Best Mattress for Shoulder Pain – Expert Tested & Medically Reviewed

We have affiliate relationships where we are paid a commission on sales through some of our links. See our disclosures.

The shoulder is a ball-and-socket joint and a hot spot for pressure buildup, injury, and chronic pain. There are a variety of conditions that could cause shoulder pain, but if you can’t point to a specific ailment (like arthritis), your pain could be caused — at least in part — by your mattress. The best mattresses for shoulder pain are better at alleviating and preventing mattress-induced shoulder pain than others, so I’ve put together a list of my favorites.

When it comes to finding a mattress that helps to alleviate shoulder pain, the main thing I look at is its pressure-relieving capabilities. To test this, I put all of our mattresses through what’s called a pressure map test. During this test, I spread out a specialized mat on the mattress and then lie down on it in different positions. The map will record how much pressure I feel in each position, and then put that information into a graphic that shows us exactly how much pressure the mattress is exerting on my joints. Blue and green equate to low pressure, while yellow and red mean that there is quite a bit of pressure building in those areas.

Obviously, when you’re looking for a pain-relieving mattress, you’re going to want to go with one that has less pressure buildup, especially around the hips, shoulders, and lower back. Besides the pressure map test, you can also take a look at the firmness score of your mattress. To test this, we have our Sleepopolis mattress testers take a 15-minute power nap on the mattress, and then we combine the rankings to create our firmness score. Sleepers who suffer from joint pain are most likely going to want to pick a softer mattress (below a 6.5 on the mattress firmness scale).

Keep reading to take a look at my favorite pain-relieving mattresses, and make sure to check out their full descriptions to see if they really are the best option for you.

Our Top Pick For Shoulder Pain

If you have shoulder pain, you’re likely looking for something that will cradle sensitive joints. The Helix Midnight fits the bill with its pressure-relieving comfort layers, countered at the bottom by supportive coils.

Best Mattresses for Shoulder Pain

Disclaimer: Please note that the content in this article is meant for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice or serve as a substitute for seeing a medical professional regarding any sleep problems you may have. Please see your doctor regarding any urgent medical issues. 

Best Mattress for Shoulder Pain 2024 Video Review

What I Look For In The Best Mattresses For Shoulder Pain

Firmness

Shoulder pain can often happen from sleeping on your back or with arms up on your stomach, so it is especially important for these sleepers to consider the firmness of their mattress. Firmness can help to alleviate pain these sleepers experience, so I was sure to test for the firmness of all of the mattresses on this list. To test them I used our firmness scale, which runs 1-10 with 10 being the most firm. I generally recommend a 6.5 or softer for sleepers with shoulder pain.

Pressure Relief

Pressure relief is very important for anyone who is experiencing any kind of pain when they sleep or because of how they sleep. For this reason, I was sure to test for pressure relief of each of the mattresses on this list using a pressure map and focusing on shoulder relief to help alleviate pain and discomfort.

Material

The material of a mattress is important to any sleeper, and I wanted to be sure to include mattresses made from quality materials that would help keep you comfortable, cool, and alleviate shoulder pain. I generally look for innerspring or hybrid mattresses for those with shoulder pain, as these materials provide the necessary support and alignment needed for relieving shoulder pain.

Compare the Best Mattresses for Shoulder Pain

Helix Midnight Mattress Saatva Mattress WinkBed Mattress Nectar Mattress Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress Nolah Signature 12" Mattress Brooklyn Bedding Titan Plus Luxe Birch Luxe Natural Mattress
Helix Midnight Mattress Saatva Mattress WinkBed Mattress Nectar Mattress Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress Nolah Signature 12" Mattress Brooklyn Bedding Titan Plus Luxe Birch Luxe Natural Mattress
Rating
Firmness Medium-firm: 6.5/10 Multiple firmness options Firm: 7/10 Medium-firm: 6.5/10 Medium-firm: 6.5/10 Multiple firmness options Soft: 5.5/10 Firm: 7.5/10 Firm: 7/10
Material Hybrid Innerspring Hybrid Foam Hybrid Hybrid Foam Hybrid Hybrid
Cooling -- -- -- -- -- --
Sleep Position Back & Side Back & Stomach Combination Combination Back Back & Stomach Back & Side Back & Side Back & Stomach

Best Overall Mattress for Shoulder Pain – Helix Midnight

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

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

What our tester says:

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

Helix Midnight Mattress Sleepopolis Performance Scores

Poor
Average
Excellent

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

Expert Opinion

If you’re looking for a mattress that works well for shoulder pain, we’d recommend the Helix Midnight. This is a well-rounded hybrid mattress that combines both foams and coils for a excellent balance of body contouring and mobility. When testing it out, I felt shoulder pressure alleviated at the get-go, thanks to a memory foam comfort layer that allows you to sink in and get immediate relief in more sensitive areas.

I think the plush feel of the foam layers should allow for deep sinkage and shoulder pain relief, regardless of which sleeping position you prefer. I measured this in our pressure map test, which is where we lay a special mat over the mattress and use thermal imaging to measure how much pressure we feel during back and side sleeping. I found that back sleeping lit up the graphic almost completely blue (equating to low pressure in the shoulder and hip areas).

What our tester says: The pressure map shows that the Helix Midnight is adept at relieving pressure for sleepers with back pain, shoulder pain, and hip pain. Notice how the map is mostly blue, with just a touch of green and yellow in all of those areas.Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer

What Customers Say

Multiple reviews on the Helix website talk about how much they love the combination of sturdiness and plushness. Many of these customers stated that they woke up with virtually no back pain, which was a problem on their previous mattress.

Pros of the Helix Midnight Mattress

  • While testing the Midnight’s edge support, I found it to be super sturdy (scoring a 4 out of 5), so it should be more than suitable for folks who sleep on the edge of the bed.
  • I scored this mattress a 4.5 out of 5 for cooling in our mattress lab, thanks to the Midnight’s breathable hybrid construction and special cooling features. So, hot sleepers should do really well on this bed.
  • Back sleepers should enjoy this mattress because of the body contouring that it offers around their pressure points. This gives the mattress a “hugging” sensation, which is great for filling in the space around the lumbar region.

Cons of the Helix Midnight Mattress

  • This mattress didn’t score the absolute best in motion isolation (3.5 out of 5). So, if you’re a light sleeper sharing the bed with a partner or a pet, I recommend checking out an alternative mattress for couples.

Ready to try out the Helix Midnight? Click here to see our latest deals. You can also earn more in our full Helix Midnight mattress review, or check out some other choices in our roundup of the best mattresses.

