The Mattress Expert

A mattress for back problems and MS

Laura of Edgewater, writes:
Hi, I'm hoping you can help point me in the right direction. I'm 35, 5'7" 120 lbs with MS and 2 surgeries on L5S1, with now 4 bulges in lumbar spine... side sleeper. We have purchased/exchanged many king beds in the last 10 years. Had a Nature's Rest for about 5 but started feeling less supportive. Then purchased Serta Perfect Morning Brookneal (was too hard- i was very achy in my ribs). So we used our 1 time exchange for something soft the S&F Plaza Oak Roome Elite. I can't sleep on it as i'm in so much pain and am now concerned this bed caused me to have my 2nd surgery & now 4 new bulges. I'm back to our old nature's rest until I select a new mattress. Would Sealy posturpedic be the way to go? Reserve or Signature level? Cushion firm or what? or should we try another latex? with the back problems and MS, i can't phyically go from store to store- so any help you can give me to limit my actual in-store mattress testing would be much appreciated. Thank you!

Hi Laura. You have multiple problems that conflict. The MS requires a soft surface and you back requires firm support. For a complex problem, such as yours, rarely are you able to find one mattress that will satisfy all your needs. This is where the combination of a firm mattress and a soft latex topper is most needed. A 2" soft latex topper will add plenty of comfort to the surface of a firm mattress, without sacrificing the underlying firm support.
Until you decide, try turning your latex mattress over and sleep on the firmer underside. Add a nice mattress pad to that and you may find that you don't need a new mattress. And while this may not work for you, it costs nothing to try it.

C&C Mattress, Inc. delivers everywhere within the continental US.
NO SALES TAX outside of NJ.
You'll find discount pricing on our website: www.ccmattress.com
Toll Free phone number: 1-888-732-5923

Voted "Best Mattress Store in New Jersey"
Philadelphia Inquirer's "Neighbor's Choice Award"

Also available:
100% Natural Latex Toppers.
Sealy "SpringFree" Latex Pillows....
Sealy "Pro-Guard" Protection Plus Stain Guard Mattress Pads

Family Owned and Operated
QUALITY - SELECTION - SERVICE - VALUE

Simmons Highgate mattress

Ann . of Vancouver, writes:
Hi Peter, I am 46, about 190lbs, have degenerative discs L 4/5 and L5-S1, a disc bulge, spondylosis, osteoarthritis, constant back pain...and also have right shoulder rotator-cuff tendonitis. I am mostly a side-sleeper. After some research and trying out various beds, I just purchased (to be delivered soon) a Simmons Highgate "firm" (salesperson said it was more "medium-firm") queen mattress set. It was so hard to know and decide what to select for a bad back...and in what would be best. Do you think that a good selection was made? I note that you do not talk about or refer to the Simmons brand much (why?) but mainly Sealy and Stearns and Foster. Why is that? And what do you think of the mattress recently chosen for my back problems?...did we pick a good one?? and that will help?? I would really appreciate your advice, and any suggestions that you may have. As we have already bought it from Simmons, it would be hoped that it doesn't have to be traded for another (Simmons model). Please let me know what you think of this mattress, and as a choice for my bad back! Look forward to hearing from you very soon. Thanks!

Hi Ann. Your new mattress will most certainly be helpful for a while. We don't carry Simmons because the coils are not made of tempered steel. Tempering adds strength and resiliency to the steel. The untempered coils of the Beautyrest simple don't keep their shape very long.

