If you experience shoulder pain from an injury or a condition like arthritis, the right mattress may help ease it, allowing you a more restful night’s sleep. The best mattresses for shoulder pain are typically soft to medium-firm and offer pressure-relieving contouring and support that keeps your spine aligned. That said, the way a mattress feels largely depends on your body type and personal preferences, so what works for your friend may not work for you.
To put together our comprehensive list of mattresses that may alleviate shoulder pain, we relied on the expert evaluations of our mattress testers and certified sleep coaches who represent different body types and sleeping positions. They have collectively put more than 300 mattresses to the test. We also consulted Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM, and quadruple-board certified in pulmonary, sleep, internal, and critical care medicine.
Our comprehensive testing methodology combines our hands-on experience with science-backed data to rate these mattresses on a scale of 1 to 5 in several categories. When selecting the best beds for shoulder pain, we concentrated specifically on the following factors:
- Pressure relief: Mattresses that are too firm or overly cushioned scored low for shoulder pain relief because they result in pressure buildup.
- Support: We rated mattresses high when they kept our spines in alignment during testing, as this keeps pressure away from the shoulders.
- Firmness: We test firmness on a scale of 1 to 10 and have found that mattresses that score around 6.5 or softer tend to alleviate shoulder pain best.
Our Top Pick For Shoulder Pain
I chose the Helix Midnight as the best mattress for shoulder pain because of its ability to relieve pressure without sacrificing support. When I looked at the pressure map results for this mattress, it was almost entirely blue at the shoulder, which indicates very low pressure buildup.
Best Mattresses for Shoulder Pain
- Helix Midnight – Best Overall Mattress
- Saatva Classic – Best Mattress for Neck and Shoulder Pain
- WinkBed – Best Hybrid Mattress for Shoulder Pain
- Nectar – Best Cooling Mattress for Shoulder Pain
- Saatva Rx – Best Mattress for Back and Shoulder Pain
- Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid – Best Mattress for Couples with Shoulder Pain
- Bear Elite Hybrid – Best Mattress for Athletes with Shoulder Pain
- Nolah Signature – Best Mattress for Back Sleepers with Shoulder Pain
- Titan Plus Luxe – Best Mattress for Heavy Sleepers with Shoulder Pain
- Birch Luxe Natural – Best Organic Mattress 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.
What I Looked For in the Best Mattresses for Shoulder Pain
As a Certified Sleep Science Coach, I know a lot about mattresses. Along with my team — also full of sleep experts and certified sleep coaches — we put over 300 mattresses through rigorous testing to see how well they relieved pressure around our shoulders and if our spines felt supported and aligned.
While we concentrated on the three categories—firmness, pressure relief, and support—that factor the most into how well a mattress will help ease shoulder pain and improve your sleep quality, we also completed tests for several other features. Although these categories don’t play as big of a role in having a pain-free shoulder as pressure relief, support, and firmness, they lend to a bed’s overall comfort.
- Responsiveness: We test a bed’s responsiveness to see how quickly it bounces back when weight is applied. Responsive mattresses allow you to reposition easily, making them a solid choice for combination sleepers and sexually active couples.
- Motion Isolation: If you’ve ever been woken up by a partner’s tossing and turning (raises hand), it is a good indicator that your mattress does not isolate motion well. We evaluate how well a bed’s materials absorb movement and prevent it from moving to the other side. Those with high scores can help sleepers with restless partners get better rest.
- Cooling: When my husband and I were looking for a new mattress, the only feature he was worried about was cooling. Our old bed trapped heat and often caused us to wake up in a hot sweat. So, we want to let you know if your mattress lets you sleep comfortably cool.
- Edge Support: You may not have given much thought to a bed’s edge support because unless you test mattresses for a living, why would you? However, you most likely know if yours is good or bad. Good edge support allows you to stretch out and use the whole sleep surface of the bed without fear of the edge sagging under you.
- Price: Given that preferences and budgets vary widely when purchasing a new mattress, our recommendations include various types that hit several price points.
