Best Mattresses for Scoliosis

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While there’s no substitute for professional medical care when it comes to assessing and treating pain, one thing you may want to consider is buying the best mattress for scoliosis. The curvature of the spine produced by scoliosis can often exert uncomfortable pressure on the joints, nerves, and lower back. This can make it hard to catch the Zzz’s you need to live a happy and healthy life.

That’s why we put together this list — to help you get the rest you need. While the mattresses below differ in terms of style, design, and price, they’re all built to alleviate tension across your body and cushion sensitive spots. To learn more about sleeping with scoliosis, take a look at our buying guide at the bottom of this article.

Our Top Pick for Addressing Scoliosis

We chose the Nectar as the top pick because of how soothing its soft memory foam feels on the back. At the same time, the supportive foam below should help keep the spine in a neutral alignment.

Best Mattresses for Scoliosis 2024 – Top Nine Picks

Best Mattress for Scoliosis – Our Video Review

Note: The content on Sleepopolis is meant to be informative in nature, so it should not be taken as medical advice, nor should it ever take the place of medical supervision from a trained professional. If you feel you may be suffering from a sleep disorder as caused by scoliosis pain, please see your healthcare provider immediately.

What We Look For In The Best Mattresses For Scoliosis

Pressure Relief

Pressure relief is the first thing we tested for in our best mattresses for scoliosis because we know how important it is to alleviate any unwanted pressure from your back, neck, and hips. We used a pressure map on each of the mattresses on this list to be sure you are getting the most pressure relief and sleeping comfortably.

Firmness

Being comfortable is your top priority when you are sleeping, and we know this, so we were sure to pay special attention to the firmness of each of the mattresses we tested in this list to give you the option to choose what firmness is best for you. To do this we tested all of these mattresses against our firmness scale, a 1-10 scale with 10 being the most firm, to show you exactly how firm your mattress is. For people with scoliosis we recommend a mattress around a 6.5 firmness

Contouring

We made sure all of the mattresses we tested for this review would contour the body in a way that helped to alleviate pain for sleepers with scoliosis while still being comfortable.

Nectar Mattress WinkBed Mattress DreamCloud Original Mattress Saatva Rx Mattress Helix Midnight Mattress Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress Bear Original Mattress Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress
Nectar Mattress WinkBed Mattress DreamCloud Original Mattress Saatva Rx Mattress Helix Midnight Mattress Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress Bear Original Mattress Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress
Rating
Firmness Medium-firm: 6.5/10 Firm: 7/10 Firm: 7/10 Medium-firm: 6.5/10 Medium-firm: 6.5/10 Multiple firmness options Firm: 7.5/10 Multiple firmness options Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Material Foam Hybrid Hybrid Hybrid Hybrid Foam Foam Hybrid Hybrid
Cooling -- -- -- -- -- --
Sleep Position Combination Combination Back Combination Back & Side Back & Stomach Back & Side Back & Side Back

Best Overall Mattress for Scoliosis Nectar

Best Overall
Sleepopolis Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.5
Nectar
Nectar Mattress
Medium-Firm
Cooling Cover and Foam
CertiPUR-US Certified
Memory Foam
365-night trial and lifetime warranty
Free shipping
Fall Into Savings
Up to 50% Off Mattresses See Details
SO Brand Icon MattressMaterial
Material
Memory Foam
SO Brand Icon PropertyFirmness
Firmness
We rated the Nectar as a 6.5 out of 10, meaning it’s the industry standard for medium firm
SO Brand Icon PropertyPrice
Price
$931–$2,121 (before any discounts)
so brand icons 2023 Mattress Review Home Page
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
SO sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleepers
If you sleep on your back, the Nectar will provide a nice mix of cushioning and support.
SO Sleeper Type Icons BudgetShoppers
Budget Shoppers
This affordable mattress is a great pick for those looking to save.
SO sleeper type stomach sleepers
The Nectar is that rare foam mattress that’s supportive enough for stomach sleepers, and should keep their hips aligned with their shoulders.
Pros of the Nectar
The Nectar offers a balanced feel, with contouring and support in equal measure.
Back sleepers should feel supported, but pleasantly cushioned on the Nectar.
Couples shouldn’t be too disturbed by movement, as the Nectar isolates motion well.
Cons of the Nectar
The Nectar isn’t supportive enough to be one of the best mattresses for heavy sleepers, which accommodate folks weighing 250 pounds or more. While heavy side sleepers might be comfortable, heavy back sleepers with chronic pain will need something softer and heavy stomach sleepers will probably need something firmer.
SO Brand Icon PropertyShipping
Shipping
Free shipping
SO Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod
Trial Period
365 nights
SO Brand Icon MattressWarranty
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
so brand icons 2023 Editorial Policy Home Page copy
Returns
Full refund and free returns within the 365-night trial period

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

When trying to sleep well with scoliosis pain, one of the most important things to consider is support. Sound support is important for all folks, but those who have scoliosis need to be extra attentive to this. At the same time, they can benefit from a bed that contours their body and provides pressure relief. That’s why we’ve decided to kick off this list with the Nectar mattress. We found that this all-foam bed offers good pressure relief and body contouring for side sleepers. The shoulders and hips get a good amount of sinkage, but the high-density foam at the base can help the spine stay neutrally aligned, and prevent you from sinking too far into the mattress’s layers.

At our Sleepopolis mattress lab, we put the Nectar through our pressure map test. This helps us determine areas of high, moderate, and low pressure buildup. So, we can determine which sleeping positions a mattress is best for, and whether or not it has a good chance of alleviating pain in certain areas. High pressure buildup is indicated on a graphic with red and orange, moderate buildup shows yellow, and lower pressure buildup presents green and blue. While resting in both the back-sleeping and side-sleeping position, we saw all-around low pressure buildup. We think sleepers with shoulder pain and/or hip pain should be comfortable as well.

What our tester said: “I especially like the Nectar’s soft feel for back and side sleepers, who should find their pressure points cushioned, and spines supported.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer

What Customers Say

Many folks in the reviews have amazing things to say about the contouring nature of the Nectar, and how it helps relieve joint pain and arthritis.

Pros of the Nectar Mattress

  • The Nectar comes at a value price, and is a good choice for shoppers who want a high-quality mattress without breaking the bank.
  • This bed has all the sinkage, pressure relief, and contouring of a classic memory foam mattress. This type of mattress is especially nice for those with hip pain.
  • Its all-foam construction allows it to effectively absorb motion and keep it from rippling across the bed.

Cons of the Nectar Mattress

  • This mattress likely won’t be firm enough for stomach sleepers who need enough hip support to keep their spine in a straight line. The goal is to keep the hips in line with the shoulders, and a soft mattress allows the hips to sink in too far for this to be possible.
  • The Nectar does have some cooling components, but hot sleepers may need a bed with more cooling materials.

For more on this bed, check out the full Nectar mattress review. You can also click here for the best deal, or see our best mattress page for more options.

