Best Mattress for a Herniated Disc

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When it comes to herniated discs, sleeping can feel like a nightmare if you’re on the wrong mattress. According to Sleepopolis Chief Medical Advisor Dr. Raj Dasgupta, sleepers with spinal pain should “choose a medium-firm to firm mattress that gives plenty of support for your back. It should be made of contouring materials (such as memory foam or latex) and relieve pressure points. If it’s adjustable, that could be a bonus, and make sure the mattress is durable and will last.”

In our Sleepopolis testing lab, a team of sleep science coaches evaluates each mattress for factors like materials, pressure relief, support, cooling, motion isolation, and more. Price is another important factor to consider, and the beds in this roundup range from $1,332 to $3,295 for a queen-size mattress at full price. All these mattress brands run frequent sales and offer generous discounts, so you are very likely to purchase these beds for cheaper.

According to the American Chiropractic Clinics, 35% of American adults have herniated or bulging discs. With such a large part of the population suffering, there’s a need for pressure relieving beds that provide enough support to promote neutral spinal alignment. In 2024, Sleepopolis helped 12,544 find their perfect bed. Hopefully, you’ll be able to find your perfect bed, too.

Our Top Pick for Herniated Disc Sufferers

The Helix Midnight has everything a herniated disc sufferer might want: optimal support, tension alleviation, and quality materials. In terms of sleeping position, we think it’s best for back sleepers and side sleepers.

Best Mattresses for Herniated Discs of 2024

Disclaimer: The content on Sleepopolis is meant to be informative, but shouldn’t replace advice or treatment from a medical professional. If you experience chronic pain or discomfort while sleeping, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional.

Compare the Best Mattress for Herniated Discs

Helix Midnight Mattress Saatva Rx Mattress WinkBed Mattress Nolah Signature 12 Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress Saatva Mattress Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress Birch Natural Mattress
Helix Midnight Mattress Saatva Rx Mattress WinkBed Mattress Nolah Signature 12″ Mattress Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress Saatva Mattress Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress Birch Natural Mattress
Rating
4.1
4.7
4.7
4.1
4.6
4.8
4.3
4.1
Firmness Medium-firm: 6.5/10 Medium-firm: 6.5/10 Firm: 7/10 Soft: 5.5/10 Multiple firmness options Multiple firmness options Multiple firmness options Firm: 7/10
Material Hybrid Hybrid Hybrid Foam Hybrid Innerspring Foam Hybrid
Cooling
Best For
Couples,
Back Sleepers,
Side Sleepers
Back Pain, Hip Pain, Stomach Sleepers, Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers
Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Hot Sleepers, Side Sleepers
Side Sleepers,
Back Pain
Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Hip Pain, Seniors
Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Hot Sleepers, Seniors
Stomach Sleepers,
Back Pain,
Seniors
Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Seniors,

What We Look For in the Best Mattress for a Herniated Disc

Firmness

When testing the best mattresses for a herniated disk, we considered a lot of things, one of the first of which was firmness. While firmness and support are directly related, firmer mattresses are generally more supportive, and softer mattresses are a bit more contouring. Depending on what you need, you may want to consider more support or more contouring, and therefore will want to pick a respective firmness.

Pressure Relief

Pressure relief is very important to consider for sleepers with a herniated disc. Pressure relief can help alleviate pain and keep a sleeper comfortable when sleeping with a herniated disc. We tested all of the mattresses on this list for their pressure-relieving capabilities to help you find the right mattress for your needs.

Adjustable Base Compatibility

Sleepers who have a herniated disc may enjoy an adjustable base, which can provide the necessary pressure relief, pain relief, and comfort for them. We considered this when testing these mattresses so you can know your options when buying a new mattress.

Helix Midnight – Best Overall

Best Overall
Sleepopolis Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.2
Helix
Helix Midnight Mattress
Cooling Mattress
Medium-Firm Comfort
Reinforced Edges
Hybrid mattress
100-night trial on all mattresses
Free shipping on all orders
Cyber Monday Sale
Use code SLEEPOPOLIS27 for 27% off sitewide + 2 free pillows with mattress purchase See Details
SO Brand Icon MattressMaterial
Material
This is a hybrid mattress, meaning it combines soft foams and sturdy coils for a balance of comfort and support.
SO Brand Icon PropertyFirmness
Firmness
We rated the Helix Midnight a 6 out of 10 on the firmness scale, where 1 is the softest and 10 is the firmest. This means it’s slightly softer than the industry standard (6.5 out of 10).
SO Brand Icon PropertyPrice
Price
$937–$1,749 (before any discounts)
so brand icons 2023 Mattress Review Home Page
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
SO sleeper type side sleepers
Side Sleepers
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.
SO sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleepers
Ideal for back sleepers of all weights.
SO sleeper type couples
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation, so you shouldn’t feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Pros of the Helix Midnight
Back sleepers should get some cushioning in the lumbar region, and the coils will help keep their spines neutrally aligned.
Side sleepers should experience nice pressure relief and contouring at their shoulders and hips. For extra pressure relief, we recommend the Helix Midnight Luxe, the standard Helix Midnight’s luxury version.
The Helix Midnight has low motion transfer, which means partners aren’t likely to feel each other moving around at night.
The Midnight is a responsive mattress, so it’s ideal for combination sleepers.
Cons of the Helix Midnight
Not supportive enough for people over 250 pounds. For them, we recommend one of the best mattresses for heavy people.
SO Brand Icon PropertyShipping
Shipping
Free Shipping
SO Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod
Trial Period
100 nights
SO Brand Icon MattressWarranty
Warranty
10-year warranty
so brand icons 2023 Editorial Policy Home Page copy
Returns
You can return your bed after the 30-day “break-in” period and before the trial period ends for a full refund.

The Helix Midnight is amongst Helix’s line of six standard mattresses. It’s known for its more balanced feel, allowing it to accommodate a wide range of sleepers. We also recommend it for couples, as it scored well on our motion isolation, responsiveness, edge support, and cooling tests. For a plusher and more cooling version of this mattress, see the Helix Midnight Luxe. Learn more in our video review.

What our tester says:

“I would recommend this mattress for side or back sleepers because it’s supportive, without putting pressure on your joints.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer

Helix Midnight Mattress Sleepopolis Scores

Poor
Average
Excellent

1
2
3
4
5
4
Materials
3.5
Motion Isolation
4
Support
4
Edge Support
4.5
Cooling
4.5
Responsiveness
4.5
Pressure Relief
3.5
Trial Period
3.5
Warranty
4
Value

Expert Opinion

Choosing the absolute best mattress for herniated discs is a challenging task, especially since mattresses aren’t one-size-fits-all. That said, after all of our testing, we had to give the Helix Midnight the number-one spot. Its medium support level creates a balance of comfort and support that’s excellent for alleviating back pain (and herniated disc pain, of course).

The same balance that makes this a good mattress for alleviating pain also makes it a solid option for back and side sleepers. The soft cover and dual foam layers allow for cushioning and ease tension off the joints, while individually wrapped coils and high-density poly foam work to keep the sleeper’s body in alignment. This was further confirmed by our pressure map test, where we spread a specialized mat across the mattress surface to track areas of high, moderate, and low pressure. The graphic that utilizes thermal imaging to present this information showed primarily blue and green in these sleeping positions, which indicates low pressure buildup.

Is the Helix Midnight Compatible With an Adjustable Bed Frame?