Compare the Best Mattresses for Shoulder Pain
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| Helix Midnight Mattress | Saatva Classic | WinkBed Mattress | Nectar Mattress | Saatva Rx Mattress | Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid | 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 | 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 | Hybrid | Foam | Hybrid | Hybrid |
| Cooling | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | |||
| Best For |
Side Sleepers,
Back Sleepers, Couples |
Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Back Pain, Seniors
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Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Back Pain
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Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Couples
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Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Hip Pain
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Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Hip Pain, Couples,
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Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Hip Pain, Seniors
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Side Sleepers,
Back Pain |
Side Sleepers,
Back Sleepers |
Back Sleepers,
Stomach Sleepers |
Best Mattress for Shoulder Pain 2025 Video Review
Helix Midnight – Best Overall Mattress for Shoulder Pain
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
For a mattress to be considered the best overall, it has to nail its performance in the most pertinent categories while maintaining high scores across the board. When it comes to the best mattress for shoulder pain, the versatile Helix Midnight is an overachiever. In addition to its high-pressure relief and support scores—4.5 and 4 respectively—this medium-firm mattress also had 4s or higher out of 5 in cooling, edge support, responsiveness, and materials.
This hybrid mattress combines soft, contouring foams with substantial, sturdy coils to give those with shoulder pain the pressure relief and support they need to alleviate any nightly discomfort. When I tested the Midnight, I was taken by how the foam upper layers provided a lovely, slow sink that melted the pressure away from my shoulders. My feelings were confirmed by the pressure map readings that showed mainly blues with just a touch of green, indicating low pressure throughout.
Our tester, Nicole Mondshein, liked that Helix was supportive without putting pressure on your joints, making it an excellent choice for sleepers with shoulder pain. “This bed offers a nice mix of softness and firmness, creating good support across different joints in the body,” Nichole says.
Nichole and I weren’t alone in this assessment of this hybrid mattress because multiple customer reviews raved about the mixture of sturdiness and softness as well.
However, if you sleep with a restless partner like I do, this may not be the best choice for you, as Midnight’s lowest performance score was motion isolation. Light sleepers may be disturbed by a bedmate’s tossing and turning, which is a different kind of pain.
Also, while this bed is an excellent value given its construction, it includes a foam comfort layer that welcomes sleepers into bed before a layer of studier foam transitions them onto a sturdy base of individually wrapped coils that move independently, providing better contouring and motion isolation. However, those who want a year-long sleep trial or forever warranty may be disappointed that Helix provides a 120-night trial and a 10-year warranty.
Read more about this mattress in our full Helix Midnight Mattress review. Also, if you want a mattress with better motion isolation, check out the Helix Dawn.
Saatva Classic – Best Mattress for Neck and Shoulder Pain
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
As someone who holds tension in her neck and occasionally injures her shoulder as a mediocre middle-aged CrossFitter, I am well aware that neck and shoulder pain often show up as an unwanted dynamic duo. Fortunately, luxury brand Saatva hits a bullseye with the innerspring Saatva Classic by combining a soft Euro pillow top with hearty upcycled steel coils, earning it a near-perfect 4.8 out of 5 for edge support and an impressive 3.84 in pressure relief.
This mattress combines outstanding pressure relief for both back and side sleepers with zoned support. It targets specific areas such as the mid-section and lumbar region with extra support while providing additional comfort around the shoulders and hips. The Classic helps alleviate neck and shoulder pain by keeping your hips elevated and spine aligned. These attributes are why our testers gave this mattress an overall score of 4.22 out of 5.
RELATED: Saatva RX Mattress Review
During testing, we invited Dr. Joe Tedesco, DPT, OCS, ATC, CSCS, to try out the Saatva Classic and give us his professional opinion as a physical therapist and board-certified orthopedic specialist. He thought it was great for back sleepers struggling with shoulder pain.
“I really like this mattress for people who have shoulder pain and sleep on their back,” Dr. Tedesco said. “When I’m on my back, I feel great pressure relief on my shoulders because they are staying open. If you have a shoulder impingement and you’re a back sleeper, I think you’ll find a lot of relief here.”
Neck pain can start or worsen when a bed allows spinal alignment to be compromised by enabling sleepers to sink too far into the mattress. However, finding a bed that offers enough support to alleviate neck pain and hug-like contouring that helps relieve pressure around the shoulders is a tight rope to walk for many manufacturers.
Also, this bed has three firmness options, allowing sleepers to pinpoint their preferences more accurately. We tested the Luxury Firm model, and most of our testers immediately agreed that it was firmer and more supportive than your average bed.
“I prefer a firmer mattress, so the Saatva was a perfect fit for me,” said mattress tester Kenny Timper. “I felt supported on my back on this bed. I noticed very minimal sinkage from the Euro top layer, but I thought it was comfy.”
Although the Classic is Saatva’s most affordable mattress, it is still a luxury bed made with high-end materials. As such, it won’t be in everyone’s budget. For a more affordable bed for neck and back pain, check out the Leesa Sapira Chill. You can also check out other options specifically for neck pain in our best mattresses for neck pain guide. Read more about this mattress in our in-depth Saatva Classic review.