Best Hybrid Mattress for Scoliosis WinkBeds

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

The WinkBed is a luxury hybrid mattress. It has a similarly supportive and sturdy feel to a traditional innerspring mattress, but upgrades like a Euro top and cooling Tencel cover give it a touch of modern luxury. Available in three firmness levels, there is a WinkBed for just about every sleeper. And a responsive and bouncy feel makes it a great pick for combination sleepers. Learn more in our video review.

What our tester says:

“If you like the feel of a traditional innerspring mattress, the WinkBed could work for you. Since this bed offered great pressure relief around my lumbar region, I’d also recommend it to folks who suffer from lower back pain.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer

Expert Opinion

If you like a firmer hybrid mattress, look no further than the WinkBed, a luxury hybrid with a supportive innerspring feel. Regardless of your body type and sleeping position, you should be able to find a WinkBed that provides adequate support. This means those with scoliosis should find a match, too.

It comes in three firmnesses: Softer, Luxury Firm, and Firmer. A Plus version is offered for heavier sleepers as well. When testing these mattresses, we loved the Luxury Firm version for those with scoliosis because these sleepers require a more balanced feel. Our pressure map showed lower pressure buildup for the side-sleeping and back-sleeping positions. The Euro pillow top cradles the hips and shoulders of side sleepers, but we also felt an “on top” of the bed feel, which combination sleepers should appreciate. Selecting a firmer option of the WinkBed should promote stomach sleepers’ spinal alignment.

What our tester said: “One of my favorite things about the WinkBed is its durability. This is a high-quality mattress that should really stand the test of time.” – Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor

What Customers Say

Many folks applaud the WinkBed’s ability to help relieve or alleviate back pain.

Pros of the WinkBed Mattress

  • This mattress is designed to keep sleepers from overheating and should keep a hot sleeper cool all night long.
  • We found this bed to be incredibly bouncy, which makes it easy for combination sleepers to switch sleeping positions throughout the night.
  • The WinkBed has the feel of a traditional innerspring mattress, which should give sleepers with lower back pain the proper support they need.

Cons of the WinkBed Mattress

  • The WinkBed is a high-quality mattress, but it may not be within the budget for some shoppers. However, the WinkBed does go on sale frequently and lasts a long time.
  • If you’re specifically looking for a memory foam mattress, you won’t find that with the WinkBed. The WinkBed is made with layers of coils that provide more support than contouring or sinkage.

Learn more at our full WinkBeds mattress review. You can also click here for the best deal, or see our best hybrid mattress page for more options.

Best Value Mattress for Scoliosis – DreamCloud

Best Value
Sleepopolis Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.4
DreamCloud
DreamCloud Original Mattress
Firm, Supportive Feel
Cashmere-Blend Cover
Responsive Springs
Hybrid
365 nights
Free shipping
Fall Flash Sale
50% off all mattresses See Details
SO Brand Icon MattressMaterial
Material
This is a hybrid mattress, meaning it combines soft foams and sturdy coils for a balance of comfort and support.
SO Brand Icon PropertyFirmness
Firmness
We rated the DreamCloud a 7 out of 10 on our mattress firmness scale, where 1 is the softest and 10 is the firmest. A 7 means that the DreamCloud is fairly firm.
SO Brand Icon PropertyPrice
Price
$839–$2,178 (before any discounts)
so brand icons 2023 Mattress Review Home Page
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
SO sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleepers
You should get enough cushioning for your lumbar region and enough support for a neutral spinal alignment.
SO sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
The coils in the support layer leave plenty of room for airflow.
SO sleeper type stomach sleepers
Combination Sleepers
The DreamCloud is responsive enough for you to easily change positions.
Pros of the DreamCloud
Soft memory foam for cushioning at the lumbar region and sturdy coils for spinal support.
Springs that provide a lot of bounce and responsiveness, both of which help you change positions.
Strong edge support, allowing couples to use the whole surface of the bed.
Cons of the DreamCloud
Not enough contouring at the shoulders and hips to be one of the best mattresses for side sleepers.
SO Brand Icon PropertyShipping
Shipping
Free shipping
SO Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod
Trial Period
365 nights
SO Brand Icon MattressWarranty
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
so brand icons 2023 Editorial Policy Home Page copy
Returns
Free returns after at least 30 days and within the 365-night trial period

With soft foam and a sturdy layer of innerspring coils, the DreamCloud strikes a balance between comfort and support — a little bit of contouring up top and on-top-of-the-bed feel that comes from the bottom. It’s a fairly firm mattress that we think is most comfortable for back sleepers. It also has some luxury touches such as a cashmere-blend cover that are reminiscent of a high-end hotel. Learn more in our DreamCloud video review.

What our tester says:

“I really like how luxurious this mattress feels and how it could work for a variety of sleepers. Along with that, I found that the breathable cashmere cover helps the DreamCloud sleep cool throughout the night. Thanks to its medium-firm to firm support, I think the DreamCloud is a durable mattress. It balances support with plenty of pressure relief for back sleepers.” – Bridget Chapman, former Sleepopolis senior product editor

Expert Opinion

The DreamCloud is a luxury hybrid mattress built with a tall layer of coils and responsive foams. If you struggle with scoliosis, you should get enough support from the bed’s springs to maintain a neutral spinal alignment. You should also be able to easily move around on the bed without worsening your pain. When looking at our pressure map results, we think the mattress is an especially good fit for back sleepers. The image lit up almost entirely blue while we tried out the bed in the back-sleeping position.

Despite the DreamCloud being a luxury mattress similar to what you’d find in a high-end hotel, it comes at an affordable price, considering the quality of its materials. Before discounts, a queen size can usually be found for $1,332, and after discounts, you can often get it for under $1,000.

What our tester said: “First and foremost, I’d recommend this mattress for back sleepers. The balanced feel of firm supportive foam and gentle pressure relief could be a real winner for these folks.” – Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor

What Customers Say

There are more than 7,000 reviews for the original DreamCloud on the brand’s website. Overall, it has an average customer rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, and when filtering out the reviews, 34 of them specifically call out what a good deal it is for the money. “The best sleep ever,” wrote one verified buyer. “If I only knew that I was going to have the best sleeping nights of my life, I would have invested my money on this a long time ago.”

Pros of the DreamCloud Mattress

  • The DreamCloud’s luxury touches include a cashmere blend cover that gives the top of the bed a cozy feel.
  • The responsiveness of the springs and foam also make the DreamCloud a good fit for combination sleepers, who should be able to move around easily on the mattress’s surface.
  • The coils in the DreamCloud leave plenty of room for air to flow through the mattress, which helps it keep the sleeper cool.