Best Mattress for Neck and Shoulder Pain – Saatva Classic

Best for Neck and Shoulder 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.
4.8
Saatva
Saatva Mattress
Multiple Firmnesses
Cooling Mattress
Strong Edge Support
Innerspring
365-night trial and lifetime warranty
Free white glove delivery
Celebrating America Sale
15% off purchase of $1,000+ See Details
SO Brand Icon MattressMaterial
Material
Innerspring, for a bouncy mattress that’s easy to move around.
SO Brand Icon PropertyFirmness
Firmness
Multiple firmness options. We tested the Luxury Firm model and scored it a 6.5 out of 10, meaning it’s the industry standard for medium firm.
SO Brand Icon PropertyPrice
Price
$935–$2,450 (before any discounts)
so brand icons 2023 Mattress Review Home Page
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king, split California king
SO sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
If you ever overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
back pain
Back Pain
This bed is ideal for anyone suffering from back pain.
back sleeper
Back Sleeping
This mattress is ideal for back sleepers of all weights.
stomach sleeper
Stomach Sleeping
It’s also a nice option for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.
Pros of the Saatva
With three firmness options, most sleepers should find a Saatva model that works for them
The Saatva uses high-quality materials that will last you a long time
Its bouncy and responsive feel means it’s great for combination sleepers
The Saatva’s reinforced edges give it some of the best edge support we’ve ever seen
Cons of the Saatva
If you’re looking for lots of sinkage or amazing motion isolation, you’re better off with one of the best memory foam mattresses.
None of the Saatva Classic models will likely be supportive enough for heavy stomach sleepers. For these folks, we recommend the Saatva HD.
SO Brand Icon PropertyShipping
Shipping
Free white glove delivery
SO Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod
Trial Period
365 nights
SO Brand Icon MattressWarranty
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
so brand icons 2023 Editorial Policy Home Page copy
Returns
Full refund within the 365-night trial period. Saatva charges a $99 pick-up fee

The Saatva’s coil-on-coil construction provides a classic innerspring feel. It’s a good option for combo sleepers, who will want to feel free to switch positions and avoid feeling “stuck” in the mattress. It comes in three firmness levels, so you should be able to find one that suits your needs. The white glove delivery Saatva provides is an added perk and will save you the headache of getting rid of your old mattress (they take it away for free!). For more information, watch our video review.

What our tester says:

“I think the Saatva is a great option for back sleepers, as the Luxury Firm model provides enough cushioning for their lumbar region, but also lots of support to keep their spine in a neutral alignment.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer

Saatva Mattress Sleepopolis Performance Scores

Poor
Average
Excellent

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

Expert Opinion

Having both neck and shoulder pain is not a winning combo by any means. If you’re searching for some relief from both of these ailments, look no further than the Saatva Classic innerspring-style mattress. This is an incredibly luxurious option that’s offered in multiple firmnesses, and I think that the pillow top included in the Luxury Firm version of the mattress should work wonders for both neck and shoulder pain. To prove this, I performed a pressure map test and found that the Saatva had extremely low pressure buildup in both the back- and side-sleeping positions. The Saatva also includes innerspring coils that have zoned support, which can help prevent jamming around the hips and shoulders.

The Saatva scored a 6.5 on our firmness scale for its Luxury Firm version, making it what I consider to be a true medium-firm mattress. However, Saatva also offers this model in a Soft option. So, if your shoulders are particularly sensitive, I definitely recommend you to opt for that version.

What our tester says: As you can see in the graphics above, the Saatva shines when it comes to back pain, as the graphic is mostly blue. Shoulder pain and hip pain are a different story, with a tiny bit of green at the hips and shoulders.Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer

What Customers Say

Customers on the Saatva website love the friendliness and timeliness of the company’s customer service. From ordering their mattress to its super convenient white glove delivery, folks seemed more than satisfied throughout the mattress-buying process.

Pros of the Saatva Classic Mattress

  • The Saatva Classic includes zoned support, which allows for more comfort around the hips, shoulders, and lumbar region. This is great for sleepers who suffer from back pain, as this area will receive pressure relief from the gel visco pillow topper and support from the coils in the base layer.
  • The high-quality materials and thoughtfully luxurious construction of the Saatva makes it one of my favorite durable mattresses. You shouldn’t have to worry about foam prematurely sagging and can expect quite the mattress lifespan.
  • Because of the balanced nature of this mattress, the Saatva Classic is a fantastic choice for back sleepers. They should be comfortable on either the Soft or the Luxury Firm model.

Cons of the Saatva Classic Mattress

  • Those favoring a memory foam feel will likely feel uncomfortable on this sturdier innerspring-style bed. For these folks, I recommend the best memory foam mattresses.

Click here for our best deal, or take a look at our full Saatva Classic mattress review for more info. You can check out more options on our best mattresses for neck pain page.

Best Hybrid Mattress for Shoulder PainWinkBed

Best Hybrid
Sleepopolis Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.7
WinkBeds
WinkBed Mattress
Firm, Supportive Feel
Euro Pillow Top
Sturdy Coils
Hybrid
120 nights
Free shipping
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

WinkBed Mattress Sleepopolis Performance Scores

Poor
Average
Excellent

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

Expert Opinion

Many hybrid mattresses are a little too firm for sleepers with shoulder pain because of the steel-coil support layers included in their construction. However, the WinkBed offers a Softer model that (naturally) has a softer feel. This is great for sleepers who suffer from joint pain because they’ll get added pressure relief and comfort around these sensitive areas. The quilted Tencel cover included in the WinkBed, which is made from eucalyptus wood cellulose, also helps to contour and fill the lumbar region.

When I tested out the WinkBed, I found that, while the zoned support coils in the base layer create some bounce, the comfort layer of gel-infused memory foam cushioned my shoulders and allowed me to sink into the bed for some pressure relief.

What our tester says: “Anyone who likes a more traditional innerspring feel should find a lot to love in the WinkBed. I really appreciate how there are multiple firmness models you can choose from to best suit your sleeping position and needs.” – Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor

What Customers Say

Customers on the WinkBed website often state how much better their back pain got after sleeping on this mattress for a few weeks. Even users who recently had back surgery state that the WinkBed helped them to sleep through the night without being woken up by their pain.

Pros of the WinkBed Mattress

  • The reinforced edges on the WinkBed allow for strong edge support. This is great for couples who want to spread out and use the full surface area of their mattress without fear or sinkage or sagging near the edges.
  • Lightweight sleepers should rest well in all sleeping positions on the WinkBed. The slightly firm feel of this mattress, combined with the softer Euro pillow top, makes it sturdy enough for lightweight back and stomach sleepers, while providing pressure relief for lightweight side sleepers.
  • Stomach and back sleepers with back pain should get the pressure relief they need from the WinkBed, specifically because of the plush top layer that fills in the space around their lower back. However, side sleepers might need a softer mattress in order to feel that same relief.

Cons of the WinkBed Mattress

  • While the WinkBed isn’t the most expensive bed on this list, it’s still rather pricey. If you’re a shopper on a budget, consider looking at my page of the best affordable mattresses.

Ready to get the best of both worlds from the WinkBed? Get our best deal here. Still not sure if this is for you? Learn more in our full WinkBed mattress review, or take a look at our picks for the best hybrid mattress.

Best Cooling Mattress for Shoulder Pain – Nectar

Best Cooling
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
Prime Time Sale
Save up to 50% + an EXTRA $100 when you spend $1000 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

Nectar Mattress Sleepopolis Performance Scores

Poor
Average
Excellent

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

Expert Opinion

The all-foam Nectar is the brand’s flagship memory foam mattress. Although memory foam tends to sleep hot, I found that the Nectar is the exception to the rule. I measured the bed’s temperature with a thermal gun after five minutes of lying on it, and it heated up less than 6 degrees. This indicates good cooling capabilities, and for a memory foam bed, I think it’s one of the best cooling mattresses out there.

Of course, I’ve placed it on this roundup because it’s also a good mattress for shoulder pain, specifically for back and stomach sleepers. It’s important to note that, with a score of 6.5 on our firmness test, the Nectar mattress is considered medium firm, which makes it stand out on this list of mostly soft mattresses.

What our tester says: “From actually lying on the mattress, I noticed that it does sleep cooler than a traditional memory foam mattress. This was further confirmed by the results on our thermal gun.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer

What Customers Say

There are more than 51,000 reviews for the Nectar on the brand’s website, with an average customer rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars. Over 8,000 of these testimonials mention that the mattress has soothed the sleeper’s pain, including this one from a verified buyer: “I researched many mattresses for side sleepers that specifically had chronic shoulder pain. After I found 3 separate reviews that recommended Nectar, I bought their mattress. All of my pains are gone, especially the shoulder.”

