If you struggle with chronic back pain, you know how frustrating it can be to find pain relief. According to Sleepopolis Chief Medical Advisor Dr. Raj Dasgupta, back pain can become worse if you don’t have the right mattress.
“Using the wrong mattress can disrupt spinal alignment, create pressure points, and lead to discomfort,” explains Dr. Dasgupta. “But a suitable mattress can help ease back pain by providing proper support that keeps your spine aligned naturally, reducing muscle strain. It also distributes your body weight evenly, relieving pressure points that can cause discomfort. The mattress adapts to your preferred sleeping position, whether you’re a back, side, or stomach sleeper.”
When deciding on the best mattresses for back pain, Dr. Dasgupta’s observations make it clear that isn’t a one-size-fits-all decision. That’s why, when putting together this list, I chose a wide variety. These beds run the gamut from affordable to luxurious, firm to soft, and are sure to give you plenty of options to mull over. The cost ranges from $850 to $3,259 for a queen size. With 39% of American adults struggling with back pain, we want to help sleepers find the perfect bed. Sleepopolis helped 12,544 people find a mattress in 2024, and hopefully this roundup will help you find your own personal best mattress for back pain.
My Top Pick for Sleepers With Back Pain
Nectar shines on my list as the best overall pick due to the contouring of its softer foams and the support offered by its firmer foams — both key factors for reducing back pain.
Best Mattresses for Upper and Lower Back Pain
- Nectar – Best Overall Mattress for Back Pain
- Saatva – Best Innerspring Mattress for Back Pain
- Helix Midnight Luxe With ErgoAlign Layer – Best Mattress for Combination Sleepers With Back Pain
- WinkBed – Best Cooling Mattress for Back Pain
- Saatva Rx – Best Mattress for Side Sleepers With Back Pain
- Bear Elite Hybrid – Best Hybrid Mattress for Back Pain
- Nolah Evolution – Best Luxury Mattress for Back Pain
- Silk & Snow Hybrid – Best Mattress for Couples With Back Pain
- Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid – Best Cheap Mattress for Back Pain
- Plank Firm Luxe – Best Firm Mattress for Back Pain
- Titan Plus – Best Mattress for Heavy Sleepers With Back Pain
Best Mattress for Back Pain Video
Disclaimer: The content on Sleepopolis is meant to be informative in nature, but it shouldn’t take the place of advice or treatment from your physician or medical professional. This review is meant to be an informative guide for those looking to maintain healthy posture while they sleep. User experiences and needs will vary. If you experience lasting pain, soreness, or discomfort while sleeping, it’s always a good idea to seek out a healthcare professional in person.
What I Look for in the Best Mattresses for Back Pain
Spinal Alignment
Mattresses that we’ve proven to healthily support spinal alignment were my first considerations on this roundup. I’ve tested each of these mattresses and determined which sleeping positions and which body types they best serve, with my primary concern being support. When a mattress has strong support, it doesn’t mean it’s firm. A supportive bed is able to lift the body into a neutral spinal alignment and to keep the body well-supported throughout the night, preventing aches and pains.
Pressure Relief
While mattresses with spinal support are crucial for alleviating back pain, I also pay attention to pressure relief using a test of ours called the pressure map.
This involves rolling a specialized mat over the mattress that, through thermal imaging, displays how much pressure is being put on my body in different sleeping positions. Blue indicates almost no pressure, green indicates low pressure, yellow indicates moderate pressure, and red means high pressure. If the pressure map shows blue (or maybe a little green) at the upper or lower back in various sleeping positions, it’s likely an effective mattress for back pain.
If a mattress is overly firm, it can cause excess pressure buildup in sensitive areas, resulting in exacerbated back pain or even added joint pain. That’s why I consider it paramount for back sleepers to receive cushioning at the lumbar region, side sleepers at the shoulder and hip, and stomach sleepers just a bit at the hips. The pressure map helps me identify these traits.
Firmness
When testing mattresses, I use our firmness scale which places mattresses on a scale of 1 to 10, where 1 is the softest possible mattress, and 10 is the firmest. Our testers consider a 6.5 out of 10 as a true medium-firm mattress, offering a balanced feel of comfort and support. It also happens to be our general firmness advice for folks looking to relieve back pain, as it offers a blend of comfort and support.
Compare the Best Mattresses for Back Pain
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| Nectar Mattress | Saatva Mattress | Helix Midnight Luxe Mattress | WinkBed Mattress | Saatva Rx Mattress | Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress | Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress | Silk & Snow Hybrid Mattress | Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress | Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Luxe Mattress | Titan Plus | |
| Rating | |||||||||||
| Firmness | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Multiple firmness options | Medium-soft: 6/10 | Firm: 7/10 | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Multiple firmness options | Multiple firmness options | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Multiple firmness options | Firm: 7.5/10 |
| Material | Foam | Innerspring | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid |
| Cooling | — | — | — | — | — | — | |||||
| Best For |
Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Couples
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Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Back Pain, Seniors
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Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hip Pain, Seniors
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Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Back Pain
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Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Hip Pain
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Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Hip Pain, Seniors
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Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Hip Pain, Seniors,
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Hot Sleepers,
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Back Sleepers,
Hip Pain, Couples |
Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Couples
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Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Hip Pain, Seniors
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Nectar – Best Overall Mattress for Back Pain
The Nectar Classic is a memory foam mattress that provides solid support for most light to average weight sleepers. The cushioning memory foam allows for plenty of pain relief around the lower lumbar spine. Most back sleepers and side sleepers should enjoy the pressure relief. Plus, a lengthy trial period, lifetime warranty, and affordable price make the Nectar a reassuring choice for many. Watch our video review to learn more.
What our tester says:
“I think the Nectar Classic does a great job of relieving back pain. The pressure map test results show a lot of blue and green on our backs, meaning back sleepers should experience good pressure relief from the Nectar.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
My Expert Opinion on the Nectar Mattress
Made entirely of foam, the Nectar is a pressure-relieving mattress with a medium-firm feel. When reviewing it, I found that the mattress was very effective in relieving back pain, especially for back sleepers. They should feel the top foams supporting their lower backs, which can help promote a healthy spinal alignment. I even felt supported while stomach sleeping, which isn’t usually the case with all-foam mattresses. It’s also surprisingly responsive for a foam bed, meaning the Nectar could be a solid choice for combination sleepers who frequently switch between different sleeping positions at night.
How the Nectar Performed in Testing
Motion Isolation 3.5/5
Surprisingly, the thick foams of the Nectar didn’t absorb motion very well. When I tested out the vibrations of a 10-pound steel ball with a seismometer, there were some fairly large spikes, showing that the movement was rippling across the bed. Couples may want a bed with better motion isolation, especially if one partner is a light sleeper.
Support 5/5
Once again, the Nectar is very supportive for a memory foam mattress. I got a slight lift in all three sleeping positions, which helped keep my spine neutrally aligned.
Cooling 4.5/5
The Nectar sleeps cooler than the average memory foam mattress, with its temperature rising less than 6 degrees after five minutes of me lying on it. So if you’re a hot sleeper who still loves memory foam, the Nectar could be a sensible option for you.
Edge Support 4.5/5
When I measured the Nectar’s sinkage while sitting on the corner, it only sank 2 inches. While it probably doesn’t have as sturdy of an edge as an innerspring or hybrid mattress, it still has impressive edge support for a foam bed.
Pressure Relief 4.5/5
While lying on my back and side on the Nectar, the pressure map was entirely blue and green at the upper and lower back, indicating little no pressure in these areas.
How Will the Nectar Mattress Help With Back Pain
As you can see on the pressure map, the Nectar did an excellent job relieving pressure at the back when back sleeping, as indicated by the blue. The foam did an excellent job cushioning my lumbar region.
Although the Nectar does not contain supportive coils, I found the foam supportive enough to lift my body and prop my spine into the proper position.
Nectar Mattress Specs
| Material | Memory foam |
| Price (Queen) | $949 (before discounts) |
| Firmness | Medium soft |
| Shipping | Free shipping |
| Sleep Trials | 365 nights |
| Warranty | Lifetime warranty |
| Height | 13″ |
| Adjustable Base Compatible? | Yes |
What our tester says: “ I think the Nectar does a great job relieving back pain, especially for back sleepers. The pressure map results above also make me think this bed is a great fit for any sleepers with hip pain.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
What Customers Say
Nectar is one of the biggest players in the mattress industry, so it’s no surprise that the bed has almost 48,000 reviews on the company’s website. Many customers have positive things to say about the optimal blend of comfort and support; how the mattress is soft without letting you sink too far into the layers. I recommend purchasing a Nectar online to take advantage of the Nectar’s lower price, especially because it also comes with a generous forever warranty. But you can also find it at independent mattress retailers such as Mattress Firm if you want to test it out in person.
Nectar Company Information
Customer Service Information
- Phone: (888) 863-2827, available 7 days a week
- Email: support@nectarsleep.com
- Live chat: Chat available 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. PST, 7 days a week
- View showrooms: Store locations
Payment Options
Nectar offers fast and secure payments through Visa, Discover, Master Card, American Express, PayPal, and AmazonPay, with financing options through the Affirm financing program and Splitit program.
Nectar also offers an extra 5 percent off of their best onsite offer for military members, healthcare professionals, and first responders.
Interested in learning more about the Nectar? Read our full Nectar mattress review, or check out our best mattress roundup.
Saatva – Best Innerspring Mattress for Back Pain
The Saatva’s coil-on-coil construction provides a classic innerspring feel. It’s a good option for combo sleepers, who will want to feel free to switch positions and avoid feeling “stuck” in the mattress. It comes in three firmness levels, so you should be able to find one that suits your needs. The white glove delivery Saatva provides is an added perk and will save you the headache of getting rid of your old mattress (they take it away for free!). For more information, watch our video review.
What our tester says:
“I think the Saatva is a great option for back sleepers, as the Luxury Firm model provides enough cushioning for their lumbar region, but also lots of support to keep their spine in a neutral alignment.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
My Expert Opinion on the Saatva Mattress
The Saatva stands out for its traditional innerspring feel, which comes from its unique coil-on-coil construction. When testing it out, I saw and felt very little pressure buildup around the back (i.e. lots of blue on the pressure map). This means the mattress isn’t likely to cause any back pain. That being said, the Saatva comes in three different firmness levels, and different ones are going to to accommodate different sleeping positions, especially if you’re someone who experiences pain in the lumbar region or upper back. I recommend that back sleepers choose the Luxury Firm version of the bed, while side sleepers go for the Soft and stomach sleepers opt for the Firm. The coils also give the Saatva lots of responsiveness and bounce, which makes it easier for combination sleepers to switch positions.