Cons of the DreamCloud Mattress

  • The DreamCloud comes in at a 7 out of 10 on our mattress firmness scale, which is probably too firm for side sleepers. They usually need more softness and contouring at the hips, where they put the most pressure while they sleep. They should check out our choices for the best mattresses for side sleepers instead.
  • This bed had a wonderfully luxurious feel, but it does come at a luxury price tag, so if you are looking for a more affordable mattress, this may not be the best option. We recommend looking at our list of the best mattresses under $1,000 to find some more affordable options.

Read our full DreamCloud mattress review to learn more. You can click here for our best deal, or see our page of the best mattresses for the money for more options.

Best Mattress for Joint Pain – Saatva Rx

Best for Joint Pain
Sleepopolis Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.7
Saatva
Saatva Rx Mattress
Medium-Firm Feel
Caters to Joint Pain
Unique Construction
Hybrid
365 nights
Free white glove delivery
Sale
$300 off $1,000 with mattress purchase See Details
SO Brand Icon MattressMaterial
Material
This is a hybrid mattress, meaning it combines soft foams and sturdy coils for a balance of comfort and support.
SO Brand Icon PropertyFirmness
Firmness
We rated the Saatva Rx a 6.5 out of 10 on our mattress firmness scale, where 1 is the softest and 10 is the firmest. A 6.5 means that it’s a medium-firm mattress.
SO Brand Icon PropertyPrice
Price
$1,995–$4,390 (before any discounts)
so brand icons 2023 Mattress Review Home Page
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
SO sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleepers
You should get enough cushioning for your lumbar region and enough support for a neutral spinal alignment.
SO sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
If you ever overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
stomach sleeper
Stomach Sleepers
The Saatva Rx is supportive enough to prevent stomach sleepers’ hips from bowing into the mattress.
Pros of the Saatva Rx
It’s supportive while providing enough pressure relief for joint pain
The specially designed blend of comfort and support makes it a good fit for all three primary sleeping positions
There are plenty of cooling features, including airflow-promoting coils and infusions of gel and phase change material
Cons of the Saatva Rx
It’s a very pricy mattress. For less-expensive options, see our roundup of the best cheap mattresses.
SO Brand Icon PropertyShipping
Shipping
Free shipping and white glove delivery
SO Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod
Trial Period
365 nights
SO Brand Icon MattressWarranty
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
so brand icons 2023 Editorial Policy Home Page copy
Returns
Free returns after at least 45 days and within the 365-night trial period

Designed specifically for sleepers with back pain and joint pain, the Saatva Rx features several layers that combine both foam and coils. This creates a blend of comfort and support throughout the entire mattress that’s cushioning enough for any aches and pains while still being sturdy enough for a neutral spinal alignment. Learn more in our Saatva Rx video review.

What our tester says:

“I found that this bed has a supportive feel that easily works for people of all weights, but still feels plush and comfortable.” – Amelia Jerden, senior staff writer

Expert Opinion

If you struggle with scoliosis (or just chronic pain in general), you might want to check out the Saatva Rx. The brand specifically designed this hybrid mattress to treat back pain and joint issues. As such, it has a unique construction of memory foam at the top and a layer of pocketed coils at the bottom, with a core of microcoils wrapped in memory foam. So the bed essentially goes foam, coils, foam, coils. The result is a dynamic blend of comfort and support that should give you enough cushioning for pain relief while also ensuring that you have enough support to prevent further pain.

When we laid down on the Saatva Rx, we found it to have a true medium firmness of 6.5 out of 10 on our mattress firmness scale. And when we looked at our pressure map in both the back- and side-sleeping positions, it was entirely blue with just a little bit of green. This tells us that, regardless of your sleeping position, your joints should feel contoured and comforted.

What our tester said: “The Saatva Rx has a supportive feel that easily works for people of all weights, but still allows the bed to feel plush and comfortable.” – Amelia Jerden, senior staff writer

What Customers Say

As one of the brand’s newer mattresses the Saatva Rx only has a little over 50 reviews on the company’s website, with an average customer rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars. However, two verified shoppers actually say in their reviews that they have scoliosis, and that the Saatva Rx has effectively helped them get a good night’s sleep. They each gave the bed a rating of a perfect 5.

Pros of the Saatva Rx Mattress

  • We found this mattress to be especially cooling, thanks to the airflow offered by all of the coils and a breathable organic cotton cover.
  • Combination sleepers should find the Saatva Rx responsive enough to easily switch positions.
  • For being such a responsive mattress, the Saatva Rx is surprisingly good at isolating motion. If you share your bed with a partner, you shouldn’t feel each other moving around at night.

Cons of the Saatva Rx Mattress

  • The Saatva Rx is one of the more expensive mattresses on this list. A queen size is currently over $3,000 before discounts.
  • This mattress is likely too firm for side sleepers, who generally need a softer mattress to contour their shoulders and hips. We recommend taking a look at our recommendations for the best soft mattresses, or best mattresses for side sleepers, to find a better option.

Read our full Saatva Rx mattress review to learn more. You can click here for our best deal, or see our page of the best mattresses for arthritis for more options.

Best Mattress for Back Sleepers with Scoliosis – Helix Midnight

Best for Back Sleepers
Sleepopolis Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.2
Helix
Helix Midnight Mattress
Cooling Mattress
Medium-Firm Comfort
Reinforced Edges
Hybrid mattress
100-night trial on all mattresses
Free shipping on all orders
Fall Into Bed Sale
Use code FALLSALE20 for 20% off sitewide See Details
SO Brand Icon MattressMaterial
Material
This is a hybrid mattress, meaning it combines soft foams and sturdy coils for a balance of comfort and support.
SO Brand Icon PropertyFirmness
Firmness
We rated the Helix Midnight a 6 out of 10 on the firmness scale, where 1 is the softest and 10 is the firmest. This means it’s slightly softer than the industry standard (6.5 out of 10).
SO Brand Icon PropertyPrice
Price
$937–$1,749 (before any discounts)
so brand icons 2023 Mattress Review Home Page
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
SO sleeper type side sleepers
Side Sleepers
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.
SO sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleepers
Ideal for back sleepers of all weights.
SO sleeper type couples
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation, so you shouldn’t feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Pros of the Helix Midnight
Back sleepers should get some cushioning in the lumbar region, and the coils will help keep their spines neutrally aligned.
Side sleepers should experience nice pressure relief and contouring at their shoulders and hips. For extra pressure relief, we recommend the Helix Midnight Luxe, the standard Helix Midnight’s luxury version.
The Helix Midnight has low motion transfer, which means partners aren’t likely to feel each other moving around at night.
The Midnight is a responsive mattress, so it’s ideal for combination sleepers.
Cons of the Helix Midnight
Not supportive enough for people over 250 pounds. For them, we recommend one of the best mattresses for heavy people.
SO Brand Icon PropertyShipping
Shipping
Free Shipping
SO Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod
Trial Period
100 nights
SO Brand Icon MattressWarranty
Warranty
10-year warranty
so brand icons 2023 Editorial Policy Home Page copy
Returns
You can return your bed after the 30-day “break-in” period and before the trial period ends for a full refund.