WinkBed – Best Hybrid Mattress for Shoulder Pain
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
The best hybrid mattresses perfectly combine the comfortable plushness of foam beds with the sturdy support of innerspring, making them a versatile and popular choice. If you’re in the market for a hybrid bed for shoulder pain, I recommend the durable WinkBed. In our testing, it earned high marks — 4.40 and 3.83 — for edge support and pressure relief, respectively, thanks to a comfortable pillow top and innerspring coils that are zoned to be firmer where you need more support.
After settling in to test this bed, I thought I would have to be forcibly removed because the extra cushioning of the Euro pillow made me temporarily forget I was working. I was also impressed that the individually wrapped coils had multiple targeted support zones that provided more support around heavier areas of my body and provided additional contouring around my shoulders. I and my fellow testers rated the WinkBed to an impressive overall score of 4.7 out of 5.
Dr. Joe Tedesco, physical therapist and Sleepopolis’s chief medical product tester, agreed that the WinkBed would likely work well for folks with shoulder pain after testing it with us.
“I didn’t feel significant pressure buildup in any of the three sleeping positions that would indicate that it could be problematic for those with shoulder pain,” he explained. “There is enough softness to provide the right kind of contouring needed to prevent pressures around the shoulder, especially in the side-sleeping position.”
I love it when a manufacturer offers the same bed in multiple firmness options. This shows they understand consumers may have different preferences even within the same mattress. Although I tested the Luxury Firm model and loved it on my back because it comfortably filled the gap in my lower lumbar region, I think many people with shoulder pain may appreciate the Soft option. The softer WinkBed should give folks the same support but provide more pressure relief around the shoulders.
The WinkBed is made with high-quality, eco-friendly materials sourced in America, and with a 4.8-out-of-5 customer rating, it has a lot of fans, too. One verified customer said the WinkBed brought them “comfort at last.” Although I think you’ll get a good return on your mattress investment with the WinkBed, it may not fit everyone’s budget. For a less expensive hybrid option that offers many of the same benefits as the WinkBed, take a look at the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid.
Read more about this mattress in our full Winkbeds mattress review.
Nectar – Best Cooling Mattress for Shoulder Pain
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
All-foam mattresses, like the Nectar, have long been lauded for their pressure-relieving properties, making them an excellent choice for those with shoulder pain. One of the drawbacks of this material is that it can trap heat. However, one of our testers used a thermal gun to get the initial surface temperature of Nectar’s flagship model and then measured it again after he lay on it for five minutes. The temperature only rose 5.4 degrees, earning it a 4.5 out of 5 for cooling, which also helped it gain an overall score of 4.29 out of 5.
Although the Nectar’s cooling capabilities are impressive, to make this list, it also has to be a good fit for folks with shoulder pain. With a 4-out-of-5 score for pressure relief and a 4 out of 5 in edge support, this bed is a great choice to keep you cool and ease your shoulder pain. I think this is particularly true for back and stomach sleepers.
During our pressure relief testing, all of our back images showed close to all blue, which is an indication of low-pressure buildup. However, when we switched to our sides, the images showed more green, with even a little yellow creeping in.
This is not a dealbreaker for us because we all still found it comfortable on our sides. Collectively, we decided only to deduct half a point in the pressure relief category. However, if you prefer a softer mattress, I’d recommend upgrading to Nectar’s luxury offering, the Premier.
Our chief medical product tester and physical therapist, Dr. Joe Tedesco, also joined me in testing this mattress to see if it would be a viable option for folks with shoulder pain.
After lying on the Nectar, Dr. Tedesco said, “I’d go so far as to say that if you have a shoulder issue, this wouldn’t make the issue worse, like some mattresses would. Instead, there is a chance you would find some pressure relief overnight.”
This bed is also a hit with buyers, earning 4.7 out of 5 with a whopping 51,000 consumers leaving reviews. One verified purchaser said, “All of my pains are gone, especially the shoulder.”
Read our full Nectar mattress review for additional insight and details, and other options for mattresses that will help you sleep cool in our guide to the best cooling mattresses.
Saatva Rx – Best Mattress for Back and Shoulder Pain
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
If you’re struggling with back and shoulder pain, the Saatva Rx may be the prescription you need. The company claims that this mattress was designed with people with back and joint conditions in mind. Of course, we wanted to test this claim and other aspects of the bed for ourselves, and I’m happy to report that the Rx delivers, receiving a 4.7 out of 5 overall score.
