The Best Mattresses for Back Pain
Back pain is a widespread problem that affects an estimated 80% of adults at one time or another. Some individuals have persistent back pain for a variety of reasons, including poor posture, injuries, and medical conditions such as arthritis and sciatica. These are just a few of the potential causes. However, what many people don’t realize is that their mattress might be the cause of their back pain. It is possible to develop spinal misalignment and back discomfort as a result of sleeping on a mattress that is not well-suited to your body. This may cause you to toss and turn throughout the night and keep you uncomfortable during the day.
Best Mattress For Back Pain: A Complete Guide
When you sleep on a surface that is well-suited to your body type and the position in which you sleep, the pressure that is normally exerted on your vertebrae is relieved, which in turn relaxes the muscles in your back. Your ideal mattress will be one that allows your spine to continue to have its natural curvature as you sleep on it. You will also need to be aware of the many alternatives for comfort and support, the material used in the mattress, and the degree to which a certain mattress relieves pressure points and helps relieve back pain.
If you don't put enough thought into your mattress purchase, you might end up in even more pain than you started out in!
Finding a mattress that isn't going to cause back pain or make any existing back problems worse can be overwhelming, which is why we've put together this guide of the best mattresses for back pain, as well as some advice and information about back pain.
The Winner - Best Mattress For Back Pain
The DreamCloud Hybrid is our pick for the best mattress for back pain. Why? The firmness level of this hybrid mattress is just right at 6.5 out of 10, which means that it is neither too soft nor too hard. The hybrid structure of the DreamCloud provides support, is long-lasting, and does not break the bank.
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Best Mattress For Upper & Lower Back Pain
Best Mattress For Lower Back Pain
Saatva Classic is the best mattress for lower back pain. The lumbar region of your spine receives exceptional support from this mattress, which is an essential component in the treatment of lower back pain. In point of fact, the lumbar support that Saatva provides is given precedence over all of the other features. Because it comes in a variety of hardness levels, the Saatva Classic is a great option for those who sleep in a variety of positions and have a variety of body shapes.
Best Mattress For Upper Back Pain
The Bear Original mattress is our pick for the best mattress for upper back pain. This mattress is designed to aid in muscle recovery for athletes. However, you don’t have to be an all-star athlete to get the benefits of the Bear mattress. As upper back pain is often harder to treat and target than middle or lower back pain, those suffering from lower back pain will greatly benefit from the Bear mattress’s patented Celliant material.
Celliant is a material that transforms the heat from your body into infrared energy, which speeds recovery from athletic activities and relaxes muscles. Maximum support and comfort from backaches are provided by the construction of four layers of foam.
Together with the top layer of memory foam, the sensitive transitional layers provide conformance without the feeling of being trapped in place. Even weight distribution and comfort from pressure points are provided by the HD poly foam layer of this product. Your spine will remain in the position of your choosing thanks to the collaborative efforts of all of the layers.
Our Top Picks
Type: Memory foam
Best For: Hot sleepers and side sleepers
Height: 11 inches
Firmness: 6/10
Warranty: Forever
Sizes: Twin-Splint King
Trial Period: One year
Specifications
Type: Memory foam
Best For: Hot sleepers and side sleepers
Height: 11 inches
Firmness: 6/10
Warranty: Forever
Sizes: Twin-Splint King
Trial Period: One year
The contouring and pressure relief offered by the large layer of memory foam on top. Additionally, it will correct your spine and distribute your weight properly, and the foam will create a small bounce to prevent you from feeling like you are sinking in. This will help keep your spine aligned to relieve back pain.
Type: Latex
Best For: Allergy sufferers and customers who want a luxury product
Height: 10 inches
Firmness: 6/10 and 7/5/10
Warranty: 20 years
Sizes: Twin-Splint King
Trial Period: One year
Specifications
Type: Latex
Best For: Allergy sufferers and customers who want a luxury product
Height: 10 inches
Firmness: 6/10 and 7/5/10
Warranty: 20 years
Sizes: Twin-Splint King
Trial Period: One year
Along with supportive and quality latex, The Zenhaven is crafted by hand using organic New Zealand wool and latex of the highest possible quality. It is hypoallergenic by nature and was designed to relieve pressure while also providing support.