Thank you for posting your questions and comments

C&C Mattress, Inc. delivers everywhere within the continental US.
NO SALES TAX outside of NJ.
You'll find discount pricing on our website: www.ccmattress.com
Toll Free phone number: 1-888-732-5923

Voted "Best Mattress Store in New Jersey"
Philadelphia Inquirer's "Neighbor's Choice Award"

Also available:
100% Natural Latex Toppers.
Sealy "SpringFree" Latex Pillows....
Sealy "Pro-Guard" Protection Plus Stain Guard Mattress Pads

Family Owned and Operated
QUALITY - SELECTION - SERVICE - VALUE

<b><a href="http://www.mydecisionhelper.com/decide/choose_an_adjustable_bed?utag=041809PL" target="_blank">Click here for vendor neutral help in choosing the best adjustable bed for you.</a></b>

Beautyrest balthazar mattress

Jane of NH, writes:
Good morning Peter....I am researching mattresses and trying to find one for my daughter who suffers from back pain. I found your website and liked what I read about you and your family owned and operated company and your mission. My family was also in a mom and pop store that lasted over 100 years. She is contemplating purchasing a beautyrest balthazar plush firm mattress and I'm wondering what your thoughts are and if she did gov with a Sealy mattress, what model would you recommend and why?

Hi Jane. Recommendation that have to take into account, back pain, require some info about type of back pain, height and weight, and sleeping positions. I can tell you that the Beautyrest is made with untempered steel coils and that it won't keep its shape very well. If you get back to me with some particulars about your daughter, I'll be happy to direct her toward something that will be helpful.
 
Thank you for posting your questions and comments

C&C Mattress, Inc. delivers everywhere within the continental US.
NO SALES TAX outside of NJ.
You'll find discount pricing on our website: www.ccmattress.com
Toll Free phone number: 1-888-732-5923

Voted "Best Mattress Store in New Jersey"
Philadelphia Inquirer's "Neighbor's Choice Award"

Also available:
100% Natural Latex Toppers.
Sealy "SpringFree" Latex Pillows....
Sealy "Pro-Guard" Protection Plus Stain Guard Mattress Pads

Family Owned and Operated
QUALITY - SELECTION - SERVICE - VALUE

Wake up with upper back pain

Karen of State College, writes:
Hello, I've been having a lot of back pain in my upper back when I awake in the morning. I am attributing this to my bed as the pain quickly dissipates once I get up and move around in the morning. Is there a particular type of mattress I should look for to address this? Thanks.

Hi Karen. You don't provide enough info for a specific recommendation. However, upper back pain is more normal with mattresses that are too soft.

Thank you for posting your questions and comments

C&C Mattress, Inc. delivers everywhere within the continental US.
NO SALES TAX outside of NJ.
You'll find discount pricing on our website: www.ccmattress.com
Toll Free phone number: 1-888-732-5923

Voted "Best Mattress Store in New Jersey"
Philadelphia Inquirer's "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

Family Owned and Operated
QUALITY - SELECTION - SERVICE - VALUE

Need a California King mattress

Richard of Camarillo, writes:
My wife suffers from lower back pain with two degenerative discs. Will the Natura Eco Brilliance provide more comfort than the Aireloom "Rip Van Winkle" Firm Euro Pillowtop mattress? Both Cal Kings cost over $5,500.00. Thanks for you advice. Dick

Hi Dick. You're throwing money at a problem. In many cases, that works. With back pain from degenerative discs, that same logic will end up with more pain for your wife and a lot of frustration for both of you. Cost is not the measure of quality in a mattress. All you get for your money is a lot of extra material. Those discs need support. A lot of extra padding will increase the distance between her back and the underlying support.
The kind of mattress your wife needs will cost you a whole lot less than $5500. You are simply in the wrong ballpark for your needs.
 
Thank you for posting your questions and comments

C&C Mattress, Inc. delivers everywhere within the continental US.
NO SALES TAX outside of NJ.
You'll find discount pricing on our website: www.ccmattress.com
Toll Free phone number: 1-888-732-5923

Voted "Best Mattress Store in New Jersey"
Philadelphia Inquirer's "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