How Did the Saatva Perform in Testing
Motion Isolation 3/5
The Saatva’s double layer of coils gives it a lot of bounce, which means it’s not the best at isolating motion. When measuring its vibrations with a seismometer, there were a lot of high spikes. I wouldn’t recommend this mattress to anyone who’s a light sleeper and sleeps with a partner.
Support 5/5
I should also take a moment to dive further into the coil-on-coil construction. At the bottom of the bed is a thick layer of durable support coils, with another layer of coils right above it. This results in a considerable amount of support, so sleepers should be able to keep a neutral spinal alignment.
Cooling 4.5/5
The mattress’s cover is soft and breathable, and because there are so many coils in the construction, there’s a ton of room for airflow. This is a plus for hot sleepers everywhere.
Edge Support 5/5
The Saatva has a reinforced edge support system, with microcoils all along the perimeter of the bed. This gives it exceptional edge support. When sitting and lying on the corner, I experienced almost no sinkage.
Pressure Relief 4.5/5
Although the Saatva isn’t especially contouring, the pressure map was almost entirely blue, indicating very low pressure buildup. I don’t think you’re likely to experience any joint pain on the Saatva.
How Will the Saatva Mattress Help With Back Pain
As you can see on the pressure map to the right, there’s almost entirely blue when I slept on my back. This indicates low pressure build up, so you’re unlikely to experience joint pain. The coil-on-coil construction definitely helped provide support and prop my spine into neutral alignment.
Saatva Mattress Specs
| Material | Hybrid |
| Price (Queen) | $2,095 (before discounts) |
| Firmness | Multiple firmness options |
| Shipping | Free white glove delivery |
| Sleep Trials | 365 nights |
| Warranty | Lifetime warranty |
| Height | 11.5″ or 14.5″ |
| Adjustable Base Compatible? | Yes |
What our tester says: “Back sleepers should enjoy the Saatva. The support of the coils should keep their back in a healthy neutral position, which can help combat back pain.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
What Customers Say
On a Reddit thread about sleepers’ experiences on Saatva mattresses, one user wrote “My new bed is ABSURDLY comfortable,” when referring to the Saatva Classic. “[The] back pain that I had previously been in physical therapy for has improved immensely. In fact, it is nearly gone. Considering how much the physical therapy cost me over time, I am pleased with this.”
Saatva Company Information
Customer Service Information
Hours of Operation:
- 9 a.m.–9 p.m. EST, Monday to Sunday
Contact Information:
Phone: 888-728-2885
Email: support@saatva.com
Live Chat: Available on their website
Showrooms:
- Visit their website for showroom locations.
Payment Options
Saatva accepts a variety of payment methods, including PayPal, Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover, and offers financing options through Klarna.
Additionally, Saatva provides a 10 percent discount for military members.
Will this mattress lead you to restful nights? Find out in our full Saatva mattress review, or check out our best innerspring mattress roundup.
Helix Midnight Luxe With ErgoAlign Layer – Best Mattress for Combination Sleepers With Back Pain
Helix has a line of six hybrid mattresses, each with a different level of firmness. The Midnight is one of their medium models. It has enough contouring for side sleepers, but should still be supportive enough for back sleepers, as long as they don’t mind a softer bed. Also, the Luxe models give you the option to add Helix’s ErgoAlign Layer, which upgrades the top layer of your mattress so that you will experience deep body contouring from the zoned foam. Although it cost more, if you’re a combination sleeper with back pain, we recommend spending the extra $199. Learn more in our video review.
What our tester says:
“I like the Helix Midnight Luxe for back sleepers and side sleepers. The medium-soft to medium-firm feel should give these folks the right balance of comfort and support.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and mattress tester
My Expert Opinion on the Helix Midnight Luxe
While Helix is known for their customizable mattresses, they also have a line of pre-existing hybrid beds made with layers of foam and a bottom layer of coils, each with a different level of firmness. When I tested out the Helix Midnight — the brand’s medium-firm option — I saw little to no pressure at the lumbar region in all three sleeping positions, making it an excellent choice for soothing back pain. And if you want even more contouring for your lower back, you can pay extra for the ErgoAlign Layer. This layer uses dense foam that is zoned to provide additional support and pressure relief where you need it most. It also helps keep your spine in a neutral position throughout the night. For those with back pain, this add-on takes the Helix Midnight Luxe to the next level.
Something to note: Even though Helix markets the Midnight and Midnight Luxe as medium-firm, I found the Luxe to be closer to medium-soft. That said, its coils still offered a lot of support and responsiveness, which is why I felt comfortable while back sleeping and side sleeping. I was also able to switch sleeping positions easily on this mattress, so I think it’s a natural choice for combination sleepers. However, stomach sleepers are going to need a firmer option to get the support they need to keep their hips lifted and in line with their shoulders.
How Did the Helix Midnight Luxe Perform in Testing
Motion Isolation 3.5/5
The springs of the Helix Midnight Luxe caused a lot of bounce when reading the vibrations with a seismometer. If you sleep with a partner and one of you is easily stirred, you might want to consider a memory foam mattress with better motion isolation.
Support 4.5/5
Even though the Helix Midnight Luxe is a softer mattress, I felt supported by its coils and got enough of a lift for my spine to stay neutrally aligned while back sleeping and side sleeping.
Cooling 4.5/5
Like most of Helix’s hybrid mattresses, the Midnight Luxe sleeps cool due to the airiness of its cover and coils that leave lots of room for air to flow through the bed. This makes it an excellent choice for hot sleepers. Its temperature only rose by 3.3 degrees after I laid on it for five minutes.
Edge Support 4/5
All of Helix’s Luxe models have reinforced coils on all four sides of the mattress. This gives the Helix Midnight strong edge support. You shouldn’t feel like you’re going to fall of the bed while sleeping.
Pressure Relief 5/5
This is where the Helix Midnight Luxe really shines. While back sleeping and side sleeping, the pressure map showed almost all blue, with just a hint of green. This indicates low pressure buildup.
How Will the Helix Midnight Luxe Mattress Help With Back Pain
To the right, you’ll see my pressure map when back sleeping on the Helix Midnight Luxe. The map displays an overwhelming amount of blue, meaning there is low pressure buildup.
The pillow top on this mattress did a great job filling in the space at my lumbar region and providing cushioning. I also thought the zoned support coils did a great job providing lift where my body needed it most, and I felt my spine being propped into the correct position.
Helix Midnight Luxe Mattress Specs
| Material | Hybrid |
| Price (Queen) | $2,373 (before discounts) Additional $249 (before discounts) for ErgoAlign Layer |
| Firmness | Medium soft |
| Shipping | Free shipping |
| Sleep Trials | 100 nights |
| Warranty | 10-year warranty |
| Height | 13.5″ |
| Adjustable Base Compatible? | Yes |
What our tester says: “I like that the coils have zoned support, which means that they’re softer at the shoulders for added pressure relief and firmer at the hips to help promote a neutral spinal alignment. Zoned support is ideal for sleepers with back pain, as it helps keep the spine nice and straight.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
What Customers Say
The Midnight Luxe has a 4.4 out of 5 rating on Helix’s website. Customers regularly praise its firmness and support, with several pointing out that they also found it to be a cooling hybrid mattress. While I recommend ordering a bed in a box online for both price and convenience, you can also try out the Helix Midnight Luxe yourself in several showrooms and independent retails across the country, including CB2.
Helix Company Information
Customer Information
- Phone: Available 11 a.m.–6 p.m. EST, Monday to Friday at 831-777-5976
- Email: help@helixsleep.com or use their contact form
- Live chat: Available 10 a.m.–10 p.m, EST, Monday to Sunday
- Visit in person: View partner showrooms
Payment Options
Helix offers several forms of payment on their website through Visa, Master Card, Discover, American Express as well as Google Pay, PayPal, Shop Pay, and Amazon Pay. You can also finance their mattresses through the Affirm financing program.
Helix also offers a 30 percent off site-wide + two free pillows discount to military members, first responders, students and teachers.
Hungry to learn more about the Midnight Luxe? Read our full Helix Midnight Luxe mattress review, or check out our roundup for the best mattresses for combo sleepers.
WinkBeds – Best Cooling Mattress for Back Pain
The WinkBed is a luxury hybrid mattress. It has a similarly supportive and sturdy feel to a traditional innerspring mattress, but upgrades like a Euro top and cooling Tencel cover give it a touch of modern luxury. Available in three firmness levels, there is a WinkBed for just about every sleeper. And a responsive and bouncy feel makes it a great pick for combination sleepers. Learn more in our video review.
What our tester says:
“If you like the feel of a traditional innerspring mattress, the WinkBed could work for you. Since this bed offered great pressure relief around my lumbar region, I’d also recommend it to folks who suffer from lower back pain.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
My Expert Opinion on the WinkBed Mattress
As a luxury hybrid mattress with a traditional innerspring feel, the WinkBed should appeal to sleepers who value lots of support, firmness, and responsiveness. And because there are so many coils throughout the construction, there’s lots of room for the mattress to breathe. I felt incredibly cool when testing it out.
Regarding back pain, I felt almost no pressure when sleeping on my back, in addition to getting some cushioning from the WinkBed’s quilted foam cover. This mattress is sold in three firmness options: Softer, Luxury Firm, and Firmer. I think the Luxury firm model is best for back sleepers with back pain, while side sleepers should opt for the Softer model and stomach sleepers should go with the Firmer. The foam should fill in the space at the lower back while still lifting the sleeper and promoting proper spinal alignment. Additionally, WinkBeds offers a Plus model designed for heavier folks.
How Did the WinkBed Perform in Testing
Motion Isolation 4/5
Even though the WinkBed is bouncy and responsive, its vibrations didn’t spike too much on the seismometer. So if you or your partner are a light sleeper, you’re unlikely to wake each other up with your movement at night.
Support 4.5/5
The mattress’s coils are zoned, so they’re firmer in the places where back sleepers need it most. I felt lifted while lying on the bed, and there should be plenty of support here to keep their spine in a neutral alignment.
Cooling 4.5/5
As previously noted, the WinkBed’s coil-heavy construction leaves a ton of room for air to flow through the mattress.
Edge Support 4/5
The WinkBed has reinforced edges, although I didn’t find them to be as effective as I thought they would be. I felt supported while sitting on the edge of the bed, but sank a little but while lying on the edge. Overall, I’d say the edge support here is solid, though not exceptional.
Pressure Relief 4.5/5
While running the WinkBed through our pressure map test, the graphic was almost entirely blue while back sleeping and side sleeping. That means the mattress has very low pressure buildup, which is what you want to see if you have back pain.
How Will the WinkBed Help With Back Pain?
I was super impressed with the WinkBed’s ability to relieve pressure. As you can see on the pressure map, it’s all blue around my back. This means my weight is being evenly distributed without placing pressure on one area.