All Helix beds are made to be compatible with adjustable bed frame bases, so the Helix Midnight is compatible with an adjustable bed frame.

What our tester says: “The Midnight Luxe has an extra pillow top layer and zoned support in its construction. It feels more cushioning than the standard Midnight, but, in the end, I also gave it a 6 out of 10 rating on our firmness scale. I’d especially recommend this mattress to sleepers who suffer from back pain, since zoned support helps promote a healthy, straight spinal alignment.” – Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor

What Customers Say

Many Helix Midnight shoppers say they decided on their mattress from Helix’s 30-second Sleep Quiz. We recommend trying it if you’re uncertain about the best Helix model for you.

Highlights of the Helix Midnight Mattress

  • Our pressure map test showed us that the Helix Midnight is going to be a solid option for folks with shoulder and hip pain.
  • This should be a fantastic bed for couples, as it scored well in all four categories relevant to couples: motion isolation, responsiveness, cooling, and edges support.
  • If you’re looking for added cooling and pressure relief, the Helix Midnight has a luxury version appropriately named the Helix Midnight Luxe.

What to Keep In Mind About the Helix Midnight Mattress

  • This mattress is a bit too soft for strict stomach sleepers over 130 pounds, so we recommend these folks opt for a firmer mattress like the Helix Dawn.

Read our full Helix Midnight mattress review for more information.

Saatva Rx – Best Mattress for Back and Joint Pain

Best for Back and Joint Pain
Sleepopolis Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.7
Saatva
Saatva Rx Mattress
Medium-Firm Feel
Caters to Joint Pain
Unique Construction
Hybrid
365 nights
Free white glove delivery
Cyber Monday Sale
Up to $600 off See Details
SO Brand Icon MattressMaterial
Material
This is a hybrid mattress, meaning it combines soft foams and sturdy coils for a balance of comfort and support.
SO Brand Icon PropertyFirmness
Firmness
We rated the Saatva Rx a 6.5 out of 10 on our mattress firmness scale, where 1 is the softest and 10 is the firmest. A 6.5 means that it’s a medium-firm mattress.
SO Brand Icon PropertyPrice
Price
$1,995–$4,390 (before any discounts)
so brand icons 2023 Mattress Review Home Page
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
SO sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleepers
You should get enough cushioning for your lumbar region and enough support for a neutral spinal alignment.
SO sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
If you ever overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
stomach sleeper
Stomach Sleepers
The Saatva Rx is supportive enough to prevent stomach sleepers’ hips from bowing into the mattress.
Pros of the Saatva Rx
It’s supportive while providing enough pressure relief for joint pain
The specially designed blend of comfort and support makes it a good fit for all three primary sleeping positions
There are plenty of cooling features, including airflow-promoting coils and infusions of gel and phase change material
Cons of the Saatva Rx
It’s a very pricy mattress. For less-expensive options, see our roundup of the best cheap mattresses.
SO Brand Icon PropertyShipping
Shipping
Free shipping and white glove delivery
SO Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod
Trial Period
365 nights
SO Brand Icon MattressWarranty
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
so brand icons 2023 Editorial Policy Home Page copy
Returns
Free returns after at least 45 days and within the 365-night trial period

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

Saatva Rx Mattress Sleepopolis Scores

Poor
Average
Excellent

1
2
3
4
5
5
Materials
4.5
Motion Isolation
5
Support
4
Edge Support
4.5
Cooling
4
Responsiveness
4.5
Pressure Relief
5
Trial
5
Warranty
4.5
Value

Expert Opinion

Saatva describes its Rx model as “the first luxury mattress specifically designed for sleepers with chronic back and joint conditions.” To achieve this, the brand built it with a unique construction that consists of an organic cotton cover, gel-infused memory foam that’s zoned for support, and foam modules sandwiched between two layers of coils. When we tested it out, we experienced immediate pressure relief and found that it has a medium-firm feel.

This mattress promises pain relief, and our pressure relief test confirmed this. There is very little pressure buildup when side and back sleeping, which is likely due to the cushioning built into every layer. Based on these results, we think people suffering from back and joint pain should be very comfortable on this mattress. It’s plush, but its coil layers keep the bed super-sturdy and supportive, so you shouldn’t sink too far into the layers.

Is the Saatva Rx Compatible With an Adjustable Bed Frame?

According to the Saatva website, the Saatva Rx mattress is compatible with an adjustable bed frame.

What our tester says: “The mattress offers a pleasant mix of comfort and support to create that balanced, medium-firm feel. While lying on the bed, I experienced plushness and cushioning from the quilted cover and upper foam layers, but felt firmly supported by the coils below. I think the unique design of this bed, with features like microcoils and the foam caps on the pocketed coils, contributes to this very balanced feel.” – Amelia Jerden, former senior staff writer

What Customers Say

Customers praise this mattress for its comfortable feel and ability to soothe stiffness and pain. Some sleepers suffering from chronic pain found better sleep on the Saatva Rx and were able to wake up without any soreness. Customers were very satisfied with Saatva’s customer service, especially their free white glove delivery.

Highlights of the Saatva Rx Mattress

  • Heavy Sleepers (those weighing over 250 pounds) should feel quite supported on this mattress. We don’t foresee these sleepers sinking too far into the layers.
  • We really like this mattress for couples due to its cooling, edge support, motion isolation, and responsiveness.
  • We think combination sleepers will enjoy the responsiveness of this mattress, as it helps sleepers easily switch between sleeping positions without feeling trapped in the layers.

What to Keep In Mind About the Saatva Rx Mattress

  • This mattress is pretty pricy and may not be the best choice for budget shoppers.

Want to learn more? Head over to our full Saatva Rx mattress review.

WinkBed – Best Hybrid Mattress for Herniated Disc

Best Hybrid
Sleepopolis Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.7
WinkBeds
WinkBed Mattress
Firm, Supportive Feel
Euro Pillow Top
Sturdy Coils
Hybrid
120 nights
Free shipping
Holiday Sale
$300 off any mattress See Details
SO Brand Icon MattressMaterial
Material
Hybrid, combining a plush pillow top with coils and foams for a luxury feel.
SO Brand Icon PropertyFirmness
Firmness
Multiple firmness options: Softer, Luxury Firm, and Firmer. We tested the Luxury Firm and scored it a 7 out of 10, meaning it’s on the firmer side of medium-firm.
SO Brand Icon PropertyPrice
Price
$1,149–$2,049 (before any discounts)
so brand icons 2023 Mattress Review Home Page
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
SO sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
SO sleeper type back pain
Back Pain
This bed is ideal for anyone suffering from back pain.
SO sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleeping
A great option for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Pros of the WinkBed
Back sleepers should get the support they need
It has a traditional, supportive feel
The WinkBed has cooling capabilities to help people who sleep hot
Sturdy edge support and good motion isolation make this a good choice for couples
Cons of the WinkBed
It lacks a contouring, slow-sinking feel that most associate with the best memory foam mattresses.
It may be too pricey for some, and we recommend those shoppers browse the best mattresses under $1,000.
SO Brand Icon PropertyShipping
Shipping
Free Shipping
SO Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod
Trial Period
120 nights
SO Brand Icon MattressWarranty
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
so brand icons 2023 Editorial Policy Home Page copy
Returns
Full refund within the 120-night trial period

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

WinkBed Mattress Sleepopolis Scores

Poor
Average
Excellent

1
2
3
4
5
4.5
Materials
4
Motion Isolation
4.5
Support
4
Value
4.5
Cooling
4
Responsiveness
4.5
Pressure Relief
4
Edge Support
4
Trial Period
5
Warranty

Expert Opinion

If you’re like us and appreciate reliable support, then you might find a lot to love in the WinkBed, a luxury hybrid mattress with a traditional innerspring feel. It uses an extra-tall layer of individually wrapped coils for its support system. These springs immediately respond to applied pressure and can properly accommodate each body part. This means optimal weight distribution and reduced strain on your herniated disc. And the best part is, our back felt 100 percent comfortable in any sleeping position when using the WinkBed.