One of the hallmark features of the Zenhaven is that it is flippable, making personalization a possibility. Those who sleep on their sides and want additional pressure relief can turn to the softer side of the mattress. Those who sleep on their stomachs or backs and want more support should choose the side of the mattress that is firmer. Back discomfort may be caused by sleeping on a mattress that is either soft or too hard. The Zenhaven supports spinal alignment in addition to providing both a solid and comfortable support system.
Type: Memory Foam
Best For: Those who like a soft mattress with a range of firmness choices, hot sleepers, side sleepers
Height: 10 inches
Warranty: Lifetime
Sizes: Twin-Cali King
Trial Period: 120 nights
Specifications
Type: Memory Foam
Best For: Those who like a soft mattress with a range of firmness choices, hot sleepers, side sleepers
Height: 10 inches
Warranty: Lifetime
Sizes: Twin-Cali King
Trial Period: 120 nights
The temperature control technology and antibacterial resistance are both provided by the mattress with copper infusion. As a result of copper's anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, Layla is a wonderful option for those who suffer from illnesses like arthritis and fibromyalgia—conditions which both cause back pain.
In addition to its multi-functional foam layers and copper, the Layla has one more characteristic that sets it apart from other products. The Layla can be turned over to reveal a firmer surface on the other side, giving you the flexibility to sleep in a variety of positions. The manufacturer suggests using a mattress with a medium level of firmness for people who sleep on their sides and a mattress with a higher level of firmness for those who sleep on their stomachs or backs. This helps alleviate strain in the hip and lower back regions. On the more plush side of the mattress is a layer of memory foam that has copper injected into it. This memory foam adapts to the body to relieve strain on the shoulders and lower back.
Type: Memory foam
Best For: Back sleepers and couples
Height: 14 inches
Firmness: 7.5/10
Warranty: 15 year limited warranty
Sizes: Twin-Ca. King
Trial Period: 100-night
Specifications
Type: Memory foam
Best For: Back sleepers and couples
Height: 14 inches
Firmness: 7.5/10
Warranty: 15 year limited warranty
Sizes: Twin-Ca. King
Trial Period: 100-night
When you move about in your sleep, the proprietary Helix Dynamic foam conforms to your body's shapes and responds quickly to your movements. Both the transition foam layer and the zoned coils work together to provide ergonomic support, which helps to improve spinal alignment. The Helix Dawn Luxe is an excellent mattress for relieving back discomfort since it has all of these properties.
Because of the enhanced edge support provided by the strengthened perimeter of specialty springs and the increased sleeping surface, this product is an excellent choice for couples. The mattress as a whole benefits from increased support and durability thanks to the use of DuraDense foundation foam.
Type: Hybrid
Best For: Side sleepers and those who want multiple firmness options
Height: 9, 10, and 12 inch options
Firmness: 6.5/10
Warranty: 25-year
Sizes: Twin-Cali King
Trial Period: 100-night
Specifications
Type: Hybrid
Best For: Side sleepers and those who want multiple firmness options
Height: 9, 10, and 12 inch options
Firmness: 6.5/10
Warranty: 25-year
Sizes: Twin-Cali King
Trial Period: 100-night
The Botanical Bliss outshines all other latex mattresses when it comes to the number of organic, ecological, and non-toxic material certifications it has. GOLS, GOTS, GreenGuard, and OEKO-TEX are some of the certifications that are offered. In addition to organic latex, this mattress also has organic cotton and wool, which together provide an even higher level of breathable comfort. There is no other mattress on the market that is constructed with components of the same high quality as the Botanical Bliss.
Patients who are experiencing pain or injury are often given the recommendation to use Botanical Bliss by orthopedic specialists and chiropractors. This alone makes the Botanical Bliss one of the best mattresses for back pain. The PlushBeds Botanical Bliss offers not only a product of superior quality but also the necessary support to assist individuals suffering from back discomfort. It is possible to raise or reduce the level of hardness by adding or removing the interchangeable latex parts, making this product an excellent choice for those who experience discomfort and may need to vary the level of stiffness. In addition to the detachable parts, providing two different levels of stiffness allows you to appeal to a greater number of people.
