Those who suffer from rheumatoid and osteoarthritis often wonder whether there are mattresses that help with arthritis. The good news is that there are, but you should steer clear of shopping for a particular brand. In the article below, we’ll explore the criteria these mattresses possess and the considerations to keep in mind when shopping for a new bed, according to WebMD.
The Big Picture
When you suffer from intense joint pain, it robs you of restful sleep. While our natural inclination may be to purchase a softer bed, this can make the problem worse. That’s because beds that are intensely cushioned lack support. Not only will this cause your spine to fall out of line as you sleep, but it will also intensify pressure at certain points in the back, hips, knees, and shoulders.
As counterintuitive as it may seem, you should seek a relatively firm mattress that also disperses pressure as your body relaxes during rest. Because this general concept is provided by some materials and designs, you have many potential options. Other points to consider are cost, because it isn’t always a reliable indicator of quality, and any other special considerations you may have, such as allergies, excess weight or sleep apnea. This will help you narrow your choices to the top contenders for your next mattress.
In a Material World
When it comes to the type of bed, you have three or four general categories: innerspring or traditional; memory foam; natural or synthetic solid latex; and air chamber designs. Each has both its merits and its shortcomings, depending on your needs and preferences.
Because individuals with joint ailments do require superlative support, some experts recommend the solid latex option. To disperse pressure on the back and joints, a memory foam topper or pad can be added. While a memory foam mattress is preferred by some, it can retain heat and give off a chemical odor that disturbs the rest of those who are sensitive.
Traditional innerspring mattresses can also provide excellent support. The key is finding one that is firm enough to meet your needs. A memory foam or pillowed pad that provides pressure dispersal can also be added as an additional layer of relief from arthritis pain. The key to a spring mattress’ firmness is the thickness of the wire springs, not necessarily the number of springs used in the bed. The greater the diameter, the less yielding the springs will be. On a firmness scale of one to ten, ten being the firmest option, look for a mattress that feels like a seven or eight to you.
Air chamber beds can be expensive, but they can also be worth it. Several models are used for immobilized patients in hospitals to prevent complications. Because the air pressure within each chamber can be modified individually, the mattress prevents pressure sores from developing from prolonged contact with the bed surface. For those who suffer from joint pain, the same principle applies. Plus, if you have a partner who needs or prefers a much softer mattress, the air chamber models allow for different firmness on either side of the bed.
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Once you venture out to the shops and test feasible options, you’ll find that there is a host of potential new beds that might suit you. The key is to know what you like, what you need, and how to spot an empty sales pitch when you hear one. Because there are many different kinds of mattresses that help with arthritis, the most important criterion is how it feels to you.
