Written by Logan Block, Mattress Reviewer
Finding the best mattress for back pain can be a challenge. Sleepers come in all shapes and sizes, and if you struggle with upper or lower back pain, beds that promise deep pressure relief often don’t deliver. When putting together our list of the best mattresses for back pain, we made sure to choose a wide variety. These beds run the gamut from affordable to luxurious, from firm to soft, and are sure to give you plenty of options to mull over while you make your decision.
Our Top Pick for Sleepers With Back Pain
Saatva shines on our list as the best overall pick due to its versatility (three firmness options) and unparalleled support. With this in mind, it should provide back pain relief for a variety of body types and sleeping positions.
Best Mattresses for Upper and Lower Back Pain
- Saatva – Best Overall Mattress for Back Pain
- Helix Dusk – Best Mattress for Combination Sleepers with Back Pain
- Nectar – Best Mattress for Side Sleepers with Back Pain
- Emma CliMax – Best Mattress for Couples with Back Pain
- Nolah Evolution – Best Luxury Mattress for Back Pain
- Titan Plus – Best Mattress for Heavy Sleepers with Back Pain
- WinkBed – Best Cooling Mattress for Back Pain
- Bear Elite Hybrid – Best Hybrid Mattress for Back Pain
- Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid – Best Cheap Mattress for Back Pain
- Leesa – Best Mattress for Back Sleepers with Back Pain
- Birch Natural – Best Organic Mattress for Back Pain
- TEMPUR-Adapt – Best Memory Foam Mattress for 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.
Compare The Best Mattresses For Back Pain
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Saatva Mattress | Helix Dusk Mattress | Nectar Mattress | Emma CliMax Hybrid | Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress | Titan Plus | WinkBed Mattress | Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress | Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress | Leesa Original Mattress | Birch Mattress | TEMPUR-Adapt Mattress | |
| Rating | ||||||||||||
| Firmness | Multiple firmness options | Soft: 6/10 | Soft: 6/10 | Firm: 7.5/10 | Multiple firmness options | Firm: 7.5/10 | Multiple firmness options | Multiple firmness options | Multiple firmness options | Soft: 6/10 | Medium-firm: 7/10 | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 |
| Material | Innerspring | Hybrid | Foam | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Foam | Hybrid | Foam |
| Cooling | ✓ | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | ✓ | -- | -- | -- | ✓ | ✓ |
| Sleep Position | Back & Stomach | Back | Back & Side | Back & Stomach | Back & Side | Back & Stomach | Combination | Back & Side | Back | Combination | Back & Stomach | Back |
Saatva – Best Overall
Saatva Mattress
The Saatva’s coil-on-coil construction provides a classic innerspring feel. It comes in three different firmness levels, and stomach sleepers should be most comfortable on the Firm.
Material
Innerspring
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Saatva Mattress
The Saatva’s coil-on-coil construction provides a classic innerspring feel. It comes in three different firmness levels, and stomach sleepers should be most comfortable on the Firm.
Material
Innerspring
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Saatva Mattress
The Saatva’s coil-on-coil construction provides a classic innerspring feel. It comes in three different firmness levels, and stomach sleepers should be most comfortable on the Firm.
Material
Innerspring
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Expert Opinion
Although it’s technically a hybrid with both foam and coils, the Saatva has a traditional innerspring feel due to its unique coil-on-coil construction. When testing it out in all three sleeping positions, we saw and felt very little pressure buildup around the back. That means the mattress isn’t likely to cause any back pain. We 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.
What our tester says: “If you love a traditional innerspring feel and would appreciate an added touch of plushness, I think you’ll meet your match with the Saatva. The Luxury Firm and Firm models both should offer solid support to help ensure spinal alignment. The Saatva also has some of the best edge support we’ve tested, making it a great fit for couples who want to sprawl out and use the full surface of the bed.” – Bridget Chapman, senior product editor
Who the Saatva Is Best For
- Back sleepers: They’ll likely find the right blend of comfort and support on the Luxury Firm version of the bed. Combination sleepers should also be comfortable on this model.
