Finding the Right Chiropractor Recommended Mattress

Spinal alignment may not be something you think about very often, but it’s surprisingly important for good sleep. Since sleep is sometimes called “the Swiss army knife of health” because it affects every part of the body, spinal alignment is also key to wellbeing.

If you’re sleeping on a bad mattress that doesn’t support your spine, you may not be getting quality sleep—which may be taking a toll on your overall health.

Knowing how to choose a chiropractor recommended mattress that promotes proper spinal alignment can help you get the supported sleep you need. Plank mattresses are endorsed by the American Chiropractic Association (ACA).

Understanding Spinal Alignment and Its Impact on Sleep

Spinal alignment refers to the way the bones that make up your spinal column line up. When your spine is aligned, your body is able to move freely without strain or pain. When the spine is misaligned during sleep, your body isn’t able to function as it should, which may lead to negative health consequences. These include:

●   Back pain

●   Stiffness

●   Disrupted sleep cycles

●   Fatigue

●   Breathing problems/sleep apnea

If you’re among the 16 million people who are already dealing with back pain, stress on the spine caused by poor spinal alignment during sleep could make it worse. And poor spinal alignment may contribute to nerve compression, which in turn could cause sleep-disrupting pain. A vicious cycle. 

How the Right Mattress Can Improve Spinal Alignment

Luckily, you can improve spinal alignment while you sleep—with the right chiropractor recommended mattress. The key features to look for are:

●   Support - Does the mattress provide enough support to allow the spine to align naturally when you’re lying down?

●   Pressure relief - Does the mattress evenly distribute your body weight to relieve pressure points?

●   Firmness - Is the mattress firm enough to keep your spine aligned but also cushioned enough for comfortable sleeping?

Different mattress types offer different benefits and drawbacks when it comes to spinal alignment. 

Memory foam

Memory foam mattresses are made with a type of foam that conforms to your body shape and “remembers” it (hence the name). This type of mattress curves around the natural alignment of your spine and protects pressure points. The Plank Firm mattress is a memory foam mattress made with supportive high density foams.

Latex

Latex mattresses are made with naturally-occuring material from the rubber plant. Similar to memory foam, this material molds itself around the spine’s natural contours and eases pressure, but may lack necessary firmness.

Innerspring

Innerspring mattresses feature metal coils that provide firm support. They don’t conform around the body but distribute pressure evenly to relieve it. Some people may find them too firm for spinal alignment.

Hybrid

Hybrid mattresses are made with both coils and comfort materials like memory foam and latex. They offer a “best of both worlds” approach to spinal alignment for people who want firmness and softness. The Plank Firm Luxe is a hybrid mattress that features targeted coil support for comfortable support.

Considering Individual Needs When Choosing a Mattress

Which type of mattress is best for spinal alignment largely depends on your individual needs and preferences. Some things to think about:

Sleep position - The way you sleep has a big impact on how your mattress supports your spine. Back and stomach sleepers generally get the best spinal alignment from a firmer mattress (think innerspring or hybrid), while side sleepers need the body-hugging support of a softer mattress (like memory foam or latex) to properly align the spine.

Body weight - Different body types need varying levels of firmness for spinal alignment. Heavier bodies benefit from a firmer mattress that evenly holds their weight, while lighter bodies may find a less firm mattress offers better spine support.

While you can use your sleep position and body weight as starting points for how to choose a mattress, you’ll ultimately want to take a Goldilocks approach. This means finding a firmness level that’s “just right” for you and your spine.

It’s important to note that these guidelines don’t constitute medical advice, and any recommendations given to you by a healthcare provider should be followed above else. 

Beyond the Mattress: Additional Tips for Better Sleep and Spinal Health

The right chiropractor recommended mattress is a big piece of the sleep and spinal alignment puzzle, but it’s not the only one. Practicing good sleep hygiene is also key, and includes:

Consistent sleep schedule - This means going to bed and getting up around the same time, even on the weekends.

Bedtime routine - Doing the same relaxing rituals every night helps signal your body to prepare for sleep.

Cool, dark room - Your bedroom should be dark and the temperature should be between 60 and 67 degrees for optimal sleep.

Other habits that may help with spinal and overall health? Regular stretching and/or exercises like yoga. Just 12 weeks of online yoga classes can cut back pain nearly in half, according to a recent Cleveland Clinic study. 

You may also want to consider talking with a chiropractic specialist, who may direct you toward spinal alignment therapies. 

Supported Spine, Better Sleep

Spinal alignment is key to good sleep, which is necessary for good health—and the right mattress can help you achieve both. Looking at different mattress types while taking your specific needs and preferences into consideration, you can make an informed decision about which chiropractor recommended Plank mattress will help you achieve a properly aligned spine and a good night’s sleep at the same time.

If you’re dealing with existing back or sleep issues, consider consulting with a sleep specialist, chiropractor or other medical professional who can advise you.