In an ideal world your spine should be kept in a neutral position throughout the night. You want to avoid holding an uncomfortable position for too long.
If you have larger hips and shoulders then you may need a slightly softer mattress to achieve this position.
If your mattress is too firm your lower back will have to sag to reach the mattress.
If you have a mattress that is too soft then you will sink into it and your lower back will have to accommodate by shifting the other way – equally uncomfortable.
Experiment:
Firming it up
If you feel you need a firmer bed try making sure the mattress is on a solid base i.e. put a board between a softer divan base and the mattress or drag the mattress onto the floor for a few nights.
Softening it up
If you feel you need softer bed you can put a duvet over the mattress or try a memory foam mattress topper which can soften the bed up a bit.
If you suffer from back pain and would like some advice on how we can help you with fast, effective pain relief, please contact us.
