by An orthopedic mattress is a mattress that is generally designed to help support the back, neck, and joints by evenly spreading the bodyweight to help avoid the buildup of pressure points. On the other hand, a high-density foam mattress is made of very firm foam. In this article, we’ll compare orthopedic Mattresses vs. high-density mattresses and help you determine which one is best for you.
When comparing orthopedic mattresses vs. high-density mattresses, choose an orthopedic mattress to support the spine and joints of the body. Choose a high-density mattress for additional comfort and moderate support for sore joints.
3 orthopedic mattresses we love (various price range)
Orthopedic mattresses can be made with innerspring technology, latex, memory foam, or a combination of these materials. Whereas a high-density foam mattress is a mattress that is made with polyurethane or latex foam. This foam is relatively more firm compared to ordinary memory foam, making it beneficial for people with sore joints or those simply wanting a more comfortable mattress. This article from Spine Health also gives some insight into the variety of mattresses that are available.
Here we will be taking a closer look at high-density mattresses vs. orthopedic mattresses so that you can decide which would be better for you.
What Is A High-Density Foam Mattress?
A high-density foam mattress is a mattress that is made with dense polyurethane or latex foam that has smaller pores than traditional mattresses. High-density mattresses tend to be firm and heavy.
High-density foam mattresses are one of the most popular kinds of mattresses out there these days, because of the level of comfort, quality, and longevity that they provide. In this article from the Journal of Materials (MDPI), the authors describe how density, porosity, and compression of luffa sponges are related. The higher the density, the higher the quality will be as well. While most high-density foam mattresses tend to be firmer than regular mattresses, the firmness does not depend on how dense the mattress is. It depends more on the material and the thickness. Check out our article that provides steps to raise a memory foam mattress (or other mattress), to learn more about the thickness of mattresses.
A high-density foam mattress is compact and firm. Image Source: Amazon.Pros Of High-Density Foam Mattresses
Despite their extra firmness, high-density foam mattresses are actually quite popular, especially among older people. They are also often prescribed to elderly patients by doctors for insomnia. Here’s an article from the Taiwan Association of Engineering and Technology innovation on how high-density meds and BMI affect insomnia in elderly patients.
Pros of high-density foam mattresses include durability, comfort, and quality.
High-density foam mattresses are known to be very durable because of the firm and dense foam they are made of. On average, if maintained properly, these mattresses can last up to ten years.
Despite some myths, an extra firm mattress like this is not necessarily uncomfortable to sleep on. All it takes is some getting used to, and in the end, you will be sleeping more comfortably than you would on a regular mattress. The quality of sleep is known to be better as well, with REM and non-REM sleep periods improving significantly (Source: Encyclopedia of Ergonomics and Human Factors).
Cons of High-Density Foam Mattresses
The disadvantages of using high-density foam mattresses include that they offer poor support for the spine and the rest of the body, so they may not be suitable for those suffering from backaches or painful joints.
In this study conducted with 366 young adult patients who had lower back pain, it was found that “pain was most prevalent in firm mattress users followed by foam mattress users.” The firm foam materials retain heat inside the mattress which makes it uncomfortable to sleep on in the summer. Another drawback is that these mattresses tend to transmit movement, so if someone moves on one side, it will be felt by the person sleeping next to them.
What Is An Orthopedic Mattress?
An orthopedic mattress like this is a type of mattress that gives support to the joints and is usually recommended to people who suffer from pain, people who are recovering from an injury or surgery, and older people.
Orthopedic mattresses are made from a combination of innerspring technology, memory foam, and latex. They are commonly used by people who have spinal issues and joint pain.
Orthopedic mattresses are specially designed to support the entire body. The materials that are used play a big role in the support that these mattresses provide. Our detailed guide on orthopedic mattress materials explains more about this. Also, you might find interest in these 7 benefits of an orthopedic mattress so you can choose the right one.
An orthopedic mattress is usually recommended for people with injuries, pains, and other conditions. Image Source: Amazon.You might also find interest in learning how to choose an orthopedic mattress you can flip and why you need one.
Advantages Of Orthopedic Mattresses
Orthopedic mattresses might be expensive, but they have a number of advantages. Support is distributed to all parts of the mattress, thus avoiding the buildup of pressure on certain points and sore areas.
Advantages of using orthopedic mattresses are that they are great for those with spinal issues or those who have trouble sleeping because of pressure on certain parts of the body.
This also ensures that the muscles of the body are truly relaxed. Another great advantage is that orthopedic mattresses like these provide the correct support for spinal alignment and comfortable sleeping positions. Orthopedic mattresses provide relief for people that live with chronic pain as explained in our article that provides tips to choose an orthopedic bed for sciatica pain.
Sleeping with your spine in a neutral position like this alleviates back pain and other health issues. Image Source: Coastal Orthopedics.Disadvantages Of Orthopedic Mattresses
The main disadvantages of using orthopedic mattresses are that they are often hard to distinguish. Be aware that some retailers do take advantage of this fact, so buy one from a reputable manufacturer or supplier. Other disadvantages of using orthopedic mattresses are that they can be expensive.