Type: Air mattress
Best For: Those who want the firmest mattress possible
Height: Varies based on size
Firmness: Varies
Warranty: 10-year limited
Sizes: win-Cali. King
Trial Period: 100-night
Specifications
Type: Air mattress
Best For: Those who want the firmest mattress possible
Height: Varies based on size
Firmness: Varies
Warranty: 10-year limited
Sizes: win-Cali. King
Trial Period: 100-night
The fact that the whole mattress can be washed ensures that the sleeping surface is always sanitary and free of germs. Although Airweave has a very high price tag, the many advantages that come along with purchasing it more than make up for the initial investment. The revolutionary components used in this mattress provide support that is not only long-lasting but also resistant to sagging.
Type: Hybrid
Best For: Pressure relief and side sleepers
Height: 13 inches
Firmness: 6/10
Warranty: 10-year limited
Sizes: Twin-Cali King
Trial Period: 100-night
Specifications
Type: Hybrid
Best For: Pressure relief and side sleepers
Height: 13 inches
Firmness: 6/10
Warranty: 10-year limited
Sizes: Twin-Cali King
Trial Period: 100-night
The Casper Wave Hybrid was designed especially for back pain and holds the honor of being the brand’s best mattress for back pain relief. When sleeping on the Casper Wave Hybrid, your spine will be properly aligned and pressure will be relieved thanks to the continuous ergonomic zones with gel pods. This advanced technology creates superb alignment and pressure relief thanks to the continuous ergonomic zones with gel pods.
Type: Memory foam
Best For: Side sleepers and those who are heavier
Height: 14 inches
Firmness: 6/10
Warranty: Lifetime
Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, King, and Queen
Trial Period: One year
Specifications
Type: Memory foam
Best For: Side sleepers and those who are heavier
Height: 14 inches
Firmness: 6/10
Warranty: Lifetime
Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, King, and Queen
Trial Period: One year
Customers who are plus-sized and are searching for a comfy hybrid bed will find the WinkBeds Plus to be an excellent option. If you suffer from allergies or have sensitive skin, it is suggested that you purchase this mattress since the materials used to make it are OEKO-TEX certified. WinkbBeds Plus employs only the highest quality materials to build this mattress so that it can withstand repeated usage by clients who are overweight.
The top layer of the pillow provides a cushioned support that cradles the body's contours and soothes sore joints. The latex comfort layer sits underneath, and in addition to being breathable, hypoallergenic, and very robust, it also has antimicrobial properties.
Type: Hybrid
Best For: Those who need extra edge support
Height: 15 inches
Firmness: Various options
Warranty: Lifetime
Sizes: Twin-Splint King
Trial Period: 120-nights
Specifications
Type: Hybrid
Best For: Those who need extra edge support
Height: 15 inches
Firmness: Various options
Warranty: Lifetime
Sizes: Twin-Splint King
Trial Period: 120-nights
Reinforced coils may be seen around the perimeter of the Nolah Evolution, which provides for improved edge support. Sleepers are able to make use of the whole surface of the mattress since the additional support stops the bed from drooping at the borders of the bed. This enables the best possible support, and it also enables sleepers to completely enjoy the advantages that the mattress materials have to offer.
The fact that the Nolah Evolution can be purchased in three different levels of firmness makes it a mattress that is appropriate for any and all sleeping positions.
Types of Back Pain
Back pain is a nuisance regardless of the specific kind or location of the discomfort felt in the back. Back pain may originate in a variety of distinct spots throughout the back, each of which is due to a particular set of underlying factors. A description of each kind of back pain is provided below.
Lower back pain
The majority of those who suffer from back pain report that it is felt in their lower back. This area also encompasses the lumbar spine as well as the lower vertebrae in the spine. The majority of the time, discomfort in this area is caused by overuse or strain on the muscles, as well as by disorders that affect the nerves, organs, or vertebrae.
