Hello!
I am searching for a new mattress and wanted input on recommendations. I have been waking up with stiff hips and neck, a dull ache in low back and upper back right along spinal extensors.
I have a host of spinal issues and arthritis. L4-L5 spondylolysis, scoliosis, and thoracic kyphosis.
I need proper lumbar and cervical support. My budget can be very flexible, but ideally would not like to go above $5k for a queen. I have noticed that I feel better with medium - firm mattresses.
I am 29, 6’3 and 195 lbs.
I sleep on my back primarily, but also my side. My partner sleeps in the bed with me and she has no restrictions, but I would like the mattress to distribute the weight well. She is 130 lbs.
Any recommendations that have helped solve your back pain and stiffness in the morning? I was also looking at potentially buying back science series 2, but I have not had great experiences with foam mattresses.
Thank you for reaching out and sharing those specific details about your spinal history. Dealing with L4-L5 spondylolysis, scoliosis, and thoracic kyphosis at 29 is a significant challenge, and you are absolutely right to prioritize proper alignment over simple “comfort.”
As a chiropractor and mattress designer, I try to bring together a combination effect that will help keep the spine properly aligned, while still maintaining the pressure relief and comfort both sleepers need. With spondylolysis (a separation in the pars interarticularis) and kyphosis, your spine needs a surface that provides upward support to prevent hyper-extension in the lower back, while still allowing the thoracic spine to settle enough to reduce pressure.
When you discussed your interest in the Back Science Series 2 Hybrid, you mentioned having poor experiences with foam mattresses in the past. I completely understand that hesitation. Many people associate “foam” with that “quicksand” feeling of memory foam where you sink in and get stuck, which is often terrible for shifting positions or maintaining alignment.
Here is why the Back Science Series 2 is different, and a new option we have that might be perfect for you:
It’s Not “Traditional” Foam: The Series 2 uses Hypergel , which is a high-density, buoyant foam. Unlike memory foam, it floats you on top of the mattress rather than letting you sink into it. Combined with our Lumbar-Flex Zoned Support, so it pushes back to support your lumbar spine, rather than collapsing under it.
A New “Traditional Feel” Option: Because you mentioned liking a medium-firm feel and may be wary of the texture of a flat foam surface, I want to let you know about a new configuration we have recently started offering to our in-showroom customers in California. This version takes the orthopedic support engine of the Series 2 but finishes it with a Medium-Firm Quilted Top .
This gives you that substantial, tactile, “traditional mattress” feel on the surface—similar to the high-end hotel mattresses you might be used to—rather than the direct-contact foam feel. It provides a little more surface tension and airflow while still delivering the zoned back support your scoliosis and spondylolysis require.
This specific “Quilted Top” version isn’t a standard offer yet on our website yet, as it’s largely been a custom request for our showroom visitors who want that classic texture, but given your height (6’3") and specific spinal needs, I would love to discuss this option with you to see if it’s the bridge between the support you need and the feel you prefer. Please feel free to reach out to us directly via email or phone.
As a valued member of The Mattress Underground, don’t forget that if you do decide to move forward, you can use the code TMU10 for an additional 10% off your purchase.
Dr. Rick Swartzburg, D.C.
Founder and Head of Product Design