Do I really need a “firm” mattress for back pain?

Not necessarily. Real back-pain relief comes from neutral spinal alignment—pressure relief on top with a supportive core underneath. Too firm creates pressure points; too soft lets hips sink. Aim for balanced support that keeps your spine level.

What firmness should I choose for my body type?

Match firmness to body weight and sleep position. Many people do best on Medium to Medium-Firm. Lighter bodies tend to prefer Medium; heavier bodies often need Medium-Firm to keep hips from dropping. Side sleepers usually want a bit more plushness than back sleepers.

How does Denver’s altitude and dry climate affect back pain at night?

At 5,280 ft with low humidity, cooler, more breathable builds help reduce tossing and muscle tension so you recover better. Look for moisture-managing covers, open-cell foams, Talalay latex, gel technologies, or hybrids that move air and maintain alignment.

Memory foam, latex, or hybrid—what works best for back pain?

All can work if they keep you aligned. Memory foam offers deep contouring and pressure relief (watch heat). Talalay latex is buoyant and breathable, supporting without a stuck-in feel. Hybrids pair coils with foam/latex for lift, airflow, and edge support—great for alignment and easier movement.

Lower back pain vs upper back pain—do I need different mattress traits?

For lower back pain, prioritize a core that prevents hip sink—Medium to Medium-Firm with zoned or lumbar reinforcement. For upper back/shoulder pain, avoid surfaces that are too firm—use plusher comfort layers so shoulders can sink while the midsection stays supported.

What common mattress mistakes make back pain worse?

Choosing a mattress that’s too firm, ignoring sleep position or body type, shopping on price alone, and overlooking alignment. The goal is pressure relief plus stable lift to keep hips level and the spine neutral throughout the night.