Written by Bridget Chapman, Senior Product Editor
How in the world are you supposed to sleep with pulsing pains shooting up your hips and legs? Aside from seeking the advice and treatment of a medical professional, one thing you can do is buy one of the best mattresses for sciatica. This isn’t any old mattress, but one that lifts your spine into a neutral alignment all the way from your shoulders to your hips.
If you suffer from sciatica, you know the pain that comes along with the condition can make sleeping comfortably quite the challenge. Since your sciatic nerve runs from the lower back, through the hips and the buttocks, down to the heels of your feet, it’s no joke when the pain strikes. Our team at Sleepopolis understands this struggle, and that’s why I created this guide. Here are my top picks to help you find the best mattress for sciatica.
Our Top Pick for the Best Mattress for Sciatica
Thanks to its pillow top, which is layered over memory foam, the Helix Dusk Luxe provides a soft, plush sleeping surface that takes pressure off your back. Meanwhile, the coils at the bottom of the mattress give you plenty of spinal support.
Best Mattresses for Sciatica 2024
- Helix Dusk Luxe – Best Overall Mattress for Sciatica
- Nectar – Best Memory Foam Mattress
- WinkBed – Best Hybrid Mattress for Sciatica
- Nolah Evolution – Best Mattress for Pressure Relief
- Plank Firm – Best Firm Mattress for Sciatica
- Saatva – Best Innerspring Mattress
- Titan Plus – Best Mattress for Heavy Sleepers
- Bear Elite Hybrid – Best Mattress for Muscle Recovery
- Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid – Best Mattress for Couples
- Birch Luxe – Best Mattress for Hot Sleepers
Best Mattress for Sciatica 2024 – Our Video Roundup
Disclaimer: The content on Sleepopolis is meant to be informative, but shouldn’t replace advice or treatment from a medical professional. If you experience chronic pain or discomfort while sleeping, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional.
Compare the Best Mattresses For Sciatica
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| Helix Dusk Luxe Mattress | Nectar Mattress | WinkBed Mattress | Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress | Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress | Saatva Mattress | Titan Plus | Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress | Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress | Birch Luxe Natural Mattress | |
| Rating | ||||||||||
| Firmness | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Firm: 7/10 | Multiple firmness options | Multiple firmness options | Multiple firmness options | Firm: 7.5/10 | Multiple firmness options | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Firm: 7/10 |
| Material | Hybrid | Foam | Hybrid | Hybrid | Foam | Innerspring | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid |
| Cooling | — | — | — | — | — | — | ||||
| Best For |
Stomach Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Side Sleepers, Hot Sleepers,
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Back Sleepers, Back Pain, Stomach Sleepers, Side Sleepers, Couples
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Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Hot Sleepers, Side Sleepers
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Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Hip Pain, Seniors,
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Stomach Sleepers,
Back Pain, Seniors |
Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Hot Sleepers, Seniors
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Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Hip Pain, Seniors
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Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Hip Pain, Seniors
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Couples,
Back Sleepers, Hip Pain |
Back Sleepers,
Stomach Sleepers |
What I Look For In The Best Mattresses For Sciatica
Pressure Relief
When looking for the best mattress for Sciatica, it is especially important to consider the pressure-relieving abilities of that mattress. I want to help you find the best mattress for any pain you might be experiencing, so I tested every mattress on this list with a pressure map, which showed me where you would get the most pressure relief on each mattress in various positions.
Firmness and Contouring
The level of firmness and ability of a mattress to contour you is critically important when you are experiencing pain. Because of this, I tested each of our mattresses against our firmness scale, which ranks mattress firmness from 1-10, with 10 being the firmest, to help you find the exact firmness you are looking for, but I do generally recommend between 6 and 7.5. I also tested out each of these mattresses myself to get a feel for the contouring ability if each mattress.
Spinal Alignment
Spinal alignment is especially important for sleepers with Sciatica, so I made sure to pay special attention to the spinal alignment properties of each mattress in this list. To do so, I used our pressure map mentioned above and also laid on each mattress in various sleeping positions to see how much alignment I was able to get to help you find the best mattress for Sciatica for you.
Helix Dusk Luxe – Best Overall Mattress for Sciatica
The Helix Dusk Luxe mattress has a medium-firm feel that is perfect for back sleepers. Also, this mattress offers great contouring that doesn’t make you feel like you’re “stuck in” bed, which is great news for combination sleepers. Learn more in our video review of all the Helix Luxe mattresses.
What our tester says:
“Overall, I found the Helix Dusk to be quite cooling, with the Luxe model sleeping slightly cooler. The Tencel cover on the Luxe adds additional temperature regulation. The gel foam and latex foam also add cooling.” – Logan Block, former content director
Expert Opinion
Helix sells a lot of different hybrid mattresses in a box, and has both a standard line and luxe line for each model. I think the Luxe line is the way to go for sciatica sufferers because, no matter which model you choose, it has a pillow top layer over its memory foam. For my top pick for lower back pain, I specifically recommend the Helix Dusk Luxe, as its medium firmness works for a lot of different sleepers. When lying down on its surface, the pillow top gave me some added plushness and pressure relief. I also think hybrid mattresses can be helpful for lower back pain because they offer the springy support that helps keep your spine aligned. After all, my pressure map lit up with blue in the lumbar region for back sleeping.
What our tester says: “I also appreciate the edge support in this bed. It’s a nice feature that makes your mattress feel a little bigger, and is a great indication that this bed is well-made. I’d expect this bed to last you a long time.” – Logan Block, former Sleepopolis director of content and mattress tester
What Customers Say
Several customers found Helix’s 30-second Sleep Quiz to be extremely helpful in deciding which hybrid worked for them.
Pros of the Helix Dusk Luxe Mattress
- Medium-firm mattresses tend to be a good fit for back sleepers, as they provide comfort and support for the spine.
- There’s enough responsiveness here for combination sleepers to be able to easily switch positions throughout the night.
