Learn how proper spine alignment can help you feel more comfortable and supported, so you can adjust your Sleep Number® setting or choose the right pillow with confidence.
Quick answer: What does good alignment feel like?
Good alignment means your neck, back, and hips feel supported while you sleep. Your body should feel relaxed, not tense or strained.
Your ideal Sleep Number® setting should help keep your spine in a natural position, similar to how it feels when you are standing tall.
- If you sleep on your back, your mattress should support the small of your back.
- If you sleep on your side, your mattress should support the curves of your side.
How to know if your mattress setting feels right
How you feel when you wake up can help you decide if your setting is right. At the right setting, your body should feel relaxed, comfortable, and supported.
- If your hips sink lower than your shoulders, your mattress may be too soft. Try raising your setting until your hips and knees feel supported.
- If you toss and turn or wake up stiff, your mattress may be too firm. Try lowering your setting until your body feels more relaxed.
Your sleep position can change how the air pressure feels in your bed. You may feel less support if you sleep in the center of a dual chamber bed or on the edge of the bed.
For best support, sleep on your side of the bed and try to stay near the center of your air chamber. On a dual chamber bed, the middle and outside edge may feel different than the center of your side.
How to find your ideal Sleep Number® setting
It is normal for your Sleep Number® setting at home to be different from the setting you liked in the store. Each mattress model has a different feel and level of support.
Your Sleep Number® setting may also change over time. With DualAir™ technology, you and your sleep partner can adjust each side of the bed whenever you need a different level of comfort or support.
- Start with your current Sleep Number® setting.
- Adjust up or down by small amounts.
- Sleep on the new setting for a few nights.
- Notice how your back, hips, shoulders, and neck feel when you wake up.
Tip: Make small changes, such as 5 points at a time. Try each setting for a few nights before changing it again. This can help you notice what feels better. Visit How to Find a New Sleep Number® Setting to learn how to change your setting.
If you use an adjustable base, your setting may feel different when your head or feet are raised. Adjust your base first, then adjust your Sleep Number® setting for comfort.
How to choose the right pillow for alignment
Your pillow should help keep your head and neck in line with your spine. Your neck should not tilt too far up, down, or to the side.
- Replace your pillow every 1 to 2 years, or sooner if it looks worn or no longer feels supportive.
- Visit a Sleep Number store or take our online pillow quiz for help finding a pillow that fits how you sleep.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my Sleep Number® setting is too soft?
If your hips sink lower than your shoulders, your setting may be too soft. Try raising your setting a little at a time until your body feels supported.
How do I know if my Sleep Number® setting is too firm?
If you toss and turn or wake up stiff, your setting may be too firm. Try lowering your setting until your body feels more relaxed.
Can my Sleep Number® setting change over time?
Yes. Your comfort needs can change. You may need a different setting based on your sleep position, comfort preference, or how your body feels.
Can my pillow affect spine alignment?
Yes. Your pillow helps support your head and neck. The right pillow helps keep your neck in line with your spine.
Should I adjust my Sleep Number® setting while I am in bed?
Yes. For the best feel, lie in your usual sleep position while you adjust your setting. This helps the bed respond to your body weight and sleep position.
What if I still cannot get comfortable?
Give your body a little time to adjust to a new bed or new setting. If you still wake up sore or uncomfortable after trying small changes for several nights, contact Sleep Number for help.