I should note that while I don’t recommend the Nectar for side sleepers with joint pain (more on that below), many buyers still find the bed comfortable in this sleeping position.

Pros of the Nectar Mattress

  • I found the memory foam of the Nectar to be quite responsive. Combination sleepers should have no trouble switching sleeping positions on its surface.
  • Back sleepers and stomach sleepers should both get the support they need from the Nectar, which is key to maintaining a neutral spinal alignment.
  • After discounts, you can often find a queen-size Nectar for under $1,000 on the brand’s website.

Cons of the Nectar Mattress

  • While most people will probably find the Nectar comfortable in the side-sleeping position, side strict side sleepers with joint pain might experience some jamming up at the shoulders and hips. I recommend these folks opt for the softer Nectar Premier or take a look at my roundup of the best mattresses for side sleepers.

Think the Nectar will change the way you sleep? Click here to get our best deal. If you’re still undecided, learn more in our full Nectar mattress review, or check out our picks for best cooling mattress.

Best Mattress for Couples with Shoulder Pain – 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
Fall Sale
25% off sitewide with code FALL25 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

Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress Sleepopolis Performance Scores

Poor
Average
Excellent

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

Expert Opinion

If you’re struggling with shoulder pain but also want a bed that accommodates your partner’s needs, look no further than the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid. There are three different firmnesses to cater to a variety of sleepers, but for the best shoulder pain relief, I suggest opting for the Soft model. It has a thick and cozy cover, as well as a contouring memory foam layer that treats you to a good bit of contouring.

Regardless of which model you choose, the Signature Hybrid has several traits that I recommend for couples. First, I found that it has really strong edge support, which is essentially the strength of a mattress’s perimeter. This means couples should be able to spread out on this mattress and sleep close to the edge of the bed while still feeling supported. Also, the hybrid construction should offer plenty of breathability for two sleepers. You can even add a cooling cover for an additional fee if you’re someone who overheats easily. Finally, the level of responsiveness in this bed makes the Signature Hybrid a good option for sex. You shouldn’t feel stuck in the material, and should find that it’s easy to switch positions.

What our tester says: “Couples need a mattress that’s good for sex, isolates motion isolation well , has strong edge support, and sleeps cool. Fortunately, the Signature Hybrid has three out of the four of these traits. Its bouncy, responsive feel makes it a strong mattress for sex, and the construction encourages airflow and breathability. Finally, its edge support is strong enough to make sure couples can spread out on their mattress without fear of sinkage or sagging near the sides.” Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer

What Customers Say

Impressively, there are over 10,000 Signature Hybrid reviews on the company site. While browsing them, we found a large number of people commented on the outstanding level of support they feel on this bed, whether they sleep alone or with a partner.

Pros of the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress

  • I felt very comfortable on the Signature Hybrid while back sleeping. If you sleep in this position, I recommend choosing the Medium model, which should give you pressure relief at the lumbar region and enough support for a neutral spinal alignment.
  • The responsiveness of this bed also makes it a natural choice for combination sleepers. They should be able to switch sleeping positions with ease.
  • Side sleepers should be comfortable on the Signature Hybrid, but I recommend they opt for the Soft model to get the deepest contouring and pressure relief at their shoulders and hips. Stomach sleepers, on the other hand, should go for the Firm model.

Cons of the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress

  • The one area where the Signature Hybrid might be an issue for some couples is motion isolation. When measuring the mattress’s vibrations with a seismometer, I saw some spikes. While this shouldn’t be a problem for most sleepers, it’s something to consider if you or your partner is a light sleeper and easily feels the other’s tossing and turning.

Ready to try out the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid? Click here to see our latest deals. You can also earn more in our full Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid mattress review, or check out some other choices in our roundup of the best mattresses for couples.

Best Mattress for Athletes with Shoulder Pain – Bear Elite Hybrid

Best for Athletes
Sleepopolis Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.6
Bear
Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress
Designed for Athletes
Soft Feel
Luxurious Foams
Hybrid mattress
120 nights
Free shipping
Fall Sale
30% off + 2 free pillows with mattress purchase using code FALL30 See Details
SO Brand Icon MattressMaterial
Material
This is a hybrid mattress, meaning it combines soft foams and sturdy coils for a balance of comfort and support.
SO Brand Icon PropertyFirmness
Firmness
Multiple firmness options: Soft, Medium, Firm. We rated the Medium model a 6 out of 10, meaning it is softer than average.
SO Brand Icon PropertyPrice
Price
$1,865–$3,997 (before any discounts)
so brand icons 2023 Mattress Review Home Page
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
SO sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleepers
Ideal for back sleepers of all weights, as it is supportive but cushioning.
SO sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
A good match for people who sleep hot, thanks to a cooling cover and breathable coils.
so brand icons 2023 Best Mattress Home Page
Athletes
This mattress was designed for rest and recovery and uses Celliant, a material Bear says assists with muscle recovery.
Pros of the Bear Elite Hybrid
Thick comfort layers provide lots of pressure relief while coils lift the hips for spinal support
The Medium model has a medium-soft feel that should suit most back sleepers
A responsive feel makes this bed easy to move on
Cons of the Bear Elite Hybrid
Heavyweight stomach sleepers won’t get enough support. See our best mattresses for heavy people for better options
As a luxury mattress with many special features, the Bear Elite Hybrid is priced higher. Budget shoppers may want to check out the best cheap mattresses
SO Brand Icon PropertyShipping
Shipping
Free Shipping
SO Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod
Trial Period
120 nights
SO Brand Icon MattressWarranty
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
so brand icons 2023 Editorial Policy Home Page copy
Returns
If you return within the 120-night trial period, you can get a full refund.

The Bear Elite Hybrid uses foam and coils for a mix of support, cushioning, and cooling. While designed for athletes prioritizing wellness and recovery, sleepers of all activity levels can enjoy the many luxurious features. Enjoy zoned support for targeted relief, an “on top of” feel allowing for ease of movement, and cooling features throughout. For more information, watch our video review.

What our tester says:

“I’d recommend the Bear Elite Hybrid for most back and stomach sleepers.I think these sleepers will get the needed pressure relief and contouring around the lower back and hips. This mattress does a wonderful job at offering body contouring while still helping the sleeper stay elevated and lifted as well. The layers of foam should provide comfort while the coil system should offer lots of support.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and mattress tester

Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress Sleepopolis Performance Scores

Poor
Average
Excellent

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

Expert Opinion

If you’re an athlete or just someone who’s active throughout the day, you can end up with sore or overused muscles by bedtime. A mattress that appropriately cushions muscles in the shoulder area can really help reduce pain, making it easier to fall asleep. I think the Bear Elite Hybrid is a great option for this. Its soft memory foam up top provided me with plenty of contouring, while the coils at the bottom of the bed kept me supported. It also has the brand’s trademark cover made of Celliant, a material that some studies show assists with blood flow and muscle recovery. The cover can purchased at additional cost. While Sleepopolis hasn’t verified this claim ourselves, it’s designed to absorb your body’s energy, then redirect it back to you for these health benefits.

The Bear Elite Hybrid scored a 6 on our firmness scale, making it only slightly softer than the industry standard for a medium-firm mattress. This can be helpful for sleepers who want that pressure relief around sensitive areas like their hips, shoulders, and lower back, but also still want to feel supported by their mattress. Unlike other mattresses in this roundup, the Bear Elite Hybrid as a more “on top” feel to it, so sleepers shouldn’t feel like they’re sinking too far into this mattress’s layers.

