Best Mattress for Hip Pain

Written by Bridget Chapman, Senior Product Editor

Our Methodology

Our Certified Sleep Science Coaches have reviewed more than 220 mattresses in our lab, testing each one on its materials, comfort, cooling, support, and other categories.

Learn more

Just Updated

We’ve recently re-reviewed our top mattress picks for hip pain to ensure every bed on this list offers considerable pressure relief. We picked beds that showed little to no pressure while our testers were side sleeping and added extra information from our testers in the lab.

»

Restful sleep is crucial for optimal health and quality of life. If you have hip pain, a good night’s slumber can be elusive, particularly if you’re sleeping on the wrong mattress. In this roundup, we’ll guide you through the process of finding the best mattress for hip pain step-by-step, including a Buyer’s Guide at the end that will help you understand how the condition can impact sleep.

To pick the best mattresses for hip pain, we ran each one through a series to tests to see how well they performed in areas such as pressure relief, cooling, and more. We paid special attention to pressure and pain relief at the hips, and cooling for added comfort.

Our Top Pick for Hip Pain

The Saatva Solaire‘s unique airbed technology allows folks to customize the firmness level that’s comfortable for their preferences, earning it the top spot in this roundup.

Best Mattresses for Hip Pain of 2023

• Saatva Solaire – Best Overall
• Helix Midnight Luxe – Best Mattress for Couples
• Nectar – Best Affordable Mattress for Hip Pain
• WinkBeds Original – Best Mattress for Heavy People with Hip Pain
• Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe – Best Mattress for Arthritis
• DreamCloud Premier Rest – Best Mattress for Back Sleepers with Hip Pain
• Bear Elite Hybrid – Best Mattress for Side Sleepers with Hip Pain
• Nolah Evolution – Best Mattress for Shoulder and Hip Pain
• Puffy Cloud – Best Memory Foam Mattress for Hip Pain
• Titan Plus – Best Mattress for Stomach Sleepers with Hip Pain

Best Mattress for Hip Pain Video

Note: The content on Sleepopolis is meant to be informative in nature, but it shouldn’t take the place of medical advice and supervision from a trained professional. If you feel you may be suffering from any sleep disorder or medical condition, please see your healthcare provider immediately.

Compare the Best Mattresses for Hip Pain

Saatva Solaire – Best Overall

Expert Opinion 

With a plush comfort layer of memory foam, the Saatva Solaire is naturally going to be a good fit for those with hip pain. But it’s also a high-tech air bed with adjustable firmness, so people can pinpoint the best firmness for their pain. We found that with this adjustable firmness, it accommodates all sorts of body types and sleeping positions. In fact, each part of the bed can be individually adjusted, making it a great option for sleepers with different firmness preferences.

We put the Saatva Solaire through our pressure map test. This involves using a specialized mat with heat-mapping technology to show us where pressure builds the most on a mattress. To showcase this to our readers, we use the device’s imaging to create a graphic. Orange and red areas reveal a high buildup of pressure, while blue and green areas indicate low pressure buildup.

Our test showed some of the most impressive results we’ve seen in all positions, and we believe it to be a fantastic option for joint pain. There are 50 firmness settings on this mattress, and we recommend that those with hip pain start out with 20.

What our tester says: “My favorite thing about the Solaire is how customizable it is. Almost any sleeper should be able to find a firmness setting that works for them. And couples might especially appreciate the Solaire’s customizability, breathability, and low motion transfer.” – Logan Block, former Sleepopolis director of content and mattress tester

What Customers Say

Throughout every step of the order and delivery process, customers have great things to say about Saatva’s customer service. A variety of shoppers had positive comments on phone orders, mattress returns, and response time.

Pros of the Saatva Solaire

• The naturally cooling latex makes this mattress a good choice for hot sleepers. It also makes the Saatva Solaire a good choice for couples, since two people create more body heat than just one.
• Thanks to the adjustability, those with back pain should also be able to find the best balance of comfort and support for their body type.
• The Saatva Solaire comes with a year-long trial and a lifetime warranty. So, shoppers with hip pain have time to decide if it’s the best model for their pain needs.

Cons of the Saatva Solaire

• With amazing features comes a heftier cost. The Saatva Solaire is a luxury bed, and it’s priced like one. That said, this isn’t going to be the best option for budget shoppers.

Want more information? Read our full Saatva Solaire mattress review or check out our roundup for the best mattresses.

