Futons That are Good for the Back

A Traditional Japanese Futon Set

• Traditionally a Japanese futon consists of a mattress sitting on a tatami mat, a kakebuton or comforter and a makura or pillow. The mattress and pillow are usually stuffed with thick cotton batting but some are stuffed with down, buckwheat or beans. The Japanese usually have different weight futons for different seasons and different thicknesses for personal preferences.

Determine Your Sleep Style

• Knowing what your sleep style is can help you select the futon that is best for you. If you sleep on your side, place a pillow between your legs for better spinal alignment and select a futon with softer stuffing like wool or polyester. If you sleep on your back, place a pillow under your knees and your neck and choose a firmer futon. If you sleep on your stomach, the firmer the futon the better.

Quality Differences Among Futons

• If you buy a basic, three-inch thick cotton batting-filled futon, you are not doing your back any favors because the cotton filling absorbs moisture and will get hard and lumpy in a short time. For optimal comfort choose a six-inch thick futon. In addition, consider the materials used to fill your futon.

The Better the Fill the Better the Futon

• A futon mattress made of a foam core surrounded with wool and cotton batting is the best choice for a healthy back. This combination offers the firmest support for your spine, keeping you in correct alignment and allowing optimal elongation of your ligaments. Like any new mattress, it will take a little getting used to, but soon you'll be waking up refreshed and ready to go.