Everybody knows that a good night's sleep is essential to a healthy lifestyle. The trouble is, sometimes it feels almost impossible to get that sleep at night. Some sleepers wake up every day to find a new pain in their back. 

Others may not have any issues sleeping but find they have other unexplained health problems. Many times, people have no idea what could trigger these issues. 

As it turns out, though, a box spring mattress may be the cause. Although many people think a box spring mattress is essential to most beds, this is not true.

There are several alternatives to these mattresses, with each offering health benefits that a box spring cannot match. So, we'll explore the downsides of box spring mattresses and some healthier alternatives in the guide below. Read on to learn more!

Box Spring Mattresses and Back Health

Back pain is one of the most common ailments for Americans, with roughly 65 million people in the US reporting a recent episode afflicting them. Several things can cause back pain, ranging from posture to seating surfaces. 

However, one common cause of back pain is box spring mattresses. Over time, these mattresses often give to the sleeper's body weight. This phenomenon results in the mattress sagging. 

When a mattress sags, it loses the ability to support your spine. As a result, you'll begin to experience back pain. 

The dip in your mattress causes your body to follow its shape. So, you end up lying with a curved spine for eight hours or so each night. While in this position, your muscles must work harder to support your body.

If you do this every night, it may cause you to experience chronic back pain. If you want to avoid this outcome and alleviate back pain, it's best to switch mattresses. 

Other Box Spring Mattress Health Problems

Some research indicates that box spring mattresses may act as antennae for various electromagnetic signals. The way these works goes something like this.

Your bedroom likely contains several electronic devices, ranging from a cell phone to a television. Each of these devices emits an electromagnetic signal.

The problem with this is that box spring mattresses contain several metal coils. Although these coils don't look like the average antenna, they can still function like one. Your coils pick up this electromagnetic signal and conduct it upwards, directly into your body. 

Over time, this electromagnetic field you sleep in could result in an increased likelihood of cancer. Lastly, some mattress types contain toxic chemicals that prove harmful to both adults and children. Unfortunately, many of these are box spring mattresses.

Once again, this means that getting another type of mattress could significantly improve your health. So, in the following few sections, we'll explore alternative mattress types and their benefits. 

Benefits of a Latex Mattress

One of the things we discussed above was the threat of cancer from box spring mattresses. The simplest way to avoid this threat is to purchase a mattress without any metal in its frame. 

One popular fit for this is a latex mattress. These mattresses have a body made entirely from latex, without a trace of metal inside them. 

Latex mattresses offer other advantages as well, such as utilizing all-natural materials. They also resist mold and dust mites without needing any extra chemicals. 

However, latex mattresses can also alleviate back pain. The latex material extends the mattress's longevity, making it much more long-lasting. As a result, you won't have to worry about the mattress sagging. 

Health Benefits of Sleeping on the Floor

Latex mattresses and similar alternatives are some of the best on the market. However, they are also heavier options than box spring mattresses. You may also struggle to find a mattress that fits your price range. 

Instead of choosing these, there's another alternative. Some research suggests that sleeping on the floor provides many health benefits. 

For example, many find that sleeping on the floor helps them alleviate back pain. Firmer surfaces offer more relief to your back, allowing you greater relaxation at night. 

It's harder to find a firmer surface than the floor! So, if you need to alleviate back pain, maybe try sleeping on the ground for a few nights and see how you feel.

Sleeping on the floor could also improve your posture. Sleeping on the ground helps your spine to remain straight throughout the night. After all, you won't have to worry about the floor sagging beneath your body weight. 

However, sleeping directly on the floor may not be the best solution for your back. You may find it helpful to rest a thin pillow beneath your lower back for extra support.

Finding a New Mattress Foundation

You may want to alleviate back pain and yet feel that sleeping on the floor is more than you can handle. If so, don't worry! Other alternatives offer a middle path.

Instead of using a box spring mattress, you can use a new foundation for your mattress that offers increased support for your back. These alternatives may also include better ventilation and durability. 

One such example is a wood slat foundation for your bed. Wood slat foundations offer each of these benefits.

For example, they provide significant airflow and ventilation for your mattress. This ventilation makes these frames resistant to mold and mildew growth under the bed. 

Wood slats also provide more reinforcement for your sleep posture. As a result, you won't have to worry about dipping or sagging. Our Arcadian frame utilizes this design, making it one of the best sleep tools we have. 

Ditch Your Box Spring Today

As you can see, box spring mattresses can put you at risk of several health problems. Why deal with those when there are much better alternatives? 

Instead, capitalize on the health benefits of these other designs! We offer several mattresses that protect your spine and avoid harmful chemicals. If you want a good night's sleep and optimal health, check out our store today!