The WinkBed has coils zoned for support, so their firmness fluctuates depending on where the body needs more or less lift and support. I thought these coils did a great job lifting my body up and out of the mattress and propping my spine into a straight, neutral line.
WinkBed Mattress Specs
| Material | Hybrid |
| Price (Queen) | $1,799 (before discounts) |
| Firmness | Multiple firmness options |
| Shipping | Free shipping |
| Sleep Trials | 120 nights |
| Warranty | Lifetime warranty |
| Height | 13.5″ |
| Adjustable Base Compatible? | Yes |
What our tester says: “I think the WinkBed is an especially good fit for sleepers with back pain, with the pressure map almost entirely blue. This indicates low pressure and even weight distribution, which is essential for avoiding soreness in the upper or lower back. ” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
What Customers Say
One Reddit user with back problems took the time to post about their experience with their new WinkBed mattress.
“Two months in, I couldn’t be happier,” they wrote. “My back feels much better than it ever has — consistently, too! It’s a great bed for side, back, and stomach sleepers. Very supportive, but also comfortable. [My] wife loves it, too.”
WinkBed Company Information
Customer Service Information
Hours of Operation:
9 a.m.–9 p.m. EST, Monday to Sunday
Contact Information:
Phone: 844-684-1468
Email: support@winkbeds.com
Live Chat: Available on their website
Showrooms:
Visit their website for showroom locations.
Payment Options
WinkBed accepts various payment methods, including Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, and offers financing options through Klarna. They also provide a 10 percent discount for military members.
Could the WinkBed ease your back pain? Learn more in our full WinkBeds mattress review, or check out our roundup for the best cooling mattresses.
Saatva Rx – Best Mattress for Side Sleepers With Back Pain
Designed specifically for sleepers with back pain and joint pain, the Saatva Rx features several layers that combine both foam and coils. This creates a blend of comfort and support throughout the entire mattress that’s cushioning enough for any aches and pains while still being sturdy enough for a neutral spinal alignment. Learn more in our Saatva Rx video review.
What our tester says:
“I found that this bed has a supportive feel that easily works for people of all weights, but still feels plush and comfortable.” – Amelia Jerden, senior staff writer
My Expert Opinion on the Saatva Rx
Side sleepers struggling with back pain should be on the lookout for a mattress designed to offer superior pressure relief while still ensuring the healthy alignment of the spine when resting on it. The Saatva Rx is one such bed — an orthopedic-focused luxury mattress that includes Saatva’s proprietary “Lumbar Zone” technology. This trait was awarded a seal of approval by the Congress of Chiropractic State Associations.
The Rx designs each layer to deliver a different level of support based on a sleeper’s typical needs. More specifically, it has firmer support in the center of the mattress for the spine, with softer support and cushioning provided for the hips, shoulders, and knees in other areas of the bed. That’s because when you’re on your side, you need softer cushioning for your shoulders and knees, but firmer spinal support to prevent posture disruption and unhealthy sinkage. When I laid on this bed, I got all the support I needed, while also experiencing deep pressure relief where I needed it the most.
How Did the Saatva Rx Perform in Testing
Motion Isolation 4.5/5
I use a few different methods to test a mattress’s motion isolation. One of them is dropping a 10-pound steel ball onto the bed’s surface from different heights and measuring the vibrations with a seismometer. The Saatva Rx didn’t spike too much with any of the ball drops, which tells me that it’s good at isolating motion. If you sleep with a partner, you’re unlikely to feel each other tossing and turning.
Support 5/5
The dynamic construction of the Saatva Rx gives it enough durability and spinal support for back sleepers, side sleepers, and stomach sleepers alike.
Cooling 4.5/5
The Saatva Rx’s should sleep cool, due to the airflow-promoting coils, as well as infusions of graphite gel and phase change material in the foam module. I also tested the bed’s temperature with a thermal gun, and it only increased 8 degrees when I laid down on it for five minutes, which indicates good cooling.
Edge Support 4/5
The Saatva Rx has a reinforced perimeter, which kept it from sagging too much when I laid on the edge of the mattress. I did notice some sinkage when sitting on the corner of the bed, but overall, I’d say it has solid edge support.
Pressure Relief 4.5/5
To measure the pressure relief of the Saatva Rx, I rolled out a specialized mat across its surface. The mat used thermal imaging to create a “map” of my body to show where pressure was building up. Most of the pressure map lit up bright blue, indicating little to no pressure buildup.
How Will the Saatva Rx Mattress Help With Back Pain
Looking at the Saatva Rx’s pressure map, we see no pressure building along the back. As a mattress designed for people with joint pain, I’m not surprised by how well it cradled my sensitive areas.
I found incredible support on this mattress. In all three sleeping positions, I was able to maintain proper spinal alignment, so I think people with back pain can find great relief.
Saatva Rx Mattress Specs
| Material | Hybrid |
| Price (Queen) | $3,295 (before discounts) |
| Firmness | Medium firm |
| Shipping | Free white glove delivery |
| Sleep Trials | 365 nights |
| Warranty | Lifetime warranty |
| Height | 15″ |
| Adjustable Base Compatible? | Yes |
What our tester says: “This bed a supportive feel that easily works for people of all weights, but still feels plush and comfortable.” – Amelia Jerden, senior staff writer
What Customers Say
Around the time of the Saatva Rx’s release, a Reddit user asked for other peoples’ opinions on the mattress. One user had this to say about the bed and its effect on their back pain:
“The Saatva Rx arrived a few weeks ago, and it’s the first time in years I’ve been able to sleep through the night, and my back pain is almost completely gone. Zero pain sleeping, and no more numbness. Sometimes I wake up in the morning in the same exact position I slept in. That’s amazing for me because I would toss and turn all night on the other mattresses. Rx is exactly what I was looking for.”
Saatva Company Information
Customer Service Information
Hours of Operation:
- 9 a.m.–9 p.m. EST, Monday to Sunday
Contact Information:
Phone: 888-728-2885
Email: support@saatva.com
Live Chat: Available on their website
Showrooms:
- Visit their website for showroom locations.
Payment Options
Saatva accepts a variety of payment methods, including PayPal, Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover, and offers financing options through Klarna.
Additionally, Saatva provides a 10 percent discount for military members.
Will this mattress lead you to restful nights? Find out in our full Saatva Rx mattress review, or check out our list of the best mattresses for side sleepers.
Bear Elite Hybrid – Best Hybrid Mattress for Back Pain
The Bear Elite Hybrid uses foam and coils for a mix of support, cushioning, and cooling. While designed for athletes prioritizing wellness and recovery, sleepers of all activity levels can enjoy the many luxurious features. Enjoy zoned support for targeted relief, an “on top of” feel allowing for ease of movement, and cooling features throughout. For more information, watch our video review.
What our tester says:
“I’d recommend the Bear Elite Hybrid for most back and stomach sleepers.I think these sleepers will get the needed pressure relief and contouring around the lower back and hips. This mattress does a wonderful job at offering body contouring while still helping the sleeper stay elevated and lifted as well. The layers of foam should provide comfort while the coil system should offer lots of support.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and mattress tester
My Expert Opinion on the Bear Elite Hybrid
Many folks like a balanced hybrid mattress, which combines pressure-relieving foams and sturdy coils for support. It’s why hybrids often make some of the best mattresses for back pain, and the Bear Elite Hybrid is no exception. While testing the Medium model, I determined that the Bear Elite Hybrid is a phenomenal choice for back sleepers with back pain. I felt my lower back being cushioned and my body being lifted — both of which help the spine stay in a straight line.
How Did the Bear Elite Hybrid Perform in Testing
Motion Isolation 4.5/5
I found that the top layer of memory foam helped dampen movement across the mattress (the vibrations were very low in the seismometer test). So even if you sleep with a restless partner or pet, you shouldn’t be too bothered throughout the night.
Support 4.5/5
The springs of the Bear Elite Hybrid helped give me a nice lift. My spine felt neutrally aligned, and I didn’t feel like I was going to sink too far into the mattress.
Cooling 4.5/5
Bear has managed to carve out a niche in the mattress industry by catering specifically to athletes and active folks. That’s because the brand has offered all of their mattresses with Celliant-infused cover. This tech purportedly assists with blood flow and muscle recovery. While I haven’t verified the recovery properties of Celliant myself, there are several institutions that have. Read more about these clinical trials here.
One thing I can confirm is that Celliant sleeps very cool, so I think the Bear Elite Hybrid is one of the best mattresses for hot sleepers. The foam has also been infused with graphite to help stave off heat. I should note that the Celliant covers comes at an additional cost, running you about $130. But even without it, this should be a cooler-sleeping mattress.
Edge Support 4.5/5
The Bear Elite Hybrid has edge-to-edge coils along the perimeter of the bed. Thanks to this reinforced edge support, there was little sinkage, and I didn’t feel like the mattress’s layers were collapsing when I sat or laid near the edge.
Pressure Relief 4.5/5
When looking at the pressure map, the Bear Elite Hybrid was almost entirely blue in all sleeping positions. I don’t think it’s likely to cause any pressure buildup unless you’re someone who struggles with severe joint pain.
How Will the Bear Elite Hybrid Help With Back Pain?
With a pressure map displaying entirely blue around the back, I thought the Bear Elite Hybrid did an excellent job at adding soft cushioning at the lumbar region while still providing strong support that kept my spine in the proper position.
Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress Specs
| Material | Hybrid |
| Price (Queen) | $2,305 (before discounts) |
| Firmness | Multiple firmness options |
| Shipping | Free shipping |
| Sleep Trials | 120 nights |
| Warranty | Lifetime warranty |
| Height | 14″ |
| Adjustable Base Compatible? | Yes |
What our tester says: “On my back, there is very little pressure buildup and only slight pressure around my hips and lower lumbar region, indicating that the Bear Elite Hybrid may work well to relieve pressure for most back sleepers.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
What Customers Say
A couple years ago, one Reddit user bought both the Bear Pro Hybrid and the Bear Elite Hybrid so they could compare the two mattresses. They ended up preferring the Elite and wrote this in their final review:
“After two years, I still absolutely LOVE my Bear Elite Hybrid. It is so freaking comfortable and I never want to get out of bed in the morning. [It’s] plush enough to give me a soft feel, but has enough support that I rarely ever wake up with back or shoulder pain. It is still the most comfortable mattress I’ve ever slept on.”
Bear Company Information
Customer Service Information
All forms of contact are available Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. EST.
- Phone: (844) 311-0035
- Email: support@bearmattress.com
- Live chat: Available on their website or through text
- View showrooms: Store locator
Payment Options
Bear offers payment through most major credit card companies like Visa, Master Card, American Express, and Discover. They also offer payments through PayPal, Google Pay, Venmo, and Shop Pay. If you’re interested in paying in installments, they also offer financing options through Affirm and Shop Pay financing programs.