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

What our tester says:

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

Expert Opinion

Helix has a lineup of six different hybrid mattresses, each with a different level of firmness. The Helix Midnight is their most popular bed, most likely because of its medium firmness that suits a wide variety of sleepers.

We think back sleepers who struggle with scoliosis will be especially comfortable on the Helix Midnight. They should get the pressure relief they need from the upper layer of Memory Plus Foam — the brand’s proprietary alternative to memory foam. While you’ll feel a little bit of that memory foam hug, you’ll still get a slight lift, thus helping keep your spine in a proper alignment. Further spinal support comes from a layer of individually wrapped coils toward the bottom of the mattress. When we put the Helix Midnight through our pressure map test, the contouring nature of the comfort layer was further confirmed. We saw almost entirely blue while resting on our backs, with no pressure at the hips. This is what we love to see in a mattress for back sleepers, and a mattress for scoliosis.

What our tester said: “I honestly understand why this is the brand’s most popular model. It’s really comfortable and supportive for back and side sleeping.” – Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor

What Customers Say

A lot of reviews comment on the overall value of the mattress, and how it’s impressive considering the quality of materials and construction.

Pros of the Helix Midnight Mattress

  • The low motion transfer of this mattress means that any movement one sleeper makes shouldn’t disrupt the sleep of their partner. There’s also strong edge support, so both sleepers can really spread out.
  • This bed offers some bounce, so combination sleepers are likely to switch from position to position with ease.
  • Like back sleepers, side sleepers should be happy with the medium-soft to medium-firm feel of this mattress.

Cons of the Helix Midnight Mattress

  • This mattress is a bit too soft for stomach sleepers. They may find that they need a firmer mattress to keep their spine properly aligned throughout the night.
  • The Helix Midnight might not be supportive enough for sleepers who weigh over 250 pounds.

Learn more in our full Helix Midnight mattress review. You can also click here for our best deal, or see our best mattresses for back sleepers page for more options. 

Best Firm Mattress for Scoliosis – Plank Firm

Best Firm Mattress
Sleepopolis Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.3
Brooklyn Bedding
Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress
Extra-Firm Feel
Flippable Design
Supportive Foams
Foam
120 nights
Free shipping
Anniversary Sale
25% off sitewide with code ANNI25 See Details
SO Brand Icon MattressMaterial
Material
Foam
SO Brand Icon PropertyFirmness
Firmness
The Plank Firm is a flippable mattress with a different firmness option on each side. We score firmest with 1 being the softest and 10 being the firmest, and the Plank Firm features a Firm side (7.5/10) and an Ultra Firm side (8.5/10).
SO Brand Icon PropertyPrice
Price
$749–$1,532 (before any discounts)
so brand icons 2023 Mattress Review Home Page
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split California king, short full, short queen, Olympic queen, short king, RV king
SO sleeper type back pain
Back pain
Support for those living with back pain.
SO sleeper type stomach sleepers
Stomach Sleepers
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight stomach sleepers.
SO sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleepers
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight back sleepers.
Pros of the Plank Firm
The Plank Firm often appears on many of our roundups pertaining to spinal health and back pain.
This mattress is a good choice for couples; it scored 4 out 5 or more for motion isolation, edge support, and cooling.
The quality materials, from its firm cover to its high-density foams, make it an extremely durable option.
Cons of the Plank Firm
Side sleepers won’t receive the proper cushioning or contouring on the Plank Firm. They should look at our best mattresses for side sleepers instead.
It’s not the best mattress for alleviating joint pain because of its firmer feel — take a look at our best soft mattresses for alternative options
SO Brand Icon PropertyShipping
Shipping
Free within the contiguous US, but $125 for AK and HI
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Trial Period
120 nights
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Warranty
10-year warranty
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Returns
There is a $99 return fee.

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

What our tester says:

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

Expert Opinion

If you suffer from scoliosis, a firm mattress can help you maintain a neutral spinal alignment and prevent further pain. And when it comes to firm mattresses, you’d be hard-pressed to find a firmer option than the Plank Firm. Created by Brooklyn Bedding, it’s unique in that it’s made entirely of foam, yet still provides a ton of firmness and support. But its most notable feature is that it’s flippable, with both a “firm” and an “ultra-firm” side.

When we tested the Plank Firm, we made sure to try out both sides. We 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. We should also say that, despite the all-around firmness, we still got a touch of pressure relief at our lumbar region, thanks to the bed’s all-foam construction.

What our tester said: 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.” – Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor

What Customers Say

The Plank Firm has over 3,000 customer reviews on the Brooklyn Bedding website, and an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars. Unsurprisingly, many of these commenters are lovers of firm mattresses and say that the Plank Firm more than lives up to its name.

Pros of the Plank Firm Mattress

  • We think stomach sleepers could be especially comfortable on either side of the Plank Firm, as they tend to need more firmness and support than other sleeping positions.
  • Back sleepers should also be comfortable here. We recommend they stick to the firm side, rather than the ultra-firm side.
  • For being a foam bed, the Plank Firm is responsive enough for combo sleepers to be able to easily switch positions.

Cons of the Plank Firm Mattress

  • Side sleepers tend to need a lot more softness and pressure relief compared to other sleepers, so we don’t recommend the Plank Firm to them.
  • Even though a firmer mattress may be helpful for sleepers with scoliosis, some people find it difficult to get comfortable on a firm mattress, so this option may not be good for them.

Read our full Plank Firm mattress review to learn more. You can click here for our best deal, or see our best firm mattress page for more options.

Best Cooling Mattress for Scoliosis – Bear

Best Cooling Mattress
Sleepopolis Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.1
Bear
Bear Original Mattress
Supportive Foam
Firm Comfort
Cooling Gel
Foam
120 nights
Free shipping
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SO Brand Icon MattressMaterial
Material
Memory foam, with no coils in the construction.
SO Brand Icon PropertyFirmness
Firmness
We rated the Bear as a 7 out of 10, meaning it is just a touch firmer than medium firm.
SO Brand Icon PropertyPrice
Price
$786–$1,922 (before any discounts)
so brand icons 2023 Mattress Review Home Page
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
SO sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleepers
If you sleep on your back, you should feel well-supported on this bed.
SO sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
With the addition of the Celliant cover, the Bear keeps a cooler feel than some other foam beds.
SO Sleeper Type Icons BudgetShoppers
Budget Shoppers
This affordable mattress is a solid choice for those looking to save.
Pros of the Bear
The Bear’s firm and supportive feel makes it ideal for back sleepers
It doesn’t offer much sinkage, a benefit for those who prefer to feel “on top” of the bed
The optimal Celliant cover gives this foam bed a cooling touch
The Bear isolates motion well, so couples won’t be too disturbed by each other’s movements
Cons of the Bear
This bed is not supportive enough to be one of the best mattresses for heavy sleepers, which accommodate folks weighing 250 pounds or more
The lack of sinkage means the Bear isn’t the best for cushioning or pressure relief, which is crucial for the best mattresses for side sleepers and the best mattresses for arthritis
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Shipping
Free shipping
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Trial Period
120 Nights
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Warranty
Lifetime warranty
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Returns
Full refund and free returns within trial period

Even though it’s made entirely of foam, the Bear has a firm, supportive feel that should be sturdy enough for back sleepers and stomach sleepers alike. Additionally, combination sleepers should be able to easily move around on its surface. You can also pay extra for a Celliant cover that may help with cooling and muscle recovery. Learn more in our video review.

