Question: I suffer from mid-back pain quite frequently, though it might not be considered a chronic problem. The pain comes and goes, sometimes stronger than others, sometimes a piercing pain and sometimes a dull ache. I’ve tried using a heating pad to relieve the pain, but it doesn’t solve the problem completely. My husband and I have been considering purchasing a new mattress as well. Could our mattress be the cause of this back pain or are there other things I could try before we spend a lot of money on a new mattress?

Answer: Mid-back pain is not uncommon, and there are many things you might consider as solutions to this nagging, uncomfortable pain. Yes, your mattress could have a large impact on how your back feels, and it is certainly not something to be ignored. If your mattress is many years old or dips several in the center from extensive use, it is probably time to get a new mattress. Even if your mattress is relatively new, however, you may not have a mattress that provides proper support to your back.

As far as mattresses goes, you need to test several kinds before making a decision. You may need a softer mattress or a firmer one. If you and your spouse have different opinions on the feeling of a mattress, you might give the Sleep Number Bed a try, as you can differentiate levels of firmness on each side. Memory Foam mattresses have also been proven to be very comfortable and helpful for those who struggle with back pain.

Mid-back pain is often caused by extended periods of sitting mixed with a lack of stretching and strengthening of the back muscles. Even if you replace your mattress, you may still notice a problem with pain in your mid-back. In this case, you should try learner some gentle back strengthening exercises as well as stretches which will help keep back pain at bay now and in the future.

If you’ve purchased a new mattress, tried various exercises and stretches, used heating pads and hot baths, and made sure your desk chair is supportive enough, and you’re still experiencing pain, consider taking a visit to a massage therapist or a chiropractor. Depending on what you are comfortable with, either of these specialists can really help improve back pain, especially pain that is a result of years of a bad mattress, stress, or pinched nerves.

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