We can actually see how much pressure is being put on the back using our pressure map test. This involves us lying down on a specialized mat in various sleeping positions. The mat detects the pressure, then displays the results on a computer using a color-coded “map” of our body. For the WinkBed, our back was almost entirely blue in every sleeping position, indicating little to no pressure. That means it’s unlikely to activate any back pain.

Is the WinkBed Compatible With an Adjustable Bed Frame?

According to the WinkBed website, all of their mattresses are compatible with adjustable bed frames.

What our tester says: “One of my favorite things about the WinkBed is its durability. This is a high-quality mattress that should really stand the test of time. This is great news for any sleeper, but especially nice for heavy people and couples. I also really like the bouncy support this mattress offers. It should be a hit with combination sleepers who need some mobility to change positions at night.” – Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor

What Customers Say

Throughout nearly 8,500 customer reviews on the WinkBed website (the average rating is 4.8 out of 5 stars), sleepers rave about how the mattress is supportive without being too firm. Many of these folks have also struggled with pain conditions such as arthritis, and say that the WinkBed has helped them find relief.

Highlights of the WinkBed Mattress

  • The WinkBed is available in several different firmness levels, so there’s something for every sleeping position. We recommend the Softer for side sleepers, Luxury Firm for back sleepers, and Firmer for stomach sleepers. There’s also the WinkBed Plus, which is extra-durable and designed for heavy sleepers over 250 pounds, but it does cost a bit extra.
  • The WinkBed’s tall layer of coils leave plenty of room for airflow. The mattress also has a breathable Tencel cover. Both of these factors help the WinkBed sleep cool.
  • It has a springy, responsive feel, so combo sleepers shouldn’t have any issue switching positions between their side, back, and stomach.

What to Keep In Mind About the WinkBed Mattress

Read our full WinkBed mattress review for more information.

Nolah Signature – Best Mattress for Side Sleepers

Best for Side Sleeping
Sleepopolis Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.1
Nolah
Nolah Signature 12″ Mattress
Soft Feel
Organic Cotton Cover
Cooling Foam
Foam
120 nights
Free shipping
Cyber Monday Sale
35% off sitewide + 2 free pillows + $150 off BedJet with mattress purchase See Details
SO Brand Icon MattressMaterial
Material
The Nolah Signature is composed entirely of foam, including a breathable proprietary material called AirFoam.
SO Brand Icon PropertyFirmness
Firmness
This is an ultra-soft bed, coming in at 5.5 out of 10 on our mattress firmness scale, where 1 is the softest and 10 is the firmest.
SO Brand Icon PropertyPrice
Price
$1,299–$2,798 (before any discounts)
so brand icons 2023 Mattress Review Home Page
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
SO sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleepers
Although this is a soft mattress, back sleepers should still get the support they need.
SO sleeper type back pain
Back Pain
Its foams should soothe the lumbar region, as well as other aches and pains.
SO sleeper type side sleepers
Side Sleepers
They should experience deep pressure relief at their shoulders and hips.
Pros of the Nolah Signature
The AirFoam is a more breathable alternative to traditional memory foam, which should appeal to hot sleepers
The cushioning nature of the bed provides deep pressure relief
Back sleepers and side sleepers alike should be comfortable
Cons of the Nolah Signature
The mattress likely isn’t firm or supportive enough for stomach sleepers
Heavy sleepers over 250 pounds will also need something more supportive
SO Brand Icon PropertyShipping
Shipping
Free shipping
SO Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod
Trial Period
120 nights
SO Brand Icon MattressWarranty
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
so brand icons 2023 Editorial Policy Home Page copy
Returns
Free returns

If you’re looking for a soft yet supportive foam option, the Nolah Signature should be a good fit. It’s supportive enough for back sleepers, while also providing enough contouring for side sleepers, especially at the shoulders and hips where the put the most pressure while sleeping. Learn more in our video review.

What our tester says:

“I think the Nolah Signature is a great choice for a lot of back and side sleepers. The sinkage this mattress provides should be a nice match for these sleepers and offer the pressure relief they need.” – Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor

Nolah Signature Mattress Sleepopolis Scores

Poor
Average
Excellent

1
2
3
4
5
4.5
Materials
4
Motion Isolation
4.5
Support
4
Value
4
Cooling
4
Responsiveness
5
Pressure Relief
4
Edge Support
4
Trial Period
4
Warranty

Expert Opinion

There’s one thing that side sleepers and folks with herniated discs have in common, and that’s the need for adequate pressure relief. Side sleepers naturally put more weight on the shoulder and hip, and an overly firm mattress can cause too much pressure buildup and result in pain problems. Similarly, those suffering from joint pain need a plusher mattress to alleviate pressure buildup at sensitive areas.

The first mattress that comes to mind for side sleepers with herniated discs is the Nolah Signature, Nolah’s flagship foam mattress with a soft feel (5.5 out of 10 on our firmness scale) and lots of pressure relief. The foam feel allows for lots of contouring and sinkage, which should help either alleviate or relieve pain and promote a more restful sleep. Our pressure map test also showed good results for side sleepers under 250 pounds. However, all of this softness doesn’t mean the Signature sacrifices support; there’s a layer of high-density poly foam at the bottom of the mattress for sturdiness and durability.

Is the Nolah Signature Compatible With an Adjustable Bed Frame?

According to the Nolah website, all of their beds are compatible with an adjustable bed frame. In fact, they say their beds are compatible with any kind of bed frame, base, or foundation.

What our tester says: “The Nolah Signature really impressed me on both the motion transfer test and with its edge support. I think couples are unlikely to feel their partner moving at night and they can use the whole surface of the bed. ” – Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor

What Customers Say

The Nolah Signature has 4.9 out of 5 stars on the company site, with many back and side sleepers complimenting how the mattress cradles them yet still provides stability.

Highlights of the Nolah Signature Mattress

  • The Nolah Signature scored well on our motion transfer and edge support tests. With this in mind, we think it should be suitable for many couples out there.
  • Foam mattresses get a bad rep for trapping heat, but during testing, we found that Nolah’s proprietary foam and breathable cover make it one of the more cooling all-foam options on the market.
  • The level of pressure relief isn’t just good for herniated discs; our test showed that sleepers with hip pain should feel adequate relief as well.

What to Keep In Mind About the Nolah Signature Mattress

  • This mattress is going to be far too soft for stomach sleepers, who tend to need a lot more support than back sleepers and side sleepers.

Read our full Nolah Signature mattress review for more information.

