The Mattress Expert

In the process of looking for a mattress

Bertha of kansas city, writes:
We are in the process of looking to purchase a new mattress recently had weight loss surgery I am just below 300 pds and I have bulging discs in my back the worst is at L5 & S1 but also have arthritis. What would be the best mattress to purchase.

Hi Bertha,
The mattress you purchase for a 300 pounder and the one you purchase for someone half that weight, are likely to be two different beds. Having just had the surgery, the recommendation a year from now could be very different. Your disc problems and arthritis are chronic and will remain. But at 150 pounds, they won't bother you as much.
Your situation is such that you have conflicting problems....weight aside. Your disc problems require firm support and you arthritis requires a soft surface. The problem with soft top mattresses is, they don't keep their shape. At 300 or 150, you'll still need to address your condition in two parts...a mattress on the firm side and a soft topper. The reason for the topper is a matter of control and economics. When the padding in a soft top mattress compresses and loses it's shape, the whole bed is shot. When a separate topper wears, only the topper needs to be replaced and not the mattress. Also, you can better control the degree of softness you need. If you get a latex topper, the topper is likely to outlast the mattress. They are that durable.
The issue of weight doesn't change your disc or arthritis problems, but it does have an affect on how strong a mattress you need to buy. At your current weight, we recommend the Sealy SpringFree Weybridge...the firm model in Sealy's latex line. In a year's time and at half your weight, you could get away with spending half of what that will cost you....in the way of  Sealy Posturepedic Reserve.
Either way, you're going to need a topper. My thought is, (if your current mattress still has some life to it), get the topper now and make what you have more comfortable.
Get the Posturepedic a year from now. If you must buy now, the Weybridge model is the one to get.

www.themattressexpert.com for selection and pricing.
Call toll free to order: 1-888-732-5923
Sealy, Simmons, Stearns & Foster
Latex toppers, pillows, mattress pads and linens

Comfortable mattress for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Linda of bronx:
I have rheumatoid arthritis throughout my body. I am looking to purchase a new bed that is comfortable and affordable. Which mattress would you recommend?
 
Hi Linda. You won't solve your problem with just a mattress. RA requires a soft surface...the degree of which, corresponding to the severity of the RA.
You can certainly find a mattress that will feel as you want it to. The problem with them is that they don't feel that way for very long. In a matter of months, you're back to square one. What good is that?! Your inside of your body, muscular and skeletal systems, still require some degree of firm support. Not only do the overly soft mattress lose their shape, they are often to soft for your inner body. Having RA creates a conflict of need. To address all your needs, you'll have to consider a mattress and topper combination.
For quality and affordability, the Sealy Posturepedic Reserve models can't be beat. There are two levels in the Reserve Series, (levels 7 & 9). Each has a cushion firm and a plush among them. There is also a firm and ultra plush. The one is too firm and the other is too soft. The choice comes down to the cushion firm or plush. Your body weight will make that choice for you. If you are slender to average, the plush is the better choice. If you are overweight, the cushion firm becomes a necessity.
Starting with the "plush" model makes softening the surface easier than having to start with the firmer. The next step is a topper for the mattress. Depending on the severity of the RA, it may require two different toppers. The first topper is a soft latex. Latex is both supportive and comfortable and will extend the life of the mattress. If you need more softness than that, the next one would be a synthetic down, (synthetic down needs less fluffing than real feathers). The latex topper won't need replacing for quite some time. The down comforter will need regular fluffing and will likely need to be replaced every so often.
I know it sounds a little elaborate, but you have a problem that will be helped long term, by the right combination of products and helped for only a very short time with a mattress soft enough to suit you.

www.themattressexpert.com for selection and pricing.
Call toll free to order: 1-888-732-5923

Much of what we offer is delivered FREE, nationally.
We also offer a selection of high quality accessories: Latex toppers, pillows, mattress pads, sheets and comforters.

Mattress for arthritic shoulders, back, & hip

bess taylor of Ardmore, writes:
I am looking for a new mattress that would allow me to wake up as pain free as possible. I can only sleep on my right side due to problems with vertigo related to Meniere's disease. Also, when I wake up in the mornings I struggle with arthritic pain in my shoulder, back and hips. What type of mattress would provide the best support and the least pain in the mornings? Thank you

Hi Bess. A latex mattress would be a good choice. It will support your body, while being contouring enough to relieve your pressure point pain. A lot of women like the Sealy Springfree Rivercrest ultra plush mattress because it is softer than the Beachside plush. Either one would be fine. It depends on which one feels better to you.

