{"id":34321,"date":"2025-01-10T12:00:00","date_gmt":"2025-01-10T12:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blog-staging.saatva-node-stage.tsc-starts-coding.com\/?p=34321"},"modified":"2025-01-02T18:39:58","modified_gmt":"2025-01-02T18:39:58","slug":"physical-therapist-mattress-tips","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.saatva-node-stage.tsc-starts-coding.com\/blog\/physical-therapist-mattress-tips\/","title":{"rendered":"3 Things to Look for in a Mattress, According to a Physical Therapist"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

There are a lot of factors to consider when shopping for a new mattress<\/a>. As a physical therapist, though, there are three key features I think you should focus on when choosing a mattress. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

From my expert perspective, your main goal should be to find a mattress that supports the natural curve of your spine, reduces pressure points, and enhances your overall sleep quality<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ahead, I’ll explore each of these factors in-depth to help you select the perfect mattress for you\u2014and your back. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

What to look for in a mattress, according to a physical therapist<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

1. Neutral spine position <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

A mattress should support the natural curves of your spine\u2014especially the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar regions<\/a>\u2014while keeping your body in a neutral position. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

This prevents unnatural twisting, which can lead to pain or discomfort. When lying on your back, your head, shoulders, and hips should align.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For side sleepers, the mattress should allow the hips and shoulders to sink in enough to maintain spinal alignment without causing an excessive curve in the lower back.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to the American Chiropractic Association, the ideal sleeping posture requires the spine to remain aligned in a neutral position, which reduces stress on the vertebrae and intervertebral discs. [1]<\/sup><\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Firmness level<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

A medium-firm mattress<\/a> is typically ideal for most people, though this can vary depending on body weight and preferred sleeping position.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A mattress that’s too soft may cause excessive sinking and poor alignment, especially for back and stomach sleepers. Conversely, a mattress that’s too firm can create pressure points on the shoulders, hips, or lower back. [2]<\/sup><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here’s a breakdown of ideal firmness level by sleep position. <\/p>\n\n\n\n