- Side sleepers: The Soft version of the bed should give them plenty of pressure relief at the shoulders and hips.
- Hot sleepers: The mattress’ cover is soft and breathable, and because there are so many coils in the construction, there’s a ton of room for airflow.
Who Should Avoid the Saatva
- Budget shoppers: Although we think all types of sleepers could be comfortable on the Saatva, it isn’t the cheapest mattress around.
Will this mattress lead you to restful nights? Find out in our full Saatva mattress review, or check out our roundup for the best mattresses.
Helix Dusk – Best Mattress for Combination Sleepers with Back Pain
Helix Dusk Mattress
The Helix Dusk mattress has a medium firm feel that's great for back sleepers! This mattress offers great contouring that doesn't make you feel like you’re “stuck in” bed making it a great choice for back sleepers as well as combination sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Helix Dusk Mattress
The Helix Dusk mattress has a medium firm feel that's great for back sleepers! This mattress offers great contouring that doesn't make you feel like you’re “stuck in” bed making it a great choice for back sleepers as well as combination sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Helix Dusk Mattress
The Helix Dusk mattress has a medium firm feel that's great for back sleepers! This mattress offers great contouring that doesn't make you feel like you’re “stuck in” bed making it a great choice for back sleepers as well as combination sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Expert Opinion
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 we tested out the Helix Dusk — the brand’s medium-soft option — we found that it had some responsiveness and a little bit of bounce. This should make it easy for combination sleepers to switch positions. We also tested out the bed with our pressure map and saw little to no pressure in the lumbar region, making the Dusk an excellent choice for soothing back pain.
What our tester says: “Both the Helix Dusk mattresses offer a balance of support and pressure relief that back sleepers should really appreciate. I personally enjoy a balanced feel, and I liked that these beds offer a nice blend of body-contouring and bounce!” – Logan Block, former Sleepopolis director of content and mattress tester
Who the Helix Dusk Is Best For
- Back sleepers: They should feel pressure relief on their lumbar region as it gets filled in with the bed’s soft foams.
- Side sleepers: The pressure map showed little to no yellow or red at the shoulders and hips, where side sleepers put the most pressure.
- Hot sleepers: Like most of Helix’s hybrid mattresses, the Dusk sleeps cool due to the airiness of its cover and coils that leave lots of room for air to flow through the bed.
Who Should Avoid the Helix Dusk
- Light-sleeping couples: The bed’s motion transfer results were just average. So if you or your partner are light sleepers, there’s a chance you could feel each other’s movements.
- Stomach sleepers: These folks usually need a firmer option than the Helix Dusk.
Hungry to learn more about the Dusk? Read our full Helix Dusk mattress review, or check out our roundup for the best mattresses for combination sleepers.
Nectar – Best Mattress for Side Sleepers with Back Pain
The original Nectar mattress is a pressure-relieving, yet supportive, bed. It’s made with a thick layer of gel memory foam, which allows the sleeper to really sink into its surface.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The original Nectar mattress is a pressure-relieving, yet supportive, bed. It’s made with a thick layer of gel memory foam, which allows the sleeper to really sink into its surface.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The original Nectar mattress is a pressure-relieving, yet supportive, bed. It’s made with a thick layer of gel memory foam, which allows the sleeper to really sink into its surface.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress.Nectar Mattress
Material
Foam
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Financing Options
Nectar Mattress
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Financing Options
Nectar Mattress
Material
Foam
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Financing Options
Expert Opinion
Made entirely of foam, the Nectar is a pressure-relieving mattress with a medium-soft feel. When reviewing it, we found that the bed was very effective in relieving back pain, especially for lightweight and average-weight side sleepers. They should feel the top foams cushioning the pressure points at the hip and shoulder, which can help promote a healthy spinal alignment.