If you’re a military member, first responder, healthcare professional or teacher, you can get 40 percent off on all Bear products.
Intrigued? Read more about the Bear Elite Hybrid in our full review, or check out our roundup of the best hybrid mattresses.
Nolah Evolution – Best Luxury Mattress
The Nolah Evolution’s hybrid construction offers the cushioning of memory foam with the responsiveness of coils. The Luxury Firm model is a good option for side and back sleepers due to its medium-firm feel, though there are Plush and Firm versions as well. Those who share a bed may also appreciate its low motion transfer, so you won’t be disturbed by a partner’s movements and its solid edge support to allow you to maximize surface area. For more information, check out our video review.
What our tester says:
“I laid down to rest on this mattress on my back — my primary sleep position. I felt comfortable, but also appreciated the cozy, plush top of the bed. After some time lying on my back, I switched over to my side. I didn’t find this position quite as comfortable, as I did feel some slight pressure buildup in my shoulder.” – Amelia Jerden, senior staff writer
My Expert Opinion on the Nolah Evolution
The Nolah Evolution is essentially an upgraded version of the original all-foam Nolah, with luxury touches such as a cover made of organic cotton and graphite infusions in the foam for added cooling. But the most notable new feature is a layer of coils toward the bottom of the mattress. I found that these springs helped create a strong foundation of support. I felt lifted when lying down, which should help prevent back pain. Also, the Nolah Evolution comes in three different firmness options (Plush, Luxury Firm, and Firm), so there’s a model for every sleeping position. For what it’s worth, I tested out the Luxury Firm, which I think is deal for back sleepers. Side sleepers should also be comfortable on this model, although stomach sleepers should probably go for the Firm.
How Did the Nolah Evolution Perform in Testing
Motion Isolation 4.5/5
The vibrations on the seismometer remained very low, with very little spiking. I also couldn’t feel my colleague’s movements when we both laid on the mattress, all of which tells me that the Nolah Evolution should be a good choice for couples. You and your partner are unlikely to feel each other rolling around or getting in and out of bed.
Support 4.5/5
As is the case with so many hybrids on this list, the layer of sturdy springs gives the Nolah Evolution a ton of support. I got that nice lift you need to prevent back pain, and never felt like mattress was too soft or hugging.
Cooling 4.5/5
The coils in the Nolah Evolution leave plenty of room for airflow. Also, one of the comfort layers is constructed with a proprietary material called AirFoamICE, which is meant to sleep cooler than traditional memory foam. I found that the coils and cooling technology helped me keep a low temperature while resting on this mattress.
Edge Support 4.5/5
The edge support here is strong. I was able to spread out and use the entire surface of the mattress without feeling like I was going to fall off.
Pressure Relief 5/5
On the pressure map, I also saw almost no tension around the upper or lower back in any of the sleeping positions. This is a pressure-relieving mattress that isn’t likely to cause you any pain.
How Will the Nolah Evolution Help With Back Pain?
The Nolah Evolution contains a layer of strong coils that lifted my body up and out of the structure. The “on the bed” feel prevented my spine from bending unnaturally and helped keep it straight and aligned.
As we can see from the map, the back region displays all blue and green, meaning weight is evenly distributed and not causing pressure to build.
Nolah Evolution Mattress Specs
| Material | Hybrid |
| Price (Queen) | $2,499 (before discounts) |
| Firmness | Multiple firmness options |
| Shipping | Free shipping |
| Sleep Trials | 120 nights |
| Warranty | Lifetime warranty |
| Height | 15″ |
| Adjustable Base Compatible? | Yes |
What our tester says: “I found that the coils on the Nolah Evolution provide enough support to keep the spine aligned and help alleviate back pain. At the same time, the bed provides the pressure relief that most people with hip pain need.” – Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor
What Customers Say
Earlier this year, a Reddit user posted an extremely detailed review of the Nolah Evolution, going as far to list their sleeping position, health issues, and body type. For context, this user is 6 feet tall, 350 pounds, primarily a side sleeper, and struggles with fibromyalgia. Here’s some of what they had to say:
“At my size, I find it very plush, but still supportive. The top layers of the mattress do a good job of cradling me in one position for most of the night. I definitely recommend giving the Nolah a try.”
They did, however, mention that, at 15 inches, the Nolah Evolution is a fairly tall mattress, and would be best on a lower bed frame, especially if you struggle with back pain or any mobility issues.
Nolah Company Information
Customer Information
- Phone: 866-403-6615, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. CST, Monday–Friday
- Email: support@nolahmattress.com, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. CST, Monday–Friday
- Live chat: Available 8 a.m.–5 p.m. CST, Monday–Friday
- View showrooms: Store locator
Payment Options
Nolah accepts payments from Visa, Master Card, American Express, Discover, Google Pay, Amazon Pay, PayPal, and Shop Pay. They also offer financing through Affirm’s financing program.
Nolah does not offer any additional discounts for groups of people.
Interested in more information about the Nolah Evolution? Learn more in our full Nolah Evolution mattress review, or check out our roundup for the best luxury mattresses.
Silk & Snow Hybrid – Best Mattress for Couples With Back Pain
As an affordable option with a medium-firm feel, we think that the Silk & Snow Hybrid should appeal to a wide variety of sleepers, including back sleepers, side sleepers, hot sleepers, and budget shoppers. Learn more in our full video review, where we compare the Silk & Snow Hybrid to the original Silk & Snow, which doesn’t have coils.
What our tester says:
“The Silk & Snow Hybrid is a great middle ground firmness for those who don’t want an ultra-firm bed, but also want to feel well-supported.” – Amelia Jerden, senior staff writer
My Expert Opinion on the Silk & Snow Hybrid
When it comes to the best mattress for couples, I focus on three factors: motion transfer, responsiveness for sex, and cooling.
The Silk & Snow Hybrid mattress performed excellently on our motion isolation test. If you’re sleeping with a partner, you’re very unlikely to be woken up by their tossing and turning on the other side of the bed. I also found this hybrid mattress to be pretty responsive. It’s easy to move around on, but isn’t overly bouncy, which makes it a good mattress for sex. Third, the gel-infused foam and breathable coils both help with airflow and cooling, so I think this bed would be good for hot sleepers and should be able to cool down two bodies at once. Finally, the Silk & Snow Hybrid mattress has a medium-firm feel, which can be a good choice for a variety of body types and sleeping positions. Even if you have different sleep preferences, there’s a good chance that both you and your partner will enjoy this bed.
As far as back pain goes, I put the Silk & Snow Hybrid through our pressure map test, and there was very minimal pressure buildup at the lumbar region while I was back and side sleeping. The mattress is cushioning enough to relieve pressure, yet supportive enough to promote proper spinal alignment.
How Did the Silk & Snow Hybrid Perform in Testing
Motion Isolation 4.5/5
The seismometer results showed very low vibrations. I don’t think you or your partner are likely to wake each other up with your movement.
Support 4.5/5
Thanks to the pocketed coils and zoned support at the bottom, I felt very lifted by this mattress. There’s plenty of support here, which is crucial for a neutral spinal alignment.
Cooling 4/5
When I measured the temperature increase of the Silk & Snow Hybrid after lying on it for five minutes, it only went up 8 degrees, which I would classify as good cooling. This is attributed to the airflow-promoting coils and gel infusions in the foam.
Edge Support 3.5/5
I wasn’t too impressed with the Silk & Snow Hybrid’s edge support. When I sat on the corner of the bed, there was a lot of sinkage.
Pressure Relief 4/5
Overall, the pressure map results looked good for the Silk & Snow Hybrid. The map was almost entirely blue while I was back sleeping, and there was just a little bit of green at my shoulders and hips while side sleeping. As long as you’re not someone with significant joint pain in those areas, I think the bed will be very comfortable.
How Will the Silk & Snow Hybrid Mattress Help With Back Pain?
This bed’s hybrid construction felt great on my back. I enjoyed the soft foam up top that filled in my lumbar region, and I felt my body being lifted and supported by the sturdy coils below. Based on the blue pressure map, I think this bed is a great choice for sleepers struggling with back pain.
Silk & Snow Hybrid Mattress Specs
| Material | Hybrid |
| Price (Queen) | $850 (before discounts) |
| Firmness | Medium firm |
| Shipping | Free shipping |
| Sleep Trials | 100 nights |
| Warranty | 15-year warranty |
| Height | 13.5″ |
| Adjustable Base Compatible? | Yes |
What our tester says: “Based on the bed’s responsive feel, good motion isolation, and good cooling capabilities, I would say overall this is a good bed for couples. The medium-firm feel is also a plus, as it is a nice middle ground for couples who might have different feel preferences.” – Amelia Jerden, former senior staff writer
What Customers Say
On Reddit, one user described a history of back pain and seeking a mattress that was comfortable and supportive at the lumbar region. This user described noticeable pain relief when making the switch to the Silk & Snow Hybrid mattress. They noted fewer restless nights on this mattress and were overall satisfied.
Silk & Snow Company Information
Customer Service Information
Silk & Snow’s hours of operations are 9:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m. EST, Monday to Sunday.
- Phone: 855-777-0033
- Email: hello@silkandsnow.com
- Live chat: Chat live with their team on their site
- Visit showrooms: Store locations
Payment Options
Silk & Snow accepts PayPal, Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover (US only), MasterCard Debit, and Visa Debit.
Silk & Snow also offers a 5 percent discount on their entire site only for military members
Want to learn more about the Silk & Snow Hybrid mattress? Learn more in our full Silk & Snow Hybrid mattress review, or head over to our best mattress for couples roundup.
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid – Most Affordable Mattress for Back Pain
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid mattress combines a foam comfort layer and sturdy coils. This combination of materials makes it bouncy and easy to move around on. It comes in three firmness levels, and we recommend the Medium model for most back sleepers. It’s a great choice for shoppers who are looking for a new mattress on a budget. For more information, check out our video review.
What our tester says:
“Given that the Signature Hybrid has some excellent bounce, I’d highly recommend this mattress for combination sleepers who often change positions multiple times throughout the night. I also think the Signature Hybrid could be a great fit for couples. You shouldn’t be overly disturbed by a restless partner on this bed, and it has nice, firm edge support.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
My Expert Opinion on the Signature Hybrid
Brooklyn Bedding has a wide variety of models, with the Signature Hybrid being one of their most comfortable and economical mattresses (you can often find a queen-size under $1,000 after discounts). I found that the simple yet effective hybrid construction of foams and springs helped maintain a healthy sleeping posture, which is essential for avoiding back pain. Note: the mattress’s firmness and performance will depend on which model you buy — Soft, Medium, or Firm. I tested the Medium, which clocked in at an appropriate medium-firm 6.5 out of 10 on our mattress firmness scale. I think it’s the best fit for back sleepers, while the Soft is better for side sleepers and the Firm is better for stomach sleepers.
