Is Memory Foam Bad for Your Back? Tips To Avoid Back While Using Memory Foam

Are memory foam mattresses good or bad for the back? This question keeps lurking at the time of buying one. Every product that you buy has its limitations; memory foam too comes with a set of few.

We have discussed the positive side of memory foam mattresses in our other article; let’s also discuss the other side of the coin.

It is always advisable to know the pros and cons of a thing before buying one. After going through the article, it is entirely up to you to invest in a memory foam mattress or not.

However, learning about how much memory foam can affect your back will make you confident of your decision to pick or drop.

Is Memory Foam Bad for Your Back?

Memory foam mattresses are bought to add comfort to your sleep and give your spine the desired support. If they fail to do so, it is pointless to use these.

Although memory foam has enjoyed a global presence in recent years, users have a list of negative experiences or reviews to share as well.

Issues shared by users on using memory foam mattresses for back support:

1. These are heavier for the back

We have to admit that some users adjust with the mattress whereas some are helpless due to their body weight. If a mattress is not good enough to bear the weight or adjust to it, it ends up being a compromise!

In simple words, it means the user cannot enjoy the lightness of the product.

2. Memory foam mattresses are hotter for back sleepers

If you compare memory foam with other mattresses, the latter is hotter. This is no good news for back sleepers as the hot blanket will make it uncomfortable to sleep especially during summers.

Moreover, the heat generated through the back can be sweaty and smelly too.

3. Lack of proper back support

Of the many complaints and feedback, one most common is that memory foam mattresses cause some discomfort and lack proper back support especially in the initial days of usage.

Well, this could be because these are new and you can wait for some time for the mattress to adjust to your weight and pressure.  Low-quality memory foam mattresses may have this concern ore commonly.

4. Memory foam results in some stickiness on the back

Some people have experienced the feeling of being stuck in bed when they get up. It could be because memory foam takes the shape of the person’s body.

If the person is overweight, then you may have to think twice before buying it as the mattress may sink due to body pressure.

The stickiness in bed is not good regardless of whether you sleep on your belly, back, or side. People suffering from back issues are generally recommended hard surfaces to sleep on.

5. It is an expensive solution for backache compared to other alternatives

A memory foam mattress is a pricy solution for backache issues if you compare it with other alternatives. With the limited benefits that you get, you may switch to a more economical product too to help you with back support.

Invest in memory foam only if you have a specific brand that is known to aid in back support.

6. Memory foam mattresses are not waterproof and sweatproof

This is not a good option for back sleepers who tend to sweat more. Any accidental spillage can cause damage to the mattress and doesn’t soak the sweat or liquid. Buying expensive memory foam that doesn’t last long isn’t a wise option.   

7. Doesn’t help much in settling back pain

Back pain is not just restricted to age; it may happen anytime to anyone and in any situation. Thus, how we sleep matters for proper spine alignment.

Wrong sleeping posture and wrong bedding can make back pain worse. Sadly, memory foam may give firm support in some cases but, doesn’t help much in settling the pain caused due to back issues.

Reasons Why Memory Foam Is Bad for Your Back

1. The memory foam is too soft for you to use

Memory foam mattress that feels like a cloud is not a good option for people with back issues. Overly soft or plush mattresses may not give your spine the desired support while sleeping and thus result in more pain.

2. Memory foam is too firm

If the memory foam is too stiff or firm, it is possible that it would fail to adjust with the curves of your spine and sides. An unhealthy and uncomfortable spine can hurt more while sleeping.

3. The foam mattress is brand new

Brand new mattresses are hard too and need some time to adjust with the body. If the mattress size is big enough to fit your partner too, it may take more time to adjust to different body shapes.

As you use it further, the mattress will pick the shape but, until then it will cause you more back pain.

4. The mattress has lost its quality and aging up

If the memory foam mattress is too old, it is likely that it has lost its quality. You may wake up with back pain and have disturbed sleep patterns. Perhaps, it is time to upgrade or get a new memory foam mattress for your back.

5. The base for the mattress is incorrect

A wrong base on which the mattress is installed can also be bad for your sleeping posture and back issues.

Memory foam can push through the gaps or between the slats and thus, make it uncomfortable to sleep. When your sleep posture is not right, your back pain will only increase.

Important Tips to Avoid Any Back Issues While Using a Memory Foam Mattress

For using a memory foam mattress, you must follow certain tips to help you with your back pain issues. Back pain could be due to various issues such as arthritis, sprains, strains, incorrect body posture, injury, infection, osteoporosis, etc,

Memory foam can be blamed when you face increased pain, added discomfort, and poor sleep throughout the night.

Let’s back to the tips to avoid any back issues while using a Memory foam mattress:

1. Make your mattress firmer

Choosing plush mattresses would be a wrong choice but, if you have one already, you can stuff more and try to make it firmer.

2. Fix the mattress properly

Your memory foam mattress must align and fit properly the base. This will help to have a straight and flat surface to lie down and align your back properly.

3. Give some time to your mattress

Every new product takes some time and may cause some discomfort to your back. Thus, you must give your mattress time to adjust. With some uses, the mattress will have the right balance of firmness for your spine and neck.

4. Use extra pillows

Extra pillows can help you fill the gaps around the curves where memory foam mattress fails to do so. Being a back sleeper, you can add round pillow and use more pillows between your knees.

5. Have a good posture

Good posture helps calm down the strained muscles. Some stretching, regular exercise and comfortable night clothing can help you in peaceful sleep. Practicing the wrong posture will not let even the best memory foam help you.

Final Words:

Memory foam mattresses are every changing and keep improving with time. Thus, you may have to check with the manufacturer on the improvements. Do not be disheartened, many people have used memory foam for years due to the advantages of spine issues.

Whatever choice you make in buying a memory foam mattress, ensure that it takes care of your spinal alignment and helps you deal with the pain with comfort and ease.

Similar Posts