Helix Midnight Luxe – Best Mattress for Couples

Expert Opinion 

The most obvious solution for a mattress to alleviate hip pain might be a soft foam bed, but what if you want the support and bounce of coils? If that’s the case, we’d recommend the hybrid Helix Midnight Luxe mattress. It’s an incredibly well-rounded luxury option that most sleepers with hip pain should enjoy.

One of the most important testing aspects for couples is motion isolation. While testing the Helix Midnight Luxe, we put it through our motion isolation test, which involves dropping a 10-pound steel ball from three different heights: four inches, eight inches, and 12 inches. Then, we measure the level of disturbance the drops cause.

From all heights, the Helix Midnight Luxe presented pretty small lines on each graph, showing that there was low disturbance. We feel confident that throughout the night, you and your partner should sleep soundly even with tossing and turning.

What our tester says: “The Helix Midnight Luxe is supportive, cooling, and plush. I think it could be a great pick for sleepers with pain thanks to its comfy pillow top and enhanced lumbar support.” – Bridget Chapman, senior product editor. 

What Customers Say

In the reviews, many couples say that the motion isolation on the Helix Midnight Luxe is impressive. Many shoppers are able to sleep through the night without being disturbed by their partner’s movements.

Pros of the Helix Midnight Luxe

• This mattress includes a number of great features, including cooling capabilities and a plush pillow top cover. So, luxury shoppers should adore this model.
• The 6 out of 10 firmness on our scale shows the Helix Midnight Luxe has a balanced feel, ideal for back sleepers.
• The plush pillow top should give adequate pressure relief for the shoulder and hip for most side sleepers.

Cons of the Helix Midnight Luxe

• As a medium-firm mattress, the Helix Midnight Luxe probably isn’t firm enough for most stomach sleepers.

Interested in learning more? Read our full Helix Midnight Luxe review or check out our roundup for the best mattresses for couples.

Nectar – Best Affordable Mattress for Hip Pain

Expert Opinion 

The all-foam Nectar has a softer feel that’s incredibly gentle yet supportive, which is ideal for those with hip pain. With a strong foundation, back sleepers especially should notice comfortable cradling at the hips. This mattress is also a solid option for those with arthritis. The cushy foams help take pressure off sensitive areas, so these folks should appreciate the soothing sinkage. Another perk of the Nectar? It’s a very affordable mattress, with a queen size often available for well under $1,000 after discounts.

To test the pressure-relieving abilities of the Nectar, we put the mattress through our pressure map test. While testing, we found the Nectar revealed absolutely no orange and red areas while back and side sleeping (not even around the hips). So, we’ve tested it ourselves; the Nectar should be a great mattress for hip pain, whether you’re lounging on your back or snoozing on your side.

What our tester says: “I think the Nectar is a great value for anyone searching for some deep pressure relief and overall comfort. I love how it gives you a cozy, hug-like feeling while back and side sleeping, but it doesn’t trap you in the mattress.” – Bridget Chapman, senior product editor

What Customers Say

Customers online fondly comment on the Nectar’s balanced feel, which they say helps with their aches and pains. Specifically, many folks mention how the Nectar alleviates back pain with nice cushioning and plenty of support.

Pros of the Nectar Mattress

• Since the Nectar has a balanced foam feel, we highly recommend this mattress for back sleepers. These folks should experience a mix of comfort and support that’s ideal for proper spinal alignment.
• The balanced construction that makes this bed good for back sleepers also makes it good for side sleepers. But the Nectar is especially cushioning as well. So, folks should have plenty of pressure relief for the shoulder and hip, but also adequate support from the high-density foam.
• The Nectar’s all-foam construction excels at isolating motion. So if you sleep with a restless partner, you’re unlikely to feel each other’s movements at night.

Cons of the Nectar Mattress

• With a medium soft construction, we think the Nectar won’t be able to properly support stomach sleepers. These folks should definitely search for a mattress with more support.

Have your heart set on a Nectar? Learn more about this mattress in our full review or check out our roundup for the best cheap mattresses of 2023.

WinkBeds Original – Best Mattress for Heavy People with Hip Pain

Expert Opinion 

Finding a mattress that can relieve hip pain if you have a heavier body weight might seem tricky. We’ve found that for hip pain, people want a softer, pressure-relieving mattress, but as a heavy person, they want something supportive and sturdy. While reviewing the WinkBed Original, we found it strikes a balance between these two characteristics. For heavy side or back sleepers with hip pain, we think the Softer model works well to provide great pressure relief, as well as the support from the pocketed coils below.