How Did the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Perform in Testing
Motion Isolation 3.5/5
The coils of the Signature Hybrid give it a lot of bounce and responsiveness, which resulted in some sizable spikes on the seismometer. If you sleep with a partner and either one of you is a light sleeper, this is something to consider.
Support 4.5/5
Overall, I found this to be a very supportive mattress that gave my spine a nice lift and kept it aligned. The coils are clearly doing their job.
Cooling 4.5/5
The foams here aren’t too dense, which helps the Signature Hybrid sleep cool. And hot sleepers should get plenty of airflow because of all the room between the coils. When I tested out the bed’s temperature increase with a thermal gun after lying on it for five minutes, it went up less than 8 degrees, confirming that it has good cooling.
Edge Support 4.5/5
I felt very supported when sitting and lying near the edge of the Signature Hybrid, and when I measured the sinkage with a yardstick, there were only 3 inches of sinkage. This confirms that the coils give this bed strong edge support.
Pressure Relief 4.5/5
During the pressure map test, the Signature Hybrid displayed little to no pressure around the lumbar region, especially while I was back sleeping. This shows that it’s an excellent choice for folks who suffer from aches in this area.
How Will the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Help With Back Pain?
Looking at the pressure map to the right, we can see all blue across the back region. This means there is no pressure building, so you shouldn’t experience pain in that area. I thought the coils did an outstanding job lifting my body and propping my spine into neutral alignment.
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress Specs
| Material | Hybrid |
| Price (Queen) | $1,332 (before discounts) |
| Firmness | Medium firm |
| Shipping | Free shipping |
| Sleep Trials | 120 nights |
| Warranty | 10-year warranty |
| Height | 12.25″ |
| Adjustable Base Compatible? | Yes |
What our tester says: “Based on the amount of blue on this pressure map, I think the Signature Hybrid could be a nice choice for back sleepers with back pain. This mattress should promote a healthy sleep posture, which is key to avoiding pain and soreness.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
What Customers Say
The below testimonial comes from a full Reddit review of the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid. Note that they purchased the Firm model of the bed, where I tried out the Medium.
“I was a little worried about getting the Firm over the Medium because I prefer sleeping on my side, but it is a bit softer than a traditional firm [mattress], I feel. It is perfect. Back pain has gone away, I am feeling more rested, and every time I lay on it, I am so happy with the purchase.”
Brooklyn Bedding Company Information
Customer Service Information
- Phone: 623-624-1222
- Email: support@brooklynbedding.com
- Live chat: Chat available Monday–Friday, 10 a.m.–9 p.m. EST and Saturday–Sunday, 11 a.m.–7 p.m. EST
- Visit showrooms: Store locator
Payment Options
Brooklyn Bedding accepts payments from Visa, Master Card, American Express, Discover, Shop Pay, Google Pay, and PayPal. They also offer financing options through the Affirm and Shop Pay financing programs.
Brooklyn Bedding also offers 30 percent off and free shipping on all orders for military members, first responders, medical providers, educators, and students.
Sold on the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid? Fall in love with it even more in our full Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid review, or check out our roundup for the best budget mattresses.
Plank Firm Luxe – Best Firm Mattress for Back Pain
The Plank Firm Luxe by Brooklyn Bedding is a flippable mattress with different firmness levels on either side. It’s like getting two mattresses for the price of one! This mattress is great for any sleeper seeking the firmest mattress possible. The extra-firm side is one of the firmest we have tested, while the firm side has a more classic medium-firm feel. For more information, watch our video review.
What our tester says:
“The mattress is incredibly bouncy and was very easy for me to change sleeping positions and to move freely on top of this mattress. It felt like I was on a trampoline. I gave this bed a perfect score for responsiveness so this bed is an excellent pick for combination sleepers as well as a good bed for sex!” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and mattress tester
My Expert Opinion on the Plank Firm Luxe
I chose the Plank Firm Luxe (manufactured by Brooklyn Bedding) as the best firm mattress for back pain due to its flippable design that offers two firmness options: a firm side and an extra-firm side. For context, I rate mattress firmness on a scale of 1 to 10, where 1 is the softest and 10 is the firmest. Our team of Certified Sleep Science Coaches gave the firm side of the Plank Firm Luxe a score of 6.5 out of 10, meaning this side has a medium-firm feel that could appeal to a variety of sleepers. The extra-firm side is significantly firmer, landing at an 8 out of 10 on our firmness scale. If firmness is what you’re after, I recommend sleeping with the extra-firm side face up. You’ll likely feel more “on top” of the bed rather than “in” the bed, as this mattress keeps the sleeper lifted and provides minimal sinkage. If you’re seeking a bit more sinkage, I recommend sleeping on the firm side.
For sleepers experiencing back pain, I recommend sleeping on the firm side of the Plank Firm Luxe. This side has a more medium-firm feel that helps cushion and support the lumbar region. Back pain relief can also be found on the extra-firm side, but note there will be a bit less cushioning at the lumbar region.
How Did the Plank Firm Luxe Perform in Testing
Motion Isolation 4/5
Even though this is a firm mattress, it still has a lot of foam in the construction, so I found it to have solid motion-isolating abilities. The vibrations didn’t spike too much on the seismometer.
Support 4.5/5
The standard Plank Firm is made entirely of foam and is a very supportive bed. The Luxe version has a layer of coils in the middle that add even more support. I felt very lifted on this bed, and didn’t feel like I was going to sink through the layers even a little bit.
Cooling 4.5/5
The coils in the middle of the mattress assist with airflow — a big plus for cooling. When I measured the bed’s temperature increase after I laid on it for five minutes, it only went up by about 6 degrees. This is a sign of good cooling.
Edge Support 4.5/5
The coils in the mattress help give a boost to the edges. I didn’t experience much sinkage at the edge of the bed or feel like I was going to fall off.
Pressure Relief 4/5
Although firm mattresses aren’t always the most pressure relieving. At the same time, I didn’t experience any pain or stiffness while lying on the Plank Firm Luxe, so I don’t think it’s going to exacerbate anyone’s soreness.
How Will the Plank Firm Mattress Help With Back Pain?
The Plank Firm is a very firm bed at provides a lot of sturdy support. I found little to no sinkage on this bed, so my back was placed in a very straight line while back sleeping, which is ideal for people suffering from back pain. As you can see to the right, the map is entirely blue when I slept on my back. I wouldn’t recommend side sleeping on this bed. Back pain still won’t be an issue, but you may experience pain in the hips and shoulders in this position.
Plank Firm Luxe Mattress Specs
| Material | Memory foam |
| Price (Queen) | $1,532 (before discounts) |
| Firmness | Multiple firmness options (flippable) |
| Shipping | Free shipping |
| Sleep Trials | 120 nights |
| Warranty | 10-year warranty |
| Height | 13.25″ |
| Adjustable Base Compatible? | Yes |
What our tester says: “The extra-firm side of the mattress doesn’t offer much sinkage and will ensure the sleeper remains “on top” of the mattress the entire time without feeling as if their body is sinking in. This side did definitely feel as if I was sleeping on a plank, as the name suggests.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
What Customers Say
One Reddit user reports an extensive search for a firm mattress that could offer support for their back. When they bought the Plank Firm Luxe, they fell in love with the firm feel. After sleeping on the mattress for a few months, this customer says their back feels the best it’s felt in a long time.
Brooklyn Bedding Company Information
Customer Service Information
- Phone: 623-624-1222
- Email: support@brooklynbedding.com
- Live chat: Chat available Monday–Friday, 10 a.m.–9 p.m. EST and Saturday–Sunday, 11 a.m.–7 p.m. EST
- Visit showrooms: Store locator
Payment Options
Brooklyn Bedding accepts payments from Visa, Master Card, American Express, Discover, Shop Pay, Google Pay, and PayPal. They also offer financing options through the Affirm and Shop Pay financing programs.
Brooklyn Bedding also offers 30 percent off and free shipping on all orders for military members, first responders, medical providers, educators, and students.
Interested in the Plank Firm Luxe mattress? Read our full Plank Firm Luxe mattress review or head over to our best firm mattress roundup for more options.
Titan Plus – Best Mattress for Heavy Sleepers With Back Pain
The Titan Plus mattress is a durable mattress made with heavy sleepers in mind. It’s firm and features heavy-duty coils and Titanflex foam that makes it bouncy and easy to move around on. We think that heavy back sleepers and stomach sleepers should be especially comfortable. For more information on the Titan Plus, check out our video review.
What our tester says:
“I think the Titan Plus lives up to its name as a good mattress for heavier sleepers. It will offer them the deep compression support and durability they need.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
A Note on Weight and Body Type
We recognize that people come in all shapes and sizes, and people of every size deserve a mattress that works for their body type. We use the weight categories light, average, and heavy to more easily categorize sleepers based on how mattresses will perform for their body type, as most mattresses are designed for the group we call “average” (130 to 230 pounds). We consider heavy sleepers to be anyone over 230 pounds, and they tend to need more support to prevent them from sinking too far into the layers.
My Expert Opinion on the Titan Plus
A firm and supportive mattress is absolutely crucial for heavy sleepers, who compress through mattress layers more than others. Fortunately for these folks, Brooklyn Bedding has designed the Titan Plus for people over 230 pounds. When I asked my colleague Paulie (a professional powerlifter!) to test out this hybrid mattress, he felt immense pressure relief on his back. And when trying out the mattress in different positions, he found that his shoulders stayed aligned with his hips, thanks to the support from the coils at the bottom of the construction. Simultaneously, the foam gave him some cushioning. I should point out that sleepers under 230 pounds may not experience as much contouring, as the Titan Plus is likely to feel firmer to them than it would to a heavy person.
How Did the Titan Plus Perform in Testing
Motion Isolation 3.5/5
I saw a lot of movement spikes during our seismometer test, and when I put a glass of wine on the bed and rolled around, there was quite a bit of movement in the glass. If you sleep with a partner and either of you easily wakes up, you might want to consider another mattress.
Support 5/5
The Titan Plus was built with extra support, and it shows. I felt very “on top” of the mattress. That said, heavier sleepers will likely sink into the layers a bit more, but still feel well-supported.
Cooling 4.5/5
The Titan Plus sleeps nice and cool due to all of the airflow created by the space between its coils, as well as an infusion of gel in the cover. If you’re a heavy sleeper who sleeps especially hot, you can also pay an additional charge for a cooling panel on top.