WE DELIVER EVERYWHERE in the Continental US.
All mattresses are freshly made to your order.
www.ccmattress.com

A mattress for arthritis and no motion transfer

fran of ckeveland, writes:
I have arthritis in my hips, shoulders, neck and back. I am looking for a bed that will give me support for my back while sensitive to my pressure points. I also have a problem with my current mattress where I feel every move my husband makes I feels like I am on a trampoline, I also have insomnia and sleep apnea. I was thinking maybe latex (but concerned about support) a firm spring mattress (worried about my pressure points and movement). What would you recommend?

Hello Fran. Latex would be the best thing for your situation. They have good support and can relieve you pressure point issues better than an innerspring. The starting model in the Sealy SpringFree line is all you need. It's comfortable without being too soft. The model names are different everywhere, and that model is called Beachside here. There is also a firmer and a softer model available. Also, you'll find alomost no motion transfer on these mattresses.

Delivery available everywhere in the contiental US.
NO SALES TAX outside of NJ.
You'll find discount pricing on our website: www.ccmattress.com
Voted "Best Mattress Store in New Jersey"
"2007 - 2008 Neighbor's Choice Award"

Also available:
Latex Toppers...100% Talalay...US made.
Sealy "SpringFree" Latex Pillows....
Sealy "Pro-Guard" Protection Plus Stain Guard Mattress Pads
Very High quality sheets and comforters

A mattress for lumbar osteoarthritis

Rita of , writes:
Hi, I want to know what kind of mattress is good for people with lumbar osteoarthritis. I sleep on my side. I can not sleep on my back it pains me a lot. I bought tempurapedic mattress but my pain has increased in three days. I do not know which mattress will be good for me.

Hi Rita. Latex will be a better choice for you. It is supportive, but giving enough to help relieve the pressure. Start with the Sealy Springfree Beachside. It has a medium feel and you can always add a topper if you need to soften the surface.

Delivery available everywhere in the contiental US.
NO SALES TAX outside of NJ.
You'll find discount pricing on our website: www.ccmattress.com
Voted "Best Mattress Store in New Jersey"
"2007 - 2008 Neighbor's Choice Award"

Also available:
Latex Toppers...100% Talalay...US made.
Sealy "SpringFree" Latex Pillows....
Sealy "Pro-Guard" Protection Plus Stain Guard Mattress Pads
Very High quality sheets and comforter

Help in choosing a mattress that will last

Dolores of Mechanicsburg, writes:
We had a mattress with a pillow top for 6 yrs. I have arthritis bad & would wake up in the morning with a headache & backache, so I seen that a well to do department store had offered 1/2 off on their mattresses thought we would try a memory foam best mattress bought 5-14-2008, tried it for 3 weeks & could not stand to lay down in the foam with my head up in the air. so we called the store, they told us to come over & pick out another mattress, we picked the podtrydic 6-23-2008, that got a hole in about 2 inches deep where my body laid. I weigh 186 lbs. We are now on the 4th. mattress & I am getting tired of sending these mattresses back but I payed a terrible price for it & they are Guaranteed for 10 yrs. I would like you to tell us what we should do about these mattresses, or what bran of mattress we should get. I can't believe all thses mattresses are damaged. I think they might be bringing the same mattress baack to us every time. please help us. tired of not sleeping in my new bed. I have been sleeping on our recliner at night. I will be waiting for your help. thanks tired Dolores.

Hi Dolores. You would think that with all the consumer protection groups, that there would be one for this industry too. While it wasn't always so, this industry is geared to sell products that are designed to wear out quickly, while turning a high profit. As a society, we generally believe that if something costs more, it must be better....and certainly, it should. But that's not true for mattresses. It's a blind item and without exception, every manufacturer is guilty of preying on consumers, at the behest of inscrupulous retailers. Large mattress chains and department stores have alot of buying power and dictate to the manufactures....mostly specs to show models that you can't possibley shop at any other store...for the purpose of price protection. Luxury mattresses are an easy sell. Who doesn't want a mattress that feels like you're sleeping on a cloud? There's no problem finding them...they're everywhere and pushed by the people who sell them. The problem is finding one that'll stay that way. There has been an epidemic of back problems over the past 20 years. It just so happens that the change from firm mattresses to soft luxurious ones coinsides with that same 20 year span. Your best defense against becoming a victim...experiencing the nightmare of mattress hell, is to approach buying one with a good measure of common sense...not yeilding to the hype...not being impressed with all the bells and whistles. There are basincally two types of mattresses...coiled and non-coiled. The strongest coil sysyem is the same coil system that's been used over the past 85 years. Stearns & Foster uses that coil system. Of the non coiled units latex foam is, by far, the most durable....more durable than that coil system. Air mattresses and memory foam don't come close to the hype they generate. Once you've decided on either coils or foam, keep your focus basic. The first few models in the line are the ones that will hold their shape and original comfort the longest. Go up the line and all you'll get is more padding that doesn't make the bed better...won't keep its shape as well...and gives merely the illusion of luxury. A mattress was never meant to be a luxury item. It's meant to support your skelital and muscular systems...provide a restful and recooperative night's sleep, which also reduces stress. The thicker the mattress is, the farther from the support you get. Despite the vast selection of mattresses on the market, there aren't that many that are good value. The best for the least is the Sealy Posturepedic Reserve firm and cushion firm. The best of the coiled units is the Stearns & Foster Chateau Orleans plush and Caravelle firm. The best available is the Sealy SpringFree Beachside plush, River Crest ultra plush and Weybride firm latex mattresses. A soft latex topper, added to any of these mattresses will provide a more lururious feel, without sacrificing support. Moving up to a king size and opting for an adjustable bed are a couple of other ways to attain real luxury in the bedroom. A 60" flat screen tv, attached to the ceiling appeals to me too...but I digress.