What our tester says: “The WinkBed has a luxurious and high-quality vibe. I think it’s a great pick for sleepers looking for extra support and I love how it comes in different firmness options so you can choose the best one for your needs.” – Bridget Chapman, senior product editor

What Customers Say

Many customers shed praise on the company’s customer service. There are multiple reviews about the easy delivery and set-up. Some comment on the convenient return process as well. One thing to keep in mind: as a hybrid mattress with sturdy coils, the WinkBed is a bit heavier. So, if you have trouble lifting heavy objects, we definitely encourage you to find a friend or two to help.

Pros of the WinkBed

• It’s a hybrid mattress available in three different firmnesses: Softer, Luxury Firm, and Firmer. This makes the WinkBed suitable for most sleeping positions and body types. Heavier folks could also be comfortable on the WinkBed Plus, which was made for heavier sleepers.
• The WinkBed is a durable mattress option with good motion isolation, responsiveness, cooling, and edge support. These are all crucial factors to consider when selecting a mattress for couples.
• During testing, we experienced plenty of pressure relief and found our weight was distributed evenly across the mattress surface. This is an indication that this is a great mattress for back pain.

Cons of the WinkBed

• The WinkBed has a responsive, “on top of” feel that delivers quite a different feel. If you’re a fan of slow-sinking memory foam, you’re going to want a different mattress.

Think the WinkBed is the right bed for you? See our full WinkBed mattress review to learn more or check out our roundup for the best mattresses for heavy people.

Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe – Best for Arthritis

Expert Opinion 

The Brooklyn Aurora Luxe could have been given a few different superlatives. Best Cooling, Best for Pressure Relief, and Best Body-Contouring, to name a few. We settled on Best for Arthritis because all of these qualities work together to create a mattress that handles the most sensitive parts of the body for a great night’s sleep. Folks can also choose from multiple firmness options so they’re getting the comfort that’s best for their pain.

What our tester says: “Along with loving how soft and cuddly this mattress is, I really appreciate how cooling it is! This mattress brings a luxury feel that can support sleepers and also prevent them from overheating. I felt great on the Luxury Firm model and found it promoted spinal alignment while side and back sleeping.” – Bridget Chapman, senior product editor

What Customers Say

If you’re looking for a supportive mattress that also has a super plush feel, the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe might be the bed for you. Customers speak highly of this construction.

Pros of the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe

• This is a great mattress for side sleepers. Of course, we recommend those with hip pain stick with the Soft model for more cushioning.
• During testing, we noticed that most back and side sleepers should receive plenty of back pain relief from this mattress. There’s shouldn’t be a lot of pressure buildup here.
• The stand-out feature of this mattress is its cooling ability. You’ll notice it as soon as you touch the icy-cool cover.

Cons of the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe

• Heavy sleepers over 250 pounds probably won’t find enough support on the softer Aurora Luxe.

Looking for some relief from arthritis pain? Check out our full Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe mattress review to learn more or check out our roundup for the best mattresses for arthritis.

DreamCloud Premier Rest – Best for Back Sleepers with Hip Pain

Expert Opinion

Though many different types of sleepers experience hip pain at night, one of the groups most affected by it are back sleepers. These folks press into the mattress all night long, and if the hips are slightly out of line, it puts a strain on the spine and other areas of the body. To alleviate this tension, we’ve found through numerous mattress tests that dreamers need a bed as pressure-relieving as it is supportive. In short, they need the DreamCloud Premier Rest. 

Back sleepers require the right amount of pressure relief at the lower back, combined with plenty of support to lift the hips. During our pressure map test, we found that while lying on our backs, the map showed all blue and green. With no indication of yellow, orange, or red, the map tells us that there is little to no pressure buildup happening in the back-sleeping position. So, the DreamCloud Premier should be a great mattress for hip pain.

What our tester says: “I really appreciate the truly medium-firm feel of this mattress. It makes it fairly comfortable in most sleeping positions and could make it a big hit with couples. Especially because it features great motion isolation without sacrificing responsiveness.” – Madison Schaper, former Sleepopolis staff writer and mattress tester

What Customers Say

From neck pain to back pain to hip pain, many shoppers rejoice at how the DreamCloud Premier relieves their joint sensitivities. This is all thanks to its pressure-relieving abilities.

Pros of the DreamCloud Premier

• With a stellar construction and quality materials, this bed should last over 10 years. So, it’s a solid option for luxury shoppers and anyone looking for a durable mattress.
• The DreamCloud Premier rest checks every box, from cooling and edge support to responsiveness and motion isolation. This makes it a stellar option for couples.
• This bed is responsive in nature, making it easy for combination sleepers to change sleeping positions at night. This same responsiveness also makes the DreamCloud Premier a good option for sex.