Upper back pain
Discomfort in the upper back is not nearly as common as pain in the lower back. The thoracic region of the spine and the 12 vertebrae that connect the ribs are both included in this section of the spine. Because the bones and muscles of the upper back are less flexible than those in the lower back, back pain and injuries are less prevalent in the upper back. The most frequent causes of upper back discomfort include improper body alignment, poor body posture, health problems, or sleeping on the unsuitable mattress or pillow.
Mid back pain
The middle of the back is situated in close proximity to the rib cage and the lower back. When opposed to other areas of the back and spine, this particular segment of the spine is built for stability, which lowers the likelihood of sustaining an injury that is caused by movement. Discomfort in the middle of the back is not as common as pain in the lower back, the neck, or even the upper back. This kind of discomfort might be the result of underlying health problems, such as tumors or organ dysfunction. Pain that originates in the middle of the back may also be brought on by an injury or damage to the nerves, discs, muscles, or ligaments.
Neck pain
There are several potential underlying reasons for neck discomfort. One of the most prevalent causes is bad posture, which may be brought on by sitting at a desk or using technology for long periods of time each day. Another common cause is whiplash, which can be brought on by automobile accidents. Discomfort in the neck, like pain in other sections of the back, may be brought on by an injury to the muscles or discs in the neck. When it comes to getting a good night's rest and avoiding neck discomfort, the pillow you choose is quite important. Check that your pillow provides sufficient support to maintain proper alignment of your hips, spine, and neck while you sleep.
How Back Pain Affects Sleep
When you are experiencing physical pain, it is only natural that you will have trouble sleeping. Stress may be caused by a lack of sleep, and this can lead to even greater discomfort as well as poor sleep quality.
Can Sleeping Position Affect Back Pain?
Sleeping position can affect back pain. If you wake up with back discomfort on a daily basis, it's possible that the problem lies in the way you sleep. Incorrect sleeping postures may exert strain on your spine, which can cause the spine's natural curvature to become less pronounced. Additionally, this might create strain on your back and painful pressure to be placed on your joints. Changing your sleeping position is a good way to reduce or eliminate your back pain.
Can a Mattress Cause Back Pain?
Sleeping on the wrong mattress can cause back pain. If you wake up regularly in pain, it is likely that you are sleeping on the wrong mattress. It is possible that your mattress is too old, has lost support, or your body and sleep position have changed, making your mattress irrelevant. Consistently sleeping on a mattress that isn't supportive enough may cause the spine to deviate from its normal alignment, which can lead to muscular tension and discomfort in the back.
What To Consider When Buying A Mattress For Back Pain
Type
The kind of mattress material that you choose will depend entirely on your own tastes. On the other hand, you should look for materials that can conform, like memory foam and pocketed coils. Both of these materials are capable of bridging the gap that exists between the curves of your body and the mattress. As a consequence of this, they provide precise support to your body in precisely the areas in which you want it. Latex mattresses, on the other hand, are well-known for their responsiveness as well as their all-around support, which helps alleviate pressure while also gently guiding the spine into the correct alignment.
Firmness
The extent to which a mattress is firm or soft may be referred to as its firmness level. It is a common misconception that replacing a soft mattress with a hard one will help people with back problems, but this is not the case. Choose rather a mattress that has a medium-firmness, as this will provide the best balance between support and comfort. Choose a mattress that has a thick layer of memory foam or a pillow-top if you want something that feels more plush. Adjustable beds, such as air mattresses, are a great option for modifying the level of hardness to meet the preferences of the individual sleeping in the bed.
Price
Mattresses range in prices. It is up to you and your budget to determine what you can afford and what you are willing to pay for a certain type of mattress. It is important to remember that latex mattresses, hybrid mattresses, smart mattresses, and air mattresses are the most expensive. While you will pay more upfront, it is in the best option for your health to buy a quality and higher-priced mattress. Buying one quality mattress will likely end up costing you less money in the long run instead of buying several low-quality mattresses that won’t last as long. To save money on a new mattress, buy during one of the best times of the year to buy a mattress.