Family Owned and Operated
QUALITY - SELECTION - SERVICE - VALUE

A mattress for numerous back problems

Megan of Valrico, writes:
I am 5'4 and weigh 185 pounds. My husband is 5'9 and weighs 195 pounds. We are looking for a queen size bed. We are currently sleeping on a full size off brand latex mattress that has developed a dip in the middle. It feels like we have fallen into a hole if either of us lays in the middle.
My husband does not have chronic back pain but I have numerous back problems. I have scoliosis, 5 herniated discs, hip dysplasia and several discs in my neck that have already degenerated.
I have been advised by my doctors that when I do get a new mattress that it must not be a pillowtop. I'm worried that if we get another latex or memory foam mattress that it will eventually have the same type of problems that we are having now.
My massage therapist told me that she has several clients that have said the Sleep Number bed is better than the memory foam type beds. Do you agree?
I see that you have recommended the Stearns & Foster Caravelle & Chateau Orleans to several other people. Would this be a good option? Do you have any other suggestions for the type of bed we should look into buying?

Hi Megan. It isn't usual for a latex mattress to sink in the middle....and especially not at your weights. There are a couple of reasons that are more likely. Either the off brand latex mattress doesn't have a latex core, or your bed doesn't have a center support and the mattress and boxspring have bowed.
Memory foam sinks in easily.
If you are a side sleeper, I'd like to see you try the Sealy SpringFree Beachside latex mattress. If you are a back sleeper, those 2 S&F models are good choices.
 
Delivery available everywhere in the continental US.
NO SALES TAX outside of NJ.
You'll find discount pricing on our website: www.ccmattress.com
Toll Free phone number: 1-888-732-5923
Voted "Best Mattress Store in New Jersey"
Philadelphia Inquirer's "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

A mattress for a multitude of back problems

Lois of Houston, writes:
I am need of help in deciding on what kind of mattress to buy. I have a multitude of back problems; osteoarthritis, spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, bulging discs. Most of my back pain is in the middle of my back, and it seems that all the muscles in my back are just tight, tight, tight. I have looked at the Simmons Comforpedic Natural mattress (found one on closeout for 1200.00 for the queen), Tempurpedic, and other memory foam mattresses because I have heard they are best for those with back problems, but am not sure that I would be happy with them since I am not used to the style. I also have neck problems, soreness and stiffness caused by a chiropractor. I know that if I sleep on too hard of a mattress it ends up hurting my shoulders and hips as I am pretty much a side sleeper. I also don't really want to have to break the bank.
Can you please help? Lois

Hi Lois. A closeout latex mattress is a good deal...as long as it's not too soft. The memory foam looses its resiliency too quickly and many who buy that type are sorry before long. Better to have a firmer mattress for your disc issues and then soften it with a latex topper. Latex topper provide a soft surface that keeps it shape and the firmer mattress provides adaquate support.

Delivery available everywhere in the continental US.
NO SALES TAX outside of NJ.
You'll find discount pricing on our website: www.ccmattress.com
Toll Free phone number: 1-888-732-5923
Voted "Best Mattress Store in New Jersey"
Philadelphia Inquirer's "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 multiple spinal issues

Jane of , writes:
Good Evening Peter I have much neurological deficit much spinal involvement and permanent injury to my spine and central and peripheral nerves. I live with controlled pain levels never under a moderate level. We have spent tens of thousands on bedding just this last decade alone for me. My weight is currently 360 but has been as low as 180(5'10") as high as 407...lets hope it continues the fall again with thyroid controlled.I can only sleep on my back requiring as much support as possible with as little of my body touching as possible. The most comfortable bed for me, hands down, was an outside camping air mattress( double height) with single level air mattress a bit under inflated on top but because our home is for sale we can not keep this arrangement set up. Although I am sleeping on a Beautyrest NxG firm Pillow top with a 4" 5.3# visco elastic foam mattress on top I am still feeling as if everything is too hard and looking for something to put on a full frame. The lumbar spine is adequately supported on the NxG( I need it to be--post 3 level laminectomy) but the hips hurt all the time because of inability to change positions. I am unable to lay on my side due to complications from surgery in spine level behind heart. I must remain on my back. We purchased the select comfort 7000 but I bottomed out at the lowest numbers had my hips laying on hard surface. Tempurpedic Co. salesman said line never recommended for over 300# . Was considering natural latex with short foundation / or put together mattress with latex air bladders and latex. Would put a small camping air mattress on top of whatever I bought-could take it off when the real estate company calls. Can not afford another mattress failure. Any suggestions for someone who spends half her life in bed yet does not want to have her skin come in contact with the bed would be appreciated--I am a really tough case---maybe impossible...got any air beds that could make me hover/levitate yet?!??? Peter---it is time you invent one!!!