In testing, we loved how this bed’s universally appealing medium firmness and deliberate construction lent to relieving back and shoulder pain by utilizing two cooling gel-infused foams that wrapped us in us in cloud-like softness, exactly what you want in the best mattress for back pain. At the same time, the sturdy base layer kept our spines wonderfully aligned.
When we broke out the pressure maps, our hands-on evaluations were solidified with quantitative data. Our thermal images from the pressure map showed that the Saatva Rx did a superior job relieving pressure for side and back sleepers.
One of our testers, Amelia Jerden, said, “The Saatva Rx did a good job relieving pressure for me in both the back and side sleeping positions. There is minimal pressure buildup showing on these pressure maps, indicating this bed should be effective at pressure relief for back and side sleepers.” Saatva’s customer reviews agreed with our findings, with verified buyers giving the bed a 4.8 out of 5. However, Saatva is a luxury brand that may not fit everyone’s budget. Don’t worry; we’ve rounded up the best cheap mattresses, too.
You can read more about this bed in our Saatva Rx mattress review.
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid – Best Mattress for Couples with Shoulder Pain
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
Finding a bed that will accommodate shoulder pain and a partner’s needs may seem like a big ask, but the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid has the answers. This bed is available in multiple firmness options, and it performs well for those with shoulder pain. Our testers gave the Signature Hybrid a 4 out of 5 or higher in cooling and edge support.
A bed with strong edge support is sturdy and supportive around the perimeter, allowing couples to spread out and sleep closer to the edge while still feeling secure. We also concluded that this mattress’s responsiveness is a good fit for sexually active couples because it quickly bounces back to its original shape after applying weight, meaning you shouldn’t feel stuck in the material. You should be able to switch positions easily.
RELATED: Best Mattress for Couples
Mattress tester Kenny Timper said, “The Signature Hybrid responsive feel makes it a strong mattress for sex, and 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.”
We tested the medium firmness model, and our pressure map images showed an incredibly low-pressure level when sleeping on our backs, making it a fantastic choice for back sleepers with shoulder pain.
Dr. Joe Tedesco, physical therapist and one of Sleepopolis’ chief medical product testers, agreed. “If you’re a back or side sleeper with shoulder pain, this could be a great option,” he said. “My shoulders felt neutral on this mattress. They weren’t being pushed back or forward. I wasn’t lifted up; instead, the natural curvatures of my spine were supported as they were. I don’t feel any pressure points building up on this mattress.”
Many of the Signature Hybrid’s buyers remarked it was supportive when sleeping alone or with a partner. However, this bed falls a little short in motion isolation, only scoring a 3.67 out of 5.
Read more in our Brooklyn Bedding mattress review.
Bear Elite Hybrid – Best Mattress for Athletes with Shoulder Pain
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
Athletes often tax their shoulders during their workouts, leaving them sore and tired by bedtime. To ease that pain, fitness fanatics need a bed that cushions their muscles and joints while keeping their spines aligned. Enter one of the best mattresses for athletes. With an overall score of 4.28 out of 5 and near-perfect results in edge support and cooling, as well as a cover made with Celliant—which a company-sponsored study shows may assist in blood flow and muscle recovery—the Bear Elite Hybrid was an easy pick for this superlative.
The Bear Elite stood out to me because despite its softer cover layer, our testers noted that they didn’t sink too far into the mattresses. If you appreciate plushness but want to feel like you’re sleeping “on top” of your mattress, you’ll likely be a big fan of the Bear Elite. However, its pressure relief performance makes this bed a walk-off home run for athletes who are back sleepers, earning it a 4.0 for that sleeping position. Personally, I loved the Elite Hybrid in the back-sleeping position. During testing, I could feel it contouring around my lower lumbar spine and filling in the gap that holds all my aches and pains.
I invited Dr. Joe Tedesco, Sleepopolis’ chief medical product tester and physical therapist, to help me test the Bear Elite. After trying it out in every sleeping position, he preferred it on his side the most. “If I’m on my side, it feels great,” he said. “It’s soft enough to provide contouring but not so soft that I’m sinking without support. And I don’t have any noticeable shoulder pressure buildup.”
The pressure map testing results also blew us away. Almost all blue thermal images indicate little to no pressure build-up for back- or side-sleeping positions.
