Scoliosis, an abnormal sideways curvature of the spine, is a spinal condition most often diagnosed between ages 10 and 15. In the vast majority of cases, doctors aren’t sure what causes the spine to curve, and most cases are mild, requiring no treatment beyond regular monitoring to make sure that the curve doesn’t worsen as the patient grows. However, severe cases of scoliosis can cause progressively worsening problems if left untreated, including damage to the lungs and heart (caused by deformities of the rib cage) and back pain.

For those whose curves are serious enough or worsening as time goes on, treatment may include bracing, or, in the most serious cases, surgery. The goal of scoliosis treatment is to keep the spine as straight as possible with the least invasive option that will also be effective. Therefore, it is important to be mindful of sleeping in the proper position and the proper environment. While a poor mattress or bad sleep position might not make your condition worse, they won’t help support your spine or make you feel better, either.

The best sleeping position for individual scoliosis sufferers will vary depending on the type and severity of their curve and if they need to wear a brace at night. However, it is generally agreed that sleeping on the stomach, which puts strain on the back and neck, is never recommended. If you choose to sleep on your back, be sure that the pillow under your head is sized appropriately so that it does not throw your neck out of alignment—you may also want to put a pillow under your knees or invest in an adjustable bedframe that can raise your lower legs slightly if that helps to take the pressure off an uncomfortable area of curvature. Sleeping on your side is also considered good for maintaining proper spinal alignment. Your doctor can advise you as to which position would be best for your individual case.

In general, you will want a high-quality mattress that offers medium to firm support, as a mattress with too much give or sag will not keep your spine supported comfortably. Given the importance of maintaining a proper position throughout the night, it is best to purchase a mattress that comes with a trial period, which allows you to try it out in your own home for many days, and to look for one that will maintain its level of quality and support over many years. For example, IDLE Sleep, a U.S. company manufacturing double-sided luxury mattresses, offers a 120-night sleep trial—plenty of time to know if you’ve purchased the mattress that will give your back proper support and relief. In addition, their 2-sided design can be flipped to extend their life and maintain the quality of their support.

Quality sleep is important to your overall health. When you’re dealing with a condition like scoliosis, it is even more important to take the time to examine your sleep environment to ensure optimal rest. Getting the perfect mattress is not a one-size-fits-all proposition. That’s why IDLE Sleep offers a variety of premium luxury mattresses engineered to provide superior comfort and durability. All of their mattresses are handmade in the USA and incorporate the latest in pressure-relieving and cooling foams. The IDLE Air and adjustable bases offer countless options for customizable firmness and positioning. To learn more about the IDLE Sleep difference, click here. You’ll enjoy improved physical and mental well-being when you get the rest you need.