Snap, Crackle, Pop
11 December 2007I’ve had back problems for almost 20 years. They started when I was 18 and working in Yosemite cleaning hotel rooms for a living. I’ve learned to manage the pain with the use of over the counter drugs, an occasional muscle relaxer or a trip to the chiropractor. Once a year or so I actually manage to throw out my back completely and find myself ’stuck’ for a few days while I recover.
In the last few months a new element has been introduced to the drama. At night, whenever I turn over in bed my back cracks. It’s not just one little pop - it’s more like cracking all your knuckles one after another. This happens at least 4-5 times a night and it creeps me out. I was having some sciatic pain so I asked my chriropractor about it when I was in last. He said that it’s a “good thing!” Apparently I’m so “flexible” these days that my muscles aren’t seizing up to protect my spine. My back is making the adjustments it needs to stay healthier, and I think there may be some truth to what he’s saying. My maintainence meds usage has dropped dramatically over the past few months because I’m not hurting as much. Right as he may be, I still can’t get used to hearing the rapid fire crack of my spine letting loose every time I need to change positions.
on December 12th, 2007 at 11:02 am
About a year and a half ago we splurged and bought a McRoskey king sized mattress and box spring set. Cost as much as a used car, but it’s an amazing nightly experience.
We ended up wtih the Gentle mattress on the Firm box spring, although the Firm mattress on the same Firm box was a close call.
You can sit on the edge without damaging anything. It’s pretty easy for two people to flip it over; we do the rotate/flip dance every two months (they recommend every three).
These beds are made in San Francisco, and have been since 1899. No foam at all, only cotton and pollyester packed over the springs. Tufted like the old days. They have a display in the showroom of the different kinds of horsehair they used back in the 1900’s.
They have a 10 year warranty and an expected usability of over 20 years.
http://www.mcroskey.com/
on December 12th, 2007 at 2:11 pm
We actually got some brand new mattresses last year - and they too cost as much as a used car! I haven’t heard of that brand, but I’m going to certainly keep in mind for next time.
I’m not sure that it’s the mattress that is causing the problems. Certainly my spine is adjusting itself loudly in the middle of the night, but most times when I’m in pain it’s when I’m sitting down or standing too long.
Thanks for the glowing recommendation - I’ll be putting them on my short list for next time!
on December 12th, 2007 at 3:21 pm
I’ve heard of McRoskey - they have a solid reputation of old school bed making. I think they use to make custom dog beds, too.