How to Choose a Mattress for Fibromyalgia
The following elements can determine which mattress is best for an individual with fibromyalgia. While some mattress retailers claim their mattress is universally comfortable and supportive, it is essential to remember that comfort and support are subjective. What is comfortable for one person may not be comfortable for another. Taking into account your fibromyalgia symptoms and how each element may affect said symptoms can help you choose the best mattress for you.
Quality Fibres
High-quality fibres have distinct advantages. Some fibres are specifically engineered to relieve pressure points, regulate temperatures and promote proper spinal alignment. Quality fibres also last longer than their lower-quality counterparts.
Spring Tension
Spring tension influences how much support a person will experience. Individuals with fibromyalgia may wish to select their spring tension wisely to ensure they enjoy the best balance of contouring and support. For example, a soft spring tension may not support the sleeper’s natural spinal alignment, while a spring tension that is too firm could contribute to the buildup of pressure. The ideal spring tension varies based on a person’s body weight and sleep position. We have designed a spring tension chart which can be viewed on every product page that will show you which spring tension is best for you.
Mattress Feel
Feel is dictated by the fibres used inside the mattress and is all about the immediate feeling you experience when lying down. Does it ease the pressure? Is there a lot of cushioning or pushback? People who have fibromyalgia generally prefer a medium soft or medium feel.
Pressure Relief
When someone lies down, their heavier and wider body parts put more pressure on the mattress. On some mattresses, this may lead to pressure buildup. People with fibromyalgia already experience substantial pain and additional discomfort could be more challenging. Therefore, people with fibromyalgia will likely prefer a mattress with optimal pressure relief properties.
Edge-to-Edge Support
A solid edge can make using the entire mattress surface easier. This may be necessary for couples who want the extra room that sleeping close to the mattress’s edge affords. Individuals with fibromyalgia whose pains make it more difficult to get into or out of bed may also favour a solid frame to sit on the edge of the bed without feeling unstable.
Contouring
Mattresses with more cushioning and contouring usually have substantial pressure relief. However, compact contouring can also make it more difficult for some individuals to change sleep positions on a bed. For example, people with fibromyalgia may value pressure relief from contouring. Still, those with mobility issues who like to change sleep positions during the night may find compact contouring restrictive.
Temperature Regulation
Individuals with fibromyalgia are frequently sensitive to temperature. Memory foam is usually most associated with heat retention, but our memory foam mattress uses special construction techniques and materials to keep the sleeping surface cool. Our pocket spring mattresses are also highly breathable, which allows heat to disperse from the sleeper’s body.