What our tester says: “The Nectar’s upper soft foams do a wonderful job cradling the joints, while the high-density lower foams offer support. This combo is a great match for back sleepers in need of pressure relief and support.” – Bridget Chapman, senior product editor
Who the Nectar Is Best For
- Back sleepers: We think it could be extra-comfy for back sleepers who struggle with back pain.
- Hot sleepers: While it’s not the coolest mattress out there, the Nectar sleeps cooler than the average memory foam mattress.
- Couples: Memory foam is known for its ability to isolate motion, and the Nectar exceeds in this area. If you’re someone who sleeps with a partner, you’re unlikely to disturb one another with your movements.
Who Should Avoid the Nectar
- Combination sleepers: Although we found this bed to be easy to move around on for being an all-foam mattress, combo sleepers may want a more responsive, bouncy mattress that allows them to more easily switch positions.
- Stomach sleepers: The Nectar isn’t supportive enough for these folks, although lightweight stomach sleepers under 150 pounds might find it comfortable.
Interested in learning more about the Nectar? Read our full Nectar mattress review, or check out our roundup for the best mattresses for side sleepers.
Emma CliMax Hybrid – Best Mattress for Couples with Back Pain
The Emma CliMax Hybrid is a firm, supportive, and bouncy mattress. Emma designed it with two specific groups in mind: couples and plus-sized sleepers.
The Emma CliMax Hybrid is a firm, supportive, and bouncy mattress. Emma designed it with two specific groups in mind: couples and plus-sized sleepers.
The Emma CliMax Hybrid is a firm, supportive, and bouncy mattress. Emma designed it with two specific groups in mind: couples and plus-sized sleepers.
Emma CliMax Hybrid
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Emma CliMax Hybrid
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Emma CliMax Hybrid
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Expert Opinion
The Emma CliMax Hybrid is a truly unique mattress designed with couples in mind — specifically, heavy couples. However, many average-weight couples should be comfortable on this bed as well (more on that in a bit). And per its name, the Emma’s coils make it highly responsive. When we tested out the bed, we could move around easily on it, which tells us that it’s a good option for sex. When we laid down on the pressure map, it was all blue in the upper and lower back region, meaning you’re unlikely to feel any back pain while sleeping on the Emma CliMax Hybrid.
What our tester says: “I think the Emma CliMax might be the bounciest mattress I’ve ever tested! Along with being super responsive, it also excels at motion isolation, support, and overall comfort. I think a lot of couples would like this bed.” – Bridget Chapman, senior product editor
Who the Emma CliMax Hybrid Is Best For
- Back sleepers: Lightweight and average-weight back sleepers should also be comfortable on the Emma, as long as they like a firmer mattress.
- Stomach sleepers: Since this sleeping position needs more support than others, lightweight and average-weight stomach sleepers will likely find a good match in the Emma.
- Hot sleepers: The coils in the support layer leave plenty of room for airflow, and the foam is open-celled. This keeps the mattress breathable and helps hot sleepers keep a low temperature.
Who Should Avoid the Emma CliMax Hybrid
- Lightweight and average-weight side sleepers: While heavy side sleepers should be comfortable on the Emma, side sleepers under 250 pounds will want a softer mattress with more pressure relief. We recommend they check out our roundup of the best mattresses for side sleepers instead.
Curious to learn more? Read our full Emma CliMax mattress review, or check out our roundup for the best mattresses for couples.
Nolah Evolution – Best Luxury Mattress
The Nolah Evolution provides good pressure relief and body contouring. It’s a great choice for side sleepers, and back sleepers who like a softer mattress will enjoy it too. The soft pillow top is a great touch for shoulder or hip pain as well.
The Nolah Evolution provides good pressure relief and body contouring. It’s a great choice for side sleepers, and back sleepers who like a softer mattress will enjoy it too. The soft pillow top is a great touch for shoulder or hip pain as well.
The Nolah Evolution provides good pressure relief and body contouring. It’s a great choice for side sleepers, and back sleepers who like a softer mattress will enjoy it too. The soft pillow top is a great touch for shoulder or hip pain as well.
Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Expert Opinion
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. We found that these springs helped create a strong foundation of support. We felt lifted when lying down, which should help prevent back pain. We also saw almost no tension around the upper or lower back while looking at the mattress’ pressure-map results. Also, the Nolah Evolution comes in three different firmness options (Plush, Luxury Firm, and Firm), so sleepers can choose the support level that’s best for them.
What our tester says: “I found the Nolah Evolution to exude luxury! It offers great materials, support, and plushness. Another major bonus is that it comes in three firmness levels, so every sleeper can find the right fit for them.” – Bridget Chapman, senior product editor
Who the Nolah Evolution Is Best For
- Back sleepers and side sleepers: The medium firmness of the Luxury Firm option should provide the right balance of comfort and support for these folks.
- Combination sleepers: Because there’s some responsiveness from the transition layer, combo sleepers should be able to easily switch positions on the Nolah Evolution (choose the Luxury Firm or Firm model).
- Couples: When testing out motion transfer on the Nolah Evolution, we found that it was adept at isolating movement. That means it could be comfortable for couples or anyone who sleeps with a pet. The reinforced edge support should also be a plus for couples.
Who Should Avoid the Nolah Evolution
- Heavyweight stomach sleepers: Although stomach sleepers weighing less than 250 pounds may be comfortable on the Firm model, heavier stomach sleepers will probably want a firmer bed that provides additional support.
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.
Titan Plus – Best Mattress for Heavy Sleepers with Back Pain
The Titan Firm Hybrid from Brooklyn Bedding is a durable mattress featuring 6-inch heavy-duty support coils, making it a great option for heavier sleepers. This mattress also has a Titanflex foam comfort layer, which provides nice lift and bounce for heavier weights.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Titan Firm Hybrid from Brooklyn Bedding is a durable mattress featuring 6-inch heavy-duty support coils, making it a great option for heavier sleepers. This mattress also has a Titanflex foam comfort layer, which provides nice lift and bounce for heavier weights.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Titan Firm Hybrid from Brooklyn Bedding is a durable mattress featuring 6-inch heavy-duty support coils, making it a great option for heavier sleepers. This mattress also has a Titanflex foam comfort layer, which provides nice lift and bounce for heavier weights.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress.Titan Plus
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Titan Plus
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Titan Plus
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Expert Opinion
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 250 pounds. When we asked our colleague Paulie (a professional powerlifter!) to test out this hybrid mattress, he felt immense pressure relief on his back. And when trying out the bed in different positions, he found that his shoulders stayed aligned with his hips, thanks to the support from the bed’s coils. Simultaneously, the foam gave him some cushioning. We should point out that sleepers under 250 pounds may not experience too much contouring, as the Titan Plus is likely to feel firmer to them than it would to a heavy person.
What our tester says: “The Titan Plus is made with heavy sleepers in mind, so it’s going to offer the support they need. I found it to maintain a cozy feel and appreciate how its foam layers double for pressure relief and motion isolation.” – Bridget Chapman, senior product editor
Who the Titan Plus Is Best For
- Back sleepers: Average-weight and heavyweight back sleepers alike should feel comfortable and supported.
- Stomach sleepers: The same goes for stomach sleepers.
- Couples: The Titan Plus has great motion isolation, so you and your partner shouldn’t feel each other moving around at night. Additionally, the responsiveness of this bed is great for sex, and the solid edge support lets you use the mattress’ full surface area.
Who Should Avoid the Titan Plus
- Hot sleepers: The bed’s cover is made from polyester, so while it feels cozy, it has the tendency to trap a bit of heat. This is fixable if you purchase the brand’s cooling cover, which helps regulate body temperature and adds a bit more pressure relief.
- Lightweight sleepers: Sleepers under 150 pounds — especially side sleepers — should opt for a softer mattress with more pressure relief.
Think you and the Titan make a good pair? Learn more about it in our full review, or check out our roundup for the best mattresses for heavy sleepers.