Edge Support 4.5/5
Brooklyn Bedding created the Titan Plus to have exceptional edge support, as larger body types are going to need a stronger perimeter in order to feel like they’re not falling off the bed. The mattress really delivered on that front. When I sat on the corner and the edge of the Titan Plus, the layers only sank 2 inches. This indicates very strong edge support.
Pressure Relief 4/5
When looking at the pressure map results for myself (an average weight sleeper), there was no pressure at all when I was back sleeping. However, there was a little bit of pressure at my shoulders when side sleeping. But once again, heavy side sleepers are likely to experience this bed as softer than folks under 230 pounds, so as long as you’re in the weight class this mattress was designed for, you should be fine.
How Will the Titan Plus Mattress Help With Back Pain?
As a bed designed to support heavy sleepers, it’s no surprise that the Titan Plus was incredibly supportive. Even if you’re not a heavy sleeper, this mattress does a great job promoting proper spinal alignment through the use of coils and foam. As you can see on my pressure map, there is only low pressure displayed, so I don’t foresee back pain being an issue.
Titan Plus Mattress Specs
| Material | Hybrid |
| Price (Queen) | $899 (before discounts) |
| Firmness | Firm |
| Shipping | Free shipping |
| Sleep Trials | 120 nights |
| Warranty | 10-year warranty |
| Height | 11″ |
| Adjustable Base Compatible? | Yes |
What our tester says: “I think the Titan Plus lives up to its name as a good mattress for heavier sleepers. It will offer them the deep compression support and durability they need.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
What Customers Say
On Reddit, a frustrated shopper posted that they had spent a lot of money of a Stearns & Foster mattress that failed to soothe their back pain. When asking for further recommendations, another user pointed them to the Titan Plus, although they recommended opting for the Luxe version since they found it to be a bit softer.
Brooklyn Bedding Company Information
Customer Service Information
- Phone: 623-624-1222
- Email: support@brooklynbedding.com
- Live chat: Chat available Monday–Friday, 10 a.m.–9 p.m. EST and Saturday–Sunday, 11 a.m.–7 p.m. EST
- Visit showrooms: Store locator
Payment Options
Brooklyn Bedding accepts payments from Visa, Master Card, American Express, Discover, Shop Pay, Google Pay, and PayPal. They also offer financing options through the Affirm and Shop Pay financing programs.
Brooklyn Bedding also offers 30 percent off and free shipping on all orders for military members, first responders, medical providers, educators, and students.
Think you and the Titan make a good pair? Learn more about it in our Titan Plus Mattress review, or check out our roundup for the best mattresses for heavy people.
Hear from the Experts:
How Can the Right Mattress Alleviate Back Pain?
“A suitable mattress can help ease back pain by providing proper support that keeps your spine aligned naturally, reducing muscle strain. It also distributes your body weight evenly, relieving pressure points that can cause discomfort. The mattress adapts to your preferred sleeping position, whether you’re a back, side, or stomach sleeper. Its comfortable contouring helps you sleep without added back stress. Importantly, the mattress isn’t too hard or too soft, striking a balance that’s just right for your body. Quality materials ensure lasting comfort and support, and some mattresses even offer customization options.”
Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM. Quadruple-board certified in pulmonary, sleep, internal, and critical care medicine
Hear From the Doctor: How Can the Wrong Mattress Create or Contribute to Back Pain?
“Using the wrong mattress can worsen or cause back pain by disrupting spinal alignment, creating pressure points, and leading to discomfort. An unsuitable mattress may lack proper support, have an uneven surface, or not match your preferred sleeping position. Over time, material degradation and inadequate size can also contribute to back pain.” – Dr. Raj Dasgupta MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM. Quadruple-board certified in pulmonary, sleep, internal, and critical care medicine
How Can Sleep Help Chronic Pain?
Now that I’ve gone over my picks, I want to take a second to talk about the purpose of this guide. While it may seem like the focus is on finding a mattress that’ll make falling asleep with pain easier, it’s actually about finding the bed that’s going to help you use sleep to actively deal with said pain.
Of course, for a topic like back pain, I don’t want to rely solely on our own opinions and tests. I also chatted with physical therapist and Sleepopolis Expert Network member Dr. Keith Poorbaugh to get his tips for catching quality Zzz’s while dealing with chronic back pain and to learn what kinds of mattresses can aid in this process the most.
“Sleep is very important for restoring balance to the nervous system and improving coping strategies for pain,” Dr. Poorbaugh told us during our conversation. “Normally, our central nervous system is downplaying or ignoring stimuli from multiple sources simply because the information is not important. A person with chronic pain, however, loses this important dampening ability, so many activities that were once well-tolerated now become pain-provoking.”
Why You Should Take Your Sleep Seriously
Dr. Poorbaugh highlighted a 2017 study, which suggests that poor sleep patterns were directly related to:
- Higher rates of pain
- Poor mood
- Increased pain-catastrophizing
- Overall reduced physical function (1)
So what can be done? In order to get the kind of sleep you need to help deal with your chronic pain, consider the following when choosing the right mattress to deal with pain.
What to Look for in Mattresses for Back Pain
When looking for a mattress to combat back pain, it’s important to consider support, firmness level, and pressure relief. Different types of mattresses will offer varying degrees of these factors. Take a look at how they stack up below.
Durability and Quality of Mattress Materials
The durability and quality of materials used in a mattress’s construction affects its long-term performance and support. High-quality materials can better withstand wear and time while maintaining their supportive and pressure relieving properties over time. I suggest shopping for a high quality mattress if you struggle with back pain as over time, without a supportive mattress, this pain will simply get worse.
Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Mattress
- You start feeling any extreme pain
- Your mattress starts to visibly sag
- If you see any lumps in the mattress
- You sleep super hot even in a cool room
- If it’s had over 8 years of regular sleep
Types of Mattresses for Back Pain
There are several different types of mattresses, and I recommend some over others for combatting back pain. Take a look below to learn more about the main mattress types.
Memory Foam Mattresses
All-foam mattresses rely on high-density poly foams to support the sleeper. If you struggle with back problems, I often recommend avoiding all-foam mattresses in favor of slightly more supportive innerspring or hybrid mattresses.
Innerspring Mattresses
Innerspring mattresses combine steel coil support with top layers made of thin comfort foam. They’re often firm and bouncy, which can work well for back pain (as long as they also provide enough pressure relief).
Hybrid Mattresses
Hybrid mattresses use coil and foam layers to create a supportive, yet comfortable sleeping environment. These beds can vary widely in feel and materials, but are often the type of bed I recommend for sleepers looking for back pain relief.
Latex Mattresses
Latex mattresses are taut, bouncy, and naturally cooling. These beds are very durable and supportive, but are not my first choice for sleepers with bad backs. These folks often need a material that offers more body-contouring. Latex mattresses don’t usually offer the right sort of cradling to ease tension, especially at the lower back.
What Type of Mattress Should You Choose to Avoid Back Pain?
Although it’s possible for any type of mattress material to be comfortable for someone experiencing back pain (there are exceptions to every rule), we think hybrid mattresses and innerspring mattresses are generally going to be best. The springs present in these beds are most likely to provide the spinal support you need to stay neutrally aligned and prevent further pain.
Support and Alignment
In my opinion, what’s more important than choosing the right mattress material is choosing a mattress that offers the right amount of support. Sound support is super-important for those who suffer with chronic back pain, as it helps keep your spine neutrally aligned, which goes a long way toward preventing back pain.
I should note that support and firmness are not the same. You can have a soft mattress that’s ultra-supportive and a firm one that doesn’t support the body at all. Adequate support is all about how a mattress props up your body, while also remaining comfortable.
Hear from the Experts:
What Qualities in a Mattress Can Provide Support and Pressure Relief?
“A mattress that provides optimal support and pressure relief typically possesses qualities such as medium firmness, contouring materials like memory foam or latex, zoned support, responsive materials, pocketed coils, layered construction, strong edge support, and proper alignment for the spine.”
Additional Features
Here are some specific material-related features to look for in the best mattress for back pain.
- Zoned support: Mattresses with zoned support are designed to target different parts of the body in different ways, with softer foams at the shoulders and firmer ones at the hips. This helps encourage a proper spinal alignment, which is a key to relieving back pain.
- Balanced foam: Beds built with several different types of foam (latex, memory foam, and high-density poly foam) are going to offer the best support for folks who suffer from back pain. This balanced approach combines lift with pressure relief for a well-rounded feel.
- Contouring: A mattress that offers some body contouring at the lower back can also help keep your spine in a neutral alignment. By filling in the spaces your body creates as it sinks into a bed slightly, contouring foams can ensure that you’re receiving evenly distributed support throughout the night.
Firmness
Since I started the firmness conversation above, let’s go ahead and wrap it up here.
Hear From the Doctor: How Does the Firmness Level of a Mattress Contribute to or Alleviate Back Pain?
“An overly soft mattress may lead to poor spinal alignment and lack of support, contributing to discomfort in your back. A medium-firm mattress is often best, as it maintains proper spine curvature, distributes weight evenly, and reduces pressure points.” – Dr. Raj Dasgupta MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM. Quadruple-board certified in pulmonary, sleep, internal, and critical care medicine
While Dr. Poorbaugh says that “there is some evidence to suggest that a firm mattress is more beneficial to reduce pain among people experiencing CLBP (chronic lower back pain),” it’s actually more likely that “any change in back pain is more related to improved sleep patterns than any actual physical changes to the lumbar spine.”
Dr. Poorbaugh’s views line up with a 2010 study, which revealed that replacing mattresses based on sleeping position (i.e. selecting beds for side, back, and stomach sleepers) helped to reduce pain and discomfort in subjects. (2) Long story short, finding the right firmness can do wonders for a sleeper with specific needs. Below, I’ll go over back pain in different sleeping positions to help you find the best mattress firmness for back pain.
Sleeping Positions
| Sleeping Position | Ideal Mattress Firmness | Firmness Scale Level | Why This Firmness? |
| Back sleepers with back pain | Medium-firm to firm | 6.5-7/10 | Balances push-back support, yet still remains soft enough to offer comfort and remove pressure points. |
| Side sleepers with back pain | Soft to medium-soft | 5-6/10 | Allows sinkage around the shoulders and hips to ensure the spine falls into a neutral alignment (rather than twisting at the lower back). |
| Stomach sleepers with back pain | Firm to ultra-firm | 7-8/10 | These sleepers need tons of support (and little pressure relief) to ensure their hips stay lifted up in line with their shoulders. |
| Combination sleepers with back pain | Medium-firm | 6.5/10 | Delivers comfort and support in multiple sleeping positions. |
Hear From the Doctor: How Can Your Sleeping Position Affect Back Pain?
