Reply from our Silentnight Expert:
Don't just buy a bed because it says it's good for your back. A bed that's supportive and comfortable is key. But it is important to remember that people's requirement for support will differ depending on their weight and build. For a long time, it was believed that a hard bed was good for a bad back. Recent research confirms this is not necessarily the case and could in fact cause more damage.
The term 'orthopaedic' generally just means an extra firm bed; it is not based on any medical or other common standard, nor does it mean the bed has been professionally assessed or recommended. It is a term loosely used by manufacturers to refer to extra firm models in their range. Firmness is not determined by price, although comfort, luxury and durability and added features such as adjustability come with higher price tags.
There's no single right bed to ease a back problem and each different back problem also may require a different solution. Speak to your GP or Specialist before purchasing.
The best approach is to research the options carefully, take time to try them out and choose what you personally find supportive and comfortable, regardless of labels or even price tags.
Narrow your choice down to two or three and then spend plenty of time lying on these in your normal sleeping positions. Five or 10 minutes should be the minimum for each bed - but feel free to spend half an hour or even an hour, if that's what you want to do.