- The coils promote airflow throughout the mattress’ structure, plus every bed in the Luxe line comes outfitted with a soft and breathable Tencel cover.
Cons of the Helix Dusk Luxe Mattress
- Side sleepers may want a slightly softer bed with just a little bit more contouring.
Ready to purchase? Click here to get the best deal. For more on the Helix Luxe line, check out our full Helix Dusk Luxe mattress review. You can also peruse our roundup of the best mattresses of 2024 for more choices.
Nectar – Best Memory Foam Mattress
The Nectar delivers a balance of comfort and support: it’s definitely contouring, but still provides a firm enough foundation for most light to average weight sleepers, especially if they sleep on their back or stomach. Plus, a lengthy trial period, lifetime warranty, and affordable price make the Nectar a reassuring choice for many. Watch our video review to learn more.
What our tester says:
“I think back sleepers would be especially happy on this bed. They’ll get plenty of support from the firm memory foam in the Nectar Classic, which should translate to great pressure relief and a good night’s sleep. Hot sleepers who have to have a memory foam mattress should also have no trouble at all falling asleep on this bed.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
Expert Opinion
Memory foam beds are historically known for their ability to help alleviate pain, and the Nectar is no exception. I think this mattress is the best foam option for sciatica because it blends both comfort and support. Its construction consists of three separate foam layers, with memory foam up top to provide pain relief, and firmer high-density foam at the bottom to provide spinal support and prevent the sleeper from sinking too far into the material. I definitely got more of an “on top” of the bed feel, rather than feeling “in” the mattress. A layer of dynamic response foam sits in the middle to help transition you between the other two layers. My pressure map test showed especially great results for the back-sleeping position; those with sciatica should find a lot of relief on this mattress.
What our tester says: “Average weight back sleepers should consider the Nectar Classic, especially if they have back pain. My colleague, who suffers from chronic back pain, noted excellent pressure relief and support in her lower lumbar spine while testing this mattress.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
What Customers Say
There are over 52,000 reviews of the Nectar on the brand’s website (and counting). It has an average customer rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars. You can actually search specific words in the reviews, and when typing in “sciatica”, 87 customer testimonials come up that praise how the bed alleviates pain associated with this condition.
Pros of the Nectar Mattress
- I was surprised to find that the Nectar felt very comfortable while stomach sleeping. That’s not always the case with all-foam mattresses, which often don’t have the support that stomach sleepers need.
- I also found it easy to change positions on the Nectar. This should appeal to you if you’re a combination sleeper who switches between their back, side, and stomach.
- For a memory foam mattress, the Nectar is quite affordable. You can often find a queen size for under $1,000 after discounts.
Cons of the Nectar Mattress
- While many side sleepers should find the Nectar to be a good fit, folks with severe joint pain may want to explore some softer options that offer even more pressure relief than the Nectar.
Ready to purchase? Click here to get the best deal. And you can read the full Nectar review for our full testing results, or see some more choices on our best memory foam mattress page.
WinkBed – Best Hybrid Mattress For Sciatica
The WinkBed is a luxury hybrid mattress. It has a similarly supportive and sturdy feel to a traditional innerspring mattress, but upgrades like a Euro top and cooling Tencel cover give it a touch of modern luxury. Available in three firmness levels, there is a WinkBed for just about every sleeper. And a responsive and bouncy feel makes it a great pick for combination sleepers. Learn more in our video review.
What our tester says:
“If you like the feel of a traditional innerspring mattress, the WinkBed could work for you. Since this bed offered great pressure relief around my lumbar region, I’d also recommend it to folks who suffer from lower back pain.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
Expert Opinion
Anyone looking to soothe their sciatic nerve while still feeling supported should definitely consider the WinkBed. Built with a combination of springs and foams, it has a pillow top and memory foam comfort layer that provided me with some nice pressure relief at the lower back. At the bottom of the mattress, a tall support layer of pocketed coils gave me a slight lift. The coils are zoned, meaning they’re able to give different areas of the back different levels of support.
I put each mattress through a host of tests, but one of the tests most helpful for this roundup is my pressure map test. This involves me spreading out a pressure mat across the mattress surface and using it to track areas of pressure buildup. Results show on a graphic that lights my silhouette in different colors: red and orange for high pressure, yellow for moderate pressure, and green and blue for low pressure. In the case of the WinkBed Luxury Firm, I saw lots of blue and a bit of green in the back-sleeping position, indicating low pressure buildup. This should come in handy for those with sciatica, as the comfort layer should fill in the lumbar region and ease tension at the back.
What our tester says: “I think the WinkBed is an especially good fit for sleepers with back pain, with the [pressure] map almost entirely blue. This indicates low pressure and even weight distribution, which is essential for avoiding soreness in the upper or lower back. Back sleepers, in particular, should feel their body lifted and their spine neutrally aligned.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
What Customers Say
Shoppers with joint pain and back pain seem to find that the WinkBed helps alleviate their discomfort.
Pros of the WinkBed Mattress
- The WinkBed is available in four different models: Softer (best for side sleepers and back sleepers who like a softer feel), Luxury Firm (best for back sleepers who like a firmer feel), Firmer (best for stomach sleepers), and Plus (made for sleepers who weigh over 250 pounds).
- The tall coils in the Winkbed make it extra-bouncy and responsive, which makes it easy for combo sleepers to move around and switch sleeping positions.
- The coils leave plenty of space for airflow, and there’s an infusion of gel in both the comfort layer and the pillow top to assist with cooling.
Cons of the WinkBed Mattress
- The WinkBed has more of an “on top of” feel that probably isn’t going to appeal to folks who love the slow sinkage and contouring of memory foam.
Ready to purchase? Click here to get the best deal. You can also get more details in our full WinkBed mattress review, and see some other choices on our best hybrid mattresses page.