Bear Elite Hybrid – Best Cooling Mattress

Best for Hot Sleepers
Sleepopolis Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.6
Bear
Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress
Designed for Athletes
Soft Feel
Luxurious Foams
Hybrid mattress
120 nights
Free shipping
Extended Cyber Week Sale
Use code CYBER35 for 35% off sitewide + 2 free pillows with mattress purchase See Details
SO Brand Icon MattressMaterial
Material
This is a hybrid mattress, meaning it combines soft foams and sturdy coils for a balance of comfort and support.
SO Brand Icon PropertyFirmness
Firmness
Multiple firmness options: Soft, Medium, Firm. We rated the Medium model a 6 out of 10, meaning it is softer than average.
SO Brand Icon PropertyPrice
Price
$1,865–$3,997 (before any discounts)
so brand icons 2023 Mattress Review Home Page
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
SO sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleepers
Ideal for back sleepers of all weights, as it is supportive but cushioning.
SO sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
A good match for people who sleep hot, thanks to a cooling cover and breathable coils.
so brand icons 2023 Best Mattress Home Page
Athletes
This mattress was designed for rest and recovery and uses Celliant, a material Bear says assists with muscle recovery.
Pros of the Bear Elite Hybrid
Thick comfort layers provide lots of pressure relief while coils lift the hips for spinal support
The Medium model has a medium-soft feel that should suit most back sleepers
A responsive feel makes this bed easy to move on
Cons of the Bear Elite Hybrid
Heavyweight stomach sleepers won’t get enough support. See our best mattresses for heavy people for better options
As a luxury mattress with many special features, the Bear Elite Hybrid is priced higher. Budget shoppers may want to check out the best cheap mattresses
SO Brand Icon PropertyShipping
Shipping
Free Shipping
SO Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod
Trial Period
120 nights
SO Brand Icon MattressWarranty
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
so brand icons 2023 Editorial Policy Home Page copy
Returns
If you return within the 120-night trial period, you can get a full refund.

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

Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress Sleepopolis Scores

Poor
Average
Excellent

1
2
3
4
5
5
Materials
4.5
Motion Isolation
4.5
Support
4.5
Edge Support
4.5
Cooling
4
Responsiveness
4.5
Pressure Relief
4
Trial Period
5
Warranty
4.5
Value

Expert Opinion

Poor sleep and pain issues can turn into a vicious cycle, and if you’re overheating on your mattress as well, it leads to even further discomfort. If you struggle with staying cool throughout the night, the Bear Elite Hybrid is a fantastic option. When we tested out this hybrid mattress, we found cooling features in multiple layers. Up top, its cover includes Phase Change Material (PCM), which helps regulate body temperature. Beneath, you’ll find copper-infused memory foam for further cooling. And because of its coiled hybrid construction, and the support layer provides lots of room for airflow as well.

And it doesn’t end there. The Elite Hybrid has multiple firmness options, allowing most sleeping positions and body types optimal comfort. We recommend the Soft and Medium version for the best tension relief. Folks should feel cushioned by the hand-quilted cover and double foam layers. Additionally, the transition layer is zoned, so it delivers optimal support levels for different body sections, contributing to pressure alleviation. As a result, this mattress can help people with herniated discs feel more relaxed and experience less pain.

Is the Bear Elite Hybrid Compatible With an Adjustable Bed Frame?

The Bear Elite Hybrid is compatible with an adjustable bed frame, and Bear even makes a line of adjustable bed frames, which could be very useful for sleepers who experience pain from their herniated disk.

What our tester says: “The Bear Elite has a nice cushiony feel but is also easy to move around on, so it’s a nice fit for back and side combination sleepers.” – Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor

What Customers Say

There are around 300 reviews on Bear’s website, and lots of them say that the mattress is soft enough to alleviate pain without sacrificing support and stability.

Highlights of the Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress

  • Back sleepers should be comfortable on the Soft or Medium models depending on their weight. Our pressure map showed almost entirely blue, indicating little to no pressure buildup.
  • The mattress’s softness should also appeal to side sleepers, who should get plenty of contouring at their shoulders and hips — the areas of their body where they put the most pressure.
  • When we put the Elite Hybrid through our motion transfer test, it proved to be good at isolating motion. That makes it a great choice for couples. Partners are unlikely to feel each other tossing and turning at night.

What to Keep In Mind About the Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress

  • Because this luxury mattress has lots of special features, it may not be the most suitable option for budget shoppers.

Read our full Bear Elite Hybrid mattress review for more information.

SaatvaBest Mattress for Back Sleepers

Best for Back Sleeping
Sleepopolis Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.8
Saatva
Saatva Mattress
Multiple Firmnesses
Cooling Mattress
Strong Edge Support
Innerspring
365-night trial and lifetime warranty
Free white glove delivery
Cyber Monday Sale
Up to $600 off See Details
SO Brand Icon MattressMaterial
Material
Innerspring, for a bouncy mattress that’s easy to move around.
SO Brand Icon PropertyFirmness
Firmness
Multiple firmness options. We tested the Luxury Firm model and scored it a 6.5 out of 10, meaning it’s the industry standard for medium firm.
SO Brand Icon PropertyPrice
Price
$935–$2,450 (before any discounts)
so brand icons 2023 Mattress Review Home Page
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king, split California king
SO sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
If you ever overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
back pain
Back Pain
This bed is ideal for anyone suffering from back pain.
back sleeper
Back Sleeping
This mattress is ideal for back sleepers of all weights.
stomach sleeper
Stomach Sleeping
It’s also a nice option for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.
Pros of the Saatva
With three firmness options, most sleepers should find a Saatva model that works for them
The Saatva uses high-quality materials that will last you a long time
Its bouncy and responsive feel means it’s great for combination sleepers
The Saatva’s reinforced edges give it some of the best edge support we’ve ever seen
Cons of the Saatva
If you’re looking for lots of sinkage or amazing motion isolation, you’re better off with one of the best memory foam mattresses.
None of the Saatva Classic models will likely be supportive enough for heavy stomach sleepers. For these folks, we recommend the Saatva HD.
SO Brand Icon PropertyShipping
Shipping
Free white glove delivery
SO Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod
Trial Period
365 nights
SO Brand Icon MattressWarranty
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
so brand icons 2023 Editorial Policy Home Page copy
Returns
Full refund within the 365-night trial period. Saatva charges a $99 pick-up fee

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

Saatva Mattress Sleepopolis Scores

Poor
Average
Excellent

1
2
3
4
5
5
Materials
3
Motion Isolation
5
Support
5
Edge Support
4.5
Cooling
5
Responsiveness
4.5
Pressure Relief
5
Trial Period
5
Warranty
5
Value

Expert Opinion

The best mattresses for herniated discs combine support with lots of pressure relief. One of the most unique things about the Saatva — a luxury innerspring mattress with an elevated feel — is its smart construction, as it uses proprietary Spinal Zone technology. The mattress combines an extra layer of foam in the lumbar region with an active wire to ensure proper spinal alignment. And when the spine remains neutral, it experiences less pressure and strain, relieving pain and making the Saatva our favorite mattress for herniated disc patients. We also appreciate the Saatva’s uniform feel. It has sturdy edges and offers reliable support all across the perimeter. We think all of these traits make the mattress an excellent choice for back sleepers, who need just the right amount support to maintain a proper alignment.

To test out the Saatva’s edge support, we sat on the end of the mattress to see if it collapsed under our weight. It didn’t, which tells us that it has exceptionally strong edges. This should provide a little boost for the arms when getting up, which may really come in handy for herniated disc patients with somewhat limited mobility.

Is the Saatva Compatible With an Adjustable Bed Frame?

