Furniture: Finding Function in Style

When you deal with chronic musculoskeletal pain and are searching for a bed, the goal may not be to improve pain but to not make the pain worse. Here are several features to consider to find the most comfortable setup.

Base 

Your base can have a profound effect on comfort. Determine whether you want a metal platform or a standard box spring. Both have their advantages with a metal platform being easier to move and less expensive. A box spring may be sturdy and last longer, especially if more than one person sleeps in the bed. If you choose a box spring, you will need a bed frame under it, whereas a metal platform combines the frame and box spring, so you only need a mattress.

When selecting the frame, you will have to consider the overall height of the bed, including the mattress. The most comfortable height will likely be high enough that when you sit on the bed, your knees are bent at a 90-degree angle, or slightly higher. Otherwise, it may be harder to get up from the bed. An adjustable base will be the best option since you can adjust many aspects of the bed to help reduce pressure or alleviate swelling through elevation.

Mattress

There are numerous types of mattresses and levels of firmness to meet your needs. Innerspring mattresses are classic and they are more budget-friendly. Since innerspring mattresses are generally firmer, they can be important for people who need more support or for those who find that softer mattresses make the pain worse. Generally heavier people and those with back pain need the support of a firmer mattress. Softer mattresses are ideal for people who experience widespread pain, especially if they sleep on their side, creating pressure points.

Foam mattresses are usually the better option and these mattresses come in various types of foam. A hybrid mattress combines some of the best features of innerspring and foam mattresses. Memory foam and gel-infused foam are preferred if pressure points are an issue.

Toppers

The best way to further customize your bed is to invest in a mattress topper. Since it may be difficult or not economical to buy your ideal mattress, you can achieve something closer to ideal with a topper. Additionally, you can change the topper to suit your current needs. If you're a side sleeper and are limited to an innerspring mattress, you can better address pressure points with a foam topper.

Another consideration can be how temperature affects your pain. People who find staying cool is more helpful for pain will want toppers that are designed with materials that dissipate heat. Some examples might be copper or gel-infused toppers. For those who find heat is a better pain reliever, memory foam is notoriously warm because it traps body heat.

When you deal with chronic musculoskeletal pain, your bed should be a sanctuary, not another source of pain. Choosing the right combination of features can prevent your bed from making matters worse.

Visit a furniture store to browse through bedding options such as Tempurpedic mattresses.