Nolah Evolution – Best for Pressure Relief
The Nolah Evolution’s hybrid construction offers the cushioning of memory foam with the responsiveness of coils. The Luxury Firm model is a good option for side and back sleepers due to its medium-firm feel, though there are Plush and Firm versions as well. Those who share a bed may also appreciate its low motion transfer, so you won’t be disturbed by a partner’s movements and its solid edge support to allow you to maximize surface area. For more information, check out our video review.
What our tester says:
“I laid down to rest on this mattress on my back — my primary sleep position. I felt comfortable, but also appreciated the cozy, plush top of the bed. After some time lying on my back, I switched over to my side. I didn’t find this position quite as comfortable, as I did feel some slight pressure buildup in my shoulder.” – Amelia Jerden, senior staff writer
Expert Opinion
The Nolah Evolution has not one, but two comfort layers, meaning it offers pressure relief for anyone living with lower back pain. In terms of material, one layer is made of a proprietary material called AirFoamIce — the brand’s version of memory foam that also has a graphite infusion for extra cooling. I received immediate pressure relief while lying down, all while feeling supported from a layer of coils at the bottom. The springs even have an additional edge support system, allowing you to spread out across the entire mattress without feeling like you’re going to fall off.
I put the Nolah Evolution through my pressure map test, and not surprisingly, I found some wonderful pressure relief in the back sleeping positions (almost all blue). When switching to my side, I found more than sufficient pressure relief as well. Folks should feel cushioned and relieved from sciatica pain on this mattress.
What our tester says: “This mattress provides good pressure relief and body contouring, which made me feel really comfy but also supported. I think the cushiony pillow top could be beneficial for anyone dealing with pain.” – Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor
What Customers Say
Shoppers find that the zoned support on the Nolah Evolution helps distribute their bodyweight comfortably.
Pros of the Nolah Evolution Mattress
- The mattress is available in three different firmness levels: Plush, Luxury Firm, and Firm. I think the Plush is best for side sleepers, Luxury Firm is best for back sleepers, and Firm is best for stomach sleepers.
- AirFoamIce sleeps much cooler than memory foam. Paired with the airflow-promoting coils, it makes the Nolah Evolution an excellent match for hot sleepers.
- The Evolution is springy and responsive, meaning it should be easy for combo sleepers to switch positions.
Cons of the Nolah Evolution Mattress
- While partners should have no problem staying cool, they might feel each other moving around on the springs if they’re especially light sleepers.
Ready to evolve your sleep experience? Click here to get the best deal. You can also check out our full Nolah Evolution mattress review for more info.
Plank Firm – Best Firm Mattress for Sciatica
The Plank Firm more than lives up to its name with its ultra-sturdy foams and supportive feel. While this bed certainly isn’t for everyone, it should be an ideal fit for back sleepers, stomach sleepers, and combination sleepers who want to feel more on top of their mattress than in it. For more information, check out our video review.
What our tester says:
“I think the Plank Firm is one of the best mattresses for stomach sleepers. Both sides of the mattress, the firm side and extra firm side, should give these sleepers the support they need to keep their hips in line with their shoulders. Back sleepers who like a firmer feel should also be happy on the firm side of the Plank.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
Expert Opinion
You might want a firm mattress if you’re a stomach sleeper, as firm mattresses are great for keeping the hips elevated. Or you might want one if you sleep on your back and don’t want to feel as though you’re sinking into your bed. Fortunately, a firmer mattress can also help sleepers with sciatica.
We’d like to point these folks toward the Plank Firm, an all-foam bed with a flippable design from Brooklyn Bedding. Per its name, this is meant to be one of the firmest beds out there, with both a Firm side and an Ultra Firm side. When lying down on the Plank, I felt extremely supported. In terms of exact firmness, I scored the Firm side a 7.5 out of 10 on our mattress firmness scale and the Ultra Firm side an 8.5 out of 10. I also found it to work for a number of heavy sleepers, as well as average weight sleepers.
What our tester says: “The Plank Firm definitely lives up to its name, as I felt no sinkage on this bed. While this mattress may not be the best option for side sleepers who need pressure relief around their joints, the Plank Firm can work wonders for those suffering from back pain.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
What Customers Say
There are almost 3,000 reviews on Plank’s company site, and these firm mattress lovers seem to adore how the Plank Firm provides continual support throughout the night.
Pros of the Plank Firm Mattress
- The foams in the Plank Firm are highly responsive, making it easy for combo sleepers to switch positions at night.
- Average weight and heavy stomach sleepers should be most comfortable on the Ultra Firm side. They should feel the dense foam keeping their hips elevated and in line with their shoulders, which helps them maintain a neutral spinal alignment.
- I recommend that average weight and heavy back sleepers opt for the Firm side to get the right blend of comfort and support.
Cons of the Plank Firm Mattress
- Both sides of the Plank are going to be far too firm for side sleepers of any weight, as they need a softer bed so they can get the contouring they need at the shoulders and hips.
Ready to purchase? Click here to get the best deal. You can also read our Plank Firm mattress review for more information, or check out other options on our best firm mattress page.
Saatva – Best Innerspring Mattress
The Saatva’s coil-on-coil construction provides a classic innerspring feel. It’s a good option for combo sleepers, who will want to feel free to switch positions and avoid feeling “stuck” in the mattress. It comes in three firmness levels, so you should be able to find one that suits your needs. The white glove delivery Saatva provides is an added perk and will save you the headache of getting rid of your old mattress (they take it away for free!). For more information, watch our video review.
What our tester says:
“I think the Saatva is a great option for back sleepers, as the Luxury Firm model provides enough cushioning for their lumbar region, but also lots of support to keep their spine in a neutral alignment.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
Expert Opinion
The Saatva is considered a luxury innerspring bed built with a coil-on-coil construction, meaning it has two layers of springs: a layer of larger steel coils below and a layer of smaller, individually wrapped coils above. When testing out the mattress, I felt these individually wrapped coils moving with my body, giving me pressure relief where I most needed it. The bed also has a layer of memory foam between its coil layers, which gave me extra relief at the lower back to help alleviate sciatica. During testing, I tried the pressure map test on the Luxury Firm version (firmer than the Plush Soft, softer than the Firm). I found overall good results for an innerspring bed. There was some moderate pressure building up at the lower back while back sleeping. And I noticed moderate pressure at my hip and shoulder while resting on my side. For extra pressure relief, I recommend trying the Plush Soft version.