What our tester says: “On the cooling front, the Bear Elite Hybrid combines phase change material fabric and the brand’s trademarked Sleep Recovery Technology, which is powered by Celliant. I can say that [both materials] sleep nice and cool, and could help athletes cool down after a workout.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer

What Customers Say

Many customers on the Bear website praise the Bear Elite Hybrid because of its combination of coils and foams. These users state that the foams in the top layer invite them to lie down, while the coils keep them from sinking too far into the same spot during the night.

Pros of the Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress

  • The Bear Elite Hybrid includes a cooling cover and copper-infused foam that help get rid of body heat. The phase change material included in the top layer also helps to absorb body heat, and the Bear brand states that the Elite Hybrid has the most advanced cooling technology of all of their mattresses, making it a great choice for hot sleepers.
  • The Bear Elite Hybrid also has edge-to-edge coils in its construction, which helps to create strong edge support in this bed. This is great for couples who want to use the full surface area of their mattress without fear of sagging near the sides.
  • Combination sleepers should appreciate the Bear Elite Hybrid because of its “on top” feel. This allows for these sleepers to easily move around and switch positions throughout the night.

Cons of the Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress

  • The Bear Elite Hybrid is considered a luxury mattress, so it is a bit more expensive than the other mattresses from this brand, with a queen sized mattress coming in at around $2,000. Budget-conscious shoppers may want to take a look at my roundup of the best mattresses under $1,000 for some cheaper options.

Sold on the Bear Elite Hybrid? Get our latest deal here. Still looking for a mattress? Learn more in our full Bear Elite Hybrid mattress review, or check out some other options in our best mattress for athletes roundup.

Best Mattress for Back Sleepers with Shoulder Pain – Nolah Signature

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

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

What our tester says:

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

Nolah Signature Mattress Sleepopolis Performance Scores

Poor
Average
Excellent

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

Expert Opinion

Back sleepers often fare best on a medium-firm mattress that blends pressure relief and support. But shoulder pain sufferers often need a soft to medium-soft mattress to get adequate pressure relief. Because of this, it can be hard to find a bed that meets both needs. Luckily, the Nolah Signature’s combination of soft AirFoam and more supportive high-density foam makes it a great fit for these folks. The Nolah brand states that the Nolah Signature offers “best-in-class pressure relief,” something I definitely felt when I laid down. I got some nice contouring at the lower back without ever feeling like I was sinking too far into the layers.

The Nolah Signature scored a 5.5 out of 10 on our firmness scale, making it softer than the industry standard for a medium-firm mattress. Much like the majority of the beds on this list, the Nolah Signature also has more of a “sinking” feeling to it, rather than an “on top” feeling. This helps sleepers who suffer with shoulder pain to get the body contouring they need from their mattress.

What our tester says: “The sinkage this mattress provides should be a nice match for side sleepers and offer the pressure relief they need. The Nolah Signature also really impressed me on both the motion transfer test and with its edge support.” – Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor

What Customers Say

Nolah Signature users love the balance of comfort and stability that is present in this mattress. These customers say that the Nolah Signature helped them achieve pressure relief in their sensitive joints (especially their back and shoulders), while still keeping their body elevated and “on top” of the bed.

Pros of the Nolah Signature Mattress

  • Side sleepers should appreciate the overall soft feel of the Nolah Signature. This should give them some added pressure relief around their shoulders and hips — areas that can become sensitive during side sleeping.
  • The Nolah Signature is a great mattress option for sleepers who suffer from back pain. In my pressure map test, the Nolah Signature lit up blue and green for back pain, so sleepers should feel the layers of foam filling in the space around their lumbar region. However, stomach sleepers with back pain might want to look for a firmer option to keep their spine in a neutral alignment.
  • The Nolah Signature received great results on my motion isolation test. The Airfoam used in this mattress has a slow response to pressure, meaning that this bed isn’t very bouncy. Because of this, couples shouldn’t be disturbed by their partner’s movements during the night.

Cons of the Nolah Signature Mattress

  • The Nolah Signature is definitely on the softer side for a mattress, so stomach sleepers might find that this bed is not able to keep their hips in line with their shoulders. This could lead to pain while sleeping, so I recommend these sleepers check out my roundup of the best mattresses for stomach sleepers instead.

Decided on the Nolah Signature? Get our best deal here. Still looking for the right mattress for you? Learn more in our full Nolah Signature mattress review, or browse through our top picks for best mattress for back sleepers.

Best Mattress for Heavy People with Shoulder Pain – Titan Plus Luxe

Best for Heavy People
Sleepopolis Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.4
Brooklyn Bedding
Brooklyn Bedding Titan Plus Luxe
Firm, Supportive Feel
Built For Heavy People
Quilted Cover
Hybrid
120 nights
Free shipping
Fall Sale
25% off sitewide with code FALL25 See Details
SO Brand Icon MattressMaterial
Material
Hybrid, combining soft foams and sturdy coils for a balance of comfort and support.
SO Brand Icon PropertyFirmness
Firmness
We rated the Titan Plus Luxe as a 6.5 out of 10, meaning it has a true medium-firm feel.
SO Brand Icon PropertyPrice
Price
$899–$2,198 (before any discounts)
so brand icons 2023 Mattress Review Home Page
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split California king
SO Sleeper Type Icons HeavyPeople
Heavy Sleepers
If you weigh 250 pounds or more, the Titan Plus Luxe should provide adequate comfort and support.
SO sleeper type couples
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation and its medium-firm feel means it can work for mixed-weight couples.
SO sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleepers
If you sleep on your back, the Titan Plus Luxe provides sturdy support for spinal alignment.
Pros of the Titan Plus Luxe
This bed isolates motion well, meaning you shouldn’t feel movement from a partner or pet
It also has sturdy edge support, a bonus for heavier people and for couples
The Titan Plus Luxe is easy to move around on, making it a solid choice for combination sleepers
Compared to other beds for heavy sleepers, the Titan Plus Luxe is fairly affordable
Cons of the Titan Plus Luxe
Despite being overall supportive, the Titan Plus Luxe still is likely too soft for heavy stomach sleepers, check out our best mattresses for heavy people
This bed doesn’t offer deep sinkage or body contouring, which can help with pressure relief, check out our best memory foam mattresses
Lightweight sleepers may find this bed too firm so they might be better off with one of the best mattresses for lightweight sleepers
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 trial period. Brooklyn Bedding does charge a $99 pick-up fee for returns.

The Titan Plus Luxe provides a sturdy and supportive, but still comfortable and luxurious sleep experience for heavy sleepers. The medium-firm feel can work for heavy back and side sleepers, but can also work for some light and average weight folks too. This means mixed-weight couples particularly might enjoy this mattress, especially since it has excellent motion isolation and strong edge support. Learn more in our video review.

What our tester says:

“If you’re a heavy sleeper looking for a bed made of high-quality materials, the Titan Plus Luxe is a great option for you. It’s built to last and should do a great job supporting heavier sleepers, especially back, side, and combination sleepers.” – Madison Schaper, former Sleepopolis staff writer and mattress tester

Titan Plus Luxe Mattress Sleepopolis Performance Scores

Poor
Average
Excellent

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

Expert Opinion

Heavy sleepers can have a harder time trying to find a good mattress for their shoulder pain. While these folks require a more supportive mattress to keep their bodies lifted in proper alignment, they’re also going to want sufficient pressure relief to ease tension off the shoulder. A mattress made for heavy people, I think the Titan Plus Luxe strikes this balance better than any other bed on the market. It includes a thick and responsive layer of transition foam, individually encased coils, and high-density foam for support.