The Saatva mattress is compatible with adjustable bases, and Saatva has a line of adjustable bed frames which may be a good option for sleepers with a herniated disc.

What our tester says: “The Saatva Classic is a bouncy, high-quality mattress with durability and great edge support. I think it’s a nice option for back sleepers and combination sleepers. The Saatva Classic is also a great choice for sleepers with back pain.” – Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor

What Customers Say

There are over 3,000 reviews of the Saatva Classic on the brand’s website, and the mattress has an average customer rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars. Almost 30 of these reviews are from customers who have herniated discs. Most of these folks found the Saatva to be incredibly supportive, pain-relieving, and a good mattress choice for their condition.

Highlights of the Saatva Mattress

  • The Saatva comes in three different firmness levels, helping it appeal to a wide variety of sleepers. For back sleepers, we recommend the Luxury Firm (this is the model we tested). Side sleepers should choose the Plush Soft, which offers the most contouring, and stomach sleepers should go for the Firm, which provides the most firmness and support.
  • There are two layers of individually pocked coils in the Saatva, giving it a bouncy and responsive feel. This should make it easy for combination sleepers to switch positions while sleeping.
  • The brand offers free white glove delivery on all of its mattresses. Saatva will send someone to your home to deliver your mattress and set it up in your bedroom, free of charge. And unlike many other products we review, Saatva’s mattresses never come compressed in a box.

What to Keep In Mind About the Saatva Mattress

  • Even the Plush Soft model is going to be fairly springy. So if you want that traditional slow-moving feel associated with memory foam, you should look at other mattresses.

Read our full Saatva mattress review for more information.

Plank Firm – Best for Heavy Sleepers with Herniated Discs

Best for Heavy People
Sleepopolis Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.3
Brooklyn Bedding
Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress
Extra-Firm Feel
Flippable Design
Supportive Foams
Foam
120 nights
Free shipping
Cyber Monday Sale
Use code CYBER30 for 30% off sitewide See Details
SO Brand Icon MattressMaterial
Material
Foam
SO Brand Icon PropertyFirmness
Firmness
The Plank Firm is a flippable mattress with a different firmness option on each side. We score firmest with 1 being the softest and 10 being the firmest, and the Plank Firm features a Firm side (7.5/10) and an Ultra Firm side (8.5/10).
SO Brand Icon PropertyPrice
Price
$749–$1,532 (before any discounts)
so brand icons 2023 Mattress Review Home Page
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split California king, short full, short queen, Olympic queen, short king, RV king
SO sleeper type back pain
Back pain
Support for those living with back pain.
SO sleeper type stomach sleepers
Stomach Sleepers
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight stomach sleepers.
SO sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleepers
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight back sleepers.
Pros of the Plank Firm
The Plank Firm often appears on many of our roundups pertaining to spinal health and back pain.
This mattress is a good choice for couples; it scored 4 out 5 or more for motion isolation, edge support, and cooling.
The quality materials, from its firm cover to its high-density foams, make it an extremely durable option.
Cons of the Plank Firm
Side sleepers won’t receive the proper cushioning or contouring on the Plank Firm. They should look at our best mattresses for side sleepers instead.
It’s not the best mattress for alleviating joint pain because of its firmer feel — take a look at our best soft mattresses for alternative options
SO Brand Icon PropertyShipping
Shipping
Free within the contiguous US, but $125 for AK and HI
SO Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod
Trial Period
120 nights
SO Brand Icon MattressWarranty
Warranty
10-year warranty
so brand icons 2023 Editorial Policy Home Page copy
Returns
There is a $99 return fee.

The Plank Firm more than lives up to its name with its ultra-sturdy foams and supportive feel. While this bed certainly isn’t for everyone, it should be an ideal fit for back sleepers, stomach sleepers, and combination sleepers who want to feel more on top of their mattress than in it. For more information, check out our video review.

What our tester says:

“I think the Plank Firm is one of the best mattresses for stomach sleepers. Both sides of the mattress, the firm side and extra firm side, should give these sleepers the support they need to keep their hips in line with their shoulders. Back sleepers who like a firmer feel should also be happy on the firm side of the Plank.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer

Plank Firm Mattress Sleepopolis Scores

Poor
Average
Excellent

1
2
3
4
5
4
Materials
4
Motion Isolation
4.5
Support
4.5
Value
4
Cooling
4
Pressure Relief
4
Responsiveness
4.5
Edge Support
4
Trial Period
3.5
Warranty

Expert Opinion

The Plank Firm is our best mattress for heavier people who may experience a herniated disc due to its firmness. It has both a Firm and an Extra-Firm side, both of which should provide enough support to keep the spine neutrally aligned. At the same time, it’s made entirely of foam, so it can still provide a bit of pressure relief. In addition, the edge support is exceptionally strong, meaning you will have a stable surface to sit and stand from when getting out of bed.

The Plank Firm also has an optional cooling cover, which we think is a handy feature, as it’s infused with Phase Change Material and can absorb more heat, helping keep you cool and comfortable. That being said, it does come at an additional charge.

Is the Plank Firm Compatible With an Adjustable Bed Frame?

The Plank website says that all of their mattresses are compatible with multiple bases and frames, including adjustable bed frames.

What our tester says: “I really like that the Plank Firm is a flippable mattress with two firmness options. This makes it feel like you’re getting two beds for the price of one. I also think that the Plank Firm is a great choice for anyone who loves a firm feel — if you’re looking for the firmest mattress out there, the ultra-firm side of the Plank is the way to go.” – Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor

What Customers Say

The Plank Firm is created by Brooklyn Bedding, and on the company’s website, there are 2,735 customer reviews, with an average star rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars. Several reviewers have struggled with herniated discs, but praise the Plank Firm for being supportive enough to alleviate their pain.

Highlights of the Plank Firm Mattress

  • Both sides of the mattress should be comfortable and supportive enough for stomach sleepers.
  • Back sleepers should be comfortable on the Firm side of the mattress.
  • Although it’s made entirely of foam, the Plank Firm is responsive enough for combination sleepers to be able to easily switch positions.

What to Keep In Mind About the Plank Firm Mattress

  • Due to its firmness, the Plank isn’t going to be a good fit for side sleepers. They’ll need a much softer mattress that gives them plenty of contouring at the shoulders and hips, where they put the most pressure while sleeping.

Read our full Plank Firm mattress review for more information.

