If you have scoliosis, you know how important it is to have proper spinal support from your mattress during the night. Scoliosis is a curvature of the spine, which can bring pain to areas of the body such as the back, legs, and feet. While there is no cure at the moment, there are certainly several ways to treat pain caused by scoliosis and help relieve symptoms. If left untreated, it can worsen over time and cause more serious issues such as damage to the lungs or heart. Many patients with scoliosis experience insomnia due to pain that keeps them up at night. While it’s important to speak to a healthcare provider about managing your symptoms, the mattress you sleep on can truly make a difference if you suffer from chronic back pain or scoliosis. Read below to find out how to choose the right mattress to help decrease your pain and maximize your comfort.
What is scoliosis
Scoliosis is characterized by an abnormal spinal curve, which usually becomes noticeable when a child is 10-15 years old. This condition is more prevalent amongst females and, in some cases, can develop before birth. Though the exact cause of scoliosis is unknown, it can be linked to certain conditions such as cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy. Scoliosis is usually passed down through family ties and genetics. Some of the most common signs and symptoms of scoliosis include a rib cage that is asymmetrical, bad posture, uneven shoulders or hips, and a head that is off-center. Sometimes, a curve of the spine can even be visible when looking at a person. Scoliosis can become more severe with age, which is why it is important to get a diagnosis from your healthcare provider or doctor and look into treatment options as soon as possible.
Scoliosis and Sleep
Scoliosis can affect your sleeping style and sleep quality due to the pain it inflicts on patients with this condition. Scoliosis can often cause chronic back, leg, and foot pain that radiates through the body and makes it hard to fall asleep (or stay asleep). Even in the cases that aren’t painful, the curve of the spine can still be uncomfortable and awkward to some when lying down on a flat surface such as a mattress. Some with scoliosis may even find that certain sleeping positions can cause respiratory issues, further adding to their nightly discomfort. If you have scoliosis, you will need to find a proper mattress that offers support and relief from pressure and is comfortable, quiet, and isolates movement well.
Choosing a Mattress
Choosing the right mattress can be difficult if you suffer from chronic pain. However, it doesn’t have to be too difficult if you know what you are looking for. For example, those with scoliosis will want to choose a medium-firm mattress with a strong foundation and high-quality materials to reduce pain and provide pressure relief to targeted areas. Memory foam or latex is often a good option, as it can conform to the body and cushion certain areas for relief of pain. Memory foam is also known to absorb motion, making it a quiet mattress for those who toss and turn during the night and wake their partner with shifting. If you have scoliosis, you will also want to consider your bed’s height, so it is easier to get in and out without discomfort. Ideally, you should select a bed that is approximately 18-22 inches in height.
At Mattressville, we offer a wide selection of mattresses to suit your needs and comfort levels. We have hybrid, memory foam, latex, pocket coil, and more, as well as a variety of brands such as Stearns & Foster, Sealy, and Tempurpedic, so you can be sure to have the best selection to choose from.
Sleeping Position and Scoliosis
Another important factor to consider when you have scoliosis is what type of sleeper you are. For instance, what is your most common and comfortable sleeping position? As well as your mattress, your sleeping position can exacerbate back pain and aggravate scoliosis symptoms even further. Those with scoliosis are often told to sleep on their backs to promote spinal alignment and help evenly distribute weight on the mattress, so there is less pressure build-up. Often, a pillow may be used to offer extra support while sleeping, regardless of sleeping position.
Use Pillow Support
Even with the right mattress, you may find it difficult to get into a comfortable position if you have scoliosis. Ensure that the pillow you sleep on is neither too high nor too low, as this can also throw the spinal alignment off. Depending on your sleeping position, an extra pillow may enhance your comfort. If you sleep on your back, a pillow under your shoulder blades or lumbar area may help with support and comfort. If you are a side sleeper, you can try placing a pillow between your knees instead. If you sleep on your stomach, you might benefit from a pillow right under your hips. Ultimately, use your pillows wisely and make sure that they aren’t detracting from the support and relief your mattress provides.
At the end of the day, a mattress is there to support you and should do the job whether you suffer from back pain or not. Your mattress should never be the cause of your pain or aggravate existing symptoms even further. If you find yourself unable to sleep comfortably, tossing and turning, or waking up with aches and pains frequently, it may be time for a new mattress. For more information on our selection of mattresses in the GTA and Mississauga area, please call Mattressville at 905-212-7722 or contact us here. Our team of trained and knowledgeable associates would be happy to help you find the mattress of your dreams.