For relieving shoulder pain, the Titan Plus Luxe utilizes a quilted memory foam cover, as well as a specially designed comfort layer, for top-tier pressure relief. I had my weightlifter friend Paulie, who classifies as a heavier sleeper (over 250 pounds), come in and test out this mattress. During our pressure map test, Paulie’s graphic showed little to no buildup in all sleeping positions. So, whether you’re a heavy back, side, or stomach sleeper, you should find relief on the Titan Plus Luxe.

What our tester says: If you’re a heavy sleeper looking for a bed made of high-quality materials, the Titan Plus Luxe is a great option for you. It’s built to last and should do a great job supporting heavier sleepers, especially back, side, and combination sleepers.Madison Schaper, former staff writer

What Customers Say

For such a unique mattress with such durable materials, consumers were delighted at the overall value of the Titan Plus Luxe. Shoppers can find a queen size for under $1,599 before discounts.

Pros of the Titan Plus Luxe Mattress

  • There are a number of cooling features in this luxury mattress, but if you sleep extra hot, you can purchase the Glaciotex Cooling Cover.
  • This mattress has a medium-firm feel that should primarily appeal to heavy back and side sleepers. However, if you want something a bit firmer, opt for the original version: the Titan Plus.
  • This is a phenomenal mattress for couples, as it excels in all of the main factors I look for in a bed for two: motion isolation, responsiveness, cooling, and edge support.

Cons of the Titan Plus Luxe Mattress

  • Since this bed was designed for folks over 250 pounds, lightweight sleepers will likely find the Titan Plus Luxe to be too firm for their needs.

Ready to try out the Titan Plus Luxe? Click here to see our latest deals. You can also earn more in our full Titan Plus Luxe mattress review, or check out some other choices in our roundup of the best mattresses for heavy sleepers.

Best Organic Mattress for Shoulder Pain – Birch Luxe Natural

Best Organic
Sleepopolis Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.2
Birch
Birch Luxe Natural Mattress
Firm, Responsive Feel
Birch Luxury Upgrade
Naturally Cool Latex
Latex
100 nights
Free shipping
Fall Into Bed Sale
20% off + 2 free pillows with mattress purchase using code FALLSALE20 See Details
SO Brand Icon MattressMaterial
Material
Latex
SO Brand Icon PropertyFirmness
Firmness
Our mattress firmness scale runs from 1 to 10, with 10 being the firmest. The Birch Luxe Natural is a 7 out of 10, which is fairly firm.
SO Brand Icon PropertyPrice
Price
$1,624–$3,124 (before any discounts)
so brand icons 2023 Mattress Review Home Page
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
SO sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleepers
Average weight back sleepers should get a balance of lumbar cushioning and spinal support.
SO sleeper type stomach sleepers
Stomach Sleepers
Average weight stomach sleepers should get enough support to keep their hips lifted and aligned with the shoulders.
SO sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
Latex is naturally cooling, this mattress should help you stay cool.
MattressReviewIcons Organic
Eco-conscious
If you’re a green-minded shopper looking for a mattress with safe and organic materials, this is the bed for you.
Pros of the Birch Luxe Natural
It’s truly organic and comes with numerous GOTS and GREENGUARD Gold certifications
It has Talalay latex in its transition layer, which is a naturally cooling material
There’s enough responsiveness for combo sleepers to easily switch positions
It should be a good match for anyone looking for that “on-top-of-the-bed” feel
Luxury touches include organic cotton and cashmere in the cover
Cons of the Birch Luxe Natural
This isn’t one of the best mattresses for side sleepers , which have a softer feel that better cushions the joints
This is an expensive mattress. Anyone on a budget should check out our round up of the best cheap mattresses
SO Brand Icon PropertyShipping
Shipping
Free shipping
SO Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod
Trial Period
100 nights
SO Brand Icon MattressWarranty
Warranty
25-year warranty
so brand icons 2023 Editorial Policy Home Page copy
Returns
Free returns before the 100-night trial ends

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

Birch Luxe Natural Mattress Sleepopolis Performance Scores

Poor
Average
Excellent

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

Expert Opinion

If you’re a particularly eco-conscious person who also wants the best mattress for shoulder pain, let me point you to the Birch Luxe Natural. Unlike many beds on this roundup, it’s not only organic, but made with latex — a material known for being naturally responsive and cooling. This offers an elegant feel that simple foams and springs are unable to replicate. Another unique aspect about the Birch’s latex is that it contours to the shoulders of back and stomach sleepers. My pressure map results showed some particularly fantastic results for these positions.

The Birch Luxe Natural scored a 7 out of 10 on our firmness test, making this mattress firmer than our standard for a medium-firm bed. This is thanks to its blend of comfort from the organic cover and natural latex, and support from the pocketed coils. All of these layers sit atop organic wool. It’s no surprise that with all of the quality materials, this mattress holds a host of certifications for sustainability, emissions, materials, and production.

What our tester says: “When I’m on my back, I feel a great level of support. The pressure map reflects this by showing all blue on the map and no pressure building up on my back or hips. My hips don’t feel like they’re sinking in too far and my spine feels as though it’s staying in alignment.” Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor

What Customers Say

Users on the Birch website often comment on how much they love that their sleeping surface is not only comfortable, but good for the environment.

Pros of the Birch Luxe Natural Mattress

  • The responsive nature of this mattress makes it a fantastic choice for combination sleepers and anyone with mobility issues.
  • Not surprisingly, the Birch Luxe Natural’s quality materials do wonders for the bed’s lifespan. If you’re looking for a durable option, you’ve certainly found it.
  • The Birch Luxe Natural includes zoned support in its support layer, meaning that some spots of the mattress are firmer than others. This gives your body support where it needs it the most, and can go a long way toward helping prevent back pain.

Cons of the Birch Luxe Natural Mattress

  • As a firmer bed, this mattress does not contour enough to the shoulders of side sleepers, who require the best soft mattresses.

Click here to see our current deals, or learn more in our full Birch Luxe Natural mattress review. Still searching? Take a look at our picks for best organic mattresses.

Why Trust Sleepopolis To Help you Find a Mattress

Here at Sleepopolis, we have personally tested over 300 mattresses to help every sleeper get the best night’s sleep they can. Our expert testing methods allow us to review beds in a way that is unbiased, honest, and most importantly, helpful. Using our knowledge of mattresses, pressure relief, and pain relief, we have compiled a list of the best possible mattresses for sleepers with shoulder pain. Below you can read more about our methodology for testing and also get expert tips on how to shop for a mattress that will help you with your shoulder pain.

Is Your Mattress Causing Shoulder Pain?

If you’re suffering from chronic shoulder pain or recovering from a shoulder injury, you should likely consult a medical professional or your doctor. However, if you’re experiencing shoulder pain after sleeping, or only experience it when laying on your mattress, it’s possible that your bed is the culprit.

A non-supportive mattress, broken down foams or coils, or an old and deteriorating mattress may contribute to pain across the body. If you sleep on your side for some or all of the night, then a poor mattress may be contributing to your pain. It’s also possible that the mattress you have is in good condition, but doesn’t keep your shoulders and back supported enough to alleviate pain, or isn’t relieving enough pressure in the right areas. I recommend continuing to read below to figure out exactly how to find a mattress that can help relieve shoulder pain.

Causes of Shoulder Pain

You may have chronic shoulder pain, you may have an injury, or you may have a bad mattress. Either way, I can help you find a solution in your bed. Below are some common causes of shoulder pain that you might look into before finalizing your mattress search.

  • Rotator cuff tendinitis or injury
  • Arthritis
  • Bursitis
  • Pinched nerves
  • Frozen shoulder
  • General injury or overexertion

Hear From the Doctor: What are the Primary Qualities I Should Look for In a Mattress for Shoulder Pain?

