and supporting body weight.
Back pain
The lower back or lumbar region is the
most common area for back pain because it bears the wear and tear of bending,
stooping, sitting and lifting. A good mattress supports the back and allows the
muscles to rest and rejuvenate during sleep. Not without consequences, back pain
comes in a close second to the common cold as the most frequent cause of lost
work time. And studies show you’re not as productive or safe when you don’t get
enough rest.
Poor sleep and a poor sleep surface are at the root of
these problems. Experts recommend mattresses that offer superior support without
being too hard. The bottom line: The right mattress is very important to your
overall health.
Mattress myths
The old adage “hard
is better” for a mattress is truly a myth. No single sleep surface is right for
everyone. So start your search at a store that carries a varied selection of
comfort levels. Mattresses come in a variety of comfort levels, including plush,
pillow-top, ultra plush, ultra plush pillow-top, firm and cushion firm.
Keep in mind that comfort levels are different than support level.
Support level has to do with the coil count and coil construction. The proper
support may be achieved in all of the different comfort levels. Consider whether
you’re a stomach, side or back sleeper (or a combination) to determine the
comfort level, which will help you sleep better and longer. And that is the
goal.
Everyone has natural curves in his or her back. Usually, the
harder the surface, the more the back has to drop out of alignment to meet the
mattress. The optimal mattress has enough padding to support your back without
allowing it to drop out of its natural alignment. A plush mattress with good
support will do just that.
Value
Shopping for the
best value doesn’t mean finding the lowest price. Bargain bedding is no bargain
when it comes to getting a good night’s sleep.
You might think nothing
of spending $300 to $400 on a television that comes with a one-year warranty,
and that, if you’re lucky, will last eight to 10 years. But you might think
twice about spending $800 to $1,000 on a new queen mattress that comes with a
10-year non-prorated warranty. There have been many advances in mattress
manufacturing. Many are designed by orthopedic doctors with proper support and
great comfort levels to keep you properly aligned all night.
If you
aren’t satisfied with your current bedding and sleep comfort, find the mattress
that’s right for you. And remember, how you sleep at night generally determines how you’ll feel for the rest of the day.