With almost 4,000 “truly honest customer reviews,” the Bear Elite is a champion with consumers, earning 4.6 out of 5 stars. However, this is a luxury mattress with a hefty price tag, so it may be out of some folk’s budget. It also costs $140 more to add the Celliant cover to a queen-sized mattress. While our tester said that she felt the cover could help athletes cool down after a workout, Sleepopolis hasn’t verified Bear’s claims that it assists muscle recovery.
Our Bear Elite Hybrid mattress review covers more.
Nolah Signature – Best Mattress for Back Sleepers with Shoulder Pain
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
Back sleepers with shoulder pain may find it frustrating when looking for a mattress that meets their preferred sleep preference needs and helps ease their shoulder pain. This is because back sleepers tend to rest best on a medium-firm mattress with balanced pressure relief and support, but those with shoulder pain gravitate towards softer beds that pull pressure away from their aching shoulders. Thankfully, the Nolah Signature provides exactly that, while also earning a 4 out of 5 or higher in cooling, edge support, and motion isolation.
RELATED: Best Mattress for Back Sleepers
Titan Plus Luxe – Best Mattress for Heavy People with Shoulder Pain
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
Sleepers weighing over 250 pounds can have difficulty finding a mattress that helps ease their shoulder pain. The best mattresses for heavy people are typically firm and offer ample support, but shoulder pain is usually helped by sleeping on a softer mattress that provides adequate pressure relief. Fortunately, the Titan Plus Luxe exists, as it was designed especially for heavier folks and strikes an outstanding balance between support and pressure relief — scored 5 and 4 respectively — by using thick, responsive transition foam, sturdy, supportive high-density foam, and individually encased coils.
This bed comes in at a 7.5 out of 10 on our firmness scale, which is specifically suitable for individuals with a heavier weight. We had a 250-pound weightlifter do the pressure map testing for us on the Titan Plus Luxe, and his images showed little to no pressure buildup when he was on his back or side.
Another one of our testers, who is over 6’5” and also a heavyweight sleeper, had the same experience: “I felt plenty of pressure relief while side sleeping on the Titan Plus Luxe, but this mattress is not great for stomach sleepers, so keep that in mind.”
In contrast, I’m an average-weight sleeper, and my thermal pictures indicated high pressure when I tested it on my side by showing a bright red stripe along my shoulder, ribs, and hip. Although smaller-stature sleepers may want to look at our best mattresses for lightweight sleepers, Titan Plus Luxe reviews show that this bed is a superstar with its target audience. This bed has a 4.6-out-of-5-star rating. Peter M, a verified buyer, said, “Great mattress! The hybrid design gives my back full support but avoids pressure point issues in my shoulders and hips. Bravo, Titan!”
Read our Brooklyn Bedding Titan Plus Luxe review for more information and analysis.
Birch Luxe Natural – Best Organic Mattress for Shoulder Pain
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
If you’d like to lessen your shoulder pain and your carbon footprint when you sleep, let me direct you to the Birch Luxe Natural, a mattress we gave a 4.2 overall score. This bed is unique for this roundup because not only is it entirely organic, but it is also made with latex. This naturally responsive and cooling material elegantly contours around the shoulders of back and stomach sleepers, helping ease their pain.
RELATED: Best Organic and Natural Mattresses
However, side sleepers with shoulder pain may want to pass on this bed. I called my pressure map testing “a tale of two sleep positions.” When I was on my back, the pressure map images showed little pressure build-up, earning it a 5 for back sleeping, but when I rolled to my side, the blue landscape of my back pictures was quickly streaked with high-pressure red, earning a 3 for side sleeping.
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.
Other Mattresses for Shoulder Pain I Considered
After much consideration, we settled on the top 10 mattresses for relief from shoulder pain. However, plenty of others almost made the cut, a couple of which some of us own. Check out five other top-notch mattresses that almost made the cut.
- Nolah Evolution – After testing this mattress, I bought one. I was looking for a bed that provided pressure relief around a nagging hip injury, but most importantly, I needed a bed that would isolate my husband’s Tilt-o-Whirl-style restlessness. I left it off this list because it’s not great for stomach sleepers. Also, it was a “treat yourself” splurge for me, and we already had plenty of luxury mattresses on this list.
- Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite – This bed is terrific for hot sleepers, couples, and many side sleepers. Also, it is a softer mattress that should cushion sensitive pressure points such as the shoulders. However, it was left on the cutting room floor because it doesn’t offer enough support for some; others may find it too soft, and it comes with a higher price tag.
- DreamCloud – Although the DreamCloud combines soft memory foam for cushioning and sturdy coils for spinal support, it just misses the mark for shoulder pressure relief, which is vital for those with shoulder pain. This bed also showcases why we combine data with hands-on experience. The pressure map showed low pressure around the shoulders, but our testers didn’t find it comfortable in that position.