What our tester says: “When I say that the Saatva has a coil-on-coil construction, I mean that it has two layers of springs, and that’s what makes up most of the mattress. Unlike a memory foam mattress or a hybrid mattress (which uses substantial amounts of springs and foam), it has a traditional innerspring feel — high on bounciness and support.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
What Customers Say
Customers highly value Saatva’s free white glove delivery. Saatva will help remove your old mattress and set up your new model, as well.
Pros of the Saatva Mattress
- The mattress is available in three different firmness levels. I generally recommend the Plush Soft for side sleepers, Luxury Firm for back sleepers, and Firm for stomach sleepers.
- I think the Saatva works well if you like to switch positions throughout the night too, since you’ll definitely feel more on top of this mattress than in it.
- Because the Saatva has so many springs, there’s more room in the bed for airflow than there is in an all-foam mattress. This helps the mattress stay nice and cool.
Cons of the Saatva Mattress
- Even the Plush Soft model is going to be firmer, bouncier, and more responsive than many foam beds. If you prefer the soft, sinking feel of memory foam, then you may want to look elsewhere.
Ready to purchase? Click here to get the best deal. You can also learn more in the full Saatva mattress review, or if you’re still searching for the perfect bed, check out our roundup of the best innerspring mattresses.
Titan Plus – Best Mattress for Heavy Sleepers
The Titan Plus mattress is a durable mattress made with heavy sleepers in mind. It’s firm and features heavy-duty coils and Titanflex foam that makes it bouncy and easy to move around on. We think that heavy back sleepers and stomach sleepers should be especially comfortable. For more information on the Titan Plus, check out our video review.
What our tester says:
“I think the Titan Plus lives up to its name as a good mattress for heavier sleepers. It will offer them the deep compression support and durability they need.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
Expert Opinion
Because heavy sleepers put more pressure on a mattress than lightweight or average weight sleepers, they usually need a bed with more firmness and support, especially if they struggle with lower back pain. They should find just that in the Titan Plus, a luxury hybrid mattress from Brooklyn Bedding designed specifically for larger body types over 250 pounds.
The construction of the Titan Plus consists of sturdy yet cushioning foams up top, with a tall layer of innerspring coils at the bottom. When I tested it out, I found that it offered me the support people with sciatica need, but also provided some pressure relief, thanks to its comfort layer of Titanflex foam. This is a proprietary material that simultaneously offers contouring and responsiveness.
What our tester says: “I think the Titan Plus lives up to its name as a good mattress for heavier sleepers. It will offer them the deep compression support and durability they need.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
What Customers Say
A lot of shoppers believe the Titan Plus to be an incredibly supportive and quality mattress for the price.
Pros of the Titan Plus Mattress
- As I noted, the Titan Plus was designed with heavier sleepers in mind, so they should be comfortable in most sleeping positions. However, folks under 250 pounds might have a different experience in regards to firmness and feel.
- If you sleep on your back and are of average weight (between 150 and 250 pounds), you should be comfortable on the Titan Plus. My pressure map reassured me that the comfort layer should provide sufficient relief to the lumbar region.
- The same goes for average weight stomach sleepers.
Cons of the Titan Plus Mattress
- The Titan Plus is probably going to feel way too firm for average weight side sleepers. They’ll need something softer, with a lot more contouring at the shoulders and hips.
Ready to purchase? Click here to get the best deal. Interested in learning more? Read our full Titan Plus mattress review, or if you want some more options, check out our page of the best mattresses for heavy people.
Bear Elite Hybrid – Best Mattress for Muscle Recovery
The Bear Elite Hybrid uses foam and coils for a mix of support, cushioning, and cooling. While designed for athletes prioritizing wellness and recovery, sleepers of all activity levels can enjoy the many luxurious features. Enjoy zoned support for targeted relief, an “on top of” feel allowing for ease of movement, and cooling features throughout. For more information, watch our video review.
What our tester says:
“I’d recommend the Bear Elite Hybrid for most back and stomach sleepers.I think these sleepers will get the needed pressure relief and contouring around the lower back and hips. This mattress does a wonderful job at offering body contouring while still helping the sleeper stay elevated and lifted as well. The layers of foam should provide comfort while the coil system should offer lots of support.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and mattress tester
Expert Opinion
Due to their active lifestyles, athletes are often subject to pain in the lower back and sciatic nerve. But they might find the relief they’re looking for in the Bear Elite Hybrid. I found that this mattress gave me the proper amount of contouring and pressure relief, all while creating support with a bottom layer of pocketed coils. But its real standout feature is the optional cover (available for a fee) made of Celliant, a material that some recent research suggests may assist with blood flow and muscle recovery after a long workout or sporting match.
In terms of pressure relief, I found some promising results for the Bear Elite Hybrid. My pressure map graphic presented an entirely blue silhouette in the back-sleeping position, showing this should be a solid match for back sleeping and sciatica. When resting on my sides, I saw the slightest bit of green at the shoulder and hip, so folks with pain in this position should find comfort as well.
What our tester says: “I can say that, like phase change material, Celliant sleeps nice and cool, which should help athletes cool down after workout.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
What Customers Say
Many side and back combination sleepers find comfort in both positions, and find it easy to move around at night.
Pros of the Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress
- The Bear Elite Hybrid comes in three different firmness models. I tested the Medium, which I recommend for back sleepers. I recommend the Soft model for side sleepers and the Firm model for back sleepers.
- I scored the Medium model of Bear Elite Hybrid a 6 out of 10 on our mattress firmness scale, so it should be a good fit for anyone who’s on the hunt for the best soft mattress.