WinkBeds – Best Cooling Mattress for Back Pain
The WinkBed is a hybrid mattress that comes in three firmness levels, so most sleepers should find a model that suits their needs. It could also be a good fit for couples, thanks to reinforced edge support.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The WinkBed is a hybrid mattress that comes in three firmness levels, so most sleepers should find a model that suits their needs. It could also be a good fit for couples, thanks to reinforced edge support.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The WinkBed is a hybrid mattress that comes in three firmness levels, so most sleepers should find a model that suits their needs. It could also be a good fit for couples, thanks to reinforced edge support.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress.WinkBed Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
WinkBed Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
WinkBed Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Expert Opinion
With its traditional innerspring feel, the WinkBed should appeal to sleepers who value a mattress with 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. We felt incredibly cool when testing it out. Regarding back pain, we felt almost no pressure when sleeping on our backs and stomachs, in addition to getting some cushioning from the bed’s quilted foam cover. We did feel pressure buildup in the hips and shoulders when side sleeping. However, this was on the Luxury Firm model of the WinkBed. The Softer model is likely going to be more comfortable for side sleepers. Additionally, there’s a Firm model and even a Plus model designed for heavier folks.
What our tester says: “I really liked how the WinkBed offered different levels of support for different areas of my body to ensure spinal alignment. Its breathable Tencel cover also was super cozy, while the cooling gel foams offered nice pressure relief!” – Bridget Chapman, senior product editor
Who the WinkBed Is Best For
- Back sleepers: The bed’s coils are zoned, so they’re firmer in the places where your back needs it most. There should be plenty of support here to keep your spine in a neutral alignment.
- Stomach sleepers: They should feel supported on either the Luxury Firm or Firmer model of the WinkBed.
- Combination sleepers: Due to its springiness, the WinkBed is responsive enough for combo sleepers to move around and change positions.
Who Should Avoid the WinkBed
- Light sleepers: While we think the WinkBed could be a good mattress for couples because of its responsiveness (responsive mattresses are usually the best for sex), its motion isolation isn’t so strong. If you or your partner are an especially light sleeper, this is something to consider.
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.
Bear Elite Hybrid – Best Hybrid Mattress with Back Pain
The Bear Elite Hybrid is Bear's “ultra-luxurious” model with a traditional mattress feel, plus advanced cooling and support technology. It comes in three different firmness levels: Soft, Medium, and Firm.
The Bear Elite Hybrid is Bear's “ultra-luxurious” model with a traditional mattress feel, plus advanced cooling and support technology. It comes in three different firmness levels: Soft, Medium, and Firm.
The Bear Elite Hybrid is Bear's “ultra-luxurious” model with a traditional mattress feel, plus advanced cooling and support technology. It comes in three different firmness levels: Soft, Medium, and Firm.
Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime Warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime Warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime Warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Expert Opinion
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, we determined that the Bear Elite Hybrid is a phenomenal choice for back sleepers with back pain. The Firm option could be a good choice for stomach sleepers wanting more support at the lower back, and side sleepers should fare well with the Soft model because it’ll relieve more pressure at the shoulder and hip.
What our tester says: “I honestly like a lot about the Bear Elite Hybrid mattress — starting with how you can choose your firmness level. I tested out the middle level (Medium) and I think it’s great that each sleeper can pick what option works best for them. That being said, I thought the Medium worked great for both back and side sleeping. It’s also responsive enough to move around on easily and super cooling for my fellow hot sleepers out there. ” – Bridget Chapman, senior product editor
Who the Bear Elite Hybrid Is Best For
- Athletes: 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 outfitted their mattresses with a cover made of Celliant, which purportedly assists with blood flow and muscle recovery.
- Hot sleepers: In addition to potentially aiding recovery, Celliant sleeps very cool. The foam has also been infused with graphite to help stave off heat.
- Couples: The top layer of memory foam helped dampen movement across the mattress. So even if you sleep with a restless partner or pet, you shouldn’t be too bothered throughout the night.
