What Is an Orthopedic Mattress?

If you’re on the hunt for a new mattress, you might be overwhelmed by the choices out there. You may be torn between a gel mattress, pillow tops, memory foam, and more. However, if you suffer from certain aches and pain, you might find that an orthopedic mattress is the best kind of mattress for you. 

How is an orthopedic mattress different from the rest?

An orthopedic mattress is designed to support your muscles, bones and joints. There isn’t one specific kind of material that is certified orthopedic. Compared to other mattresses like memory foam or gel that are labeled based on their materials, an orthopedic mattress can be made from a variety of materials. Orthopedic mattresses are labeled as such since they help improve your overall body posture and alignment. If you’re considering a mattress that is labeled orthopedic, make sure to research the brand and/or store you’re buying from to check that it’s authentic.

What are the benefits of an orthopedic mattress?

Orthopedic mattresses are known for their increased support for your body. They conform to your body’s contours, supporting certain pressure points like your neck, back, and hips to alleviate tension. They’ll evenly spread your body weight to prevent pain buildup. This support also improves your posture by aligning the spine and reducing backaches. With better spine alignment and posture, you’ll enjoy healthier blood circulation throughout the night, too. Because orthopedic mattresses provide better support and comfort for those who suffer from arthritis, osteoporosis, joint problems, or back pain, they also promote more restful sleep. You’re less likely to wake up from pain in the middle of the night.

Aside from pain relief, orthopedic mattresses are often a good choice for couples. An orthopedic mattress doesn’t have bounce like innerspring mattresses, nor will it sink like a memory foam mattress. When you sleep next to your partner and turn over or move, the motion won’t ripple throughout the rest of the bed and disturb the other sleeper. Also, orthopedic mattresses may be less “hot” than something like memory foam, which is dense and tends to retain heat. An orthopedic mattress will breathe and keep you comfortable throughout the night.

Finally, depending on its materials, an orthopedic mattress might cost more up front than other mattresses. In the long run, the benefits are usually worth the cost. An orthopedic mattress might be made from springs, memory foam, gel foam, latex, or natural fillings. Generally, innerspring and air mattresses have the shortest lifespan, memory foam and pillow tops are about average, and latex mattresses last the longest. Most mattresses have a lifespan of 7 to 10 years, but many can last beyond 10 years depending on use and care. 

Don’t forget one of the most important things to consider when buying an orthopedic mattress: how comfortable it feels to you. The firmer feel isn’t for everyone, and some people may find it too hard or prefer something slightly softer. Even if you think the benefits of an orthopedic mattress will suit you, make sure you feel comfortable laying on top of it. If you don’t, that may just cause more aches, pains, and disrupted sleep in the future.

Orthopedic Corner | Leon Mead MD Orthopedic Doctor | 730 Goodlette Road North, Suite 201  Naples Florida 34102 | Phone: (239) 262-1119