Favorite Sleeping Position
Changing your own sleeping position is one of the finest techniques to get rid of back discomfort. The ideal posture to sleep in when experiencing back pain is on your back since it maintains neutral spinal alignment. When the cervical (neck), thoracic (middle), and lumbar (lower) curves of the spine are present and well-aligned, the spine is in its neutral posture. It is best to purchase a mattress that corresponds to your favorite sleeping position for optimal comfort and support.
The way you lie down to sleep also plays a role in determining which portions of your body are in touch with the mattress. Choose a hardness level for your mattress that combines the perfect support and contouring to support your body in order to prevent discomfort and alleviate pressure. This will allow you to have the most comfortable mattress possible.
What Type Of Mattress Is Best For Back Pain?
It is crucial to be informed of the many mattress options available while searching for the sort of mattress that would alleviate back pain the most effectively. There are positives and negatives to every mattress, and there is no one mattress that is ideal for everyone. Your individual needs and tastes will determine which mattress is the most suitable option for you. The process of purchasing a mattress requires that you have a solid grasp of the many options available to you.
The various mattress types are described here along with how they might alleviate back pain.
Latex
The resilient and long-lasting latex mattresses that are available in both organic and natural forms are an excellent choice for consumers who are concerned about the environment. It does not matter whether the latex was processed naturally or artificially; consumers who are concerned about the environment will find that the latex mattresses are an excellent choice.
This is true despite the fact that the latex was processed in a variety of different ways. Mattresses that have been treated with latex using the Dunlop or Talalay method provide the optimal combination of support and body contouring, which helps to relieve pressure points as well as aches and pains in the back. These benefits are achieved by providing the optimal combination of support and body contouring.
Pros:
- Exceptional contouring of body curves to relieve pain.
- Cushions the gap between the surface and lower back, reducing lower back pain.
- Firm latex promotes proper spine alignment.
- High-density latex lasts longer.
Cons:
- Expensive
- Potential allergic reactions
Foam
Viscoelastic polymers, such as those used in memory foam mattresses, are exceptional in contouring the body and relieving pressure areas, particularly in the hips and lower back. Memory foam mattresses are made of viscoelastic polymers. However, memory foam mattresses often have a shorter lifespan than mattresses made of other materials, and they have a greater propensity to sink, which might result in the recurrence of back problems.
Pros:
- Closes the space in the lower back and offers outstanding comfort.
- Moderately firm models maintain a straight spine.
- Memory foam that is medium soft is ideal for side sleepers.
- Economical option.
Cons:
- After a few years of usage, it could not be sturdy and start to lump.
- Heavy sleepers should avoid this because of increased sinkage.
- Combination sleepers could feel "stuck."
Innerspring
Out of the most prevalent kinds of mattresses, the innerspring mattress is the one that has been around the longest and is still the most popular. The support structure of an innerspring mattress is created by a metal wire system that is paired with springs to provide a support frame that is covered in fabric and has cushioning material that is utilized on top of the mattress for additional support.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Easy to find
- Wide variety of options
- Great for hot sleepers
Cons:
- Heavy
- Might be too firm for some
- Doesn’t provide great motion transfer
Hybrid
Hybrid mattresses are quickly becoming one of the most sought after and popular kinds of mattresses. These mattresses offer the optimum combination of contouring comfort and bounce by combining one or more latex or foam layers with a support layer composed of spring coils. The spring coils provide the necessary support.
Pros:
- Promote spinal alignment in almost every sleep position.
- Responsive push of the surface aids in back pain relief.
- Suits heavyweight and lightweight individuals with bad backs.
- Durable and lasting construction that resists sagging.
Cons:
- Luxury mattress offered at a high price range.
- Causes skin allergies to people who are sensitive to latex.
Airbed
The best options for treating back problems at any age are air mattresses. The primary support method for these models is an air chamber, and many of them provide choices to change the stiffness of the support. Customers may choose their degree of comfort, providing them proper lumbar support.
Pros:
- Excellent pressure relief relaxing back muscles.
- Maxim lumbar support
- Effective system to promote proper spine alignment.
Cons:
- Requires frequent maintenance.