Who Should Avoid the Bear Elite Hybrid
- Budget shoppers: Before sales and discounts, a queen Bear Elite Hybrid is priced over $2,000 because of its high-quality construction and luxury features.
Intrigued? Read more about the Bear Elite Hybrid in our full review, or check out our roundup of the best hybrid mattresses.
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid – Most Affordable Mattress for Back Pain
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature is a hybrid mattress made out of a combination of memory foam and latex foam. The Signature offers a good amount of bounce that combination sleepers who move around in the middle of the night can enjoy.
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature is a hybrid mattress made out of a combination of memory foam and latex foam. The Signature offers a good amount of bounce that combination sleepers who move around in the middle of the night can enjoy.
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature is a hybrid mattress made out of a combination of memory foam and latex foam. The Signature offers a good amount of bounce that combination sleepers who move around in the middle of the night can enjoy.
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Expert Opinion
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). We 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’ firmness and performance will depend on which model you buy — Soft, Medium, or Firm. We tested the Medium, which clocked in at an appropriate medium-firm 6.5 out of 10 on our mattress firmness scale.
What our tester says: “If you appreciate a good value, then the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid is a great choice. I found the Medium firmness model to be really comfortable for back sleepers and combination sleepers, along with couples.” – Bridget Chapman, senior product editor
Who the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Is Best For
- Back sleepers: The Medium model offers a nice mix of support and pressure relief that they need to sleep comfortably and avoid back pain.
- Hot sleepers: The foams here aren’t too dense, so the bed should sleep cool. And hot sleepers should get plenty of airflow because of all the room between the coils.
- Combo sleepers: The mattress has an “on-top-of-the-bed” feeling that makes it a great choice for combination sleepers who change between sleeping positions.
- Couples: This mattress isolates motion well and has sturdy edge support. You and your partner should be able to easily spread out across the sleeping surface without disturbing each other with your movement.
Who Should Avoid the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
- Side sleepers: They’ll likely need a softer bed, although they might be comfortable on the Soft model.
- Stomach sleepers: On the flip side, these folks may want something firmer, especially those who weigh more than 200 pounds. We recommend the Plank Firm, also created by Brooklyn Bedding.
Sold on the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid? Fall in love with it even more in our full review, or check out our roundup for the best budget mattresses.
Leesa – Best Mattress for Back Sleepers with Back Pain
Leesa Original Mattress
Are you a fan of the feel of an all-foam mattress, but can’t seem to find one that’s bouncy enough? The Leesa original mattress might be right up your alley. This bed-in-a-box mattress provides gentle pressure relief as well as responsive support.
Material
Foam
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Leesa Original Mattress
Are you a fan of the feel of an all-foam mattress, but can’t seem to find one that’s bouncy enough? The Leesa original mattress might be right up your alley. This bed-in-a-box mattress provides gentle pressure relief as well as responsive support.
Material
Foam
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Leesa Original Mattress
Are you a fan of the feel of an all-foam mattress, but can’t seem to find one that’s bouncy enough? The Leesa original mattress might be right up your alley. This bed-in-a-box mattress provides gentle pressure relief as well as responsive support.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Expert Opinion
The Leesa is an all-foam mattress with a medium-soft feel (a 6/10 on our firmness scale). For proper spinal alignment and ultimate comfort, back sleepers generally require a mix of pressure relief and support. The Leesa’s construction delivers this balance, with a cozy cover and cushioning memory foam for lower back pain relief, as well as responsive foam and supportive base foam that prevents sleepers from sinking too far into the material. During our pressure relief testing, the Leesa tested well for back sleepers, so these folks should stay comfortable throughout the night without any pressure buildup.
What our tester says: “This all-foam mattress comes at a really affordable price, which is great for budget-savvy shoppers. It also has some nice cooling features, due to its layer of breathable foam — a nice addition for hot sleepers.” – Bridget Chapman, senior product editor
Who the Saatva Is Best For
- Budget shoppers: The Leesa is priced under $1,100 for a queen before considering sales and discounts.