Hi Jane. What you're experiencing with the memory foam is a lack of resiliency. This doesn't happen with latex. I believe you have a handle on the solution, but would recommend reversing the order. If you use a latex topper on the air mattress, as opposed to under it...I believe you'll have the combination that will work best for you. A soft latex will give well with your hip, but not mash down, the way memory foam does. The air mattress can be adjusted to suit your support needs on a nightly basis, while the latex provides resilient comfort at the surface.

Delivery available everywhere in the continental US.
NO SALES TAX outside of NJ.
You'll find discount pricing on our website: www.ccmattress.com
Toll Free phone number: 1-888-732-5923
Voted "Best Mattress Store in New Jersey"
Philadelphia Inquirer's "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

I have lower back issues

Paul of St. Paul , writes:
Hello Peter, I have recently come across mattress blog and have found the information very helpful in trying to find the right mattress. Like most I have lower back issues. I am a back sleeper -however end up sleeping on side in morning. I am currently shopping for my 4th mattress in the past 2 months
Slumberland has been very patient with working with me and will allow me to either trade or refund my $ so I am happy.
1) Started out with Sealy Post Reserve Plush , ended up exchanging since created pressure points on shoulders and hips when laying on side. Very supportive for lower back.
2) Simmons BeautyRest- Pillowtop
Way too soft- and hips sink in too much creating misaligned spine and back discomfort.
3) Simmons BeautyRest-Plush
Still too soft-hips still sink in creating backpain
 (tried the firm -still sinking in)
After reading your reviews I have been trying the Latex mattress from S&F plush latex, and Sealy Spring Free plush. The S&F seems a little stiff compared to the sealy that I tried. They both however feel supportive on my back. What is the main difference between the two. I also see that you have been also recommending to others that a firm mattress with 2" latex cover. My situation is I need firm back support with side comfort. Any recommendations would be helpful.
Thanks Paul

Hi Paul. Your first mattress with a latex topper would likely have done the job. An all latex, medium feeling mattress is also a good choice. Normally, there isn't a noticeable difference between a Sealy SpringFree plush and a S&F latex plush. Sealy also makes, what they call, a "hybrid", which is mostly poly foam with only 1.57" of latex. It's hard to tell them apart without knowing the specs. The hybrid has been showing up with a S&F label and salespeople aren't mentioning the fact that it isn't really a latex mattress.

Delivery available everywhere in the continental US.
NO SALES TAX outside of NJ.
You'll find discount pricing on our website: www.ccmattress.com
Toll Free phone number: 1-888-732-5923
Voted "Best Mattress Store in New Jersey"
Philadelphia Inquirer's "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

The right mattress for my mother who is 85 years old

Andy of Jacksonville, Florida, writes:
Hi Peter, I am searching for the right mattress for my mother who is 85 years of age, but very mobile. She suffers from spinal stenosis, degenerative and bulging discs as well as nightime leg cramps. I bought her a Sleep Number bed for almost $3,000 which she does not like and maintains is not helping her sleep issues. I have investigated the Sealy latex mattresses, but am not sure if that would be the best choice or should I consider a S&F with a latex topper? Can you please give me a couple of recommendations? Thanks so much.

Hi Andy. I just sent my 83 year old mother a Sealy SpringFree Beachside. She has some severe back problems and as a side sleeper, that works for her. If your mother is a back sleeper, the firmer S&F Caravelle with a latex topper would be better.

Delivery available everywhere in the contiental US.
NO SALES TAX outside of NJ.
You'll find discount pricing on our website: www.ccmattress.com
Toll Free phone number: 1-888-732-5923
Voted "Best Mattress Store in New Jersey"
Philadelphia Inquirer's "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