Birch Natural – Best Organic Mattress

Best Organic
Sleepopolis Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.2
Birch
Birch Natural Mattress
Firm Mattress
Organic
Cooling
Latex Hybrid
100-night Trial and 10-year Warranty
Free Shipping
Cyber Monday Sale
Use code SLEEPOPOLIS27 for 27% off sitewide + 2 free pillows with mattress purchase See Details
Icon MattressReviews MattressType 250
Material
Latex
SO Brand Icon PropertyFirmness
Firmness
Our mattress firmness scale runs from 1 to 10, with 10 being the firmest. The Birch is a 7 out of 10, which is pretty firm.
SO Brand Icon PropertyPrice
Price
$1,499–$2,499 (before any discounts)
so brand icons 2023 Mattress Review Home Page
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
SO sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleepers
Average weight back sleepers should get a good blend of lumbar cushioning and spinal support.
SO sleeper type stomach sleepers
Stomach Sleepers
Average weight stomach sleepers should get enough support to keep their hips and shoulders aligned.
SO sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
MattressReviewIcons Organic
Eco-conscious
If you’re looking for a mattress with safe and organic materials, this is the bed for you.
Pros of the Birch Natural
Organic mattress with numerous GOTS and GREENGUARD Gold certifications
Naturally cooling Talalay latex in its transition layer
Enough firmness and strong support for anyone experiencing back pain
Enough responsiveness for combination sleeping
Ideal for anyone looking for a firmer, more “on top of the bed” feel
Cons of the Birch Natural
This isn’t one of the best mattresses for side sleepers, which have a softer feel that better cushions the joints
Higher price point — one of the best cheap mattresses might be better
You won’t find the slow sinkage many look for in the best memory foam mattress
SO Brand Icon PropertyShipping
Shipping
Free shipping
SO Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod
Trial Period
100 nights
SO Brand Icon MattressWarranty
Warranty
25-year warranty
so brand icons 2023 Editorial Policy Home Page copy
Returns
Free returns before the 100-night trial ends

The Birch Natural is a latex mattress utilizing individually wrapped coils for added support. This mattress specializes in cooling and responsiveness, and the firmer nature suits back and stomach sleepers well. Perhaps the most special part about this mattress is the material quality. Not only is the Birch organic, but it has also earned multiple certifications for safe production and materials. For more information, check out our video review.

What our tester says:

“One of my favorite things about the Birch is how cooling it is. I think any hot sleeper will be satisfied by this breathable bed. It’s definitely one of the most cooling mattresses available thanks to its wool and latex layers. These cooling materials also make it one of my favorite organic mattresses.” – Madison Schaper, Sleepopolis staff writer

Birch Natural Mattress Sleepopolis Scores

Poor
Average
Excellent

1
2
3
4
5
4.5
Materials
3.5
Motion Isolation
4.5
Support
4
Value
4
Cooling
4
Pressure Relief
5
Responsiveness
3.5
Edge Support
3.5
Trial Period
5
Warranty

Expert Opinion

Everyone prioritizes different things when searching for their ideal mattress. If your priority is quality of materials, then the Birch Natural is for you. Each layer is made with extreme care, starting with an organic cotton cover, then transitioning to a layer of organic wool, Talalay latex, and finally individually wrapped coils. This thoughtful construction earned the Birch Natural a Global Organic Textile Standard and GREENGUARD Gold certification.

Of course, this mattress wouldn’t be on our roundup if it wasn’t also good for herniated discs. Like many mattresses on this roundup, the Birch Natural boasts a feel that contains the best of both worlds: plenty of cushioning and sufficient support. What makes the Birch different (besides its organic materials) is the use of Talalay latex. This material helps keep sleepers lifted on top of the mattress, furthering the level of support. Additionally this material is naturally cooling, and this combined with a breathable organic cotton cover makes things extra cool and comfortable.

Is the Birch Natural Compatible With an Adjustable Bed Frame?

The Birch Natural is compatible with an adjustable base.

What our tester says: “Its organic layers have a taut, springy feel and really offer great lift and support. If you’re a back and stomach combination sleeper I’d highly recommend the Birch.” Madison Schaper, former staff writer

What Customers Say

Not surprisingly, a great number of reviews appreciate that they feel not only comfortable but safe on the materials they’re sleeping on.

Highlights of the Birch Natural Mattress

  • The firmer nature of the Birch makes it a good option for back sleepers and stomach sleepers.
  • The Talalay latex and individually wrapped coils provide a bouncy feel that’s especially useful for changing sleeping positions throughout the night.
  • The Birch did incredibly well at our cooling test, so we highly recommend this bed to hot sleepers.

What to Keep In Mind About the Birch Natural Mattress

  • Side sleepers might find this mattress is a bit too firm, so we suggest searching for a mattress that offers a bit more plushness.

Read our full Birch Natural mattress review for more information.

What is a Herniated Disc and What are the Causes

All of the bones in our spine are cushioned by discs, which help absorb the shock from moving, twisting, and lifting. Each disc contains a soft inner part and a firmer outer section. A disc becomes herniated when the inner part starts protruding through the outer section.

Now, you may expect this condition to be mostly among the elderly, but the statistics show that herniated discs are most common among people between 30–50 years, and it is twice as common in males than females. While being commonly associated with age-related conditions, disc herniation is usually caused by straining or trauma, or weak muscles due to a sedentary lifestyle. It can occur in any part of the spine or neck, which leads to pain or numbness (or both). Naturally, this can influence your sleep quality.

Common causes of a herniated disc include:

  • Spinal trauma or back injury
  • Lifting heavy objects with poor form can cause a strain on the spine and result in a herniated disc
  • Repetitive bending and twisting of the spine
  • Aging and spinal aging

It’s important to note that only your doctor can choose the right treatment for you. In the meantime, in order to sleep better, you may want to look for a suitable mattress for a herniated disc. After all, sleeping comfortably and getting enough rest can help speed up your recovery, as well as minimize pain and other symptoms.

Are There Different Types of Herniated Discs?

According to the Miami Neuroscience Center, there are a few different types of herniated discs, including:

  • Cervical disc herniation: This is when a disc herniates in the neck. It is one of the most common causes of neck pain.
  • Thoracic disc herniation: This is when a disc herniates in the upper or mid-back.
  • Lumbar disc herniation: This is when a disc herniates in the lower back

What Is the Best Mattress Type for a Herniated Disc?

When it comes to picking the best mattress for a herniated disc, opinions differ. The main rule here is simple: your mattress should make you feel comfortable. However, each mattress type has certain peculiarities and characteristics, which may work for some sleepers and make others feel uncomfortable. Let’s take a closer look at them.

Sleepopolis testing of mattress materials
Take a Closer Look at the Different Mattress Materials
Memory Foam

Famous for its adaptiveness, memory foam offers close conforming. This material adjusts to your body curves and minimizes pressure points, which can help with pain relief in those with a herniated disc. However, keep in mind that memory foam can trap your body heat. This can affect your sleep greatly, especially if you are prone to night sweats. A good solution would be a mattress that has gel-infused layers or uses open-cell foam technology for improved air circulation.

Polyfoam

Poly foam is a bit denser and more responsive than memory foam, which makes it a great option for sleepers who don’t want to feel stuck in their mattress. At the same time, poly foam provides soothing pressure relief and precise body contouring, so it may work for those with herniated discs quite well.

Latex

Since disc herniation can cause muscle weakness, it may be challenging for some people to switch positions during the night. And that’s when the bounciness of latex would come in handy. Latex is very responsive and springy, which makes it a good choice for a suitable mattress for a herniated disc. Latex also does a good job of reducing pressure points without enveloping your body too much.

Hybrid

Hybrid mattresses usually combine a coil base and foam or latex comfort layers. Many sleepers appreciate their balanced feel. Hybrid mattresses successfully pair solid support with pressure relief. Many hybrid models feature zoned spinal support, which puts them among the best mattresses for a lumbar herniated disc. The main drawback of this bed type is its price tag, which isn’t ideal for shoppers on a budget. Check out our best hybrid mattresses.

Innerspring

Coil mattresses offer consistent support and bouncy response. They typically don’t sleep hot and don’t restrict your movements during the night. However, innerspring mattresses are typically unimpressive when it comes to pressure relief, which can be an issue when dealing with a herniated disc. Some sleepers combine them with a memory foam topper to enjoy a more balanced feel.