- Celliant’s recovery technology sleeps extremely cool. But even if you don’t select it as an add-on, the coils also make for plenty of airflow, which makes this one cool-sleeping mattress.
Cons of the Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress
- The Bear Elite Hybrid is a luxury mattress with a higher price point. If you have a strict budget, you may want to opt for another option on this list.
Ready to hibernate on the Bear Elite Hybrid? Click here to get the best deal. You can also learn more in our full Bear Elite Hybrid mattress review, or check out our options on our best mattress for athletes page.
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid – Best Mattress for Couples
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid mattress combines a foam comfort layer and sturdy coils. This combination of materials makes it bouncy and easy to move around on. It comes in three firmness levels, and we recommend the Medium model for most back sleepers. It’s a great choice for shoppers who are looking for a new mattress on a budget. For more information, check out our video review.
What our tester says:
“Given that the Signature Hybrid has some excellent bounce, I’d highly recommend this mattress for combination sleepers who often change positions multiple times throughout the night. I also think the Signature Hybrid could be a great fit for couples. You shouldn’t be overly disturbed by a restless partner on this bed, and it has nice, firm edge support.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
Expert Opinion
Three most important factors when looking for a mattress for couples are firmness, cooling, and edge support. The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid excels in all of these areas. I found that it had a medium firmness that gave me a blend of comfort and support, the edge support was strong, and that the mattress’s support layer of individually encased coils left plenty of room for airflow. But I also found it to be a good option for sleepers experiencing back pain and sciatica. They may get just enough contouring from the quilted top and memory foam layer while also getting a lift from the coils. Both of these factors help soothe the sciatic nerve and keep the spine in a neutral alignment.
What our tester says: “I appreciate that the Brooklyn Signature Hybrid mattress isolates motion well, has strong edge support, and sleeps fairly cool. All these features make me think this bed is a great choice for couples.” – Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor
What Customers Say
Couples make up a lot of the 10,000+ reviews on the Signature Hybrid’s page, and many of them have great things to say about the motion isolation and overall support.
Pros of the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress
- Folks who need to change positions at night should be able to do so easily on the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid, thanks to its responsive coils.
- The Signature Hybrid is actually available in three different firmness levels: Soft, Medium, and Firm. Side sleepers should be most comfortable on the Soft, stomach sleepers should be most comfortable on the Firm, and back sleepers should be most comfortable on the Medium.
- The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid is often found at a value price, especially after discounts. I consider it to be one of the best affordable mattresses out there.
Cons of the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress
- I found that the springs of the Signature Hybrid tended to transfer movement across the bed. While this shouldn’t be a concern for most couples, you may want to take this into consideration if you or your partner is a light sleeper who’s easily woken up by tossing and turning.
- The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid is a fairly streamlined bed without a lot of extra features. If you’re someone who prefers added luxury, I recommend our list of the best luxury mattresses instead.
Ready to purchase? Click here to get the best deal. You can also read our Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid review for more information, or check out other options on our best mattress for couples page.
Birch Luxe – Best Mattress for Hot Sleepers
Similar to the Birch Natural, the Birch Luxe Natural blends Talalay latex foam with sturdy coils that are zoned for support. We think it’s a good fit for back sleepers and stomach sleepers who enjoy a firmer bed. Its luxury upgrades include a softer cover with organic cotton and cashmere, plus the mattress has earned multiple certifications for safe production and materials. To learn more, see our video review.
What our tester says:
“I love that the Birch Luxe Natural is an eco-friendly model. I think a lot of people would find comfort in knowing there are no harmful chemicals in this bed and it’s made from organic materials. If you’re a back or stomach sleeper, I think the Birch Luxe could be a great option for you. It’s firm, yet breathable.” – Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor
Expert Opinion
If you not only live with lower back pain or sciatica, but you also tend to overheat while sleeping, it’s a good idea to opt for a mattress that’s cooling. The last thing sleepers with pain need is to wake up sweating in the middle of the night. I think the Birch Luxe is great for back pain because it has a firmer, supportive feel, but good pressure relief around the lower back due to its comfort layer of natural latex. Simultaneously, the zoned coils provided me with adequate firmness in the right places. And as the luxury version of the standard Birch, it has plenty of opulent touches such as a cover made of organic cotton, cashmere, and wool.
What our tester says: “If you change sleeping positions throughout the night, then this mattress could be a nice fit for you. It’s bouncy and responsive, allowing for easy movement on the bed. I also think hot sleepers would enjoy this mattress. It has organic cashmere and individually wrapped, pocketed coils to help with breathability.” – Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor
What Customers Say
Reviewers found the Birch Luxe to sleep cool enough to keep them at a comfortable temperature throughout the night.
Pros of the Birch Luxe Mattress
- The Birch Luxe is made with materials that are less harmful to the environment, such as naturally sourced latex, organic cotton, and organic cashmere.
- Moisture-wicking wool in the comfort layer, naturally cooling latex in the relief layer, and breathable coils all contribute to the Birch Luxe’s cooling abilities.
- There’s a lot of firmness and support on the Birch Luxe, which should help keep back sleepers’ and stomach sleepers’ spines neutrally aligned.
Cons of the Birch Luxe Mattress
- The mattress’ firm and responsive feel probably isn’t going to give side sleepers the contouring they need at the shoulders and hips.
Ready to purchase? Click here to get the best deal. For more information, head on over to our main Birch Luxe mattress review. You can also see more options for hot sleepers on our best cooling mattress page.
Hear From the Experts: What are the Primary Qualities You Would Look for In a Mattress to Help With Sciatic Pain?
“To get some relief from your mattress for sciatic pain, look for a mattress that’s not too hard or too soft (so, a medium-firm mattress), and that supports your back and hips to ease these common pressure points.” – Dr. Raj Dasgupta MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM. Quadruple-board certified in pulmonary, sleep, internal, and critical care medicine
What is Sciatica?