Cons of the DreamCloud Premier

• Regardless of body type, the DreamCloud Premier Rest is likely to be too soft for stomach sleepers. These folks are better off with a firmer mattress that provides adequate support.

Want to learn more? Then read our full DreamCloud Premier Rest mattress review or check out our roundup for the best mattresses for back sleepers.

Bear Elite Hybrid – Best for Side Sleepers with Hip Pain

Expert Opinion 

If you’re a side sleeper with hip pain, it’s even more important to find the right mattress since you’ll be putting pressure on your hips every night when you sleep. You need a bed that’s going to cradle your hips and shoulders, and provide some much-needed pressure relief. The Elite Hybrid comes in three different firmness levels, and we recommend either the Medium or the Soft model for side sleepers with hip pain.

What our tester says: “The Bear Elite Hybrid is not only a super supportive bed for a wide variety of sleepers, it also sleeps cool and has some luxurious materials. I really appreciate the plush upper foams and think they could do wonders for hip pain. Overall, it’s a great option for solo sleepers and those sharing a bed.” – Bridget Chapman, senior product editor

What Customers Say

Many comments speak highly of the Bear Elite Hybrid’s cooling abilities, as it features a number of properties dedicated to a cooler sleep.

Pros of the Bear Elite Hybrid

• This mattress was made for athletes, and this certainly shows in the Bear Elite Hybrid’s design. It boasts a special Celliant cover designed for muscle recovery and proper blood circulation.
• The medium firmness and excellent support make this bed great for back sleepers of all body types.
• If you find yourself having trouble falling or staying asleep due to overheating, this could be the bed for you. The Bear Elite Hybrid is equipped with copper infusions and coils for airflow.

Cons of the Bear Elite Hybrid

• One of the company’s most luxurious models, Bear Elite Hybrid uses high-quality materials with a number of special certifications. Understandably, this drives up the price, which is certainly a con for budget shoppers.

Interested in this luxurious bed? Read more in our full Bear Elite Hybrid mattress review or check out our roundup for the best mattresses for side sleepers.

Nolah Evolution – Best for Shoulder and Hip Pain

Expert Opinion 

Unfortunately, pain is not always concentrated in one area of our bodies. If you find your stubborn hip pain paired with concerns of shoulder pain while you sleep, we may have found the mattress for you: the Nolah Evolution. It has tons of pressure relief to cushion the shoulders and hips, but it doesn’t sacrifice support.

What our tester says: “The Nolah Evolution brings sleepers total support but also doesn’t hold back on pressure relief. I love how the Luxury Firm model provided body contouring while side and back sleeping. Since the bed comes in three different firmnesses, you can find the right one for your sleeping position and get the relief you need.” – Bridget Chapman, senior product editor

What Customers Say

Many praise the Nolah Evolution’s Luxury Firm version (there are three firmnesses to choose from). Customers comment on how much they love the balanced feel, especially as back and side sleepers.

Pros of the Nolah Evolution

• The same pressure relief that benefits those with shoulder and hip pain also benefits side sleepers. We recommend these sleepers opt for the Plush or Luxury Firm model of the Nolah Evolution.
• With good edge support and motion isolation, couples should be able to move around the mattress without worrying about falling off the edge or disturbing their partner.
• The Nolah Evolution has breathable coils and proprietary cooling foam. With this in mind, you shouldn’t overheat at night.

Cons of the Nolah Evolution

• Since this mattress features high-quality materials and support, it does come with a luxury price tag. If you’re looking for an affordable mattress, the Nolah Evolution is likely not the one for you. In any case, be sure to use our coupons to get the best deal.

Think this is your dream mattress? Read our Nolah Evolution mattress review to learn more or check out our roundup for the best mattresses for shoulder pain.

Puffy Cloud – Best Memory Foam Mattress for Hip Pain

Expert Opinion 

Memory foam mattresses are often fantastic for hip pain because of their contouring abilities and pressure relief. The Puffy Cloud has a gel-infused comfort layer that cushions the hips, while support foams at the bottom of the mattress lift them into proper alignment. Our pressure map test showed some impressive results for back sleepers with hip pain, and overall satisfactory results for side sleepers with hip pain.

