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.
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 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.
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.
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.
One of the top selling and top rated mattresses available today, the Nectar is a crowd-pleaser that is comfortable for a variety of sleeping positions. The Nectar is a memory foam mattress made of responsive foam with durable support. This mattress is 11 inches thick and is constructed with three layers of foam, delivering a comfort level that is somewhere between medium-firm and firm.
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Made by Saatva, the Zenhaven is an exceptional quality latex mattress made with Talalay latex mattress is produced from 100% organic 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.
Shop NowOne 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.
Layla is a one-of-a-kind mattress that is becoming one of the most highly recommended and best-selling mattresses available on the market today. The cutting-edge construction of the Layla blends four layers of memory foam, including one for support, temperature management and regulation, pressure relief and weight distribution, and the signature feature of the Layla, which is Copper Infused Memory Foam.
Shop NowIn 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.
The Helix Dawn Luxe gives a strong level of back support and was developed with stomach and back sleepers in mind especially. Stomach sleepers, in particular, need extra support and alignment. Stomach sleeping causes the spine to misalign, especially if you are not sleeping on a proper mattress designed for stomach sleepers. The pressure-relieving and body-contouring capabilities of the patent foam layers are enhanced by a luxury quilted cushion top.
Shop NowBecause 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.
The Botanical Bliss by PlushBeds is both one of the most popular organic mattresses on the market and the best latex mattress for those who suffer from back discomfort. The use of 100% organic ARPICO latex, which is the latex that is produced in the most environmentally responsible manner, sets this premium mattress apart from others on the market.
Shop NowPatients 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.
The revolutionary airFiber design used in Airweave mattresses creates a surface that is both firm and resilient. This design helps to retain the spine in its natural alignment from the neck to the hips. Because it may be purchased at the most firm setting, this mattress is an excellent choice for those who are much heavier. Fair warning: the Airweave might be too firm for lighter weight individuals or those who are used to sleeping on a softer mattress.
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Most think that a firm mattress is the best option for back pain. For those who tend to sleep on their sides, a softer mattress is recommended. Soft mattresses allow for your body to sink into the mattress and reap the benefits of the mattress materials. The Wave Hybrid is a five-layered hybrid memory foam mattress that has the ideal balance of support, soft memory foam, and a coil foundation. It is called the Wave Hybrid. Because of its great conformity and generous padding, this mattress is fantastic for those who sleep on their sides and are looking for pressure relief.
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One of our best mattresses for heavy people is also one of the best mattresses for back pain. The 3-Step Back-Relief System is built into the WinkBed Plus and provides supplemental support as well as lumbar stability. The latex foam layer and the innerspring layer work together to provide ideal alignment and pain relief by cradling the torso as well as the limbs.
Shop NowThe 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.
The Nolah Evolution was developed to alleviate back discomfort and remove heat away from your body at the same time. The height of the mattress is fifteen inches, and it has a number of different cooling elements that are designed to keep warm sleepers cool all through the night. The structure begins with a cover made of organic cotton, followed by an HTCTM topper, an AirBreathTM heat escape gusset, and the Cooling Nolah AirFoamICETM manufactured by the company. Following that comes the layer of high-resilience foam, then the layer of transition foam, then the coils, and finally the layer of plant fiber foundation.
Shop NowThe 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Do you have any more questions about the best mattresses for back pain? Here are some FAQs.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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:
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
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.
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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Call 347.450.7788Emily Stringer is a Content Writer at SleePare. Emily has over five years of experience writing and conducting research for different industries. When she’s not writing, you can find Emily with her dogs in Lexington, Kentucky.
Emily Stringer