Best Beds for a Herniated Disc

Recent studies show that back pain is one of the leading reasons for absences in classes and work. Relief and recovery will look different for everyone, but a common effective treatment is the use of medium-firm mattresses when sleeping.

There are several variants to choose from when buying a bed for a herniated disc. Let’s go over all the considerations you should make when buying a mattress, and our top picks for beds and mattresses for a herniated disc. You’ll also learn the best sleeping positions for your medical condition!

Best Beds for a Herniated Disc

What is a Herniated Disc?

Do you feel pain in your lower back or your leg? Do you experience numbness, tingling, or weakness in these areas of the body? Then you probably have a herniated disc. A herniated disk occurs when a bulge or tear forms in your lower spine. It can irritate a nearby nerve, which explains the radiating tingling sensation.

A herniated disk might also occur without symptoms. You won’t know you are diagnosed with it unless an x-ray of your spine reveals it.

What Causes a Herniated Disc?

The most typical reason for the development of a herniated disc is aging. The disc degenerates over time, making it more prone to strains and rupturing.

If you only use your back muscle to lift heavy objects, you are also at a higher risk of disc herniation. Those with physically demanding occupations may also develop back problems in the future.

Excessive body weight, genetics, and smoking are also contributing factors to disc hernia. They put extra stress on the disc and lessens oxygen supply.

But there are numerous cases of herniated disc where the main cause cannot be detected. This is more likely to occur among young adults and adults.

You can avoid getting a herniated disc by maintaining proper posture, working out, quitting smoking, and choosing an appropriate mattress.

How to Sleep with a Herniated Disc

Lower back pain accounts for most disabilities worldwide. Fortunately, you don’t need surgery to correct a herniated disc. You can relieve the pain with enough exercise, a cold pack, or a better sleeping position.

Different sleeping positions can soothe severe back pain due to by a herniated disc. But the main tip is to align your spine all the time, as well as your hips, shoulders, and ears.
Follow these sleeping tips if you have a herniated disc and you’re having trouble catching some Zs.

1. Sleep on Your Back

There are two ways to sleep on your back if you have a disc herniation. The first option is the ordinary reclined position with a pillow under your head. This reduces spinal pressure by producing an angle between your torso and thighs.

The other method is to place a pillow below your knees as you lay on your back. The spine must remain neutral, and the pillow should create a curve in your lower back to distribute your weight evenly.

2. Sleep on Your Side

A herniated disc affects the lower back, so you may find comfort in sleeping on your side instead. However, this can be exhausting after a few minutes. For extra support, try using a pillow in the middle of your knees.

3. Sleep on Your Stomach

Sleeping on Your Stomach is another way to avoid sleeping on your back. Test whether you prefer using a pillow below your head or not. You can also place a pillow under your tummy for extra comfort.

4. Fetal Position

Sleeping in a fetal position is the most recommended position for people with a herniated disc. Simply roll to your side and tuck the knees close to your chest. You may curl your torso a bit to widen the space between your backbone. Switch sides if necessary

What to Look for in a Mattress if You Have a Herniated Disc

The best mattress for pressure relief is medium-firm to offer sufficient sinkage in important parts of the body. Here’s a detailed guide on mattress features to look for if you have a herniated disc.

Provides Back Support

Back support is the most vital consideration when choosing a mattress for your herniated disc. Mattresses that are too dense or too soft should not be a part of your choices.
If it’s too soft, it will feel uncomfortable like a quicksand. But if it’s too firm, it won’t follow the mold of your delicate areas. For example, lying on a firm mattress when you have wide hips is challenging because the uneven distribution of your weight reduces spinal alignment. Medium-firm is key!

Thickness of the Mattress

You don’t need to get a 14-inch mattress for your herniated disc! A 10-inch mattress with a few layers is enough to reduce back and leg pain. As long as the material of the mattress allows it to follow the contours of your back, then it’s fine. Besides, a thick mattress can be difficult to climb on for people with body pain.

Durability

Gel-infused memory foam, latex, and air mattresses can last a longer time than adjustable beds. Choose a herniated disc-friendly mattress that doesn’t tear or lose firmness after a few years. A mattress with short shelf life will not provide the comfort you need after a few uses.

It should also feature edge support and reduced motion transfer not just for comfort but also to prevent wear and tear.

Sleep Trial

People with back problems usually have a hard time choosing a mattress that will alleviate their condition. A money-back guarantee ensures you can replace or return it if it doesn’t offer pressure relief.

Your Mattress Matters!

A herniated disc can be treated through different methods, like altering your sleeping position and laying on a medium-firm mattress! Ensure that your mattress does not push back on the sensitive nerves, nor provides too much sinkage.

We want to know what you think about our recommended mattresses. Leave your feedback and questions in the comments section. And be sure to check out our other helpful guides like how to find the best mattress for stomach sleepers.

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