What our tester says:

“I found the double poly foam construction produced a firm, supportive feel. Though you’re likely to sink into its top layer of memory foam, this sinkage is somewhat curbed by the taut poly foam transition layer. This means most folks are going to be positioned more “on top” of the structure than “in” it.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and mattress tester

Expert Opinion

Bear’s goal is to improve quality of sleep and help people recover from their daily lives more quickly. With this goal in mind, the all-foam, firm-feeling Bear mattress has three layers of foam and top-notch responsiveness, support, and pressure relief, making it a prime option for those with scoliosis. The all-foam mattress held up against our pressure map test, which shows that the mattress could do a great job of relieving tension from the lower back.

For those who run warm when they sleep, the Bear offers Celliant technology and gel infusions in its cover layer to ensure a cool night’s sleep, especially for an all-foam mattress. This makes it a definite contender for sleepers who are looking for high-quality support and pressure relief, along with a cool night’s sleep. However, we do want to mention that this Celliant cover is an additional $130; it does not come built-in to this mattress.

What our tester said: “I really appreciate the firm and responsive feel of the Bear mattress. Its combination of support and pressure relief makes it a great option for back sleepers struggling with back pain.” – Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor

What Customers Say

10,000+ reviews of the Bear are posted on the company site, and a large number of them compliment the Bear’s ability to sleep cool throughout the night.

Pros of the Bear Mattress

  • This bed provides some sinkage and contouring, but it doesn’t prevent combination sleepers from easily switching between sleeping positions. You’ll feel more “on” the bed than “in” it.
  • The Bear is designed for athletic recovery, making it a good option for those with active lifestyles.
  • This mattress is both firm and supportive, which can be nice for people who sleep on their back. Our pressure map test confirmed that there’s a lot of contouring and relief and position (entirely blue).

Cons of the Bear Mattress

  • Stomach sleepers will likely find this mattress to be too soft to keep their hips in line with their shoulders, which is necessary for proper spinal alignment. In contrast, side sleepers may find the Bear to be too firm to relieve pressure at their shoulders and hips.
  • This is not a super-buoyant mattress, so sleepers looking for bounce and responsiveness may not find what they’re looking for here.

Learn more by reading our full Bear mattress review. You can also click here for our best deal, or see our best cooling mattress page for more options. 

Best Mattress for Side Sleepers With Scoliosis – Nolah Evolution

Best for Side Sleepers
Sleepopolis Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.4
Nolah
Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress
Multiple Firmnesses
ArcticTex Cover
HDMax Support Coils
Hybrid Mattress
120-night Trial and Lifetime Warranty
Free shipping
Fall Sale
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Icon MattressReviews MattressType 250
Material
Hybrid, meaning this bed combines foam and coils in its construction.
SO Brand Icon PropertyFirmness
Firmness
Multiple Firmness Options: Plush, Luxury Firm, and Firm. We tested the Luxury Firm and rated it as 6.5 out of 10, meaning it is a medium-firm mattress.
SO Brand Icon PropertyPrice
Price
$1,499–$3,198 (before any discounts)
so brand icons 2023 Mattress Review Home Page
Sizes
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
SO sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
If you overheat while you sleep, this mattress may help you stay cool.
SO sleeper type side sleepers
Side Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
back sleeper
Back Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Pros of the Nolah Evolution
Great for couples due to its good edge support and low motion transfer
Works for back sleepers who need good lumbar support
Side sleepers should appreciate the pressure relief
Cons of the Nolah Evolution
Too soft to be one of the best mattresses for stomach sleepers.
Bargain hunters may find this to be a bit pricier and may want to stick to the best mattresses for the money.
Doesn’t have a slow-moving memory foam feel that you’d find in the best memory foam mattresses.
SO Brand Icon PropertyShipping
Shipping
Free shipping and returns
SO Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod
Trial Period
120 Nights
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Warranty
Lifetime warranty
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Returns
Full refund after 30 days and within the 120-night trial period

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

Side sleepers with scoliosis should find a mattress that hits the sweet spot between comfort and support. On one hand, they’ll need something that gives them plenty of contouring at the shoulders and hips, where they put the most pressure. On the other hand, they’ll want a bed that also gives them enough support to keep the spine neutrally aligned. They should find both characteristics in the Nolah Evolution, a hybrid mattress built with a blend of sturdy support coils and a soft proprietary foam called AirFoam ICE. It comes in three different firmness levels: Plush, Luxury Firm, and Firm. We tried the Luxury Firm.

When we tested out the Nolah Evolution, we found it to be about a 6.5 out of 10 on our mattress firmness scale. This is the industry standard for medium firm, and tells us that the bed should have an optimal mixture of comfort and support. Also, when we laid on our side during the pressure map test, the graphic was blue and green, indicating low pressure for side sleepers. And if they want an extra-soft mattress, they can opt for the Plush model, although we still recommend the Luxury Firm for side sleepers with scoliosis, as it will likely offer more support.

What our tester said: “This mattress provides good pressure relief and body contouring. It’s a great choice for side sleepers, and back sleepers who like a softer mattress.” – Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor

What Customers Say

While Nolah doesn’t list exactly how many customer reviews they have on their website, the Evolution currently has a customer rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars. One reviewer who struggles with back pain and hip pain called the bed “life-changing”.

Pros of the Nolah Evolution Mattress

  • We think back sleepers should also be comfortable on the Luxury Firm model of the Nolah Evolution.
  • AirFoam ICE is designed to be more breathable than traditional memory foam. When paired with the bed’s airflow-promoting coils, we think the Nolah Evolution is a good mattress for hot sleepers.
  • The springs give the Nolah Evolution some bounce, which makes it easy for combination sleepers to switch positions.

Cons of the Nolah Evolution Mattress

  • We don’t think the Plush or the Luxury Firm model of the Nolah Evolution is going to give stomach sleepers the firmness or support they need. However, they might be comfortable with the Firm model.
  • This mattress may be a bit too expensive for budget shoppers, who may appreciate one of our best cheap mattresses more.

Read our full Nolah Evolution mattress review to learn more. You can click here for our best deal, or see our page of the best mattresses for side sleepers for more options.

