Mattress support and comfort do different jobs. Support helps keep your spine in a neutral position, while comfort cushions your body and eases pressure around the shoulders and hips. A firm feel alone does not guarantee good support, and a plush surface does not guarantee lasting comfort. This NeoBest guide explains how the layers work together and why your body weight and sleeping position matter when choosing a mattress.

Waking up with lower back pain? Your mattress might be letting your hips sink or leaving your lower back unsupported. Here’s how to check your sleep surface, what research says about firmness, and when it’s time to speak with a doctor.