- Combination sleepers: The responsive foam towards the top of this mattress helps with ease of movement so combination sleepers can change sleeping positions.
- Hot sleepers: The Leesa is constructed with surprisingly breathable foam. This makes it more cooling than many other all-foam options.
Who Should Avoid the Saatva
- Stomach sleepers: This bed does have a bit of an “on top of” feel thanks to its responsive foam, but it’s still too soft to support stomach sleepers.
Will this mattress lead you to restful nights? Find out in our full Leesa mattress review, or check out our roundup for the best mattresses for back sleepers.
Birch Natural – Best Organic Mattress for Back Pain
The Birch mattress is an all-natural bed that uses organic cotton and wool fibers to create a structure that’s as eco-friendly as it is cozy.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Birch mattress is an all-natural bed that uses organic cotton and wool fibers to create a structure that’s as eco-friendly as it is cozy.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Birch mattress is an all-natural bed that uses organic cotton and wool fibers to create a structure that’s as eco-friendly as it is cozy.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress.Birch Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Warranty
25-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Birch Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
25-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Birch Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
25-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Expert Opinion
If you’re looking for not only a quality construction to relieve back pain, but also quality organic materials, then the Birch Natural is the bed for you. During testing, we found the responsive all-natural latex layers and bouncy springs kept my hips lifted and in alignment. The organic cotton cover and the organic wool beneath work to fill in the lumbar region, relieving pressure at the lower back.
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!” – Bridget Chapman, senior product editor
Who the Birch Natural Is Best For
- Back sleepers: The 7/10 firmness the Birch scored in our mattress lab shows that although it’s a bit firmer than average, it still has the necessary comfort and support for back-sleeping.
- Hot sleepers: The naturally cooling latex work to cool down hot sleepers, and the coils at the support layer provide maximum airflow.
- Combo sleepers: The latex layer and bouncy springs create a responsive surface, so combination sleepers should find the surface makes it easy to switch sleeping positions.
- Stomach sleepers: Lightweight and average-weight sleepers should find their hips lifted and in proper alignment.
Who Should Avoid the Birch Natural
- Side sleepers: The Birch Natural doesn’t have enough pressure relief to cushion the hip and shoulder.
- Memory foam fans: If you like a more slow-sinking feel, you won’t find it with the Birch. This mattress has a notoriously responsive, “on top of” feel.
Sold on the Birch Natural? Fall in love with it even more in our full review, or check out our roundup for the best organic mattresses.
TEMPUR-Adapt – Best Memory Foam Mattress for Back Pain
TEMPUR-Adapt Mattress
The TEMPUR-Adapt is billed as the brand's classic model. It has a traditional memory foam feel, with plenty of sinkage and contouring.
Material
Foam
Trial Period
90 nights
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
TEMPUR-Adapt Mattress
The TEMPUR-Adapt is billed as the brand's classic model. It has a traditional memory foam feel, with plenty of sinkage and contouring.
Material
Foam
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Trial Period
90 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
TEMPUR-Adapt Mattress
The TEMPUR-Adapt is billed as the brand's classic model. It has a traditional memory foam feel, with plenty of sinkage and contouring.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
90 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Price Range
$$$$$
Expert Opinion
Memory foam mattresses can be tricky when it comes to back pain; a cheaper option without adequate support can sag too easily and throw the spine out of alignment. Luckily, Tempur-Pedic is at the front of the memory foam game. Meet the TEMPUR-Adapt. We determined it’s a medium-firm mattress (a 6.5/10 on our firmness scale) that balances the pressure relief needed at the lower back with the support required to lift the hips into place. This is achieved through the TEMPUR-Adapt’s balance of cushioning memory foam and high-density foam.
What our tester says: “Memory foam lovers should really appreciate the TEMPUR-Adapt. It features all the best parts of memory foam: stellar pressure relief, strong motion isolation, and dreamy comfort. I also think back sleepers and a lot of side sleepers will be happy with the TEMPUR-Adapt thanks to the contouring and support they’ll get.” – Bridget Chapman, senior product editor
Who the TEMPUR-Adapt Is Best For
- Back sleepers: During our pressure map test, there was hardly any pressure at all around the lumbar region, so these folks should experience quite a bit of comfort.