“Back sleepers should use a medium-firm mattress and a pillow under the knees. Side sleepers benefit from a supportive pillow between the knees and a mattress with some softness. Stomach sleepers should opt for a firm mattress and a thin pillow or none for the head. Combination sleepers need a mattress that’s comfortable for all positions. Maintaining the spine’s natural curve is crucial” – Dr. Raj Dasgupta MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM. Quadruple-board certified in pulmonary, sleep, internal, and critical care medicine
Pressure Relief
Finally, let’s take a moment to talk pressure relief. More than other sleepers, those who struggle with chronic pain need to find a mattress that’ll actively alleviate tension at sensitive spots along the body, especially at the lumbar region and shoulders.
Typically, pressure points form when there’s more push back focused on a specific area, which tends to cause misalignment at the spine. As your body moves out of alignment, more pressure is placed on the back, which can lead to frustrating pains throughout the torso.
Therefore, it’s important to make sure you’re not sleeping on a mattress that places pressure on any of your major joints. By doing so, your body is able to enter a relaxed state and the chance of pressure points forming along the spine and lower back is diminished.
Here at Sleepopolis, we’re actually able to test a mattress’s pressure-relieving capabilities with our pressure map. I roll the map across the bed’s surface and lie down on it in different sleeping positions (back, stomach, side). The map measures how much pressure is being put on our body, then displays the results on a computer via thermal imaging.
Blue and green are signs of low pressure, yellow is a sign of moderate pressure, and orange and red indicate high pressure. So as you can see on the pressure map results above for the Minocasa hybrid mattress, there’s low pressure while stomach sleeping, but high pressure at the shoulder while side sleeping. That means I’d recommend it to stomach sleepers, but not side sleepers, especially if they struggle with shoulder pain.
Top Mattress Recommendations for Pressure Relief
When looking for a mattress with fantastic pressure relief, keep an eye out for the following things:
- Memory foam – While too much memory foam can lead to dramatic sinkage and spinal misalignment, a touch of the material can do a lot to soothe achy joints as the foam gently conforms to these areas. If you’re worried about memory foam’s reputation for sleeping hot, look for a gel memory foam mattress that encourages airflow.
- Hip support – As I discussed in the support section, finding a mattress that features a bit of lift at the hips can be a boon for back pain sufferers who need cozy relief, but also optimized spinal alignment.
Edge Support
Edge support refers to how well a mattress holds up on its edges compared to the center. Some beds tend to be less supportive on the edges, which is something seniors, those with any back pain and heavy people should look out for. I’d recommend seeing if the brand mentions edge support or reinforced edges on their site. I test for edge support by laying or sitting on the edge of the bed and using a yard stick to determine how much the mattress sinks.
Body Type
A Note on Body Type
We recognize that people come in all shapes and sizes, and people of every size deserve a mattress that works for their body type. We use the weight categories light, average, and heavy to more easily categorize sleepers based on how mattresses will perform for their body type, as most mattresses are designed for the group we call “average” (130 to 230 pounds).
As a general takeaway, lighter sleepers don’t require as much firmness and support as average weight sleepers, and mattresses will tend to feel firmer to them. On the other hand, heavy sleepers tend to need more firmness and support than average weight sleepers, and tend to sink into the mattress more.
As far as sleeping positions go, side sleepers tend to need a softer mattress while stomach sleepers usually need a firmer, more supportive one. Back sleepers are usually somewhere in the middle.
Back Pain can affect anyone and the type of mattress you end up liking is very personal. However, one thing I know is that many heavy people struggle with back pain just because of that added pressure on their spine and muscles. If you weight over 230 pounds, I recommend you look for a firmer mattress that offers a little more support and extra pressure relief. The Saatva Rx is a good example of a bed created for this type of sleeper.
- Sleepers under 130 pounds with back pain should look for a medium to medium-firm mattress. A firm mattress will create more back pain because they won’t sink as far through these beds’ top layers. In general, light stomach sleepers should fare well on almost any firm mattress because stomach sleepers don’t need much pressure relief. But lightweight back and side sleepers with back pain might want to stick to a more medium-firm mattress if they’re looking for extra pressure relief.
- Average weight sleepers (130 to 230 pounds) with back painwill likely experience mattresses as they’re advertised. That means a mattress marketed as pressure relieving will be just that. In general, a medium-firm mattress is a great fit for this type of sleeper. But if you’re a side sleeper, I recommend opting for something a bit softer to ensure you get enough pressure relief at your hips and shoulders.
- Larger sleepers (over 230 pounds) with back pain are usually a good match for firm mattresses. These sleepers will likely find many mattresses a bit softer than the average sleeper, which means some firm mattresses may feel more medium firm (6.5 on our firmness scale)— the most universally comfortable level of firmness. A mattress designed specifically for heavy people is what I would recommend to get the best pressure relief out of your bed. Check out our top picks for the best mattress for heavy people for more options.
Tips From Our Medical Expert Dr. Raj Dasgupta:
Motion Transfer
What does Motion Transfer Have to do With the Quality of a Mattress: “Motion transfer refers to how movement on one side of a mattress affects the other side. The quality of a mattress is linked to its ability to minimize motion transfer. A mattress with good motion isolation offers undisturbed sleep, comfort for couples, personalized support, pressure relief, versatility, a quiet sleep environment, longevity, and minimized partner disturbance. It indicates material quality, construction, and overall comfort. Considering motion isolation is crucial, especially for shared beds or sensitivity to movement” – Dr. Raj Dasgupta MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM. Quadruple-board certified in pulmonary, sleep, internal, and critical care medicine
Durability
What does a durable mattress look like? “A durable mattress is characterized by high-quality materials, a strong support core, edge support, resilience, motion isolation, minimal sagging, a substantial warranty, positive brand reputation/reviews, and regular maintenance. It offers long-lasting comfort and support, withstanding wear and maintaining its structural integrity over time.” – Dr. Raj Dasgupta MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM.
Budget
What should people look for if they’re looking for a high-quality budget mattress? “Prioritize material durability, a strong support core, comfortable foam layers, suitable firmness, motion isolation, edge support, warranties, and trial periods. Read reviews, consider reputable brands, and look for certifications.” – Dr. Raj Dasgupta MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM. Quadruple-board certified in pulmonary, sleep, internal, and critical care medicine
Can Your Mattress Cause Back Pain?
If you’ve started waking up with back pain and you didn’t have pain before, your mattress could be the culprit. If you’ve recently purchased a new bed, it could be a bit too soft (or too firm) for your needs, which can cause back pain, especially if it’s throwing your spine out of alignment. If this is the case, I’d recommend sleeping on your new bed for 30 days to see if your body adjusts. If it doesn’t, you’ll need to return your mattress or purchase a topper to help.
Mattress sagging can also be a significant cause of back pain. If your mattress is seven to 10 years old and sagging in certain places, it could be negatively affecting your sleep health. Plus, you could be unconsciously contorting your body to compensate for the sagging. If you notice your mattress is sagging, it’s time to replace it, or add a topper until you’re ready to find a new bed.
Simple Sleep Tricks to Reduce Back Pain
A new mattress is a big investment, and sometimes it’s too expensive to fit into your budget. If you want to reduce back pain in a cost-effective way, there are a few other options you can test out.
- Pillow: Depending on your sleeping position, pillows can be a huge pain reliever. I recommend if you’re a side sleeper to place a pillow in between your knees to relieve tension in your lower back. This elevated fetal position helps keep your spine aligned with your hips. Back sleepers should use a wedge pillow under their knees if they struggle with lower back pain as it helps to not strain your back and keeps your hips aligned.
- Mattress Topper: Mattress toppers are an amazing budget friendly way to ease your back pain without buying an entirely new mattress. Toppers come in various mattress types and at different firmness levels. Be sure to get a topper that can help compliment your current bed. For example, if you’re mattress is very soft and you struggle with back pain, I recommend investing in a firmer topper to help support your back.
- Change your sleeping position: Your sleeping position could be creating some back pain. Back sleepers have the easiest time achieving a neutral spinal alignment, which can really reduce pain. Stomach sleepers, on the other hand, are particularly prone to waking up with back pain. Side sleepers can also have some issues with pain if they aren’t careful about not twisting their back into odd positions as they sleep. If you’re struggling with back pain, training yourself to sleep on your back could be a big help. Check out our How to Train to Sleep on Your Back article for some tips.
- Adjustable Bed Frames: Adjustable Beds have increasingly gotten more popular and with good reason. Many sleepers are using them to ease their back pain by elevating their legs slightly, releasing that tension in the lower back. Another pro for any back sleepers, is adjustable beds can reduce snoring greatly, so just something to consider if you’ve gotten any pillows thrown at you recently.
What Is Back Pain? A Note from Sleepopolis’ Expert, Dr. Poorbaugh
Before I wrap up, I wanted to include some basic information on back pain that I learned from Dr. Poorbaugh.
According to Dr. Poorbaugh, most medical research is focused on “Chronic Lower Back Pain (CLBP).” Traditionally, to be defined as “chronic” someone’s lower back pain needed to continue for “more than three months.” But recently, doctors have started using functional brain imaging (as well as detailed assessments of depression and mood) to illustrate that “chronic” is not necessarily a time dependent label.
Dr Poorbaugh says that “the main determinant” of chronic back pain today is central sensitization. According to Dr. Poorbaugh, central sensitization occurs when “the central nervous system has lost its ability to dampen or control peripheral stimuli i.e. information from muscles, joints, and nerves.”
When your nervous system can’t control those stimuli, your peripheral nerves get irritated. This eventually affects your entire nervous system and makes normal activity feel painful (aka, causes back pain).
How Is Back Pain Caused?
As Dr. Poorbaugh mentioned above, CLBP is often caused by central sensitization. But back pain can also be a result of injuries like a fall or pulled muscle. Pinched nerves or degenerating discs can also be a cause of back pain.
Types of Back Pain
There are a few different types of back pain. As Dr. Poorbaugh says, a common type is chronic lower back pain caused by central sensitization. But take a look at a few more common types of back pain below:
- Non-specific muscle pain: Muscle pain can occur in any area of the back, and is often a result of an injury or a strain. This type of pain often dissipates over time.
- Muscle spasms: Muscle spasms most commonly occur in the lower back and are often the result of an injury. This type of pain occurs when your back muscles contract involuntarily.
- Radicular pain: If you feel sharp shooting pain in your back that extends to your legs, you could be experiencing radicular pain. This pain is a result of disc degeneration or a pinched nerve.
- Sciatica: If you feel pain in your lower spine that extends to your legs, you might be suffering from sciatica. This type of pain is caused by the sciatic nerve, and is very common (and uncomfortable). If you’ve been experiencing sciatica, you may find your perfect mattress over on our Best Mattress for Sciatica page. (3)
Lifestyle Tips for Sleeping With Pain
To wrap up this guide, I want to share some tips and tricks for sleeping with chronic pain. Note that these have more to do with lifestyle adjustments than anything you add to your mattress.