Best Mattress for Couples – Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid

Best for Couples
Sleepopolis Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.5
Brooklyn Bedding
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress
Medium-Firm Comfort
Budget-Friendly
Responsive Coils
Hybrid
120 nights
Free shipping
Anniversary Sale
25% off sitewide with code ANNI25 See Details
Icon MattressReviews MattressType 250
Material
Hybrid (this bed combines both memory foam and coils)
SO Brand Icon PropertyFirmness
Firmness
Multiple firmnesses: Soft, Medium, Firm. We tested the Medium and rated it a 6.5 out of 10, making it medium-firm.
SO Brand Icon PropertyPrice
Price
$665–$1,599 (before any discounts)
so brand icons 2023 Mattress Review Home Page
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, and more
SO sleeper type couples
Couples
Those who sleep with a partner shouldn’t notice their partners shift around during the night.
SO sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleepers
Most average weight back sleepers should find a good balance of comfort and support.
SO sleeper type stomach sleepers
Combination Sleepers
Those who change sleeping positions should find this bed easy to move on.
Pros of the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
It’s a good choice for budget shoppers. With a discount, queen sizes are often under $1,000
Back sleepers should find both comfort and support on the Medium model, which can help alleviate back pain
Brooklyn Bedding offers this bed in different firmnesses, making it a versatile option
The combination of coils and foam makes this mattress very easy to move around on
Cons of the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
It doesn’t have that sinking-in feeling often found in the best memory foam mattresses
The Medium mattress is too firm for side sleepers and too soft for stomach sleepers (though the Soft or Firm model may work, respectively)
SO Brand Icon PropertyShipping
Shipping
Free shipping
SO Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod
Trial Period
120 Nights
SO Brand Icon MattressWarranty
Warranty
10-year warranty
so brand icons 2023 Editorial Policy Home Page copy
Returns
Full refund within the 120-night trial. Brooklyn Bedding charges a $99 pick up fee

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

We included the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid on this list because it has a medium firmness, as well as a blend of comfort and support that’s ideal for sleepers suffering from scoliosis. They should get the cushioning they need at the lumbar region from the bed’s top layer of memory foam, while also getting the proper spinal support from its bottom layer of individually wrapped coils.

But we also think the Brooklyn Signature Hybrid is one of the best mattresses for couples because of a few different factors. First, it keeps a low temperature due to all the space between its coils, which allow for plenty of airflow. This should help it cool down two bodies at once. The springs also give it enough responsiveness for sex, but not so much that the bed has high motion transfer. We actually tested this by dropping a 10-pound steel ball onto the bed from three different heights and measuring its vibrations with a seismometer. The vibrations stayed fairly low, telling us that the Signature Hybrid has low motion transfer, and that partners aren’t likely to feel each other moving around at night.

What our tester said: “In general, this mattress isolates motion well, has strong edge support, and sleeps fairly cool — all of which are factors that make the Signature Hybrid a strong choice for couples.” – Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor

What Customers Say

Brooklyn Bedding has almost 11,000 customer reviews of the Signature Hybrid on the brand’s website, with an average customer rating 4.7 out of 5 stars. 11 of the reviews come from sleepers with scoliosis, and they all rated the bed between 4 and 5 stars in regards to how it assisted with their condition.

Pros of the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress

  • The mattress is available in three different firmness levels, so there’s something for every sleeping position. We recommend the Soft model for side sleepers, the Medium model for back sleepers, and the Firm model for stomach sleepers.
  • There’s enough bounce and responsiveness on this mattress for combo sleepers to be able to easily switch positions.
  • Brooklyn Bedding owns its own factory and makes all of its mattresses there, so it’s able to pass savings down to the customer. As a result, you can usually find a queen size Signature Hybrid for under $1,000 after discounts.

Cons of the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress

  • The Signature Hybrid is a fairly simple mattress with few added features. If you’re looking for something more extravagant, we recommend checking out our roundup of the best luxury mattresses.
  • A medium-firm mattress may not be a good option for side sleepers with hip and/or shoulder pain, and they may want to opt for something a bit softer and more contouring around sensitive joints.

Read our full Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid mattress review to learn more. You can click here for our best deal, or see our best mattress for couples page for more options.

What to Look For In A Mattress If You Have Scoliosis

If you’re looking for a mattress that can adequately address scoliosis, we recommend considering these factors while shopping.

Support

While sound support is important for all sleepers, it could be especially important for those who deal with regular scoliosis pain. That’s because support refers to how well a bed aligns the spine all the way from the shoulders to the hips. This helps reduce pain and relieve pressure across the back.

Good support comes from a balanced design of gentle comfort layers and sturdy foundational cores. Beds built with pocketed coils typically have fantastic support and mobility, working to lift the sleeper more “on top” of the bed than “in” it. If you like sinking into a structure, you could find some nice support in a bed that utilizes a base layer of high-density polyfoam.

To test for support, we have our expert testers lay on each mattress in various positions to see where and how they feel supported. When laying on their back, they look for spinal alignment and lumbar support that keeps their hips, spine, and shoulders in a neutral alignment. On their stomachs, they look for support through the knees, hips, and backs. When they lay on their sides, they pay attention to support through the hips, back, and shoulders. Most people need support in the same areas when sleeping, but these factors are especially important if you are dealing with scoliosis and any pain that may be associated with it.

Pressure Relief

High-quality support elevates one’s comfort at night, but it’s nothing without deep and effective pressure relief. Folks with scoliosis need to relieve pressure at sensitive areas like the shoulders and hips. So, any bed they buy needs to cushion these spots throughout the night. A dense foam layer could do wonders for those with scoliosis. We recommend memory foam, as its slow response to pressure provides deep sinkage. Latex foam can also be effective, though it doesn’t have the same “hug” that memory foam does.

Another option is to consider a pillow-top mattress. These models are made mostly of coils but feature a plush, quilted top layer sewed onto the structure itself. Though not as contouring as memory foam, pillow tops can provide some nice comfort to the sleeper. Pressure relief that is offered in these types of mattresses is exceptionally important for sleepers with scoliosis, as it can help to alleviate pain and reduce pressure buildup, which may further inflame already sensitive parts of the body.

To test for pressure relief on the mattresses in this list, we use a pressure mat, which we roll across the mattress and lay on in various positions. The mat then gives us a thermal reading called a pressure map. This map tells us where pressure is relieved and where it is built up depending on the sleeping position. The map showing a lot of blue and green indicates good pressure relief, while orange and red spots are a sign of poor pressure relief.

PressureMap Casper
A look at our pressure map

Mobility

A bed’s mobility refers to how easy it is to move around and change positions. In particular, pain sufferers can benefit from ease of motion. If one position isn’t quite cutting it, they can quickly roll into another. To ensure that you’ve landed on a mobile structure, keep an eye out for pocketed coils and latex foam. These are two of the bounciest mattress materials on the market. They work to lift the sleeper up and out of the bed so that they can easily and comfortably move throughout the evening.