- Side sleepers: This mattress tested incredibly well for side sleepers with back pain and shoulder pain.
- Hot sleepers: The TEMPUR-Adapt has a special cover that helps it sleep cooler than other memory foam beds out there. However, it still may not be quite as cooling as an innerspring or hybrid.
Who Should Avoid the TEMPUR-Adapt
- Budget shoppers: Tempur-Pedic has a reputation for making incredibly comfortable and high-quality mattresses. As a result, they’re not the most wallet-friendly option out there.
Will this mattress lead you to restful nights? Find out in our full TEMPUR-Adapt mattress review, or check out our roundup for the best memory foam mattresses.
How Can Sleep Help Chronic Pain?
Now that we’ve gone over our picks, we 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, we don’t want to rely solely on our own opinions and tests. We 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.
Types of Mattresses For Back Pain
There are several different types of mattresses, and we recommend some over others for combatting back pain. Take a look below to learn more about the main mattress types.
- Foam Mattresses: All-foam mattresses rely on high-density poly foams to support the sleeper. If you struggle with back problems, we 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 we 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 our 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.
Support
In our 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. We 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 works to keep the spine in a neutral alignment, while also remaining comfortable.
When shopping for a mattress, keep an eye out for the following features:
- 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 we started the firmness conversation above, let’s go ahead and wrap it up here.
What Does Firmness Do, Anyway?
Firmer mattresses tend to “float” the sleeper more on top of the sleeping surface, whereas softer beds allow the sleepers to sink in for deep pressure relief.
You need to ensure your mattress offers the right firmness level for your sleep position, which is what determines how your spine should be lined up.
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, we’ll go over back pain in different sleeping positions to help you find the best mattress firmness for back pain.
| 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. |
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.
Our 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 we 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.
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, we’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: A new pillow that works with your sleeping position and provides good neck support can be a great way to quickly improve your sleep posture and reduce some back pain. Our best pillows for back pain roundup includes a few options, and explains how pillows can help fight back pain in more detail.
- Mattress Topper: Adding a firm mattress topper to a sagging or unsupportive mattress can be a nice quick fix for back pain. It also gives some much-needed support and can extend the life of your mattress by a few months. Check out some of our best mattress toppers to see some options.
- 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.
What Is Back Pain? A Note from Sleepopolis’ expert, Dr. Poorbaugh
Before we wrap up, we wanted to include some basic information on back pain that we 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, we 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 we’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)
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.
FAQs
What type of mattress is best for back pain?
There isn’t one type of mattress that we 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?
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.
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.
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.
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.
How We Chose These Mattresses
Our team of Certified Sleep Science Coaches has reviewed more than 220 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.
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. Click here to learn more about our methodology.
Best Mattresses for Back Pain
| Mattress | Best For | Price (Queen) | Coupon | Review |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Saatva | Overall | $1,995 | Saatva Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Helix Dusk | Combo Sleepers | $1,373 | Helix Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Nectar | Side Sleepers | $1,045 | Nectar Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Emma CliMax | Couples | $1,599 | Emma Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Nolah Evolution | Luxury | $2,299 | Nolah Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Titan Plus by Brooklyn Bedding | Heavy Sleepers | $1,249 | Brooklyn Bedding Coupon | Read Our Review |
| WinkBed | Cooling | $1,799 | WinkBed Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Bear Elite Hybrid | Athletes | $2,111 | Bear Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Brooklyn Bedding Signature | Cheap | $1,332 | Brooklyn Bedding Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Leesa | Back Sleepers | $1,299 | Leesa Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Birch Natural | Organic | $1,812 | Helix Coupon | Read Our Review |
| TEMPUR-Adapt | Memory Foam | $2,199 | Tempur-Pedic Coupon | Read Our Review |
Sources
- 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.