Now that we’ve gone over my picks, let’s chat a bit about sciatica. For those unfamiliar with the term, it refers to pain, burning, or prickling sensation along the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back down either one or both legs. The most common cause is a herniated disk pressing against the nerve, activating a pain response from the body.
You Know Your Body Best
Remember, we’re sleep experts — not medical experts. If something feels wrong, talk to your doctor. If you think you may be experiencing sciatica, don’t hesitate to seek help!
If you’ve never experienced the pain before, it can feel like a tingling numbness or burning that can range in intensity from mild to excruciating. Though uncomfortable, it is treatable, either by medication, surgery, or more conservative measures like physical therapy. One way to mitigate sciatic irritation is to invest in a highly supportive mattress, which lifts the hips in alignment with the shoulders and helps provide uniform pressure relief across the body.
Hear From the Experts: How Can a Mattress Exacerbate or Mitigate Sciatic Pain?
“A mattress can contribute to your sciatic pain if it’s too hard, lacks support, and/or isn’t suited to relieve pressure points. A mattress better suited to alleviate sciatic pain will be medium firm, support your back well, and absorb movement.”– Dr. Raj Dasgupta MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM. Quadruple-board certified in pulmonary, sleep, internal, and critical care medicine
What to Look for In a Mattress for Sciatica
One way to mitigate sciatic irritation is to invest in a good mattress with features that can help alleviate your pain. Let’s take a closer look at what traits you should be seeking out.
Pressure Relief
As important as support is when finding the best mattress for sciatica and lower back pain, it should also offer some pressure relief. This can be accomplished with soft foams implemented into the construction, even if there’s a layer of springs. Most hybrid mattresses use a combination of foam and coils to strike the delicate balance between comfort and support so I recommend them highly for sciatic pain.
I test for pressure relief by using a pressure map to tell me where the pressure points of each mattress are. We lay the pressure reading mat onto each mattress we’re testing and our testers rotate through all sleeping positions to give us accurate readings. When looking at the pressure map, to read it best, green and blue means the mattress is great at relieving pressure and red and yellow are parts of the body that would not be supported as well.
Firmness
While the right firmness is always going to depend on a sleeper’s individual preference, I recommend that folks dealing with lower back pain look for something medium firm or higher. When I test mattresses, I place each mattress on our firmness scale that ranges from 1 to 10, 1 being the softest and 10 being the firmest mattress I have ever tested. For context, the industry standard for medium firm is 6.5 out of 10 on our mattress firmness scale.
That’s why most of the mattresses on this list are at least medium firm or come with several different firmness options available. If you prefer a soft mattress, I don’t recommend going lower than a 6 out of 10 on the mattress firmness scale. However for anyone dealing with sciatica pain, I recommend looking at a mattress above a 7 on the firmness scale to keep your back, hips and lower back lifted and your spine aligned. The only exception to this is if you are a side sleeper, who needs a bit more cushioning in their shoulders and hips, go for a true medium-firm (6.5) mattress.
Support
Sleepers who suffer from lower back pain and sciatica will want to look for a highly supportive mattress, which lifts the hips in alignment with the shoulders and evenly distributes your weight across the bed’s surface. Generally, hybrid and innerspring mattresses tend to be more supportive than all-foam mattresses, although there are certainly exceptions to the rule. When testing out a bed’s support, see how far you’re sinking into the bed. You don’t want to feel like you’re being swallowed up or bottoming out. Memory foam mattresses are the mattress type that might hurt you more than help you. Their foam, hugging nature, although relieve pressure points, for someone suffering from sciatica, allow your body to suck in too much and misaligned your spine, back and hips causing significantly more pain and tension.
Sleeping Position
Side sleeping is perhaps the best sleeping position for sciatica, because it helps alleviate pressure buildup at your lower back. To really cushion those joints, I recommend a softer mattress that specializes in pressure relief, this is the only sleeping position I recommend a softer mattress for sciatica.
I recognize that sometimes, it’s impossible to stray from your normal sleeping position. If you’re a devoted back-sleeper, search for a mattress with a medium firmness that elevates the hips but also cushions them. You don’t want a mattress that is too firm and will hurt your lower back, however, a mattress too soft will get your spine and hips out of alignment causing tension and pressure in your lower back. Strict stomach-sleepers will need a much firmer mattress that helps the body stay lifted throughout the night. I recommend looking at mattresses that score above a 7 on our mattress firmness scale, as this will keep your hips lifted and your spine in alignment. Back pain can be alleviated or prevented simply by having the right mattress.
For additional information, check out our Guide to Better Sleep Posture.
Side Sleepers
Side sleeping is one of the best sleeping positions for sciatica, as it alleviates the pressure buildup at the lower back. If there’s a side that hurts the most (and with sciatica, there usually is), I recommend having that side face the ceiling. For this sleeping position, I recommend a softer feel, as it helps take pressure off of sensitive areas and can prevent a buildup of pain.
Back Sleepers
Back-sleeping can be helpful for sciatica and back pain as the body’s weight is more evenly distributed across the mattress, preventing a buildup of pressure on a particular area of the body. For added comfort and reinforced spinal alignment, I recommend adding a pillow underneath your knees.
Stomach Sleepers
Overall, I don’t recommend stomach-sleeping. It’s one of the most unhealthy sleeping positions for back pain, since there’s a high risk of your hips dipping too far into the mattress and throwing your spine out of alignment. If you are unable to adjust to a new sleeping position, I definitely recommend ensuring your sleeping surface is firm enough to prevent the hips from sinking too far into the material.
Combination Sleepers
You might find yourself tossing and turning while you sleep simply because you experience discomfort as a sciatica sufferer. But if you already have the proper mattress and just identify as a combination sleeper, then I recommend getting a mattress with more of an “on top of” feel. A responsive, bouncy bed should help with ease of movement. That way, you don’t have to strain yourself to get comfortable.
Hear From the Experts: How Can Your Sleeping Position Affect Back Pain?