Choosing a suitable orthopedic mattress could be tricky because it is not always easy to tell the difference between an actual orthopedic mattress and an ordinary mattress. This factor is often exploited by retailers, so it would be advisable to buy an orthopedic mattress like this from a reputable manufacturer or supplier. Another drawback is that they are also quite expensive, especially when compared to high-density foam mattresses.
Be sure to also take a look at our related article explaining orthopedic mattress side effects and disadvantages for more information. Additionally, make sure to take a look at our article explaining how to choose an orthopedic mattress for elderly sleepers.
Orthopedic Mattresses vs. High-Density Mattress
| Reason You Are Purchasing a New Mattress | Type of Mattress to Purchase (Orthopedic Mattress vs. High-Density Mattress) | Why? | Example from Amazon |
| You are a senior with joint pain | Orthopedic Mattress | They evenly distribute body weight and make sure there is no build-up of pressure causing aches and pains. | Sensei orthopedic memory foam mattress |
| You need an affordable new mattress | High-Density foam mattress | High-density foam mattresses are cheaper. | Signature Sleep Memoir,12 Inch High-density, Responsive Memory Foam Mattress |
| You’re buying a mattress for two older people | Orthopedic Mattress | An orthopedic mattress is more comfortable for two sleepers as there is no transfer of movement. | Spring Coil9 -inch, Orthopedic Mattress, Royal Collection |
| You have spine issues | Orthopedic Mattress | It helps with spinal alignment. | Spinal Solution, 7inch Firm Orthopedic Fully Assembled Mattress |
| You are going camping or will be outdoors | High-Density Foam Mattress | They are portable and durable but may be too heavy for backpacking. Use these for car-camping or tent-camping near a car. | Foamma High-Density Roll-Up, Camping Mattress |
Be sure to also check out our related article comparing an orthopedic mattress vs. a Tempurpedic mattress as well as our article comparing an orthopedic mattress vs. a Posturepedic mattress to find out which might be right for you.
What To Consider When Purchasing A New Mattress
Purchasing a new mattress can be a daunting task at first, but if you keep a few factors in mind, it can be quite an easy job to determine whether orthopedic mattresses vs. high-density mattresses will meet your needs. Consider the helpful tips that we provide in our article about orthopedic mattress sizes to help you choose the correct one for your needs.
Here are a few more factors you might consider:
Pain
If you are looking for a mattress to help with back pain, both high-density foam and orthopedic mattresses would help. However, if it is a matter of spinal alignment, then the right choice would be this orthopedic mattress. It would also be the right mattress for joint pain. However, if you simply have normal soreness, a high-density foam mattress would help with that.
Temperature
High-density foam mattresses tend to trap heat inside them and it would not be a good idea to use them in warm temperatures, so they would be more suitable for cooler temperatures. Orthopedic mattresses can be used in warmer temperatures as they allow for the circulation of air.
Price
High-density foam mattresses like these are cheaper than orthopedic ones so people looking for more affordable mattresses tend to choose these. An orthopedic mattress costs about $300-$900 on average while a high-density foam mattress costs about $100-$500.
In regards to pricing, you might be interested in learning, “are orthopedic mattresses covered by insurance?” Be sure to take a look at our related article to find out.
Bed Frame
High-density foam mattresses tend to be thicker than normal ones so ensure that the bed frame is deep enough for it.
Camping
Camping usually requires mattresses like these that are easier to carry and that are lightweight. This is why a high-density foam mattress would be a better option for going camping compared to an orthopedic one.
A high-density foam mattress like this is perfect for camping. Image Source: Amazon.Key Takeaways
Material Composition
Orthopedic mattresses primarily aim at providing robust support to the back, neck, and joints by distributing body weight evenly, thus minimizing pressure points. They integrate materials like innerspring technology, memory foam, and latex. High-density mattresses, on the other hand, are crafted from dense polyurethane or latex foam, rendering them firm and supportive to an extent.
Support and Comfort
The support derived from orthopedic mattresses is more medical in nature, making them suitable for individuals recovering from injuries, the elderly, or those with chronic joint or back pain. High-density mattresses offer a firmer yet comfortable sleeping surface, which is often appreciated for its longevity and durability, making them a popular choice among a broader range of users.
Durability
High-density foam mattresses are known for their durability due to the dense foam used in their construction. They can last up to ten years with proper care. Orthopedic mattresses also exhibit good durability, although the lifespan can vary based on the materials used and the care provided.
Spinal Alignment
Orthopedic mattresses excel in providing optimal spinal alignment, a feature that is crucial for individuals with spinal issues or those who need extra support to alleviate back or joint pain. High-density mattresses, while firm, may not provide the same level of spinal alignment and support, especially for those with specific medical conditions.
Temperature Regulation
High-density foam mattresses have a tendency to retain heat which could make them less comfortable in warmer climates. Orthopedic mattresses, depending on the materials used, may offer better air circulation, making them suitable for use in a variety of temperature settings.
Price Considerations
Orthopedic mattresses tend to be priced higher due to their specialized support features and the quality of materials used. High-density foam mattresses are relatively more affordable, providing a firmer sleep surface without a hefty price tag.
Usage Scenarios
The choice between an orthopedic and a high-density mattress may also hinge on the usage scenario. For instance, high-density foam mattresses could be more suitable for camping due to their firmness and durability, whereas orthopedic mattresses are more suited for medical or therapeutic use.