Delivery available everywhere in the contiental US.
NO SALES TAX outside of NJ.
You'll find discount pricing on our website: www.ccmattress.com
Voted "Best Mattress Store in New Jersey"
"2007 - 2008 Neighbor's Choice Award"

Also available:
Latex Toppers...100% Talalay...US made.
Sealy "SpringFree" Latex Pillows....
Sealy "Pro-Guard" Protection Plus Stain Guard Mattress Pads
Very High quality sheets and comforters

A mattress for osteoarthritis

Karin of Albuquerque, writes:
I've read a lot of the questions/comments and your reponses on your blog and have found them to be interesting and helpful. But I'd like the best advice possible for my specific situation. I have osteoarthritis in my back, hips, knees, and shoulders. I have only been able to sleep on my left side because I also may have some bursitis in my right hip and can't tolerate sleeping on that side. I still wake up aching all over. I've always preferred a firm mattress but just don't know what to look for in terms of the proper degree of support vs. comfort. I'm short (5 feet) but very heavy (over 200 lbs.). My husband also is short (5'3") but thin (130 lbs.), but he can sleep on anything. Any advice you can offer on the best mattress for my circumstance  s would be appreciated. I am desperate for some relief from the constant pain. Sincerely,Karin

Hi Karin. Being so short and so heavy, all your weight is concentrated from your shoulders to your butt in a very small area. When it comes to your arthritis, that weight is putting alot of pressure on your body. Your choice of mattress can only help some. It won't solve the problem. That said, the mattress needs to be durable, but givey. The top needs to be soft, but soft mattresses won't keep there shape. Everything considered, start off with the Sealy SpringFree Beachside, which has a medium feel, and add a topper if you want it softer. The topper can more cheaply be replaced when it wears out and the mattress will remain good over a long term.

Delivery available everywhere in the contiental US.
NO SALES TAX outside of NJ.
You'll find discount pricing on our website: www.ccmattress.com
Voted "Best Mattress Store in New Jersey"
"2007-2008 Neighbor's Choice Award"

Also available:
Sealy "SpringFree" Latex Pillows....Sealy "Pro-Guard" Protection Plus Mattress Pads
High quality sheets and comforters

Diagnosed with arthritis at 37

Marsi of Lees Summit, writes:
Hi Peter, At 37 years of age, I was diagnosed with Arthritis.  I have considered getting a sleep-number bed, but then was told by a 'salesman' that a Tempur-pedic would be better for me.  This salesperson sells both mattresses, and so I'm not sure what difference it would make to him.  I wanted to know if the Arthritis Foundation, or whatever organization it is, actually does recommend one mattress over another.  Three years ago, when diagnosed, I was told I would have to have surgery within a year.  I have done ok without it, with occasional pain, but not too bad.  Now, however, my lower back and my right shoulder hurt whenever I wake up.  I continually wake up tired, and achy. I used to be strictly a stomach sleeper, with my arms over my head, sort of hugging my pillow.  My doctor told me to stop putting my arms up, and sleep with them down.  Easier said than done.  I go to sleep that way, but I know I don't always end up staying that way in the night.  I have tried a 'tummy-sleeping' pillow, but hate it.  My husband prefers a soft matress, I don't think that is very comfortable.  I usually feel all the springs, etc when I have one of those. The matress we currently have is a bed from the Omaha Bedding Company.  We bought it back in 2000, but I have hated it since the day we bought it.  The company we bought it from didn't have a try it before you buy it policy.  No returns, etc.  They had been in business for a LONG time before Nebraska Furniture Mart came to town.  The owner of NFM, Warren Buffet now actually has a bed named after him from The Omaha Bedding Company, 'The Warren'.  As much as I hate my bed, the 'Presidential Comfort Pillow', there are rave reviews of this particular company.  I would rather see my money go somewhere else. Do you have any suggestions on another type or brand of mattress with which I should be looking?  I am open to a Tempur-pedic, Select Comfort, or even the old-fashioned innerspring mattresses, if I could just find one I am comfortable with and won't hurt me while sleeping. Thank you so much for your time! Marsi P.S.  Congratulations on the engagement of your daughter!