“If you’re looking to ease shoulder pain with your mattress, look for one that’s softer yet supportive, offers pressure relief, and keeps your hips and spine aligned. Memory foam or latex can be good materials for this, and you can also consider adding a mattress topper for a more plush surface.” – Dr. Raj Dasgupta MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM. Quadruple-board certified in pulmonary, sleep, internal, and critical care medicine

How I Test the Best Mattress for Shoulder Pain

Now that you know which mattresses we’d personally recommend for shoulder pain, I want to give you an overview of how I assessed these beds. These expert tips can help you as you shop for your new mattress.

Firmness

Firmness is one of the most important considerations for sleepers shopping for a bed that alleviates shoulder pain. Firmness will determine how far you sink into your bed, and is rated on a scale of 1 (softest) to 10 (firmest).

If you’re a side or back sleeper with shoulder pain, we’d recommend you opt for a soft mattress (between a 4 and 6) on the mattress firmness scale. Some softness and sinkage should help cushion the pressure points around your body and provide some relief.

Stomach sleepers need a firm mattress to keep their spines neutrally aligned and avoid back pain and arching and a soft, flat pillow that prevents them from craning their neck or putting pressure on their shoulders at night. We’d recommend checking out my best pillows for stomach sleepers if you’re a stomach sleeper struggling with shoulder or neck pain.

a look at the sleepopolis firmness scale
A look at the Sleepopolis mattress firmness scale.
P1062451
We also test how pillows can help alleviate pain.

Hear From the Doctor: How Does the Firmness Level of a Mattress Contribute to or Alleviate Shoulder Pain?

“An overly firm mattress may lead to poor spinal alignment and lack of support, contributing to discomfort in your shoulder. A medium-firm mattress is often best, as it maintains proper spine curvature, distributes weight evenly and reduces pressure points. An overly soft mattress will provide the cushioning you need in your shoulder, however might misalign your spine and hips. ” – Dr. Raj Dasgupta MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM. Quadruple-board certified in pulmonary, sleep, internal, and critical care medicine

Support

Firmness and support are not interchangeable terms, given that softer mattresses can still offer plenty of support. A supportive mattress is one that aligns the spine and allows the shoulders to rest properly, no matter the position. If a softer mattress has correct support features, you’ll be able to sink into the bed without ever feeling like the mattress is closing in around you.

best mattress for stomach sleepers
Stomach sleepers tend to need a firmer bed so their hips can be lifted and in line with their shoulders.

If you struggle with shoulder pain, you need to ensure your mattress supports a straight spinal alignment. Depending on your sleeping position, this could mean different things. In general, side sleepers need a bit of sinkage so that their shoulders and hips align with their lower back, back sleepers need a medium-firm bed that keeps their hips supported, and stomach sleepers need a firm mattress. If you struggle with shoulder pain, it may seem counterintuitive to get a firmer mattress, but if your soft mattress is not providing adequate support, you’ll carry tension throughout your entire body.

In fact, tension from improper sleep posture can be particularly noticeable in the shoulders. This doesn’t mean you need to swap a soft bed for a firm one, but it does mean that you need to consider a more supportive bed. If you deal with shoulder pain, we’d recommend opting for a mattress that’s soft enough to provide pressure relief, but supportive enough to align your spine in your chosen sleeping position.

Edge Support

Edge support refers to the strength of the perimeter of your mattress. Having strong edges is especially important for couples, as it allows them to be able to use the full surface of the mattress without worrying about rolling off. It also allows ease getting out of bed which is especially important for seniors, or anyone with chronic pain. A supportive edge allows for easier movement in and out of bed, reducing strain on the shoulders. For sleepers with shoulder pain, proper edge support allows for spine alignment without excessive sinkage. I test for edge support by using a yard stick to measure the level of sinkage felt when sat on the edge of the bed.

Nichole doing the yardstick test on the WinkBed
Nichole doing the yardstick test on the WinkBed

Pressure Relief

A closer look at our pressure map to test pressure relief features in each mattress.
An example of our pressure map

When I talk about a mattress’s pressure relief, I’m referring to how the bed distributes your body weight. Even weight distribution reduces tension throughout the body, which is particularly useful for those suffering from shoulder pain. The best pressure-relieving mattresses for shoulder pain provide a comfortable resting place to soothe shoulder, neck, spine, and hip muscles and joints while simultaneously alleviating tension across the body.

I test the pressure relief capabilities of the mattresses I review using a pressure mat. The mat is rolled across the bed and I then lay on it in various sleeping positions. The mat then gives us a thermal “pressure map,” which shows where pressure is relieved, and where it is not. As you can see, blue and green indicate low pressure buildup, or good pressure relief, and red and orange show poor pressure relief.

Hear From the Doctor: How Can a Mattress Exacerbate or Mitigate Shoulder Pain?

Your mattress can make your shoulder pain significantly worse if it isn’t supportive, isn’t the right firmness, or can’t relieve pressure points. A softer mattress with good cushioning, good pressure relief, and proper alignment in your spine and hips can help relieve your shoulder pain.” – Dr. Raj Dasgupta MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM. Quadruple-board certified in pulmonary, sleep, internal, and critical care medicine

Sleeping Position

Sleepopolis Sleeping Position Test Photo
An example of how we test different sleeping positions.

A mattress that supports your sleep posture will help relieve tension throughout your body, which can relax your shoulders at night. Take a look at a few of the main sleeping positions below to learn more about what type of mattress suits each best.

Side Sleepers

Side sleepers with shoulder pain generally do best on a soft mattress that offers plenty of body contouring. You put a lot of pressure on the shoulders and hips when sleeping on your side, so you’ll want to look for a mattress with thick foam layers that will really cradle these joints.

Back Sleepers

Back sleepers with shoulder pain should opt for a medium-soft to medium-firm mattress, according to a 2021 review. You’ll want something soft enough to allow some sinkage around the shoulders, but firm enough to support your lower back. No point in relieving shoulder pain on a soft mattress just to end up with lower back pain. If you’re a back sleeper with shoulder pain, we’d recommend looking for a bed that offers zoned support. These beds will feel softer at the shoulders to offer relief, but firmer at the hips and lower back to ensure you stay supported throughout the night.

Stomach Sleepers

Stomach sleepers with shoulder pain should stick to a firm mattress to ensure they get appropriate support. A firm mattress that keeps their hips lifted up in line with their shoulders could actually relieve some pressure in the shoulder area, reducing pain. we’d recommend these folks opt for a firm mattress with a thin quilted pillow top that offers just a little pressure relief. I find firm latex mattresses with thin wool pillow tops very comfortable for stomach sleeping.

Combination Sleepers

Combination sleepers with shoulder pain need appropriate support and pressure relief in all of the sleeping positions, but still need enough mobility to move around at night. In general, we’d recommend a medium-soft hybrid mattress to these folks. But, if you’re willing to sacrifice some mobility to relieve more pain, a soft all-foam mattress might be a better option.

Hear From the Doctor: How Can your Sleeping Position Affect Shoulder 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 but not too much to misalign their spine. 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 Weight

We recognize that people come in all shapes and sizes, and people of every size deserve a mattress that works for their body type. We use the weight categories light, average, and heavy to more easily categorize sleepers based on how mattresses will perform for their body type, as most mattresses are designed for the group we call “average” (130 to 250 pounds).

Lightweight SleepersAverage-Weight SleepersHeavyweight Sleepers
< 160 pounds160 – 230 pounds> 230 pounds

Most online mattresses are built for people under 250 pounds. So heavier people with shoulder pain may want to opt for a slightly firmer mattress, such as one of my best mattresses for heavy people. If you’re a heavy person choosing from this list, we’d recommend the Loom & Leaf mattress, which features enough deep compression support to keep you comfortable. On the other hand, lightweight people with shoulder pain should often opt for an even softer mattress than they think they need. If you’re under about 130 lbs and deal with shoulder pain, we’d look for a foam mattress in the 5–5.5 range on the firmness scale.

