Why figure out what the difference is. When looking for a mattress, it's easy to get confused about the names. "ortho mattress" and "anatomical mattress" sound similar, but they are not the same thing. They have different principles of operation and different purposes.
Why it matters. If you take the wrong type, you can simply not get enough sleep - or even worse, start feeling back pain. Therefore, before buying, it is better to understand how these mattresses differ and which one is right for you.
1. What Is An Orthopedic And Anatomical Mattress
- Anatomical is the ability of the mattress to adapt to the contours of the body. Such a mattress follows the curves, reduces pressure on the shoulders and hips, helps to relax and relieve muscle tension.
- Orthopedics are precise support for the spine. A mattress with this effect keeps the back in an even position, does not allow it to bend, helps with posture disorders or pain.
- What is the difference. An anatomical mattress is softer, comfortable and relaxing. ortho is denser and works more "for support". Ideally, a mattress combines both functions, but with an emphasis on one of them - depending on the needs of the person.
It is important to choose the right mattress firmness depending on your favorite sleeping position so that the spine takes the correct position.
2. Orthopedic Mattresses: Tight Support
Ortho mattress is created with the expectation of stable body support. They are stiffer than usual and do not allow the spine to bend.
What's inside:
In such models, hard fillers are often used: coconut coir, bicocos, sisal, linen. These materials are elastic, hold their shape well and do not squeeze.
Who is it for:
- those who sit a lot and move little
- people with slouching or back pain
- if you are overweight
- for children and adolescents – for the correct formation of posture
What They Give:
Such mattresses help to keep the back straight during sleep, reduce the load on the lower back and can be useful for the prevention of curvatures.
3. Anatomical Mattresses: Soft Adaptation
Anatomical models adjust to the body, repeat its shape and evenly distribute the load. They do not press on the protruding areas - shoulders, pelvis, knees.
What's Inside:
Materials that "remember" the contours of the body are used: memory foam, latex, elastic polyurethane foam.
Who Is It For:
- for joint and lower back pain
- during pregnancy
- if it is difficult to fall asleep or you often change your sleeping position
What They Give:
Blood flow improves, muscles relax, and the feeling of drips disappears. This mattress is suitable for those who are looking for maximum comfort and softness without dips.
4. 2-In-1 Mattresses - When You Don't Want To Choose
If you do not know which mattress is suitable - soft or hard - you can take a model with different sides. Such a mattress simply turns over: on the one hand, it is firmer, on the other, softer.
A combination of coconut and latex is common: stiffness at the bottom to support the back, softness at the top for comfort. This is convenient if:
- have not decided on the stiffness;
- you want to change your feelings;
- One person needs support, and the other needs gentleness.
5. How To Choose: A Step-By-Step Guide
5.1 By Sleeping Position
Depending on the sleeping position, a more ortho mattress or anatomical mattress is selected.
A detailed article on how to choose a mattress according to your sleeping position.
5.2 By Health And Diagnosis
If you often have back pain or have problems with the spine, it is important to consult a doctor first. It will tell you which level of hardness is better.
A mattress does not heal, but it helps the body to get tired less and rest better.
5.3 By Weight And Age
It is worth choosing a mattress taking into account body weight and age - this determines how comfortable the support will be.
The stiffness should correspond to the load so that the spine maintains an even position during sleep.
You will find more detailed recommendations for choosing a mattress based on height,
Conclusion: What To Choose And Why
A suitable mattress is not about rating, but about how it behaves with your body.
- Orthopedic mattress. If you spend a lot of time at the computer and often feel tension in your back, it is worth considering a mattress with good support. It helps to keep the spine straight during sleep and reduces the load on the back. Models with a coconut layer or dense foam are especially suitable - they do not allow the body to fall through and hold their shape. On such a mattress, it is easier to relax and wake up without feeling constrained.
- An anatomical mattress is more suitable for those who have trouble falling asleep, often tossing and turning at night or waking up feeling overwhelmed. It is softer, "adjusts" to the body and reduces pressure on the shoulders, pelvis and other sensitive areas.
- Combined
mattresses are suitable for those who are not sure of preferences
or want to change the firmness for themselves. For example, on one side is
coconut, on the other is latex. You can turn the mattress over depending
on how you feel or the season. This option is especially convenient if you
are just choosing a comfortable option or you are changing your feelings
from sleep.