What our tester says: “I really enjoyed the combination of pressure relief and support the Puffy Cloud offers. I think it will do a good job of reducing aches and pains that some people experience when sleeping on a mattress that isn’t the right firmness level for their sleep style.” – Bridget Chapman, senior product editor

What Customers Say

One of the most popular agreements among customers is that the Puffy Cloud is a great mattress for couples. We think this is due to the Puffy Cloud’s motion isolation results.

Pros of the Puffy Cloud

• The Puffy Cloud is a good cooling mattress, especially since many foam mattress out there trap heat. But the foam comfort layer here is infused with cooling gel.
• With the Puffy Cloud’s cooling abilities and good motion isolation in mind, it should be a great mattress for many couples.
• The Puffy Cloud is a solid option for kids, as it tested well for lightweight sleepers and has a stain-resistant cover.

Cons of the Puffy Cloud

• Heavier sleepers and stomach sleepers will probably want more support in a mattress.

Want to learn more? Read our full Puffy Cloud mattress review or check out our roundup for the best memory foam mattresses.

Titan Plus – Best for Stomach Sleepers with Hip Pain

Expert Opinion

If you’re a stomach sleeper with hip pain, you’ll want a mattress that keeps your hips elevated so they don’t dip out of alignment with your spine. This is essential for healthy sleep posture and the prevention of further pain. For this, we can’t recommend the Titan Plus enough. It’s an all-foam bed designed for heavier sleepers, so it’s built to be incredibly supportive.

What our tester says: “I felt really comfortable stomach sleeping on the Titan Plus. Its firm support kept my hips lifted and helped my spine stay aligned, which is ideal for this sleep position. I also liked how its soft cover felt really cozy.” – Bridget Chapman, senior product editor

What Customers Say

Heavy sleepers and average-weight sleepers both comment on the pleasing level of firmness and support in the Titan Plus.

Pros of the Titan Plus

• With great testing scores for motion isolation, responsiveness, and edge support, the Titan Plus is a stellar option for two.
• Back sleepers and stomach sleepers should feel the proper blend of comfort and support that’s key to alleviating back pain.
• The sturdy construction of this mattress is also great for back sleepers wanting a firmer feel and additional support.

Cons of the Titan Plus

• With a thinner comfort layer and lots of firm support, the Titan Plus will likely cause pressure buildup for side sleepers.

Interested in this firm bed? Read more in our full Titan Plus mattress review or check out our roundup for the best mattresses for stomach sleepers.

Hip Pain: Common Symptoms and Causes

The hip is one of the most important joints in the body, and one of the most common sources of pain. Hip pain impacts more than 22 million Americans, including 14.3% of adults aged 60 and over. (1) Hip pain is considered chronic when it persists for longer than 3-6 months. (2)

Do You Suffer From Hip Pain?

Pain in the hip is often described as:

• Stabbing
• Shooting
• Achy
• Tight
• Stiff

Pain may also radiate to other parts of the body such as the knee and back.

Common causes of hip pain

• Osteoarthritis (OA) – OA is characterized by wearing away of the cartilage that protects the end of bones, inflammation, and changes in the tendons and ligaments. In addition to pain and stiffness, OA of the hip may cause decreased range of motion. OA is most common in older adults but can also occur in younger people.
• Other forms of arthritis – Hip pain can be caused by other forms of arthritis, as well. Juvenile idiopathic arthritis affects children 16 years or younger. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease characterized by chronic inflammation of the joints. (3) Psoriatic arthritis is a form of arthritis that affects some sufferers of psoriasis, an inflammatory autoimmune disease. If you have any of these types, you may want to check out our Best Mattress for Arthritis list to get some relief.
• Injuries, falls, and fractures – Athletic injuries, sprains, and falls are common causes of hip pain. Hip fractures can result in chronic pain and occur most frequently in older adults.
• Overuse – Hip pain can occur because of overuse of the joint, repetitive motion such as running, or stress on ligaments and tendons.
• Autoimmune diseases – Autoimmune diseases such as lupus, multiple sclerosis, and rheumatoid arthritis are well-known causes of hip pain. (4) The immune system can cause pain by attacking healthy tissue, including the lining of joints.
• Bursitis and tendinitis – Inflammation of the small, fluid-filled sacs that cushion the hip joint, known as bursitis, can result in temporary or chronic pain. Tendinitis is irritation or inflammation of the tendon and can occur in any joint.
• Excessive weight – Being overweight or obese is a common cause of hip and other joint pain. Additional body weight can increase strain on the joint structure, increasing the risk of injury and discomfort.

