We spend a third of our lives sleeping, which equates to over 20 years of laying in bed. Sleep is essential for the body to recover and restore. It also helps the brain rest and reset for the following day. So the question is, if you are not getting a good nights sleep, what can help contribute to providing this? The type of mattress you have and its age have a big factor on our quality of sleep. Here are the cardinal rules to think about when deciding to get a new mattress:
- Are you are waking up stiff and sore?
This is normally the first sign that a new mattress is in order. You dread going to sleep as by morning you are stiffer and sorer than when you went to bed. If you are constantly waking up stiff and sore, there is a very high chance that your mattress is the root of the cause. A good mattress should be comfortable enough to absorb the weight of your hips and shoulders, but still supportive enough to hold your spine in an optimal position. If your mattress has lost its comfort and cushioning, the hips and shoulder areas will become sore from the compression onto them whilst you sleep.
- Is your mattress over 10 years old?
Even the best mattress will eventually wear out over time. When the warranty says “lifetime guarantee” that means the lifetime of the mattress, not you as a human’s lifetime. Foams and materials used in the top layer lose their structure over time and compress, the springs start to deteriorate, don’t forget the accumulation of dust, bacteria and old skin cells in the mattress over the time! We recommend replacing your mattress every 8-10 years.
- Can you feel lumps, dips or springs?
There is nothing worse than trying to hang onto the side of the bed all night from the fear of falling into the abyss that is in the dip of the mattress. If the mattress is sagging you will tighten muscles to stop rolling into the area to compensate for the uneven surface. This can lead to restless sleep, and muscle stiffness. If you can feel dips and even worse the springs that mattress must go!
- Have you had a change in life circumstances?
This can include but not be limited to the following, weight gain or loss, change in sleeping partners, pregnancy or if you are managing a new health condition, a new mattress might be something to consider. These life changes effect the sleeping surface that is required for optimal sleep.
- Do you frequently have interrupted sleep?
If you are waking up during the night feeling hot and restless. This may be another indication that your mattress is not providing the most suitable sleeping environment for your individual needs.
If you would like more information or would like to book an appointment at Neurohealth Allambie or Narrabeen – please call the clinic on 9905 9099 or email us admin@neurohealthchiro.com.au or fill in the contact form from our website www.neurohealthchiro.com.au
Sign up to receive Neurohealth Chiropractic’s Free monthly health newsletter on the right hand side of this page. Filled with great information and lots of easy health tips to keep you at Optimal Health!
This article is written by Dr. Steven Cannon, Chiropractor – Neurohealth