“Back sleepers should use a medium-firm mattress and a pillow under the knees. Side sleepers benefit from a supportive pillow between the knees and a mattress with some softness. Stomach sleepers should opt for a firm mattress and a thin pillow or none for the head. Combination sleepers need a mattress that’s comfortable for all positions. Maintaining the spine’s natural curve is crucial.” – Dr. Raj Dasgupta MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM. Quadruple-board certified in pulmonary, sleep, internal, and critical care medicine
Body Type
Lightweight sleepers under 130 pounds typically fare best on a mattress with a softer feel. They don’t require quite as much support as heavier sleepers, so a soft mattress can still provide a good balance of durability and comfort for them. Average-weight sleepers typically do well on mattresses that are set at a medium-firm firmness, and heavier sleepers typically need a firmer, more supportive mattress, since they compress more of the mattress layers and need to keep their bodies aligned. The Mayo Clinic states that sciatica most impacts overweight sleepers, as these folks experience additional strain on their backs from being overweight. To remedy this, the Mayo Clinic recommends staying active, making sure to stand throughout the day, and keeping a straight spine while sitting.
Motion Isolation
The term “motion isolation” refers to how well a mattress is able to muffle a sleeper’s movement so that it doesn’t ripple across the bed. Couples where one person is a light sleeper often look for a mattress with good motion isolation, as to not be disturbed by their partner’s tossing and turning. When it comes to finding a good mattress for lower back pain and sciatica, motion isolation isn’t as important as ease of movement. You’ll want something that makes it easy to get in and out of bed without exacerbating your pain. Hybrid mattresses — especially ones made with latex — excel at this. The downside is that they’re not as adept at isolating motion as foam mattresses.
I test for motion isolation by performing the red wine test and the drop ball test. The red wine test is very simply placing a glass of red wine on one side of the mattress and having our testers rotate through various sleeping positions on the other side and seeing if the glass gets tipped over. The drop ball test includes dropping steel balls from various heights and using a seismograph to measure how much movement is felt across the mattress. The larger the waves, the worse this mattress absorbed movement. Motion Isolation is especially important if you share your bed with a partner, kids or any pets.
What Makes a Great Mattress for Couples?
I suggest selecting a mattress that checks most if not all of these boxes: solid edge support, good motion isolation, sufficient cooling ability, and some responsiveness. The edge support reinforces the perimeter is great for making full use of the mattress, good motion isolation quiets your partner’s movements, a cooling bed takes down the body heat of two, and the responsiveness is ideal for sex.
Price
Most mattresses cost between $500–$2,000. While many great orthopedic mattresses can go above the $1,000 range, there are plenty of affordable options. For more ideas, see our roundups for the best mattresses for back pain. Because sciatica causes so much pain and makes sleeping so uncomfortable, I recommend investing in a mattress between $1,500-$2,100 to make sure you get a mattress that is supportive and has quality materials that will keep your body aligned, cushioned and cool.
Materials & Mattress Type
Hybrid mattresses that contain soft foams and coils are usually going to be a sensible option for sleepers with lower back pain and sciatica, as they tend to offer an optimal blend of comfort and support. But there are some all-foam mattresses that could also work, a few of which are included in this article. The plus side to a foam bed is that it’s probably going to offer a ton of deep pressure relief. You’ll just want to make sure it has enough support. Innerspring mattresses are normally firm enough to support someone with sciatic pain however might be too firm and not relieve pressure in the lower back because of its coil construction. If you opt for an innerspring mattress, make sure its a pillow top mattress and that has a layer of foam on top.
Memory Foam
Memory foam mattresses are great options for sciatica because these mattresses specialize in pressure relief. This is crucial for anyone suffering from pain relief, as the foam can prevent the buildup of pain and pressure around sensitive areas. One potential drawback is that the wrong memory foam mattress can sag prematurely; so, make sure you select a durable option (specifically with high-density foam) that can support a neutral spinal alignment in the long-term.
Hybrid
Hybrid mattresses are fantastic for sciatica sufferers looking for a bit more support, as they combine cushioning foams with sturdy coils. This provides the pressure relief required for pain relief, but also the support to keep the hips lifted and properly aligned throughout the night.
Innerspring
Innerspring mattresses specialize in their firm support. While this might be okay for heavyweight sciatica pain sufferers, most sleepers with sciatica will likely find innersprings to be too firm. They may not provide the necessary pressure relief and cushioning, as innersprings have thin comfort layers. If you’re already sleeping on an innerspring, I recommend softening it with one of the best mattress toppers.
Latex
Latex mattresses aren’t just good for eco-conscious shoppers. They’re also stellar options for those with sciatica pain, as they’re incredibly durable options that often include cushioning latex foam. The more responsive feel can be great for combination sleepers, but they generally have poorer motion transfer. This can be a negative for couples who think they’d wake up easily from their partner’s tossing and turning.
Airbed
No, airbeds are not the same as air mattresses. Airbeds are generally on the pricier side, but reasonably so; they have air channels that are often remote-controlled to adjust the firmness of the mattress in real time. This means that regardless of what kind of sleeper you are, you should find great comfort on a versatile airbed.
Temperature Regulation
While temperature doesn’t necessarily cause or even relate to sciatica, it can result in a more uncomfortable sleeping experience. Studies show that sleeping cool, in a 68 degree room, greatly improves your sleep. If you’re struggling with lower back pain and sleeping hot, you’re not likely to get a good night’s rest. So it’s not a bad idea to look for a mattress that has some nice cooling features. I test for cooling by using a thermal gun to measure the temperature different after our testers lay on it.
First, I look for cooling specific materials in its construction, such as cooling covers, gels, coils, breathable materials and phase-changing materials, this gives me a good idea how it will perform. Then our testers lay on the mattress for several minutes and we use the thermal gun to time how long it takes for the mattress to return to its original temperature. I also measure performance by how much the temperature of the mattress increased. I consider anything under an 8 degree difference good cooling and anything under 5, great cooling.
