Different Kinds of Sleepers on the Same Mattress
Problem:
We recently bought the Liberty mattress and I have been experiencing middle back pain. I am about 100lbs and sleep on both my stomach and side. My husband loves the new mattress. He’s mostly a side sleeper.
We previously had a spring mattress and I was experiencing shoulder pain but no longer have that problem.
We are considering returning the mattress and trying something else but not sure what direction to go in. Advice??
Update:
We have had the mattress for about 40 days and my back pain has subsided. I have been trying to work on sleeping on my side but it will certainly take time to break the habit.
My Advice
You said you “recently” purchased a new mattress. How long is recent? Sometimes it can take up to a month for your body to adjust to a new mattress. The same bed that feels uncomfortable during the first week could be amazing by the end of that time. If you change it up too soon, you might find yourself right back where you started from. If it has been a while, here are a few more things to consider.
Two things immediately come to mind. Your weight and your sleep position preference. You did not say how much your husband weighs but at 100lbs, how you feel on a mattress can be considerably different than someone who carries significantly more body weight. A lighter weight individual will not conform into the mattress as much as a heavier person.
Often times, that results in the bed feeling too firm; especially for a side sleeper. You, however, did indicate you slept at least part of your night on your stomach. Typically, stomach sleepers feel better supported on a medium firm mattress. This keeps your lower back from dipping and causing lumbar pain.
Side sleepers tend to appreciate a softer more forgiving feel for the shoulders and hips. So, the question I have for you is which position gives you the most comfort when sleeping on your current mattress? That might better help determine what type of mattress will be more comfortable. I’m sure you have been told this before but stomach sleeping is the worst position to sleep in for a variety of reasons…
Of course, finding the right mattress for sleep partners with different comfort needs can be trying. If you do choose to trade in your current mattress, it’s important to address both your needs. Be prepared to spend a good hour or more in a showroom.
Some beds may work for you but not for him and likewise for his comfort. With a little effort, most couples can find a mattress that works for both. The truth is, if one of you isn’t sleeping, you both suffer.
If you can’t settle on one mattress, the next question is what size is your bed? If it’s a king, you can get two twin XL mattresses each to your individual liking. Or a sleeping bed where you can adjust each side.
Personally, I’m not a huge fan of this company. I believe they are a bit overpriced for what they deliver. I would try the compromise approach first.