Mattress Type

Different mattress types offer more or less shoulder pain relief, so you’ll also want to pay close attention to the mattress materials you’re choosing. I generally recommend a mattress that is both contouring and supportive to alleviate shoulder pain, like memory foam mattresses. These types of beds can be especially helpful for sleepers with shoulder pain because they gently relieve overall tension, especially around sensitive joints.

At Sleepopolis, we test every type of mattress to make sure we select the right ones for each list.
A look into the construction of different types of mattresses.
Memory Foam and Polyfoam

Memory foam mattresses are probably the best fit for those with shoulder pain. They offer tons of body contouring and pressure relief, and have a slow response to pressure that allows you to sink into them. In general, I recommend that sleepers who struggle with shoulder pain (or hip pain) check out memory foam mattresses. Back and side sleepers may especially benefit from this.

Polyfoam mattresses are also a good fit for sleepers with shoulder pain. Soft polyfoam beds are not as supportive or slow-moving as memory foam mattresses, but can be great budget options for relieving shoulder pain in the short term.

Latex

Latex mattresses often feel bouncy and cooling. These beds don’t offer as much body contouring as other foam mattresses, so side sleepers with shoulder pain may not get what they need. But soft latex mattresses could offer great relief for back sleepers with shoulder pain.

Hybrid

Hybrid mattresses combine foam top layers with steel coils and can vary widely in feel. If you struggle with shoulder pain, we’d suggest looking for a hybrid with thick memory or polyfoam top layers that offer plenty of room for sinkage before transitioning into the coil support layer.

Innerspring

Innerspring mattresses are generally not good fits for sleepers with shoulder pain. These beds have a traditional, bouncy feel and are often quite firm. A coil mattress without a thick top layer won’t offer quite enough pressure relief for sleepers with shoulder pain unless they sleep on their stomachs.

Pillow Top

Pillow top mattresses are usually hybrid or innerspring layers with an additional foam, wool, or occasionally down top layer. These beds can offer great pressure relief and feature a little extra sinkage. Generally, pillow tops are very comfortable mattresses for sleepers with shoulder pain.

Hear From the Doctor: How can Different Mattress Types Affect our Anatomy?

Memory foam contours for personalized support but may retain heat. Latex offers resilience and allergen resistance. Innerspring mattresses provide firmer support and motion transfer. Hybrid mattresses blend foam and coils for balanced comfort and cooling. Gel-infused mattresses regulate temperature. Pillow-top mattresses offer extra cushioning but may lose effectiveness over time. The impact varies mostly on factors like body weight and sleeping positions.” – Dr. Raj Dasgupta MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM. Quadruple-board certified in pulmonary, sleep, internal, and critical care medicine

Motion Isolation

Motion isolation refers to how well a mattress reduces disturbances throughout the night. If you sleep with a partner or pet, this is a measure of how much you’ll be jostled by their movements. If you struggle with shoulder pain, it can be hard to fall asleep, so you don’t want a mattress that it’s easy for your partner to accidentally wake you up on. You also don’t want an injured or sore shoulder to get disrupted overnight by a partner’s movements.

In general, memory foam and pillow top mattresses are good at isolating motion. Some of my best mattresses for couples also feature great motion isolation and might be worth a look if this is a priority for you. To test motion isolation in mattresses, I use a red wine and a ball test. First, I see how much movement causes a glass of red wine to tip over on a mattress. I then drop a steel ball from various heights and use a seismograph machine to measure how much movement ripples across the mattress. Smaller waves on the graph indicate better motion isolation.

An example of the Sleepopolis Red Wine Test
An example of our red wine test.
Motion transfer results for the Purple Restore Plus.
Smaller waves indicate better motion isolation, as seen here.

Sleep Partners

If you share your bed with a partner, kid(s) or pet(s), reducing disruptions can lead to more restful sleep, potentially alleviating shoulder pain over time. Improved motion isolation can minimize the tossing and turning you experience during the night, which is especially beneficial for sensitive shoulders. I recommend choosing a mattress made from materials that effectively absorb motion, such as memory foam or latex.

Cooling

When testing mattresses, we make sure to look at cooling properties using a temperature control gun.
A look at our cooling test, using a thermal gun.

Hot sleepers with shoulder pain can struggle to find a bed because memory foam and pillow top mattresses, which are some of the best out there for shoulder pain, often trap body heat. To help mitigate this issue, we’d recommend opting for a gel, copper, or graphite-infused memory foam bed if you already sleep hot. You may also want to consider a mattress that includes thermoregulating materials like wool or soft latex, or soft a hybrid bed whose coils promote airflow. Take a look at our best cooling mattresses to find a few more options.

I test all the mattresses for their cooling capacity by using a thermal gun which measures the change in temperature from the mattress by itself to after I have laid on it for several minutes. I have found that anything below an 8-degree difference is considered good cooling, and below a 6-degree difference is great cooling.

What About Hot Sleepers?

I’ve mentioned that memory foam tends to be a heat-trapping material, which usually is a big red flag for sleepers who run hot at night. But don’t worry if you’re a hot sleeper who loves memory foam. Plenty of memory foam mattresses on the market have been designed to combat the natural heat-trapping quality of memory foam. Look for mattresses that are marketed as having “gel memory foam” or “aerated memory foam.”

Price

If you’re looking to save money when shopping for a new mattress, we’d recommend taking a look at our mattress coupon page and shopping during holiday sales like Black Friday or Memorial Day. If you’re planning to purchase a budget mattress, we’d recommend choosing one that offers a warranty and sleep trial period. Both options are great indicators that you’re purchasing from a reputable company that feels confident in their product.

If you are shopping internationally, shipping and handling costs can be even higher, so I have made a list of the best mattresses in Canada. You can look at this page for the best deals when shopping outside of the United States.

Company Policies

Sleep Trials

A sleep trial refers to the amount of time, a mattress company will accept free returns until to give you a chance to fully test out the mattress. Every company varies, but most offer a 30-, 60-, or 90-day sleep trial. Sleep trials are extremely beneficial because they allow you to truly see if the mattress suits your lifestyle and sleep needs. After a couple weeks, you will be able to determine if a mattress is relieving the pressure you feel, keeping you cool at night, or keeping you asleep next to a partner. 

Warranties

Mattress warranties are extremely important to look at in case the bed you buy ends up being faulty. They also give you a pretty good idea of what the durability of the mattress is going to be. Most companies offer 10-year or lifetime warranties. I recommend investing in a mattress that is truly going to relieve your shoulder pain and can last at least 10 years. 

Shipping

Many shoppers have said they refuse to pay shipping costs on a new mattress, considering the large upfront cost already. Every mattress on this list offers free shipping, so rest assured you won’t have to add that cost to your budget.

At an extra cost, some mattress companies offer white glove delivery, which is a service that hand delivers your new bed to your door, sets it up in your room, and removes your old mattress for you. I definitely recommend white glove delivery if you suffer from shoulder pain, as a mattress is not known to be a light load, especially when going up stairs. 

Hear From the Doctor: What Does a Durable Mattress Look Like?

