If you experience back pain regularly, you may have taken a look at your lifestyle and run through some of the reasons why. Could it be because you sit at a desk all day? Are you exercising incorrectly? However, for many people, back pain is due to their mattress. A study conducted by the Better Sleep Council found that you should replace your mattress every seven years. Here’s what a bad mattress can cause and how to get a good one.

What Happens If You Sleep on a Bad Mattress?

Sleeping on a bad mattress can be as harmful to your well-being as a sports injury or car accident. Not only does it affect your spinal alignment and cause neck and back pain, but it can also cause breathing issues. Lying on a bad mattress has severe long-term repercussions, and given the average American spends nearly 36 years in bed, that’s a third of your life spent in a potentially spine-damaging situation.

How Can You Tell If Your Bed Is Bad for You?

Do you wake up every day with lower back pain or aching muscles, or do you regularly have a terrible night’s sleep? If the answer is “yes” to either part of this question, try a new mattress. A mattress that’s over seven years old or that leaves a sagging indentation where you sleep are two signs that you’re overdue for a new one. Another good way to tell is to pay attention to how the bed feels when you stay away from home, as this will help identify any quirks in your bed.

What Is the Ideal Mattress?

The ideal mattress differs for everyone depending on their preferences and their sleeping style. While you may prefer a harder or softer mattress, your preference may not be what’s best for you. If you experience neck pain, a medium-firm mattress will be your best bet. If you sleep on your side, a softer mattress is a better option, whereas a firm mattress distributes your weight better if you sleep on your back.

If you need help with chronic back pain, get in touch with Stoiber Chiropractic, based in Wisconsin Rapids, WI. Their friendly team has experience in all aspects of neck and back pain relief, including treatment for headaches and sciatica. Make an appointment today and get back on the road to good health. You can call them at (715) 424-8000 to schedule an appointment, visit their website to learn more, or connect with them on Facebook for periodic back pain resolution tips.