Thank You Marsi. So now, you're 40 and with arthritis that's going to get progressively worse. My best friend has rhumitoid arthritis. The condition is painful and as far as a mattress is concerned, the best you can hope for is to minimize the pain. A soft top will help, but most mattresses that come soft to start, lose that feel as the padding compresses. The Tempurpedic is made of memory foam on top of polyurethane foam. Foam, in general, will provide a contouring support that will reduce pressure points. The best of the foams, however, is latex. Latex will, by far, out perform those other two. But here too, if you get a top line really plush model, it won't keep its shape as well as you'll need it to. Having this physical ailment, as with other physical ailments, you'll be much more sensitive to the changes a mattress goes through as it wears. It's better to start with a more basic model and add a topper or two, to achieve the comfort you desire. Remember too, that as your condition progresses, your needs concerning a mattress will also change. Start with the Sealy SpringFree River Crest latex mattress. That one works for most women. As time goes by, you can add a soft latex topper and/or a feather topper to make the surface a soft as you need it to be, without giving up the support your body needs.

We deliver everywhere in the contiental US and with NO SALES TAX outside of NJ.
You'll find discount pricing on our website: www.ccmattress.com
Voted "Best Mattress Store in New Jersey"
"2007-2008 Neighbor's Choice Award"

Sealy "SpringFree" Latex Pillows and Sealy "Pro-Guard" Protection Plus Mattress Pads,
are delivered Free via US Mail anywhere within the continental US.

A mattress for Lyme arthritis and a bad hip

Ruth of El Cerrito, CA, writes:
Hello. Your information has helped so much . . . I am the heavy woman with Lyme arthritis and one bad hip who sleeps on an ancient full size innerspring with her two dogs. With your wonderful advice in hand I tracked down a S&F Chateau Orleans Plush (Roseau) at Sears and lay down. It seemed very soft to me, but supportive, but seemed to "bend" when I sat on the edge. Then I tried the Sealy Signature Opaque Luxury Firm Eurotop, which seemed very supportive and also nicely cushy, and the Sears-o-pedic Somerset Select Ultra Plush Eurotop, which also felt nicely firm with a cushy top. But Dave has just written you that he purchased the Somerset a few weeks ago and fears it won't work. Cushy Eurotops with firm undermattresses feel great in the store but what about for eight hours 365 days a year? I can't tell which is better (for a hefty side-sleeping woman with a bad hip, achy joints and two thirty pound dogs). The Chateau Orleans/Roseau Plush, the Somerset Ultraplush Eurotop or the Sealy Signature Opaque Ultra Firm Eurotop.  These three units are all the same price (on sale) at Sears. Which one should I try first? I hate to shop and this is a big deal for me. As a fourth choice (help!) Somerset also comes in a Firm, which I can't try anywhere but I fear would be too firm. Now, if you were me what would you try first? I wished I lived in PA (although California's great) just so I could come and try out all your mattresses. Ruth B.

Hi Ruth. The Roseau has the strongest coil unit of the ones you're considering. The plush top is better for you hip and arthritis. A store's floor sample gets sat on much more than you would at home. For normal home use, the edge support on that is fine.

www.ccmattress.com

Sealy "SpringFree" Latex Pillows and Sealy "Pro-Guard" Protection Plus Mattress Pads,
are delivered Free via US Mail anywhere within the continental US.

Mattress for Osteoarthritis

Racheal of Boston, writes:
Hello ~ I am in need of a new mattress; I have recently been diagnosed with osteoarthritis and may need joint replacemnt surgery in the future. My current mattress is over 10 years old. There are so many types and brands of mattresses, I am not sure where to begin. Can you offer some advice? Are the memory foam matresses really preferable for arthritis? I am 43 years old, 5'4", small to medium build.
Thanks in advance...

Hi Racheal. Memory foam is a love it or hate item. The pressure relief you feel when you first try it is a bit deceiving. Memory foam is a temperature sensitive material. It softens from your body's heat. You don't get to feel in the store how it will feel at home. Many people write to say that memory foam sinks so far after a few hours, that you can feel the hard core underneath.
Try the Sealy SpringFree River Crest. (Bristow at Sears). This is an ultra plush latex mattress, and much more bouyant.
Latex is very old technology and this model will work well for your arthritis.

We deliver everywhere in the contiental US and with NO SALES TAX outside of NJ.
You'll find discount pricing on our website: www.ccmattress.com
Voted "Best Mattress Store in New Jersey"
"2007-2008 Neighbor's Choice Award"

Sealy "SpringFree" Latex Pillows and Sealy "Pro-Guard" Protection Plus Mattress Pads,
are delivered Free via US Mail anywhere within the continental US.