I have been plagued with back pain for years and decided to try the 'sleep number bed'. I know I like a firm mattress so I started with number 85. I woke up the next morning with almost no lower back pain. Nothing is going to be 100%, except maybe a miracle, but this bed was absolutely one of the best investments I've ever made. Also, it's nice to be able to adjust your number according to sleep position- I like it a little less firm for sleeping on my side or extra firm when sitting up to watch tv.