Can A Mattress Help a Herniated Disc?

Simply put, it can. A mattress that offers enough support and pressure relief across the spine can help sleepers who experience pain or discomfort as a result of a herniated disc. Having proper spinal alignment and contouring around the back can help you sleep more comfortably with a herniated disc and may aid in pain alleviation throughout the day. For other ways to improve pain from a herniated disc, we recommend consulting a doctor.

Sleeping With an Adjustable Base

Adjustable bases, as the name implies, are bed frames or bases that are moveable. They often resemble hospital beds, where half of the bed can be moved up or down. These bases can be helpful for people with herniated discs because they can promote proper spinal alignment and relieve some of the pressure felt around the herniated disc. These can be expensive, however, so if they are not an option for you, you can still find a mattress that will help with your herniated disc.

Are Adjustable Beds Beneficial for a Herniated Disc?

Sleeping in a reclined position helps some people feel more comfortable when struggling with back pain caused by a disc herniation. Therefore, you may try an adjustable bed frame. Make sure that your mattress is flexible enough to be used with it. Foam and latex mattresses are generally thought to work best with adjustable bases. You can also rent an adjustable base or a recliner from a medical supply retainer in your area if your pain is just temporary, for example if you’re coming out of a surgery.

Check out our Best Mattresses for Adjustable Beds for more specific picks.

What to Look for & How We Test the Best Mattress for a Herniated Disc

The truth is, there’s no universal recipe for the best mattress for a herniated disc. After all, different sleepers have various requirements in terms of comfort levels. Here’s the thing, though: When it comes to dealing with disc herniation, some mattress characteristics are crucial.

Support & Spinal Alignment

The spine has three main curves: cervical, thoracic, and lumbar. These curves must be supported and properly aligned during sleep to maintain correct posture and a healthy spine. So, it doesn’t matter whether you want a mattress for a herniated disc in your neck or lower back, for instance. It just has to support your whole body evenly in order to keep the spine, hips, and back aligned. 

Firmness

You should pick your bed firmness according to your sleeping position. When testing mattresses, we place each mattress on our firmness scale that ranges from 1-10, 1 being the softest mattress and 10 being the firmest mattress we have ever tested. We consider a true medium-firm mattress a 6.5.

For average side sleepers, a soft to medium-firm mattress would be a good option. Back sleepers require firmer support and may want to look at medium to medium-firm mattresses. As for stomach sleepers, a firm bed would be the most suitable. Your weight matters as well, and if you have a larger body type (over 230 pounds), you might need something extra supportive and a bit firmer. As a rule of thumb, the less you weigh, the firmer a mattress usually feels.

When testing mattresses, we test firmness on a firmness scale from 1-10.
Sleepopolis Firmness Scale

Pressure Relief

Extra pressure on your spine or muscles can cause extreme back pain, and this may worsen the pain from your herniated disc. Your mattress should be able to help reduce that pressure. In this case, you need something that would allow for enough cushioning for the protruding parts of your body. 

We’re able to measure a mattress’s pressure-relieving abilities with a test called the pressure map. We roll a specialized mat across the surface of the mattress and then lie down on it in different sleeping positions. The mat then rsense how much pressure is being put on our body and transmits the data to a computer using a color-coded “map”.

Blue means no pressure, green means little pressure, yellow means moderate pressure, orange means high pressure, and red means very high pressure. A mattress that displays blue (and maybe a little bit of green) is going to excel at pressure relief.

A closer look at our pressure map to test pressure relief features in each mattress.
An example of the Puffy Cloud Pressure Map

As an example, see the above pressure-map results for the Puffy Cloud, our top pick on this mattress roundup. As you can see, the Puffy Cloud puts little pressure on the body, with slightly more pressure while side sleeping than back sleeping. However, these are still solid results, and we think it’s a good mattress for both of these sleeping positions.

Quality Materials

When dealing with a herniated disc, you don’t want your mattress to lose its properties too soon. Look for well-known brands and a good warranty, as it would give you peace of mind for years to come. When choosing a foam model, it’s better to stick to denser foam, as it’s more durable. In a hybrid model, the coil gauge should be low, as lower numbers signify thicker and sturdier coils. As for latex mattresses, they are known for their increased lifespan and tend to be among the most long-lasting models on the market.

How Much Should I Spend on a Herniated Disc Mattress?

Investing a good quality mattress is crucial if you’re dealing with a herniated disc or any type of chronic pain. Although there are mattresses on the market that will fit into any budget, you might be sacrificing the quality of the materials, the durability, and the warranty length. We suggest looking to spend between $1,600 and $2,100. We have suggested a few more affordable options however if you have a smaller budget.

Cooling

While not directly related to disc herniation, sleeping hot can make you feel uncomfortable during the night and affect your sleep quality. When dealing with a herniated disc, the last thing you want is to be tossing and turning from over-heating. When testing for colling features in mattresses, we first look at mattresses that use cooling components like coils, gel memory foam, phase-changing materials, and cooling covers. Coils in hybrid and innerspring mattresses help with air flow, and latex naturally dissipates body heat. We also use a thermal gun to measure how fast a mattress cools down after our testers lay on it for several minutes. We consider anything under an 8 degree difference good cooling and anything under 5 degrees great cooling.

An example of our cooling test
Thermal Gun Cooling Test from the Studio

Motion Isolation

It can be challenging for people with a herniated disc to find a comfortable sleeping position. This often makes them toss and turn in bed. And if the mattress is bouncy, it’s more likely for their motion to ripple throughout the bed, which can be an issue if they share their mattress with a partner and one of them is a light sleeper. That’s why memory foam mattresses are often a good choice for cosleeping, especially if one of the partners suffers from chronic pain. A hybrid model may also suffice if it has extra-thick comfort layers (and if the weight difference between the partners isn’t significant).

To test a mattress’s motion isolation, we drop several steel balls of different weights onto its surface and measure the vibrations with a seismometer. The higher the vibration, the higher the motion transfer, and the more likely partners are to wake each other up with their movements. Look to the right at the motion-transfer results for the Plank Firm, one of the mattresses on this roundup.

These are very low motion-transfer results, which tells us that the Plank Firm is excellent at isolating motion. Couples are unlikely to feel each other tossing and turning. This is a common trait among many all-foam mattresses, as the material is better at isolating motion than springs.

MotionTransfer Brooklyn Bedding Plank
An example of the Sleepopolis Red Wine Test

Edge Support

Nichole doing the yardstick test on the Plank Firm Luxe
Nichole doing the yardstick test on the Plank Firm Luxe

Edge support relates to the amount of support that a mattress has along its perimeter. Edge support is especially important for couples, seniors, heavy people, and anyone with chronic pain or a herniated disc. We pay special attention to edge support for sleepers with a herniated disc by using a yardstick to measure the sinkage our testers feel when laying or sitting on the edge of the bed. Those with a herniated disc should stay away from super soft mattresses with zero edge support, especially if the pain is in your back and you need extra help getting out of bed.

Mattress Company Policies

Mattress Warranties

When spending the money to invest in a good quality mattress, making sure it offers a great warranty is crucial. A warranty refers to the time period of company will replace your mattress for free if the mattress doesn’t perform as promised. A warranty can also give you an idea of how long your mattress should be durable for.

We recommend looking for warranties of 8+ years to guarantee you are buying quality materials that will support your herniate disc.

