Menopause Matters Forum
General Discussion => This 'n' That => Topic started by: Dierdre on March 27, 2025, 09:42:05 AM
-
I've always preferred a firm mattress as soft ones usually made my back ache. Recently though I'm waking up in the night after lying on my side with a numb hip, the skin and flesh feel completely numb, this happens on both sides. I'm not a thin bony person, there's plenty of cushioning on my hips so a bit confused. Also lying on my back now causes back ache and stiffness and I struggle to then turn over. My previously comfy mattress now feels like lying on a concrete slab!
Is this normal as you age and do I now need a softer mattress or mattress topper?
-
It is normal and I would start with a mattress topper first to see if that relieves the problem.
I started with a firm mattress, then needed a soft topper then eventually had to buy a soft mattress, the joys of an ageing body!
-
Thanks Ayesha, I'll start looking for a topper now and hopefully get a good night's sleep again.
-
Same here Dierdre, always needed a firm mattress but blimey my hips started to do the same, bout an Inofia one,which is still fairly firm but has a soft top to it (bit like myself ;D ) and all good now
-
Glad I'm not the only one, I've been looking on Amazon for a topper, they all look the same so looking for the best reviews. Hopefully get it for the weekend.
When I was away in February for two weeks I was fine then but put it down to the hot weather as my neck had stopped aching too. Must have been the softer mattress, if so I know it works. Probably have to buy bigger fitted sheets to fit over it too.
-
Your mattress appears insufficient now that your body has undergone transformations through the years. A firm sleeping surface frequently causes hip sensations of numbness which become more common in older people. A mattress topper should be your starting point because it promises better comfort without replacing the entire bed. A new mattress with softer characteristics may be the solution when a mattress topper does not provide sufficient relief. You should find equilibrium in order to maximize mattress satisfaction.
-
I've been on my new mattress topper for a week now and it's much better. Struggled with getting the fitted sheet to fit though as my mattress is a deep one and now I've got another 10cm on top.
-
A mattress topper really helped me. You can buy deeper fitted sheets online so you don't have a fight to make the bed. 😊
-
Morning. Put the sheet on the mattress as usual then add the topper.
Years ago it was believed that those suffering from back problems should sleep on a firm mattress = Orthopaedic designs. Wrong.
The one we have had on our huge bed is right now, I can snuggle down into it. I have bilateral bursitis which isn't troublesome until it's almost time to wake up, when both sides really ache.
-
But the sheet wouldn't cover the topper then?
-
Does that matter? Or wrap a sheet around the topper on top of the sheet on the mattress?
-
You can get extra deep fitted sheets Dierdre but maybe still not enough?
-
Problem solved, I've moved into the other bedroom with a thinner mattress and the topper and sheets are fitting now. Been thinking of swopping for a while as its quieter in there anyway. My guests can have my hard mattress ;D
-
;D That's nice ;D
-
Let us know how you sleep in a different room :-\ ........
-
It’s quite common for our bodies to need more cushioning as we age, joints and pressure points just don’t tolerate firm surfaces the same way. You could try a good quality topper, but sometimes it’s easier just replacing the mattress.
I found something in-between at Millie & Jones (https://www.millieandjones.co.uk/), a proper mattress that isn’t too soft, but still relieves pressure
-
Let us know how you sleep in a different room :-\ ........
Well it's been 3 months now and the mattress topper still doing the job, not gone flat and still comfy. Should have moved in the back room years ago, so quiet and north facing so been alot cooler this summer.