Beds (Mattresses): Which Is Best?

So the mattress pad you bought is separate from you mattress? Is it just a foam cover for the mattress?

Right now I have a lockport mattress pillowtop set that is about 9 years old I think. We also have a featherbed pad on top of the mattress. I woke up this morning, and several other times with lower back pain/stiffness. I guess I will also be in the market soon for a new mattress.