Edge Support
Edge support refers to the strength of a mattress’ perimeter. A bed with strong edge support allows you (and possibly a partner) to spread out and utilize its entire surface without feeling like you’re going to fall off. To test a mattress’ edge support, simply sit on the edge of the bed and see if it collapses or sags under your weight. If it stays sturdy, then its edge support is strong. I use a yard stick when testing for edge support and measure how much it sinks to give me an accurate measure.
A mattress with good edge support can be extremely helpful to folks dealing with sciatica. If you’re able to spread out and not feel cramped, you’re not as likely to experience a flare-up of their pain. Edge support also helps you get in and out of the bed without sinking so anyone dealing with chronic pain, sciatica, or back pain will greatly benefit from a mattress with good edge support.
How Your Sleep is Affected by Sciatica
As with all types of pain, sciatica and lack of sleep can quickly become a vicious cycle. If you have pain problems, you might have trouble falling or staying asleep. Poor sleep, in turn, can exacerbate pain, and so the cycle continues. That’s why it’s so important to invest in a quality mattress; it can quite literally change your life.
How to Relieve Sciatica in Bed
Use A Pillow
If you’re a back sleeper, using a pillow beneath the knees can further support a neutral spinal alignment and prevent an increase in sciatic pain. Side sleepers can use a pillow between their knees to prevent straining and further aggravating your lower back. For specifics, seek our Guide to a Better Sleep with Lower Back Pain.
Stretch Before Bed
Stretching before you sleep can be a great option for sciatica sufferers, taking away stress from the lower back. For more information, see our guide on sleep relaxation.
Use a Mattress Topper
Utilizing a mattress topper can be great for those experiencing discomfort on their current mattress. If you’re unable to afford a more comfortable mattress at the moment, a mattress topper can alter the firmness for cheap. The best mattress toppers can make your bed softer or firmer, and this can help you reach an ideal firmness that’s comfortable for you and your pain needs.
Adjustable Bases
Adjustable bases are becoming more and more popular and with good reason. An adjustable base helps sleepers lift their legs or chest to alleviate any lower back pain and keep their body aligned. Being able to sleep in zero gravity positions, or at different angles can help with back pain, snoring and most chronic pain conditions. Most mattresses are adjustable base friendly, however here are our recommendations for the best mattress for adjustable bases.
Heat & Cold Therapy
When dealing with sciatic and chronic pain every day, a way to alleviate the pain is using cold plunges or ice packs on the pressure area to relieve some pain. On the other side, heat therapy can also be super useful. Heating pads are proved to relax muscles and herniated discs to improve blood flow.
Acupuncture
Some people who suffer from sciatic pain find amazing relief through acupuncture, which involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body. This encourages blood flow and relieves the pressure points where muscles might be tight or strained.
FAQs of Sciatic Pain
What type of mattress is best for sciatica?
Folks with sciatica will want a medium-firm mattress that offers a mix of comfort and support. They’ll also want a little bounce to make sure they can easily change positions to avoid pressure point formation.
Can sciatica be caused by a bad mattress?
While a mattress won’t technically “cause” sciatica, an old or sagging bed can definitely make the symptoms worse. If you feel as though your mattress is no longer supporting your shoulders, hips, or lower back, it may be time to buy a new bed.
How do I know if my mattress is causing me back pain?
The most important thing to figure out is whether or not your mattress is supporting you in your preferred sleeping position. A lack of support can lead to misalignment of the spine, resulting in lower back pain. So, side sleepers need to make sure they’ve got space to sink in at the shoulders, back and stomach sleepers need extra lift at the hips, and combo sleepers need a buoyant bed that’ll support ease of motion. If your bed doesn’t satisfy these needs, it may cause back pain.
How should sciatica patients sleep?
The three most common sleeping positions are back sleeping, side sleeping, and stomach sleeping. For sciatica patients, I recommend back sleeping, which allows for the most pressure relief on pain areas.
How We Chose These Mattresses
We’ve reviewed more than 300 products in our mattress lab, running each one through tests such as pressure-mapping and measuring motion transfer with a seismometer. From there, we give every bed an overall score based on materials, comfort, support, cooling, and edge support. We also factor in brand performance with categories such as value and warranty.
Mattresses that aim to combat back pain of any kind will need to have a substantial amount of support, so we aimed to pick beds that scored high in that category. All of the mattresses that we selected scored at least a 4 out of 5 on support. Additionally, we selected durable mattresses that scored high in our Materials category. A mattress with low-quality materials typically isn’t good at alleviating or preventing back pain. That’s why all mattresses tested at least 4 out of 5 on materials. Click here to learn more about our methodology. Take our mattress quiz if you’re still having trouble finding the best bed for you.
Best Mattresses for Sciatica 2024
| Mattress | Best For | Price (Queen) | Coupon | Review |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Helix Dusk Luxe | Overall | $2,373 | Helix Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Nectar | Memory Foam | $1,099 | Nectar Coupon | Read Our Review |
| WinkBed | Hybrid | $1,799 | WinkBed Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Nolah Evolution | Pressure Relief | $2,499 | Nolah Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Plank Firm | Firm | $1,332 | Brooklyn Bedding Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Saatva | Innerspring | $1,995 | Saatva Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Titan Plus | Heavy Sleepers | $1,249 | Brooklyn Bedding Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Bear Elite Hybrid | Muscle Recovery | $2,111 | Bear Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid | Couples | $1,332 | Brooklyn Bedding Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Birch Luxe by Helix | Hot Sleepers | $2,899 | Helix Coupon | Read Our Review |
Sources
Davis David. Sciatica. National Library of Medicine. March 6, 2022. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK507908/
Gordon Ian, L. Effect of shirts with 42% Celliant™ fiber on tcPO2 levels and grip strength in healthy subjects: A placebo-controlled clinical trial. Journal of Textile Science and Engineering. 2019. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34377599/