- Emma Hybrid Comfort – This bed provides targeted support and plenty of pressure relief for back sleepers who experience shoulder pain. However, we rated its firmness at a 7.5 out of 10, and this means that many side sleepers won’t get adequate pressure relief on their shoulders.
- Bear Original – Our Senior Director of Content, Kate Meier, is a weightlifter who sleeps on the Bear Original. Although this mattress has many attributes Kate likes, it fell a little short of the Bear Elite Hybrid, which did make our list. Kate said, “I’m a back and a side sleeper. This mattress is awesome for back sleepers – I don’t have much back pain anymore at all. But if I sleep on my right side, I still have shoulder pain when I wake up. Part of that is just having a not-great shoulder, I’m sure.”
How We Picked and Tested the Best Mattresses for Shoulder Pain
Each mattress in this round-up has undergone a rigorous testing process, including hands-on testing by mattress experts and sleep science coaches in which we grade each mattress against our review methodology.
We also do extensive research and consult with healthcare professionals, like Sleepopolis Chief Medical Advisor Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM, quadruple board-certified in pulmonary, sleep, internal, and critical care medicine.
He says, “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,” when we consulted him about what a good mattress for shoulder pain needed. Ultimately, we believe that the most accurate assessment of a mattress or sleep accessory is to experience it ourselves.
Our team has personally tested more than 300 mattresses, so you’ll catch us “sleeping on the job” many days. We head into the mattress studio and promptly lie down. However, we then discuss our findings with our teammates and record our scores and notes about categories such as firmness, pressure relief, support, cooling, motion transfer, and more on a testing sheet.
In addition to our evaluations of how these features perform, we use equipment to provide quantitative data on some categories. Our pressure map allows us to record the amount of pressure felt on a given mattress with thermal imaging, whereas our thermal gun shows how much a mattress heats up after someone has been on it.
We also use a weighted ball to test sinkage and responsiveness. This test consists of simply dropping a 10-pound ball at different heights to see how much it sinks into the bed and then repeating this process with a lacrosse ball to evaluate how much bounce it gets. We set up our phones on one side of the bed and run a seismograph app before tossing and turning on the other side so that we can have a clear picture of how much motion transfers from one side to the other.
After completing all of these tests, we assign individual scores for the categories and then tally an overall score. Mattresses that perform well overall and have high marks in pressure relief and support make the final cut for the best mattresses for shoulder pain.
What To Consider When Buying a Mattress for Shoulder Pain
If you’re experiencing shoulder pain, finding the right mattress may help treat your symptoms.
“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,” says Dr. Raj Dasgupta. “A softer mattress with good cushioning, good pressure relief, and proper alignment in your spine and hips can help relieve your shoulder pain.”
In your search, you may quickly realize that deciding on the best bed is slightly more overwhelming than expected. Don’t worry. We will break down the terms and what you need to know when you are considering buying a mattress for your shoulder pain.
Mattress Firmness
Firmness is often the first mattress feature people think about. How firm or soft your bed is determines how it feels, but it also indicates how much support and pressure relief it will provide. We rate mattresses on a scale of 1 to 10, where a 1 would be like sleeping on a sheet of plywood, and a 10 may make you think you went to bed on a marshmallow. However, most beds will fall between a 5-8 on a firmness scale, and we use 6.5 as our standard medium firm.
For side and back sleepers with shoulder pain, we’d recommend a softer mattress, such as one rated a 5.5 or 6. This will allow you to sink into the bed and cushion the pressure points around your shoulder. If you are a stomach sleeper who experiences shoulder pain, look for a firmer mattress. These beds will help keep your midsection and hips elevated and your spine in a neutral position. You should also consider getting one of the best pillows for stomach sleepers to prevent your neck from craning, which can put unnecessary pressure on that area.
“An overly firm mattress may lead to poor spinal alignment and lack of support, contributing to discomfort in your shoulder,” Dr. Dasgupta says. “An overly soft mattress will provide the cushioning you need in your shoulder. However, it might misalign your spine and hips.”
Support
Although they have some similarities, support and firmness are different features, and as such, they are not interchangeable. A soft mattress may be incredibly supportive, and a firm one could fall short.
