Many people suffer from mild or moderate scoliosis; fortunately, severe cases that require surgery are less common. Scoliosis is a lateral curvature of the spine in the shape of a C or S, which tends to appear at the end of childhood and the beginning of adolescence. It is usually permanent, although there are cases where the cause is that one leg is longer than the other, and a custom insole can help control it.
In general, except for severe cases, scoliosis is something that can be seen or go unnoticed during youth because it is not common for it to hurt during those years. Depending on how one takes care of their spine, a person with scoliosis may be able to go longer without experiencing pain and other problems that arise in these patients with age. For this reason, we believe it is important to know what type of mattress is best for scoliosis.
Why is it important to have a good mattress if you have scoliosis?
The treatment for scoliosis may include orthopedic elements or not. In any case, there is a particularly delicate stage that coincides with the period when the bones are still forming. During this stage, there is an emphasis on postural hygiene with rehabilitation exercises that do not straighten the back but help control posture, and paying attention to the mattress on which one sleeps, which should be firm.
Years ago, the practice was to change the bed base, known as a guard, to increase the firmness of less versatile mattresses, but nowadays, one can order a nearly custom mattress, considering the components and cross layers: these are mattresses with pocket spring cores. One can also choose a special mattress for scoliosis among the latest generation viscoelastic mattresses, if well advised. However, the mattress for scoliosis par excellence is pocket spring for the reasons we will explain.
Once growth ceases, the progression of scoliosis almost always stops if we consider the degrees of the curvature. However, the earlier the degree of scoliosis and the lack of daily care, the more likely back, leg, or hip pain will appear, along with recurring muscle spasms. It is time to switch, if you haven't already, to an ergonomic mattress. Again, you can choose between some viscoelastic options or opt for the mattress that you know will not fall short and offers a longer lifespan, like some of the models we have selected on our website.
We prefer to invest in high-quality mattresses that adapt to almost everyone because you will never buy a mattress that is too good, but you can be overly confident, which can take a toll on your health, in this case, your back.
Elements to consider when choosing a mattress
Firmness
Although people often refer to a hard mattress when talking about a firm mattress, these are not equivalent concepts. A firm mattress resists deformation when a force is applied, in this case, when you lie down, so your back does not sink into it, but it can be more or less hard in terms of the sensation you feel when lying down. A very hard mattress could cause pain or discomfort to a person with scoliosis when lying down and getting up.
For this reason, we recommend hard firmness pocket spring mattresses for people weighing up to 90 kilos, and for higher weights, very hard firmness.
Adaptability
Adaptability is the variable that complements firmness in ergonomic mattresses and in good quality mattresses in general. We could define it as the ability to maintain its shape without significant deformations while yielding to conform to a body. An adaptable mattress is the opposite of a hard mattress, but it is generally a firm mattress.
Breathability
People who sleep poorly due to pain at night appreciate resting on a mattress that does not add more difficulties when trying to fall asleep and stay asleep. Breathability goes from being an extra to a necessity when we talk about mattresses for people with chronic conditions or for convalescents.
Cover materials
It is very difficult to find a material and thickness that offers everything we need when talking about sleepers with back problems. That is why pocket spring mattresses are usually chosen for the core, where the rest of the materials are selected layer by layer, even the number of springs per square meter, or one can play with a viscoelastic mattress and provide the desired adaptability with a foam cover.
However, the viscoelastic mattress is not the one that offers the best breathability, keep this in mind if you live in warm areas or if you are an obese person.
Types of mattresses for scoliosis
Ergonomic pocket spring mattresses
The ideal option. They are high-end mattresses within the pocket spring category, known for their quality. They target a very demanding audience, so if you choose an ergonomic pocket spring mattress, it is very likely that your mattress will include additional functionalities such as the best possible breathability or hypoallergenic covers.
Ask us if you have any questions.
Non-ergonomic pocket spring mattresses
In reality, any quality pocket spring mattress manufactured today can be a better option than viscoelastic or foam models from a few years ago included in the ergonomic mattress category. The requirements for a mattress to be considered ergonomic change as new materials or combinations of them appear on the market.
Ergonomic mattresses made of other materials
Indeed, they are another valid option for people with scoliosis, but remember that if they are not made of materials differentiated by zones, you need to be very well informed to avoid making a mistake in your purchase.
Tips for a good rest if you have scoliosis
If I have scoliosis and I already know what mattress I should use, other questions arise: how to reduce discomfort during the day and sleep better at night? Here are some tips:
- Avoid lifting weights, and if you cannot avoid it, pay attention to postural hygiene and the equitable distribution of loads. Do not lift weight by pushing only with one arm or shoulder; move it in front of you and distribute the weight between both arms.
- Keep your muscles toned, both in the back region and in the abdomen, shoulders, and chest.
- When you start having arthrosis problems, avoid getting cold and excess humidity. For example, if you take a bath at the beach and it is not very warm, dry yourself with a towel. You will also appreciate applying dry heat to painful areas in the colder months.
Today we have seen what type of mattress is best for scoliosis because many people suffer from this problem, and depending on how they take care of themselves, it can lead to chronic pain at an early age. Resting on a firm mattress is essential, although it is advisable to move away from the idea of that old saying "hard bed" because the matter is more complex.
During the day, you can also do things for your back to avoid discomfort now or in the future. Pay special attention to children and adolescents with scoliosis, as the problem can continue to progress if not addressed correctly. Consult a doctor if you have questions about postural hygiene for children and consult us if you are looking for a firm but adaptable mattress.