Pressure points are sensitive areas of the body.
Pressure points are sensitive areas of the body which can cause pain when pressure is exerted. Some people find that an unsuitable mattress can exacerbate pressure points, particularly those in the neck and spine. A wide choice of mattresses are available to help relieve pressure and promote a good night's sleep, although a lot will depend on your individual needs and medical issues.
Memory Foam
Memory foam was devised by NASA for astronauts. It is made of a visco-elastic material which evenly distributes body weight and is designed to support the human frame and promote a feeling of weightlessness. Memory foam mattresses are constructed by gluing a layer of 1 to 6 inches of visco-elastic to a polyurethane base. It can be placed on any type of bed base. Memory foam is popular with consumers who believe that it is effective in relieving pressure points. According to the Consumersearch website, a high-quality memory foam mattress will offer good pressure relief and support. The Orthopedic Mattresses website says, "anyone who is sensitive to any type of pressure that may result from coil mattresses will find memory foam mattresses a comfortable and superior alternative. "
Latex
Latex mattresses are also a popular consumer choice because, like memory foam, the material supports the entire body, which may help back pain, joint sensitivity and arthritis. The Orthopedic Mattress website says latex is a good choice for people suffering from back pain. Latex is known for its durability. It is made from the sap of the rubber tree, which makes it resistant to bacteria and dust mites, although some people have latex allergies. Due to its organic components, latex adapts itself to body temperature, making it cool in summer and warm in winter.
Spring Mattress
If opting for a traditional spring mattress, look for one with pocket springs. These are smaller, softer springs housed in individual fabric pockets. The springs work independently from one another, which means that the mattress profiles itself to the body, which may help to relieve pressure. Spring count is also important, as the higher the spring count the more the mattress will cushion and adapt to your body. Spring counts range from 600-800 up to 3,000-4,000 at the top end of the market.
Air Mattress
While air mattresses aren't as popular as innerspring or foam mattresses, some consumers like them because their firmness is adjustable, which is beneficial if you are suffering from pressure pain because your existing mattress is too hard or too soft. Consumersearch says, "a few air mattress owners even report that they adjust the beds regularly to meet their needs at the time - for example, making it firmer after a workout to reduce muscle aches." Air mattresses sold for everyday use have inflatable air chambers rather than springs under the foam cushioning.
Expert Insight
Latex and memory foam adapt to the body's contours. Roger Herr, a Seattle-based spokesman for the American Physical Therapy Association, told Sleepmedicine.net that people with joint sensitivity due to arthritis or other conditions may benefit from foam mattresses. Herr recommends a mattress that allows the sleeper to relax but that also supports the normal S curve of the back. However, he pointed out that because both latex and memory foam mold to the human body, they might not be comfortable for people who want to move around in bed. Some doctors believe that foam mattresses might not be comfortable for people who are overweight. Chicago chiropractor Colin Stein, in an interview with Chicago's Daily Southtown, said the foam "tends to get scrunched together," resulting in loss of spinal support
Considerations
Latex mattresses are a good environmental choice because latex is biodegradable. However, latex mattress come in 100 percent latex and synthetic blends, so the eco-conscious should opt for pure latex. People who owned air mattresses favored the pillow-top style for overall comfort. The quality of pressure-relieving mattresses varies considerably. Look for a memory foam mattress at least 4 inches thick and a density of 4 to 6 pounds for adequate support. If investing in a latex mattress to relieve pressure points, look for one which doesn't contain much synthetic material.
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