For a mattress to be considered supportive, the spine has to remain aligned and in a neutral position, no matter the sleeper’s position. However, a softer mattress can also be supportive. These mattresses will allow the bed to contour around you without feeling like you are stuck in your mattress. Stomach sleepers should pay special attention to support because they typically have a firmer bed to elevate their hips. If the midsection dips too far in the bed, it can put the spine at an awkward angle.
For shoulder issues, you need a mattress supporting a straight spinal alignment, according to research. However, the exact mattress type mainly depends on your sleep position. For the most part, side sleepers need a slightly softer bed that offers some contouring and sinkage around their shoulders, allowing them to align with their hips and lower back, leading to a neutral spine.
However, back sleepers need a medium-firm bed that supports their lumbar region, and stomach sleepers need a firm mattress to keep their hips from dipping too far down, which can cause the spine to hyperextend.
Sleeping on a firmer mattress may seem like it is going against the grain for those with shoulder pain, but if a softer mattress is not keeping your spine aligned, tension and pressure can build throughout your body.
Those with shoulder issues should go for a bed that is a balanced mix of adequate support and pressure relief so that your shoulders are cradled but your spine remains straight.
Pressure Relief
We’ve talked a good bit about pressure relief in this article, but simply put, it measures how well a bed distributes your body weight. Even weight distribution reduces tension throughout the body, which is particularly useful for those experiencing 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.
We test the pressure relief capabilities with a pressure mat. The mat is rolled across the bed, and then one of the testers lays on it in various sleeping positions. The mat then provides a thermal “pressure map,” which shows where pressure is relieved and where it has built up. It uses a color system where blue and green indicate low-pressure buildup or good pressure relief, and red and orange show poor pressure relief.
Sleeping Position
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 cradle these joints. “Side sleepers benefit from a supportive pillow between the knees and a mattress with some softness but not too much to misalign their spine,” advises Dr. Raj Dasgupta, who is board-certified in sleep medicine.
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 recommend looking for a bed with zoned support. These beds will feel softer at the shoulders to provide relief but firmer at the hips and lower back to ensure you stay supported throughout the night. “Back sleepers should use a medium-firm mattress and a pillow under the knees,” says Dr. Dasgupta.
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 in line with their shoulders could relieve some pressure in the shoulder area, reducing pain. “Stomach sleepers should opt for a firm mattress and a thin pillow or none for the head,” says Dr. Dasgupta. We recommend these folks opt for a firm mattress with a thin quilted pillow top that offers a little pressure relief. We’ve rounded up the best mattress for stomach sleepers for you to check out.
Combination Sleepers – Combination sleepers with shoulder pain need appropriate support and pressure relief in all 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. However, a soft all-foam mattress might be a better option if you’re willing to sacrifice some mobility to relieve more pain. You can check out our best mattress for combination sleepers to help you decide on the right one. “Combination sleepers need a mattress that’s comfortable for all positions. Maintaining the spine’s natural curve is crucial,” says Dr. Dasgupta.
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).
Most mattresses you buy online are built for people under 250 pounds. So, heavier people with shoulder pain may want to opt for a slightly firmer mattress. If you’re a heavy person choosing from this list, I’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 may want to choose an even softer mattress than they think they need, meaning if you’re under 130 pounds and deal with shoulder pain, we’d look for a foam mattress in the 5–5.5 range on the firmness scale.
- Lightweight Sleepers: < 130 pounds
- Average-weight Sleepers: 160–230 pounds
- Heavyweight Sleepers: > 250 pounds
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 choose. I recommend a mattress that is both contouring and supportive to alleviate shoulder pain, like memory foam mattresses. These beds can be especially helpful for sleepers with shoulder pain because they gently relieve overall tension, especially around sensitive joints.
- Memory Foam and Polyfoam: Memory foam mattresses are often 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. For sleepers who struggle with shoulder pain (or hip pain), check out some top-notch beds in our best memory foam mattress roundup. Polyfoam mattresses are also a good fit for sleepers with shoulder pain. Soft polyfoam beds are less supportive or slow-moving than memory foam mattresses but can be great budget options for relieving shoulder pain in the short term.
- 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. Check out our picks for best hybrid mattresses to see if one of them will work for you.
- Latex: Latex mattresses often feel bouncy and provide excellent 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 relieve back sleepers with shoulder pain. If you’re curious about latex, take a look at our best latex mattress article.
- 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 enough pressure relief for sleepers with shoulder pain unless they sleep on their stomachs. However, if you like the old-school appeal of these beds, you can read our picks for the best innerspring mattress.
- 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. For more information on these, check our best pillow top mattresses list.
