What is memory foam?

Memory foam is made from polyurethane combined with other polymers to infuse the material with the desired viscosity and density. The foam is made of spherical-shaped cells that compress and expand as needed. Memory foam reacts to body heat by softening and molding around a body pressing against it, and then quickly returning to the original form once the pressure is removed. The visco-elastic quality of memory foam makes it the ideal mattress for back pain relief.

The foam was originally developed by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. The material did not become part of NASA applications but manufacturers modified the formula to create pillows and mattresses for use in medical settings where it was shown to be useful in relieving pressure sores. Memory foam was later re-engineered for use in mattresses for the home.

Better sleep with memory foam

Different studies have shown that a medium to firm mattress is the best kind for back pain sufferers. Mattresses made of memory foam are dense enough to keep the spine correctly aligned during sleep. At the same time, the mattress is pliable enough not to create additional pressure points on the body through six to eight hours of sleep. Higher density foam is weight-sensitive. It conforms to a person’s shape perfectly and quickly through compression of the foam cells. It retains this position until shifted, ensuring constant pressure relief. The spine, joints and key muscle groups are relieved of tension allowing the body to relax and wake up rested.

Memory foam mattresses are also temperature-sensitive. The foam not only reacts to body heat but to ambient temperature as well. This type of mattress feels warmer on cool nights and cooler on warm nights, enhancing sleep quality even for those who have trouble sleeping due to aches and pains.
Sharing a bed

A memory foam mattress is a good option for those who share a bed, differences in desired firmness notwithstanding. This mattress contours to the shape and weight on it, thus providing adequate support where it is needed. In addition, the absence of innersprings allows the mattress the absorb vibrations caused by tossing and turning, resulting in undisturbed sleep. For back pain sufferers, a restful night usually means less oral analgesics needed during the day.

Other benefits

Foam mattresses do not contain down or other materials that can trigger allergies. Back pain sufferers need not dread turning the mattress because this is not required for memory foam maintenance. Moreover, memory foam mattresses are more durable and less likely to develop sagging, usually seen in aging spring mattresses.

With all these features, back pain sufferers will get more than just better sleep by using a memory foam mattress.