Hip Pain and Sleep

Chronic pain is one of the most common causes of insomnia and other sleep disturbances. Pain may flare at night or make falling and staying asleep more difficult. Pain medications can also have side effects that disrupt or change sleep, and may not be as effective in people who are sleep-deprived. (5)

Why Sleep Quality Matters

Pain-related sleep loss can result in a number of negative physical and mental effects, including:

• Feeling tired and/or groggy
• Anxiety or depression
• Irritability or mood swings
• Difficulty concentrating
• Diminished work performance
• Reduced coordination

Poor sleep can also heighten the brain’s perception of pain, worsening hip discomfort and making restful slumber even more difficult. So how can you get healthy sleep if you suffer from hip pain? Medical treatment is important, of course, but sleep position and choice of mattress are key for many people. Let’s take a look at how both of these factors can affect slumber and hip pain.

How We Chose the Best Mattresses for Hip Pain

At Sleepopolis, we take the information we put out to our readers very seriously. It’s why we rigorously test and review as many mattresses as we possibly can. One of the most important tests that we use in our mattress lab is the pressure map test. This involves spreading a pressure map pad on a mattress and testing it out in the main sleeping positions. If the pressure map shows low pressure, we’ll see a lot of blue and perhaps a bit of green. Higher pressure is indicated by yellow, orange, and red.

Of course, knowing whether a mattress is good for side sleepers can very easily be done just by lying on the mattress. This pressure map allows us to confirm what we’ve determined, but also shows us a specific enough picture so that we can truly determine more difficult prognoses (like whether or not this mattress is truly great for hip pain).

Choosing a Mattress for Hip Pain – What to Consider

The right mattress can make a significant difference for folks with hip pain. When shopping for a model that can help to maximize comfort, keep a few terms in mind: firmness, support, and pressure relief. These terms are crucial for mattress buyers, particularly those who experience orthopedic pain.

Firmness

Mattress firmness is rated on a 1–10 scale, with 1 being the softest and 10 being the firmest. 6.5 is the mattress industry standard for medium firmness. Firmness describes how a mattress feels when you lie down on it. A firmer mattress provides more push-back against the body and has a more level sleeping surface. A softer mattress has increased sinkage and a cushiony feel. A medium firm mattress offers a balance between pushback and cloud-like conformity. Take a look at our best firm mattress roundup to find the best one for you.

Support

Firmness and support might sound similar, but they describe different mattress characteristics. Both soft and firm mattresses can be supportive. Whereas firmness refers to the stiffness and pushback of the mattress surface, support refers to structural features that help keep the spine aligned and the neck in a neutral position. These features typically include steel coils and/or foam support layers. A supportive mattress also prevents excessive sinkage or “bottoming out” of the materials under body weight.

Pressure Relief

Pressure relief describes the ability of a mattress to alleviate tension in problem areas such as the shoulders, hips, and lower back.

Who Should Focus on Pressure Relief

A mattress that provides pressure relief is important for people who:

• Sleep on their sides
• Experience joint or neck issues

Contouring foam comfort layers can be essential for pressure relief, particularly if you suffer from chronic hip or shoulder pain. You can also check out our top picks for best mattress for shoulder pain.

What is the Best Sleeping Position for Hip Pain?

Now that we’ve chatted about basic mattress terms, let’s look at another key element of choosing the right mattress: sleep position. Sleep position can have a profound effect on the joints and spine. Even healthy joints can be strained by a sleeping position that causes poor spinal alignment or orthopedic stress. Each position has benefits and drawbacks that can affect the sleep and comfort of hip pain sufferers.

Side sleeping

Side sleeping is the most popular of all sleep positions and is the choice of 41% of people. Sleeping may occur on either side and take place in a fetal-type position or with one or both legs down.

• Pros: Sleeping on your side can keep the tongue and throat muscles from falling into the throat and causing snoring or sleep apnea. Left side sleeping can also reduce acid reflux by preventing acid from flowing into the esophagus.
• Cons: Side sleeping can cause shoulder, arm, and/or hip pain due to pressure from the mattress and poor spinal alignment. Pressure on the jaw from sleeping on your side against a pillow or mattress may result in jaw pain. If you tend to feel like this, I recommend taking a look at our best mattresses for side sleepers reviews.

Mattress firmness is an important factor for side sleepers with hip pain. A medium-soft model can help cradle the hips and provide pressure relief without too much sinkage. Heavier side sleepers may need a medium-firm mattress that helps to prevent excessive sinkage and curvature of the spine.

