Traditional wisdom dictates that a firm mattress is the only mattress for those with back and hip pain. However, this is not necessarily true. You can choose the mattress that is best suited to you with these mattress tips for low back and hip pain.

1. Medium-firm is the safest choice
If you are in a situation where you do not have a choice, go for a medium-firm mattress. This is a much better choice than a firm mattress.

2. Keep the spine supported
Just as the spine needs to be aligned when upright, it also needs to be supported in alignment when prone. Choose a mattress that keeps the spine in a straight alignment when asleep. So, if you have narrow hips, a mattress that is firmer will keep the spine aligned. Someone with wider hips will need a mattress with more give to accommodate the hips and align the spine. Some people find that a memory foam mattress does this job well. It could, however, be too warm for extremely hot climates. Avoid the temptation to buy a very soft mattress that lets you just sink in. It will not be the best for your back and spine once the initial delight wears off. One should also choose the right pillow that keeps the spine straight.

3. Test your mattress
Most people buy a mattress that sounds good in the brochure. One of the common mattress tips for low back and hip pain is to test a mattress in the showroom for more than a couple of minutes. However, you may sometimes find that you really liked a mattress in a hotel room or a friend’s house. Make a note of the brand and model so that you will be able to buy it when you need a new mattress. Certain companies even let you use a mattress for a few days before deciding to keep it. This makes excellent sense as it is a product that will have years of use and is not easy to replace otherwise. Buy your mattress from a reputed seller who will honor a money-back guarantee.

4. Old vs. new
Research shows that any newer mattress is better for sleep than a mattress that has outlived its usable years. Mattresses should not be used for longer than the recommended number of years. Even if you do not know how many years the manufacturer recommends, you can safely decide to replace a mattress that you have been using for more than 10 years.

5. Do your research
Mattresses are labeled as orthopedic or medically approved as a part of their branding or marketing. This does not mean that the mattress will be the best for you. The most important of mattress tips for low back and hip pain is to go one step further to determine the actual structure of the mattress and test if it is right for you.

6. Rotate
It is important to rotate your mattress every few months to get the most life and the best support out of it.