MotionTransfer Leesa Sapira Chill
An example of good motion isolation results

The mobility of a mattress also concerns its motion isolation and responsiveness. Motion isolation refers to how much movement can be felt across the bed, and responsiveness is the degree to which the materials of the mattress respond to your movement. Materials like memory foam are slow to respond, as they “remember” your position even after you have left it. Motion isolation can be important for couples or people who sleep with animals, as their movements may wake the other people in the bed. When shopping for a mattress for scoliosis, we recommend looking for one that is responsive and mobile but with lower motion transfer, so that you can move comfortably without waking other people in the bed.

To test our mattresses for motion isolation, we drop a ball from various heights to mimic different movements in a bed. We then measure the amount of movement that ripples across the bed during these drops using a seismograph machine. This gives us a reading that shows how good the bed is at motion isolation. The smaller the waves, the better the motion isolation.

Contouring

Contouring is an important factor to consider in any bed, but it is especially important if you are dealing with pain in a certain part of your body, or as a result of scoliosis. Contouring refers to the ability of a mattress to contour your body, and it is generally related to pressure relief and the firmness of your mattress. The softer the mattress, the more contouring it is likely to be. Materials like memory foam are generally very contouring, and will cradle your body in a way that can be very pain relieving.

We test the contouring by laying on each of the mattresses and examining how cradled and hugged we feel. A firmer mattress generally offers less contouring, and a softer mattress where you sink into the bed a bit more is generally a better option for those who prefer to be contoured. While every sleeper has a different preference, we have found that beds that offer more contouring are better for alleviating pain when sleeping, and may be a better option for sleepers with scoliosis.

Firmness

Speaking of contouring and soft mattresses, firmness is something you should consider when looking for a mattress for scoliosis. Firmness is relevant for a few reasons. The first is that everyone has different preferences when it comes to the firmness of their mattress. Some people like a firmer feel, and do not like to feel as though they are sinking into the mattress. Others really enjoy a hugging feeling. The second reason that this is important is that firmness can affect the level of deep pressure relief and contouring a mattress has. For this reason, a softer to medium-firm mattress may be a good pick for someone with scoliosis. However, if you prefer a firmer mattress, then you might find one with more support and spinal alignment, which can be beneficial for scoliosis.

We test all of the mattresses we review for their level of firmness by laying on them in various positions and assigning an expert score. We use our Sleepopolis firmness scale to rank each mattress empirically on a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the most soft and 10 being the most firm. 6.5 is generally considered medium firm. We recommend that stomach sleepers opt for a firmer mattress, back sleepers for a medium firm mattress, and side sleepers for a softer one. When shopping for a mattress for scoliosis, considering your sleeping position may also be important, so do not just go for the softest option.

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

Is a Firm or Soft Mattress Better for Scoliosis?

The answer is, it depends. In general terms, we suggest a softer mattress for scoliosis, as softer mattresses can provide deeper and more comforting pressure relief and contouring, which are helpful for people sleeping with pain. However, firmer mattresses generally offer a bit more support than soft mattresses, which can also be important for sleepers with scoliosis. We recommend considering your personal preferences when it comes to comfort and whether you want more contouring and relief, or more support and spinal alignment. However, there are certainly soft mattresses that offer excellent support, so it is helpful to do some research into the exact capabilities of the mattress you want to buy.

Sleeping Position

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

Sleeping position, as we mentioned, is important to consider when looking for the best mattress for scoliosis. While we generally recommend opting for a mattress that is softer so you can have deep pressure relief and contouring across the body, this may not be the best option for you if you are a back or side sleeper. These sleepers need a bit more support than other sleepers, so softer mattresses may not offer enough support.

When picking the right mattress for you, we recommend starting with what feels the most comfortable. If you are a back sleeper but love the feel of a soft, hugging, contouring mattress, and feel that this helps alleviate pain from scoliosis when you are sleeping, then that is the right mattress for you. These guidelines are to help you navigate the world of mattress shopping, but they are not a one size fits rule. If you are struggling with choosing the right option, it may help to try some mattresses out in person.

  • Back sleeping is widely considered as the best sleeping position for alleviating back pain and promoting a neutral spinal alignment (4). 
  • Side sleeping can be healthy for scoliosis, especially if you use the help of a pillow. Place a pillow on the curvier side of your lower back to promote maximum comfort and a healthy alignment.
  • Stomach sleeping is the riskiest sleeping position for scoliosis. It can put the neck in an unfavorable position that may cause misalignment and stress down the rest of the spine.  

For more information on sleeping positions, see our Guide to Better Sleep Posture.

Edge Support and Durability

Nichole doing the yardstick test on the Novaform ComfortGrande Advanced Gel Memory Foam Mattress
A look at an edge support test

Edge support refers to the strength of the edges of your mattress. This can affect how much of the mattresses you can lay on, as well as the durability of the mattress. If you struggle with getting comfortable due to scoliosis pain when sleeping, then strong edge support will be important, as you can move around and use all of the bed space. Further, strong edges can help keep your mattress from prematurely sagging, which is important for any consumer. The durability of your mattress also depends on the quality and type of materials, which will affect the price of the mattress, but also how well the mattress will hold up.

We test for edge support by applying pressure to the edges of the mattress and seeing how easily we can push them down. We also sit on the edge of the mattress and measure the amount of sinkage we get. The easier it is to push the edges down, and the more they sink, the worse the edge support is.

Mattress Materials

Speaking of materials, let’s break down what mattresses are made of. These materials affect the way your mattress feels, its responsiveness and mobility, pressure relief, firmness, and more, so it is important to understand what they are made of. To examine what each mattress we review is made of, we look inside each one. This allows us to understand how durable the mattress is, and what it will feel like to sleep on.

Memory Foam

Memory foam is a distinct type of foam that is slow-moving, and contouring, and many sleepers find it very comfortable. As the name implies, memory foam “remembers” your shape or the shape of something lying on the bed and maintains that shape even after moving away from it. Memory foam is a great option for sleepers who like to feel like they are sinking into their mattress or hugged by their bed. It is also great at contouring the body which helps provide excellent pressure relief. One thing to consider with memory foam is that you will need a certain level of firmness depending on how you sleep. For example, we recommend stomach sleepers to opt for a firm to extra firm memory foam mattress so they are able to get the support they need.

Memory foam may a good option for sleepers with scoliosis, as it can provide contouring and pressure relief that is imperative for pain relief, without being overly soft and lack support. Memory foam comes in various levels of firmness, and is a great material for people who experience pain when they sleep. However, it is not very responsive, which may make it difficult to move around when trying to get comfortable.

Innerspring

Innerspring mattresses are mattresses constructed out of two layers of coils, or springs, that are topped by a thinner layer of foam. However, this does not mean they are not comfortable. Innerspring mattresses are incredibly cooling as their coils provide a lot of breathability and air movement throughout the evening, and they are usually supportive. Innerspring mattresses are also very durable, with strong edge support and long lives, they are a good choice for people who seek out durable and supportive mattresses that are less hugging than all foam or memory mattresses.

