The impact of orthopedic mattresses on the severity of pain and sleep quality in patients with chronic nonspecific low back pain: a randomized controlled trial

Currently, there is insufficient research on the optimal sleep surface to improve sleep quality and reduce lower back pain. Studying orthopedic mattresses in this context could be a promising direction. Objective: To assess the impact of orthopedic mattresses on pain severity and sleep quality. Materials and Methods: From September to December 2023, we conducted a randomized controlled trial involving volunteers with chronic lower back pain. Participants were randomized into 4 groups: 3 using orthopedic mattresses of varying firmness (firm, medium, and soft) and 1 control group (with a non-orthopedic mattress). Observations were made over 4 weeks, assessing pain intensity and sleep quality through a visual analog scale and sleep quality questionnaire. Results: Out of 117 screened volunteers, 86 were included, and 5 withdrew, leaving 81 participants: 21 in the firm group, 20 in the medium, 20 in the soft, and 20 in the control group. No differences were found in participant characteristics. Significant pain reduction was noted in all groups (p < 0.001), with considerable sleep quality improvement in the 3 experimental groups (p < 0.001) but not in the control (p = 0.101). Conclusion: Using orthopedic mattresses for 4 weeks significantly reduced lower back pain and improved sleep quality.

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