Traditionally, orthopedic mattresses have been recommended for people with back or spinal issues as they are designed specifically to give support in the lower back and around the spine. Orthopedic mattresses are in general firmer and more rigid than a traditional mattress. There is no official definition of what constitutes an orthopedic mattress, and as labeling a product as orthopedic increases its desirability, many companies are marketing their mattresses as orthopedic even when they are no different to their regular mattresses.