“I always recommend that my clients see the big picture. When it comes to pain, we have two options: We can seek a fix or a heal. The path to less pain is quite different depending on your choice, but each option has three pillars of management with very little overlap.”
Dr. Keith Poorbaugh, licensed physical therapist
While the “fix” typically involves medication and surgery, the “heal” focuses on three main tenets: nutrition, sleep, and movement.
Nutrition
A well-balanced diet has been shown to lead to better sleep, which can help to alleviate stress and pain. (4) Reducing caffeine and sugar intake are great first steps to take toward modifying one’s diet for optimized slumber.
Sleep
As I’ve mentioned throughout this guide, it’s tantamount for pain sufferers to get enough sleep. Sleep is one of the biggest and most influential factors affecting stress levels, so it’s vital to allocate enough time to fully rest and recover each night. You can start by choosing a set bedtime and then working toward establishing a consistent nighttime routine. For more tips, check out our 30-Day Sleep Hygiene plan.
Movement
Exercise is another crucial piece of the pain-free puzzle. Low-impact workouts can help with mobility, which can then lead to better spinal alignment. Regular exercise has also been regularly linked to improved sleep, so figuring out a consistent workout could do a lot for the quality of your Zzz’s. (5)
Company Policies
Sleep Trials
A sleep trial refers to the amount of time a brand will allow for you to test the mattress and allows to return it at no extra cost. Each brand varies however the most common I see are 30,60 or 90 day sleep trials. This is especially important for sleepers experiencing back pain as you want to have the flexibility to test the mattress in your own home to make sure it relieves the pain you experience.
Warranties
A mattress warranty refers to the amount of time a company is willing to replace your mattress if it “malfunctions” or doesn’t perform how its supposed to. This is extremely beneficial because it gives shoppers a general idea of how long the brand thinks the mattress will stay durable for. Each brand offers different warranties. However, I recommend looking at companies that offer a 10 year to lifetime warranty to get the most out of your mattress.
Shipping
A common drawback I hear from shoppers is the extra shipping fee you have to pay when buying a mattress online. I have made sure that each mattress I recommend here offers free shipping so you don’t have to work that into your budget. Some companies do offer white glove delivery at an extra cost which includes delivering your mattress, setting it up for you in your room and even removing your old mattress. This service can be especially helpful for shoppers who don’t feel like they can carry the box upstairs or remove their old mattress due to pain or lack of extra hands.
Shipping can also be very expensive if you are purchasing internationally, so I also looked into some of the best Canadian mattresses to help you navigate international mattress shopping.
Final Word From Sleepopolis
At the end of the day, a new mattress isn’t going to solve your back pain woes any more than a strict diet will. More than anything, it’s about a lifestyle shift in which you combine these different factors to create a plan specific to your needs.
Maybe your ideal routine will involve a healthy amount of fatty fish, long morning walks, and a bed featuring zoned support at the hips. For another sleeper, it may entail vigorous spin classes, more greens, and a plush memory foam mattress for pressure relief at the upper back.
As always, any major life decisions should be made in consultation with a medical professional. The information provided in this guide is just that: Information. We’re not doctors, nor do we claim to be, so we highly encourage those with chronic pain to seek professional advice for any and all serious health issues.
A Look Into the Sleepopolis Testing Lab
In order to ensure that we’re recommending the best mattresses to sleepers everywhere, we test each one individually in our mattress lab in Raleigh, North Carolina. Here, our team of Certified Sleep Science Coaches has reviewed more than 300 beds, putting each one through a rigorous testing process that includes measuring a mattress’s motion transfer with a seismometer, tracking its cooling capabilities with a thermal gun, and visualizing its ability to relieve pain with a pressure map.
From there, we give every bed an overall score based on its materials, comfort, support, cooling, edge support, and more. We also factor in brand performance with categories such as value and warranty.
We know that sleep is an integral part of your health, which is why we’ve developed such a detailed methodology when testing mattresses and writing our reviews. We also know that every sleeper is different when it comes to body type, sleeping position, and mattress preference. With so many factors at play, we want to give you an informed opinion so you can make an informed purchase.
How We Chose These Mattresses
Our team of Certified Sleep Science Coaches has reviewed more than 300 products in our mattress lab, running each one through tests such as pressure-mapping and measuring motion transfer with a seismometer. From there, we give every bed an overall score based on materials, comfort, support, cooling, and edge support. We also factor in brand performance with categories such as value and warranty.
However, some factors are more important than others depending on the mattress’s category. When handpicking the best mattresses for back pain this roundup, we first and foremost considered the support scores in our Sleepopolis mattress lab. Any mattress that’s going to combat back pain will need to have a substantial amount of support, so we aimed to pick beds that scored high in that category. Out of the 10 products included here, all of them scored a 4 out of 5 or higher.
We also made a point to include beds with good cooling properties, as a mattress that overheats easily can cause extra discomfort for those already battling back pain. All but one mattress in this roundup received cooling scores at or above 4 out of 5. Click here to learn more about our methodology.
FAQs
What type of mattress is best for back pain?
If I had to choose, I’d select the hybrid mattress as the best type of mattress for back pain. Hybrid beds come in a wide range of constructions that cater to all sorts of body types and sleeping positions. These mattresses incorporate sturdy coils and pressure-relieving foams for support and comfort.
Truly, there isn’t one mattress that I recommend over all others for back pain. It’s more about finding one that suits your needs and preferences. The most important factors to take into account are your body type, sleeping position, and ideal firmness.
For instance, if you’re a stomach sleeper who struggles with back pain, you’ll probably do best on an innerspring mattress or a hybrid mattress. If you’re a side sleeper, you may prefer something softer that includes memory foam.
Can a firm mattress cause lower back pain?
Yes, but it depends on one’s preferred sleeping position. Side sleepers will find that a firm mattress compounds their lower back pain (these folks tend to go for softer beds), while stomach sleepers will find a firm mattress helps with their back pain as the extra support lifts their spine into a neutral alignment.
Sometimes, folks like a firmer mattress and find the level of support is better for alleviating their back pain. But I recommend ensuring that you’ve got some pressure-relieving foam for cushioning at the lumbar region.
Is it best to have a soft or firm mattress for back pain?
Typically, back pain sufferers will opt for something in the 5 to 7 range on the firmness scale (with 1 being the softest and 10 the firmest). This medium-firm feel is likely to both soothe aches at the lumbar region and provide much needed support at the hips.
However, some side sleepers might need something softer, as they put a lot of pressure at their shoulder and hip. Stomach sleepers and/or heavier sleepers might want a firmer, more supportive mattress to keep the spine lifted and in alignment.
Is a memory foam mattress good for back pain?
Memory foam has a slow response to pressure, so it allows the sleeper to sink in for some satisfying contouring at the shoulders and hips. This helps to alleviate tension at these sensitive spots and can bring some much needed relief to the upper and lower back.
How do I choose the right mattress for back pain?
Identify what body type you have, what your sleeping position is, and your preferred firmness. Then scroll through our list of the best mattresses for back pain and pick one that fits your individual criteria. If you’re still not sure, take our sleep quiz.
What’s nice about online mattresses in particular is that many companies offer what’s called a “sleep trial.” During this sleep trial, which is normally around 100 nights for most brands, you can test out the mattress and spend many nights determining if it’s the best choice for you. If not, you can send it back within the trial period, often for a refund.
How do I know if my mattress is causing my back pain?
If you need a new mattress for your back pain, there are a few ways you can tell. When pain occurs or worsens after sleeping on your mattress, this is a telltale sign. You can also experience restlessness throughout the night, which is an indicator that your mattress isn’t good for your back.
Another important question to ask yourself is whether or not you feel comfortable. If your mattress feels like it’s sagging, or if you don’t feel supported in some way, then your bed is probably worsening your back pain.
Best Mattresses for Back Pain
| Mattress | Best For | Price (Queen) | Coupon | Review |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nectar | Overall | $1,099 | Nectar Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Saatva | Innerspring | $1,995 | Saatva Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Helix Midnight Luxe With ErgoAlign Layer | Combo Sleepers | $2,887.66 | Helix Coupon | Read Our Review |
| WinkBed | Cooling | $1,799 | WinkBed Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Saatva Rx | Side Sleepers | $3,295 | Saatva Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Bear Elite Hybrid | Athletes | $2,111 | Bear Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Nolah Evolution | Luxury | $2,499 | Nolah Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Silk & Snow Hybrid | Couples | $850 | Check Coupon Page | Read Our Review |
| Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid | Cheap | $1,332 | Brooklyn Bedding Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Plank Firm Luxe | Firm | $1,532 | Brooklyn Bedding Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Titan Plus by Brooklyn Bedding | Heavy Sleepers | $1,249 | Brooklyn Bedding Coupon | Read Our Review |
Logan Block
Mattress Reviewer
About Author
Logan is the former content director of Sleepopolis. As content director, he reviewed new mattresses every week and curated the comparisons, best of pages, and video guides on the site. Logan perfected his method by personally testing over 200 different mattresses, so he’s not only able to discern the overall vibe of a specific bed, but to contextualize its feel within the bed-in-a-box market as a whole.
Combination Sleeper
Sources
- Lucas, Jacqueline W., et al. “Back, Lower Limb, and Upper Limb Pain Among U.S. Adults, 2019.” NCHS Data Brief, no. 415, July 2021.
- Gerhart, James I., et al. “Relationships Between Sleep Quality and Pain-Related Factors for People with Chronic Low Back Pain: Tests of Reciprocal and Time of Day Effects.” Annals of Behavioral Medicine, vol. 51, no. 3, 2016, pp. 365–375., doi:10.1007/s12160-016-9860-2.
- Jacobson, Bert H., et al. “Effect of Prescribed Sleep Surfaces on Back Pain and Sleep Quality in Patients Diagnosed with Low Back and Shoulder Pain.” Applied Ergonomics, vol. 42, no. 1, 2010, pp. 91–97., doi:10.1016/j.apergo.2010.05.004.
- Ashburn, Michael. (2017, November 15). 3 Common Forms of Lower Back Pain. Penn Medicine Musculoskeletal and Rheumatology Blog.
- St-Onge, Marie-Pierre, et al. “Effects of Diet on Sleep Quality.” Advances in Nutrition, vol. 7, no. 5, 2016, pp. 938–949., doi:10.3945/an.116.012336.
- Kline, Christopher E. “The Bidirectional Relationship Between Exercise and Sleep.” American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine, vol. 8, no. 6, 2014, pp. 375–379., doi:10.1177/1559827614544437.