Firm mattresses are popular with back pain sufferers, heavier people, and those who want back support, but some mattresses are too firm Thankfully, there are signs that indicate a mattress is too firm and ways to soften it without having to replace it

Remember, the best mattress for you is one that suits your sleeping position, body shape, and sleep needs Even the most luxurious mattress will not be right for you if it does not meet all of these requirements

Whether you just bought a mattress or have been using it for a while, there are signs that your mattress is too firm We'll also show you how to make a too-hard mattress softer and more comfortable Let's get started

Waking up with a dull ache in your buttocks is a sure sign that your mattress is too firm A firmer mattress will provide good support for the lumbar spine for those with back pain, but side sleepers need some pressure relief to gently cushion their shoulders, hips, and knees

Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet may be a sign that the mattress is too firm This is because pressure on the shoulders, hips, knees, and other areas that come in contact with the mattress can cause nerve compression Nerve compression can cause a tingling, "pins and needles" sensation in the extremities

Like the hips, shoulders, and knees, the neck is another pressure point that can pay the price of a too-firm mattress A stiff or sore neck upon waking from sleep may be the result of the mattress Neck pain is evidence that the neck is resting out of alignment with the spine and that the mattress is not the right firmness

Taking longer to fall asleep or waking up throughout the night to change positions for comfort is evidence that the mattress is too firm A mattress that suits your body shape and sleep needs will help you fall into a deep, restful sleep

Struggling to find a comfortable sleeping position is a sign that the mattress is not right for you If you are a side sleeper by nature and are trying to sleep on your back to prevent back, neck, or shoulder pain, your mattress may be too firm The best mattress for a side sleeper is one that wraps around the body in the sleeping position that you feel most comfortable in and has enough cushioning in the areas that touch the mattress

If your mattress is relatively new (but outside the sleep trial period), adding a mattress topper is an excellent way to soften a firm mattress The best mattress toppers can give your current mattress additional cooling, comfort, and plumpness

Like mattresses, mattress toppers come in a variety of materials, including latex, memory foam, and wool We recommend a memory foam or feather mattress topper that is at least 3 inches deep to provide the sink-in cushioning support that is lacking in current mattresses

However, if the mattress is 5-7 years old, it should be replaced Check out these 7 signs that your mattress needs to be replaced

For light-weight people and side sleepers, a soft or medium-firm mattress is best, offering blissful comfort that plumps the shoulders, hips, and knees In contrast, back, stomach sleepers and heavier weight people usually find the most relief from one of the best firm mattresses

People who sleep on their backs or stomachs most often need a firmer mattress to keep their spine in the correct position On the other hand, for those weighing more than 250 pounds, a firmer mattress will distribute the weight evenly, supporting the body at the top of the mattress and preventing the support layer from sinking in

If you are not sure which mattress firmness is best for you, see How to Choose the Best Mattress