Back sleeping

While only 14% of people sleep on their backs, back sleeping may be the healthiest of all sleeping positions. Back sleeping is often recommended for people with orthopedic conditions or after certain types of joint surgery.

• Pros: Sleeping on the back aligns the spine and helps the neck and head maintain a neutral position. Back sleeping also distributes body weight evenly and minimizes tension on pressure points. Sleeping on the back can help reduce pressure on the side and front of the hip joint, which may be helpful for many folks who experience hip pain.
• Cons: Back sleeping can allow the tongue to fall back into the throat, blocking the airway and causing snoring and sleep apnea. Back sleeping can also feel uncomfortable or awkward to some folks, who may have difficulty sleeping in this position for extended periods of time.

Sleeping on the back is often the position of choice for folks with hip pain, who may experience greater pain relief and improved spinal alignment. The right mattress for back sleepers with hip pain is typically a medium-firm model that cushions the hips and prevents gapping between the mattress and lower back. If you’re on the heavier side, a slightly firmer mattress can prevent too much sinkage that may aggravate orthopedic pain.

Stomach sleeping

About 16% of folks sleep on their stomachs. Stomach sleeping is known for putting stress on the neck and spine and is generally considered the least healthy of the sleep positions.

• Pros: Sleeping on the stomach can keep the tongue from blocking the airway and reduce the risk of snoring and sleep apnea. Folks who experience hip pain when lying on their sides may prefer to sleep on their stomachs but should be aware that the position can cause poor spinal alignment.
• Cons: Stomach sleeping can cause poor head and back alignment and counteract the natural curve of the spine. This can lead to muscle and joint pain during sleep and waking hours.

As a general rule, stomach sleepers who experience hip pain should look for a firmer mattress that will support the spine and help prevent sinking of the torso to avoid back pain. Heavier stomach sleepers typically do best with a very firm mattress that will help prevent poor spinal alignment and neck strain.

If you also tend to suffer from back pain, I recommend taking a look at our best mattress for back pain 2021 round up.

What Type of Mattress Is Best for Hip Pain

Now that we’ve discussed sleep positions and their potential effect on hip pain, let’s look at the pros and cons of the most common types of mattresses. Most of these types of mattresses are widely available in stores, online, and as bed-in-a-box models.

Memory Foam

Memory foam is a type of polyurethane foam known for its plush, comfortable feel. Memory foam comes in a range of firmness options, from extra soft to extra firm.

Pros	Cons
Responds to pressure and body heat, and is touted for its ability to relieve pressure and conform to the body. This can be a great feature for hip pain sufferers, especially those who sleep on their sides	Older and less expensive forms of memory foam can retain body heat and “sleep hot.” This is less likely with newer forms such as those infused with gel and copper
The absorptive quality of the material decreases motion transfer, making it a good option for partners who share a bed	Less edge support can cause sloping or poor spinal alignment for folks with hip pain who sleep close to the edge of the mattress
Increasingly affordable as their popularity and use have increased	Memory foam mattresses may not offer enough support or durability for some sleepers, particularly those who weigh more than 225 pounds

Latex

Latex foam is a natural product made from the sap of the rubber tree. Latex has a bouncier feel than memory foam and has a quick response to pressure.

Pros	Cons
The naturally airy structure of latex means that it ventilates better and sleeps cooler than some memory foams	Latex transfers more motion than memory foam, so bed mates may feel each other’s tossing and turning at night
Latex is a great option for hip pain sufferers who prefer natural mattress materials	A bit pricier than other foams and hybrid mattresses
Stomach sleepers with hip pain may prefer latex, which feels more buoyant and sinks less than other types of foam	The material doesn’t hug the body like memory and poly foams and may feel less comfortable for hip pain sufferers
Comfort layers made from latex can be a good choice for heavier sleepers who sink through memory or poly foam

Poly Foam

Poly foam is made from a type of polyurethane that lacks the viscoelastic properties of memory foam. Poly foam has a quick response to pressure and is typically used to complement memory foam or latex.

Pros	Cons
Can offer pressure relief to hip pain sufferers when used as a comfort layer	Less expensive types of poly foam may degrade quickly, often within a few years of use
The material can feel light and airy, which may be helpful for folks with hip pain who sleep hot	Poly foam can feel less responsive and plush than memory foam, which offers more of a conforming “hug”
One of the more affordable materials used in mattresses, particularly as a comfort and/or support layer	When new, poly foam can have a strong smell that may take time to go away

Hybrid

Like an innerspring mattress, a hybrid mattress utilizes a steel coil core for durability and structure, but adds memory foam, poly foam, and/or latex comfort layers for a satisfying balance of pressure relief and support. Innerspring mattresses are not typically recommended for hip pain sufferers, who tend to sleep best on conforming comfort layers that cradle the joints and muscles.