- Expensive.
Other Mattresses We've Tested
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have any more questions about the best mattresses for back pain? Here are some FAQs.
What thickness of mattress is best for back pain?
The best mattress thickness for back pain depends on the type of mattress, sleeping position, and body type. Overall, the best thickness is a firmer mattress; it offers more support and layers that can aid in pain relief. For those who sleep on their side, a softer mattress will likely be the best option.
What type of mattress is best for back pain, firm or soft?
It's possible that a firm mattress isn't the greatest choice for you. Choose rather a mattress that has a medium-firmness, as this will provide the best balance between support and comfort. Choose a mattress that has a thick layer of memory foam or a pillow-top if you want something that feels more plush. Adjustable beds, such as air mattresses, are a great option for modifying the level of hardness to meet the preferences of the individual sleeping in the bed.
Is spring or foam mattress better for back pain?
Spring or foam mattresses differ and there is not a set mattress that is better for back pain; it all depends on the sleeper’s personal preference based on their body type and sleep position. Back sleepers and anyone who suffers from lower back discomfort should strongly consider purchasing an innerspring mattress. They are also an excellent alternative for those who discover that foam mattresses do not provide the necessary level of support for them.
Memory foam mattresses, on the other hand, a number of studies have praised memory foam for its capacity to ease the discomfort of back pain. Memory foam is well-known for its capacity to provide localized support as well as to conform to the shape of the body of the person sleeping on it. Memory foam mattresses are popular, but some people find the feel of them to be overly soft. Spring mattresses have more of a responsive and springy sensation.
What firmness is best for back pain?
Overall, a medium-firm mattress that offers balanced support is the best firmness for back pain. If a firm mattress is too uncomfortable, try an adjustable mattress like an air mattress. Air mattresses are an excellent choice for changing the firmness to suit your sleep preference.
How do I know if my mattress is causing my back pain?
There is not a single way to tell if a mattress is causing back pain. If you’ve been regularly experiencing back pain, a new mattress is likely in your future. Here are a few ways to know if your mattress is causing back pain:
- You wake up with a sore back
- You can’t get comfortable at night
- Your mattress is over 7 years old
- Your mattress is sagging or contains lumps
- You frequently wake up at night
- You struggle to fall asleep
- You don’t feel fully rested when you wake up
- You back pain disappears when you get out of bed
How should I sleep to avoid back pain?
The most effective sleep posture to alleviate back pain is to lie down on your back in a flat position. Despite this, many individuals believe that it is the most challenging technique to get restful sleep. If you want your spine to be in its most healthy position, you should sleep with one cushion supporting your head or neck and another supporting your knees. Sleeping with a pillow between your knees
Why do I wake up with a sore back?
Waking up with a sore back is likely due to sleeping on the wrong mattress or sleeping in the wrong position. Sleeping on the improper mattress type not only results in back discomfort, but it also has the potential to reactivate injuries that were sustained in the past due to accidents, which may lead to ongoing back pain.
Summary
Even though there is not one mattress that can completely alleviate your back pain, we hope that one of the mattresses described in this guide will be able to assist you find relief from your condition. The mattress that offers the most pleasant surface is the one that is going to be the ideal choice for you. The most essential point to keep in mind is to take your time when putting potential mattresses through their paces. The next morning, a comfy and soft mattress may not seem as supportive as it did the night before. In a similar vein, you shouldn't dismiss a foam just because it appears too hard or too soft at first.
There is a correlation between having back discomfort and sleeping poorly. It is probably time to get a new mattress if you find that you are waking up in the middle of the night with back discomfort for no apparent cause.
If you’re looking for even more sleep advice, visit our blog. If you want to find the best mattress for you and compare the best and most popular models, check out our comparison tool.
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Meet The Author:
Shanir Kol
Shanir Kol, founder and CEO of SleePare, pioneered the “Try and Buy” model in eCommerce, enhancing mattress shopping by combining in-store trials with online purchases. Launching in 1999, his company focuses on customer satisfaction and eco-friendly practices, aiming to minimize mattress waste and expand sustainably.