Question
I have had SI joint pain from the time I was 14.  I injured my back in gymnastics (fell off a beam during dismount and landed on my butt) and proceeded to have horrible pain that started in my low back and would radiate down my legs.  Pain relief was felt (unknown to me why) by massaging or placing pressure on my SI  joint area or the back of my knee.  When I was 22, I was in a plane crash in which the plane careened across the tarmack and crashed into an abandoned building at high speed.  After that accident, my back pain came back full on (it never really stopped hurting, but after the accident, I had chronic pain where I was in a lot of pain).  I've been diagnosed with Spondyliosis (I think that's the name).  Recently (last April), I rotated a vertabrae in my neck and am now (5 months later) having pain again associated with that.

My husband and I are currently shopping for a new mattress.  What do you recommend I look for given my back/neck problems?  Do you recommend a particular type of mattress?  pillow?  support items?

Answer
Alysse,

Thanks for the question.  I personally recommend Tempurpedic mattresses.  I have one and the support is really incredible.  They are not cheap, but will be worth the investment as they have a very long life. Tempurpedic is the special memory foam type of mattress.  I recommend you find a location that carries them and go to the showroom and try it out.  My wife and I spent about 2 hours at a store lying on their beds.  We have slept great and awaken in the morning feeling great ever since.

You do need a pillow and Tempurpedic makes some really good ones, however, pillows are a little different. They are more personal in my opinion.  I do not like the Tempurpedic pillow.  I feel that smaller women do better with them. In regards to pillows, I recommend trying out several and finding the one that suits you best.

You may need some seat support if you have a job that you have to sit long periods of time.  Lumbar cushions often help.

I also recommend that you consult a chiropractor to determine if you need manipulation to the SI joints and spine.  With chronic pain, there is usually chronic joint fixation/dysfunction.  Manipulation can alleviate and possibly restore the function of the joints and help you live without this pain and problem.

I hope this helps.  Please let me know if you have any further questions.

God Bless,

Dr. Boss