Sleep Trials

A sleep trial is essential for sleepers with a herniated disc as it allows you test the mattress for a long period of time within the comfort of your home. Most companies offer 60-100 day trials which allows you to break in your mattress and see if it relives the pressure your herniated disc naturally causes you.

Shipping

When looking for pain relief in your mattress, the last thing you want is to pay for shipping. Fortunately, every brand we have selected in this roundup offers free shipping on mattress purchases. If you don’t think you are capable of lifting the mattress or shipping box to the necessary room, many companies offer a service called “white glove delivery.” This is a hand delivery service that delivers the mattress, lifts it to the room you want it in, sets it up, and removes your old mattress for an added fee. This is something to consider if you struggle with a herniated disc.

Shipping can also be very expensive if you are purchasing internationally, so we also looked into some of the best Canadian mattresses to help you navigate international mattress shopping.

Sleeping Position

correct sleeping position is one of the potential treatment options that can help you with pain relief when dealing with a herniated disc. But which one is considered to be the healthiest option? Let’s take a look and see how each position works.

Sleepopolis prioritize testing each mattress in every sleeping position
Sleepopolis team testing mattresses in every sleeping position
Back Sleepers

Back Sleeping is considered to be the healthiest for most people, as it can help you maintain proper spinal alignment. Back sleepers usually require medium firm mattresses and a fair amount of cushioning around the hips and buttocks. If you have a herniated disc in your neck, you may want to invest in an orthopedic pillow with a special dent in the center for proper neck support.

Side Sleepers

Sleeping on your side is another good option when dealing with a herniated disc. It might be especially beneficial if you are dealing with a foraminal herniated disc. For these sleepers, the mattress should be soft enough to cradle your protruding shoulders and hips. You can try to put a pillow between the knees or even use a full-body pillow to contribute to spinal alignment.

Stomach Sleepers

This sleeping position may work if you have lumbar paracentral disc herniation. But in other cases, it is not recommended for disc herniation. Sleeping on your stomach can cause your hips to sink while elevating the chest and creating an unhealthy arch in the spine. However, if you can’t sleep in any other position, make sure that your mattress is firm and supportive enough to keep the hips lifted and in line with the shoulders.

What is the Best Sleeping Position for a Herniated Disc

Back and side sleeping are both good options for sleeping with herniated discs and can offer the necessary support and spinal alignment to sleep comfortably. We advise against stomach sleeping with a herniated disc as it may put too much pressure on the spine.

Sleep Accessories that Can Help a Herniated Disc

Pillows

Pillows are crucial for keeping your body aligned throughout the night if you struggle with a herniated disc. Memory foam or wedge pillows are great ways to help with spinal alignment and can give a similar feel to an adjustable base by keeping your chest a little higher and your shoulders supported throughout the night. Check out our Best Mattresses for Neck Support for more options.

Mattress Toppers

Sleepers who need extra support but don’t want to invest in a new mattress would benefit greatly from a mattress topper. If you struggle with a herniated disc, we suggest getting a mattress topper that is medium-firm and has a pillow top. With the extra firmness, your hips can stay aligned and reduce pressure around your discs. The softness of the pillow top can allow for a more hugging feel around your pain points, which will help with pressure relief.

Mattress topper in the studio

Tips for Sleeping with a Herniated Disc

While sleeping on the right mattress cannot fix a herniated disc, there are a few things you can do to feel more comfortable.

  • Sleep on your back with a pillow under your knees: A pillow under your knees can help relieve some of the pressure around your lumbar region, and improve the pain you experience on your back.
  • Try an adjustable base: Adjustable bases can be helpful for back sleepers with herniated discs, as they can relieve some of the pressure across the spine and help you get more comfortable when falling asleep.
  • Sleep on your side with a pillow between your knees: A pillow between your knees when sleeping on your side may help the spine and hips stay properly aligned, which may help alleviate some pressure on the back.
  • Sleeping with a thinner pillow under your neck to reduce spinal strain: If you have a herniated disc in your neck, a thinner pillow under your head at night may improve your pain from the herniated disc by alleviating pressure and strain on the neck.
  • Sleeping with a body pillow: U shaped body pillows, sometimes called pregnancy pillows, may also help with alignment and alleviate some of the pain you are experiencing.

FAQs

Can a bad mattress cause a herniated disc?

While a bad mattress cannot cause disc herniation, it can worsen the symptoms and prolong the recovery process.

Is a memory foam mattress good for a herniated disc?

It depends on your personal preferences. Generally, memory foam mattresses are considered to be a good option for sleepers with a herniated disc due to the material’s pressure-relieving properties.

What’s the best sleeping position for people with herniated discs?

Sleeping on your back or side is considered suitable for a herniated disc. When lying on your side, you can also put a pillow between the knees to aid spinal alignment.

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, motion isolation, support, and more. We also factor in brand performance with categories such as value and warranty.

When selecting the best mattresses for herniated discs, we chose products that offer a mixture of pressure relief (which can help relieve pain from a herniated disc) and strong support (which can help keep the spine neutrally aligned and prevent further pain).

A Look Into the Sleepopolis Testing Lab

sweetnight prime side sleeper

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.

You can click here to learn more about our methodology.

Best Mattresses for Herniated Discs 2024

MattressBest ForPrice (Queen)CouponReview
Helix MidnightOverall$1,373Helix CouponRead Our Review
Saatva RxBack and Joint Pain$3,295Saatva CouponRead Our Review
WinkBedHybrid$1,799WinkBed CouponRead Our Review
Nolah SignatureSide Sleepers$1,799Nolah CouponRead Our Review
Bear Elite HybridCooling$2,305Bear CouponRead Our Review
SaatvaBack Sleepers$1,995Saatva CouponRead Our Review
Plank FirmHeavy People$1,332Brooklyn Bedding CouponRead Our Review
Birch Natural (by Helix)Organic$2,124Helix CouponRead Our Review
Dan Caffrey

Dan Caffrey

Editor

About Author

Dan is a Performance Editor and Certified Sleep Coach at Sleepopolis, where he writes and edits mattress roundups to give readers the most up-to-date information on sleep products. In 2020, Dan earned his MFA In Playwriting from UT Austin, and his plays have been seen around the country in Chicago, Austin, Washington D.C., and elsewhere. He’s also a pop-culture fanatic, having written for publications such as The A.V. Club, Consequence, Pitchfork, and Vox. He co-hosts two popular horror podcasts on the Bloody Disgusting Podcast Network — The Losers’ Club: A Stephen King Podcast and Halloweenies: A Horror Franchise Podcast. When he’s not catching up on the latest King novel, you can find Dan in and around Brooklyn walking his dog Hank, seeing a play with his wife, and going to way too many concerts.

Back Sleeper

Sources
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  • Adapted from a pamphlet originally prepared for the Arthritis Foundation by John W. Frymoyer (n.d.). Back pain. Retrieved from https://orthop.washington.edu/patient-care/articles/arthritis/back-pain.html

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  • Richard Staehler (2017, October 25). Mattresses and Sleep Positions for Each Back Pain Diagnosis. Retrieved from https://www.spine-health.com/wellness/sleep/mattresses-and-sleep-positions-each-back-pain-diagnosis

  • The Difference between Bulging Disc and Herniated Disc. miamineurosciencecenter.com. Published November 6, 2019. https://miamineurosciencecenter.com/en/conditions/herniated-disc/

     

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