Recently I was in the market for a new mattress. Most people see that selecting the best mattress for them can help their neck and back. The confusing part is that the idea of comfort is subjective. Most consumers look to the mattress salesperson as their primary resource. S/he must rely on the customer's perception of comfort using a mattress "test-drive" in the middle of a store for 30 seconds as his evidence.

To complicate matters further, many mattress companies use special labeling that make comparison shopping nearly impossible. You will not find the same mattress in each store, because each store sells it under a different product name or model number.

Mattress features are also difficult to compare.  Companies will list coil count, but do not disclose the gauge of steel used. The lower the gauge, the stronger the coil. Some mattresses have high coil counts but use lower-quality steel (higher-gauge). This will result in decreased support.

The quality of foams and padding are extremely important, but density and type mean nothing to the average consumer. Most people think the longer the warranty, the better the mattress. Manufacturers try to capitalize on that by extending warranties as a marketing ploy without improving the quality of the mattress. The best advice mattress organizations give on selecting a mattress? Lay on it with your significant other.

Using a chiropractic point of view, properly fitted mattresses can decrease back pain by 57% and reduce back stiffness by 59%. As a chiropractor, I can help patients choose sleep systems using the same technique as with back supports, pillows and orthotics. An informed Doctor of Chiropractic will discuss the condition of a patient's mattress as part of their spinal health care. Here are a few things to be aware of:

• Inner spring mattresses are the most popular of all mattresses sold. They are recommended most by medical doctors, physical therapists and chiropractors.
• Mattresses and box springs are sold as a set for a reason. They are designed to work together for optimal support and comfort. It is important to replace the mattress and box spring as a set. The warranty on your mattress could even be voided if it is not set up on the matching box spring.
• Domestically, there are over a thousand mattress manufacturers and most make more than one brand. Many have similar features but use different names and patents to project a unique marketing image. Due to the many subtle differences, doctors must be wary when recommending a specific brand or manufacturer in order to avoid a mistake at the point of purchase.

Plush and pillowtop mattresses both offer similar advantages over firm mattresses. They both offer an added layer of padding and cushioning to the mattress that gives the impression of sinking in. The extra cushioning also absorbs movement of a sleeping partner so you rest better. Pillowtop mattresses are the thickest available.

One thing to consider when purchasing a pillowtop mattress, is that it can not usually be flipped over due to the top layer interfering with making the mattress level and supported on top of the box spring or frame. Also, due to the extra thickness standard-size bed sheets may not fit properly over the mattress.

Plush mattresses offer a good compromise between firm and pillowtop. The extra cushioning provides a softer surface without compromising firmness. A plush mattress can also be flipped and standard sheets will usually fit a plush mattress

Before recommending a mattress, I review the patient's health and sleep history. The health history helps me to identify problem areas in the body that may need added support or systemic problems that may require specialized bedding. The sleep history should include the current type of mattress, a description of bedtime rituals and sleeping environment and their preferred sleeping positions. A chiropractic evaluation may also provide important information for a mattress recommendation.

The following issues should be addressed when recommending a mattress to a patient:

• Arthritis and fibromyalgia:Patients who suffer from painful joints usually prefer cushioning that disperses their weight across the greatest body surface. These patients often have spinal complaints as well. The proper balance of cushioning and support requires a higher-end mattress.

• Upper back and neck pain:Upper back and neck pain usually goes with softer or plushier bedding. This allows the head and thoracic area to sink into the bed to support the cervical area. A pillow-top mattress may be a good recommendation. Several types of pillows may also provide extra support for the neck.

• Lower back pain:Most patients prefer beds that are more firm. This prevents the lower back from sinking too deep into the bed. Higher-end mattresses provide plenty of support along with comfortable padding, while lower-end models provide the firmness, but with less comfort.

• Side-lying sleepers:Plush mattresses provide the best way to maintain the natural shape of your body while sleeping. Plush bedding cradles the body and disperses the weight of the body across the maximum surface area.

• Stomach sleepers:Sleeping on your stomach on a soft bed can create stress on your spine. Your pelvis and belly compress the bedding as well. A firmer mattress is best in this situation.

A chiropractor is most likely the best resource you will find when looking for a proper mattress. Drastic changes in your life with a simple change. After all, a good night's rest can do wonders for the mind, body and soul.

For further information about this topic, please contact Dr. Lynn Kerew directly at mailto:drlynn@lynnkerew.com" drlynn@lynnkerew.com or visit her website at .