Latex

Latex is a natural material meaning that a lot of latex mattresses are naturally better at repelling allergens such as dust, and better for the environment than some other materials, as natural latex is made from tree sap. Latex is also very comfortable and bouncy but still offers the necessary support. It is also a naturally cooling material, as it is very porous and breathable.

Latex can also be very bouncy and does not provide very good motion isolation, so if you are prone to waking up to movements, latex may not be for you. However, it is a great choice for scoliosis sleepers who move a lot, as it is very responsiveness and you can move easily and comfortably.

Hybrid

Hybrid mattresses are made of one layer of coils and one layer of foam, so they are a hybrid between all foam mattresses and innerspring. These mattresses combine the breathability of an innerspring mattress with the comfort and pressure relief of a foam mattress. For many sleepers, hybrid beds are the ideal combination of these factors and are very appealing because of their comfort, support, and cooling. These mattresses are great for almost every type of sleeper and can provide the necessary support and comfort for many people. However, one downside of these mattresses is that can cost a pretty penny. Due to their popularity and construction, hybrid mattresses are almost always upwards of $1,000.

What Type of Mattress is Best For Scoliosis?

There is no one size fits all mattress, so the best mattress for you and your scoliosis will depend on several factors. This includes your personal preferences, needs, budget, and wants. In general, a foam mattress is a good place to start, as it can be supportive but still contouring and pressure relieving. Hybrid mattresses offer excellent responsiveness but also have all of the great elements of all foam mattresses. Innerspring and latex can be good options because they are so responsive, but generally not contouring enough for sleepers with pain.

Scoliosis and Sleep

Scoliosis does more than contribute to discomfort. It can also help lead to the development of sleep disorders like sleep apnea, which can make it harder to fall or stay asleep (3). A comfortable mattress is imperative for maintaining spinal alignment and creating a comfortable atmosphere for a restful sleep.

What Is Scoliosis?

The Mayo Clinic defines scoliosis as “a sideways curvature of the spine” that can result in respiratory issues, orthopedic issues, and/or an apparent asymmetry in areas like the ribs, hips, or shoulders (1). It’s a relatively common condition that deserves its own roundup for mattresses we believe to be specifically helpful for scoliosis. The Columbia University Irving Medical Center suggests that 2–3 percent of the U.S. population has some form of scoliosis, with many cases arising during puberty (2).

Symptoms and Signs of Scoliosis

Symptoms of scoliosis, or a curvature in the spine, can include an abnormal bend through the back, uneven hips or shoulders, prominent shoulder blades, and pain throughout these areas. Parts of the neck and jaw may also be affected by scoliosis and may require chiropractic or surgical adjustment. Difficulty walking, opening the jaw, turning the head all the way, and bending over may also be associated with some cases of scoliosis. The best way to determine if the symptoms you are experiencing are related to scoliosis is to consult a doctor.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Scoliosis is generally diagnosed using an x-ray, MRI, or CT scan of the spine, shoulder, and hip areas to determine if there is a curvature. Early signs of scoliosis may also be observed when you go to your general physician. While these tests can seem overwhelming, they are designed only to help find the cause, and once it is determined, you can move forward with treatment.

Treatment can look like a lot of different things. It may involve chiropractic, physical therapy, or sometimes surgical intervention. Some people also wear back braces to help naturally change the curve of their spine. Treatment and diagnosis are best handled when you consult a medical professional, so we recommend speaking to your doctor or a scoliosis specialist.

Can You Still Sleep comfortably with Scoliosis?

Yes! You certainly can still sleep comfortably and well even with scoliosis. Finding the right mattress is a good first step, but consulting your doctor on other treatment options may help improve your comfort level when sleeping and living with scoliosis.

Our Five Tips for Sleeping With Scoliosis

We’ve got a whole page on our Tips for Sleeping with Scoliosis, and we’re wanted to feature five of our favorite tips that we included in the full guide. 

  1. Avoid sleeping on your stomach
  2. Try sleeping on your back or side
  3. Find a balance of comfort and support (preferably somewhere around medium-firm)
  4. Use pillows to promote proper alignment
    1. You can place a pillow under your hips or spinal curve to help promote spinal and hip alignment during the night
    2. It may also help to place a pillow between your knees to aid in spinal alignment
  5. Find the right brace and take good care of it

FAQs

What mattress firmness is best for scoliosis?

While every sleeper is different, a medium-firm mattress is usually going to be best for scoliosis. These beds often have enough support to keep the spine neutrally aligned, while also offering enough cushioning for any soreness.

What sleeping position is best for scoliosis?

Sleeping on your back is usually the healthiest position if you have scoliosis. You can also place a pillow between your back and the mattress’ surface to fill in any gaps and keep your spine straight.

Is memory foam a good material for socliosis?

Memory foam can definitely help provide pressure relief and cushion any sore areas of the back. However, you also want to make sure the mattress is supportive enough to keep your spine neutrally aligned.

Can a mattress make my scoliosis worse?

There are limited studies to suggest that your mattress can worsen your scoliosis symptoms. However, putting pressure on the spine or not promoting a neutral alignment when you sleep may contribute to pain felt as a result of scoliosis.

What sleeping position is best for scoliosis?

Back sleeping is generally considered to be the best position for scoliosis, as it can promote a neutral spinal alignment and help alleviate pressure buildup in key areas where you might feel pain when sleeping with scoliosis.

How We Chose These Mattresses

Here at Sleepopolis, 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 mattress 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.

If you suffer from scoliosis, you want to make sure your mattress has a lot of pressure relief. When we test out our products, pressure relief falls under comfort, so we only picked beds that scored at least a 4 out of 5 in this category.

But as we’ve said, support is also an important trait for addressing scoliosis. As an added bonus, all of these mattresses scored above average on support.

Click here to learn more about our methodology.

Best Mattresses for Scoliosis 2024

Sources
  • 1. Scoliosis. Mayo Clinic. May 13, 2024. Accessed November 13, 2024. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/scoliosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20350716

  • 2. Vitale, Michael G. 8 Facts to Know About Scoliosis. Columbia University Irving Medical Center. July 5, 2021. Accessed November 13, 2024. https://www.cuimc.columbia.edu/news/8-facts-know-about-scoliosis

  • 3. Li, X., Guo, H., Chen, C., Tan, H., Lin, Y., Li, Z., Shen, J. Does Scoliosis Affect Sleep Breathing. Science Direct. March 22, 2018. Accessed November 13, 2024. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1878875018315845?via%3Dihub

  • 4. The Best — and Worst — Sleep Positions for Back Pain. Keek Medicine of USC. January 3, 2019. Accessed November 13, 2024. https://www.keckmedicine.org/blog/the-best-and-worst-sleep-positions-for-back-pain/

Bridget Chapman

Bridget Chapman

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

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