Pros	Cons
Typically contain pocketed coils, which are quieter and transfer less motion than traditional innersprings	The coil structure of a hybrid mattress may transfer motion, making it feel bouncier and more disturbing to a bed partner
The foam comfort layers can offer plush pressure relief for hip pain sufferers, especially in softer models that utilize memory foam	May be heavier and more difficult to move
May be cooler than all-foam models and can be a good choice for hip pain sufferers who sleep warm at night	Less expensive hybrids may not be as durable as those made from pricier materials such as low-gauge steel coils and cooler forms of memory foam

FAQs

Can your mattress cause hip pain?

Absolutely. A mattress that is too firm or worn out to provide adequate pressure relief can cause hip pain to develop during the night.

Is memory foam good for hip pain?

In general, yes. If a mattress has a thick layer of quality memory foam on top, it allows to sink into the bed and enjoy some pressure relief around the hip. That said, it’s important to look for a mattress that provides adequate spinal support so your hips and spine don’t get misaligned.

Is a firm or soft mattress better for hip pain?

Soft mattresses are generally better at relieving hip pain. As a general rule, firm mattresses put too much pressure on the shoulders and hips. Softer mattresses allow for some sinkage into the mattress, providing pressure relief in these sensitive areas.

How will I know if my mattress is contributing to my hip pain?

Your mattress may be contributing to your hip discomfort if you feel stiff and achy in the mornings or wake up during the night in pain. You may notice that you sleep better when away from home or in a different bed. If your hip pain begins after the purchase of a new mattress, it may be due to pressure from excessively firm materials or poor spinal alignment.

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.

When selecting the best mattresses for hip pain, we knew that comfort and support would be crucial factors. Proper support results in proper alignment, and having the right pressure relief and comfort is just as important. Click here to learn more about our methodology

Recap: The Best Mattresses for Hip Pain of 2023

Mattress	Best For	Price (Queen)	Coupon	Review
Saatva Solaire	Overall	$3,745	Saatva Coupon	Read Our Review
Helix Midnight Luxe	Couples	$2,374	Helix Coupon	Read Our Review
Nectar	Affordable	$1,099	Nectar Coupon	Read Our Review
WinkBed	Heavy People with Hip Pain	$1,799	WinkBeds Coupon	Read Our Review
Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe	Arthritis	$2,265	Brooklyn Bedding Coupon	Read Our Review
DreamCloud Premier Rest	Back Sleepers with Hip Pain	$2,332	DreamCloud Coupon	Read Our Review
Bear Elite Hybrid	Side Sleepers with Hip Pain	$2,111	Bear Coupon	Read Our Review
Nolah Evolution	Shoulder and Hip Pain	$2,499	Nolah Coupon	Read Our Review
Puffy Cloud	Memory Foam	$2,399	Puffy Coupon	Read Our Review
Titan Plus	Stomach Sleepers	$1,249	Brooklyn Bedding Coupon	Read Our Review

Sources

1. Christmas C, Crespo CJ, Franckowiak SC, Bathon JM, Bartlett SJ, Andersen RE, How common is hip pain among older adults? Results from the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, The Journal of Family Practice, April 5, 2002
2. Treede, RD et al., A classification of chronic pain for ICD-11, Pain, June, 2015
3. Krati Chauhan; Jagmohan S., Rheumatoid Arthritis, StatPearls, February 26, 2020
4. Eberhardt K, Fex E, Johnsson K, Geborek P., Hip involvement in early rheumatoid arthritis, Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases, January, 1995
5. J. A. Robertson et al., Sleep disturbance in patients taking opioid medication for chronic back pain, Anaesthesia, November, 2016

Bridget Chapman

Former Senior Product Editor

About Author

Bridget is a Certified Sleep Science Coach and senior editor here at Sleepopolis. From testing mattresses to writing about various sleep health topics, her goal is to help you get a good night’s sleep. You can also find her in videos on our YouTube channel. Bridget graduated magna cum laude from San Diego State University with a degree in journalism and a minor in English. Before joining the Sleepopolis team, she was a TV news reporter and worked in cities across the country. She loves spending time outdoors, checking out new restaurants, snuggling with her pets, and of course — getting some quality Zzz’s.

Combination Sleeper