A durable mattress is characterized by high-quality materials, a strong support core, edge support, resilience, motion isolation, minimal sagging, a substantial warranty, positive brand reputation/reviews and regular maintenance. It offers long-lasting comfort and support, withstanding wear and maintaining its structural integrity over time.” – Dr. Raj Dasgupta MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM. Quadruple-board certified in pulmonary, sleep, internal, and critical care medicine

Neck, Hip, and Back Pain

If you are experiencing shoulder pain, you may also be experiencing pain in your neck, back, and or hips. Much like shoulder pain, if these are chronic issues for you, or the result of an injury, I recommend meeting with a doctor. However, the right mattress can be important for alleviating pain in these areas by providing ample support and pressure relief.

I generally suggest looking for mattresses that support the hips and lumbar region for these areas of pain and provide pressure relief in the respective areas. Exactly what kind of mattress you’ll want will depend on how you sleep and where exactly you feel pain. You can look at my recommendations for the best mattresses for side sleepers, stomach sleepers, and back sleepers to learn more based on your sleeping position and my picks for the best mattresses for neck pain, back pain, and hip pain.

Expert Tips for Relieving Shoulder Pain

Now that you know how to choose the right mattress to combat shoulder pain, let’s talk a little bit about what else you can do to help alleviate pain at bedtime. 

  • Get a new pillow that ensures your head and neck are properly supported. This can help alleviate pressure at the shoulders and reduce pain. Your pillow should be medium height and have a thickness that fills in the gap between your neck and shoulders. For the best pillow for neck pain, I generally recommend memory foam pillows with deep pressure relief. Check out my best pillows roundup to find a few options.

Hear From the Doctor: Why is Having a Supportive Pillow Important for a Good Night’s Sleep?

“A supportive pillow is important for maintaining proper spinal alignment and neck posture throughout the night. Without sufficient support from your pillow, you may experience poor sleep quality, discomfort, and wake up with neck pain or stiffness in the morning. Your pillow should align with your sleep position, whether you’re a back, side, or stomach sleeper, to ensure your head and neck stay in a neutral position while you sleep”. Dr. Raj Dasgupta MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM. Quadruple-board certified in pulmonary, sleep, internal, and critical care medicine

  • Take an over-the-counter pain reliever before bed. Certain shoulder conditions can feel more inflamed or aggravated at night. An over-the-counter pain reliever or anti-inflammatory can help reduce some discomfort. Of course, speak with your doctor if there are certain medications you should avoid or you need to take a reduced dose.
  • Side sleepers should try sleeping on the opposite shoulder as a way to reduce pain.
  • Stretch and exercise regularly to improve shoulder pain over time.
  • Try sleeping on your back if you don’t already. Back sleeping is a great way to relieve shoulder pressure and pain. See my guide to training to sleep on your back.
  • Back sleepers can try sleeping with an arm propped on a pillow. Elevating your arm could help take pressure off an injured or uncomfortable shoulder.
  • Put a small pillow or rolled hand towel between your shoulder blades. This can relieve pressure across both shoulders. You can also try placing a pillow or towel under your painful shoulder while sleeping on your back to get the same result.
  • Improve your overall sleep hygiene. Getting enough restful sleep can speed up recovery and help with pain. If you’re interested in improving your sleep hygiene, check out my 30-day sleep hygiene plan.
  • Try a mattress topper. If you’re not ready to invest in a new mattress, a topper can add some much needed pressure relief to your existing bed. Take a look at some of the best mattress toppers, or take a look below to learn more about why a topper could help you.

When Should You Get A Mattress Topper?

Mattress toppers are a great invention for anyone who wishes to enhance their mattress without buying a completely new one. Like mattresses, there are many different types of mattress toppers on the market that are made with different materials and firmness levels. Sometimes, all you need is a mattress topper to turn a good mattress into a great mattress.

Best Mattress Toppers for Shoulder Pain

If you’re sleeping on a bed that’s too firm, or even a new mattress you haven’t quite broken in yet, a soft topper can do a lot to relieve shoulder pain and pressure. Or, if you’ve already got a great, supportive mattress that you don’t want to part with, but need a bit more pressure relief, a topper is likely the best option for you.

Toppers are also much more affordable than a new mattress, which can be a nice perk for shoppers on a budget. Plus, if you struggle with shoulder pain, but aren’t sure if a new mattress would help, a topper is a great way to see if some additional cushioning could be beneficial without spending a lot of money.

P1060696
Mattress toppers are usually easy to secure to the top of the bed.

In general, we’d recommend looking for soft memory foam mattress toppers that offer a mix of body-contouring and pressure relief if you’re looking to address shoulder pain. My best soft mattress toppers and best memory foam mattress toppers roundups are great places to find some toppers that might work for your needs.

Will an Adjustable Bed Help With Shoulder Pain?

Adjustable bases are typically operated with a remote control or mobile app and can raise and lower the head and legs. When you use an adjustable base, you can customize your sleeping angle to what feels most comfortable for you. You can also lift the mattress head up for reading or watching TV in bed.

An adjustable bed could be a valuable purchase for sleepers with shoulder pain. Depending on your sleeping position, I recommend adjusting the base until your weight isn’t placed directly on your shoulders. You’ll be able to raise and lower your head and legs until you feel shoulder pressure relieving. Adjustable bases can also help with circulation, snoring, and other aches and pains.

Nectar Adjustable Base BROLL.00 13 45 15.Still005 1
Bridget demonstrating an adjustable base.

FAQs

Is a soft or firm mattress better for shoulder pain?

For shoulder pain, the best firmness depends on one’s sleeping position. Side sleepers will likely want a soft mattress because they put a lot of pressure on their hip and shoulder at night. A soft mattress can contour to these sensitive joints and minimize pressure buildup. Back and stomach sleepers will likely want something a bit firmer because they don’t want to sacrifice too much support. But they should consider a comfort layer thick enough to cradle the shoulders.

What is the best type of mattress for neck and shoulder pain?

The type of mattress you’ll want depends on your body weight, sleeping position, and overall preferences. From there, you’re likely to find a mattress that cradles the shoulders while also supporting your spine and neck in proper alignment. For instance, side sleepers might want a cushioning memory foam mattress because they put the most pressure on the shoulder. Heavier stomach sleepers might want to go for a super supportive hybrid with a little pressure relief that keeps the spine in alignment and alleviates neck and shoulder pain.

What sleeping position is best for sleepers with shoulder pain?

I recommend back sleeping for shoulder pain, since there isn’t a lot of pressure put on the shoulders and weight is distributed more evenly. Stomach sleeping can be problematic in terms of proper spinal alignment, and side sleeping definitely puts the most pressure on the shoulders. I recommend trying to transition out of side and stomach sleeping if possible.

Can a mattress cause shoulder pain?

Yes, a mattress can exacerbate and in some cases even cause shoulder pain. For instance, if you’re a side sleeper resting on a super-firm mattress without much of a comfort layer, it can put far too much pressure on the shoulder. This can result in new or worse shoulder pain.

How We Chose These Mattresses

Our team of Certified Sleep Science Coaches has reviewed more than 300 products in our mattress lab, running each one through tests such as pressure-mapping and measuring motion transfer with a seismometer. From there, we give every bed an overall score based on materials, comfort, support, cooling, and edge support. We also factor in brand performance with categories such as value and warranty.

Sleepers who experience shoulder pain are going to need different things from a mattress depending on their body type and sleeping position. So we took various categories into account when choosing beds for this roundup. For instance, side sleepers tend to need a lot of pressure relief on their shoulders, so we picked a mattress that scored a high 4 out of 5 on comfort for this superlative. Back sleepers, on the other hand, need more support, so we chose a bed that scored a 4.5 out of 5 on support for that superlative. Jump back to our mattress picks or click here to learn more about our methodology.

Best Mattresses for Shoulder Pain 2024

Bridget Chapman

Bridget Chapman

Former Senior Product Editor

About Author

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