How We Picked and Tested These Mattresses
We test each of our mattresses using an in-depth testing methodology that our team of Certified Sleep Science Coaches developed over the past decade with input from experts in the sleep and medical fields. Here’s a rundown ofsome of our tests and how they work:
Cooling
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 breathable and thermoregulating materials like wool or soft latex or a soft hybrid bed with coils that 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 against 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 excellent cooling.
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 their movements jostle you. 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 wake you up on accidentally. You also don’t want a partner’s movements to disrupt an injury, like a torn rotator cuff, or generally sore shoulder overnight.
Memory foam and pillow top mattresses are generally good at isolating motion. Some of our best mattresses for couples also feature excellent motion isolation and might be worth a look if this is a priority for you. I used a water glass and a ball test to test motion isolation in mattresses. First, I see how much movement causes a glass of water 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.
Responsiveness
This is a simple test where our testers lie on the mattress and see how easy it is to change sleeping positions. This tells us if it’s a good mattress for combination sleepers. A responsive mattress can go both ways for shoulder pain. On one hand, it lets the sleeper easily move around if they’re feeling uncomfortable or have an ache in their shoulder. On the other hand, they may not give enough sinkage at the shoulders. It will likely vary from person to person.
Pressure Relief
We try out every mattress in every different sleeping position, noting which positions feel most comfortable. But our team also runs each position through our pressure map test, which involves rolling a sensory mat. The mat reads how much pressure the mattress is putting on our tester’s body in each position, then creates a color-coded graphic or “map”. Blue indicates no pressure, green indicates little pressure, yellow indicates moderate pressure, orange indicates high pressure, and red indicates very high pressure. For the best mattresses for shoulder pain, we obviously went with beds that showed little to no pressure buildup at the shoulders.
Price
Price is usually one of the most important factors in buying a mattress. Fortunately, there are quality mattresses for almost every budget, and we try to give you several price points and more affordable options.
FAQs
What firmness of a mattress is best for shoulder pain?
If you have shoulder pain, your mattress’s firmness level will largely depend on your preferred sleep position, with your body type playing a role. Side sleepers put a lot of weight and pressure on their sore shoulders and will want a softer mattress with contouring and cradling around their joint. This will help them minimize pressure build-up, which is often a cause of shoulder pain. However, back sleepers will likely benefit most from medium-firm mattresses that offer excellent lumbar support to keep their spine aligned. As for stomach sleepers, they will need a firmer mattress to keep their midsection and hips elevated and aligned. Generally, lighter people need softer mattresses.
Could my mattress be causing shoulder pain?
Definitely! Your mattress may cause shoulder pain or exacerbate existing shoulder pain. If this happens, it is likely because you’re sleeping on a mattress that isn’t conducive to your sleep position. For instance, a side sleeper resting on a super-firm mattress without much of a comfort layer can put far too much pressure on the shoulder. This can result in new or worse shoulder pain.
How do I stop my shoulders from hurting when I sleep on my side?
Side sleepers may be especially prone to shoulder pain because they are concentrating so much of their weight on a small area of their body. However, the right mattress can help alleviate this. Side sleepers often do best with a softer mattress that cradles their shoulders, which can prevent pressure from building up. Memory foam beds can be a solid choice for these sleepers. However, side sleepers will also want to ensure their mattress is supportive enough to keep their spine in a neutral position.
Is memory foam good for side sleepers with shoulder pain?
Memory foam is a top choice for side sleepers with shoulder pain. Memory foam cradles the body and allows sleepers to sink in slowly. These mattresses typically have plenty of cushioning that helps relieve pressure build-up around joints such as the shoulders.
Sosha Lewis
Senior Writer
About Author
Sosha Lewis is a senior staff writer for Sleepopolis and a certified sleep science coach. Lewis is happy that she is able to combine her love of sleep with her love of writing. Lewis also has had articles featured in The Washington Post, Huffington Post, MUTHA Magazine, Charlotte Magazine, and The Charlotte Observer. Her weekly column, Soshally Awkward, is featured on the nationally-syndicated radio show, Bob & Sheri.
Combination Sleeper
Sources
- Caggiari Gianfilippo. What type of mattress should be chosen to avoid back pain and improve sleep quality? Review of the literature. Journal of Orthopaedic Trauma. 2021. https://jorthoptraumatol.springeropen.com/articles/10.1186/s10195-021-00616-5
- Jacbson Bert, H. Effect of prescribed sleep surfaces on back pain and sleep quality in patients diagnosed with low back and shoulder pain. Applied Ergonomics. 2010. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0003687010000724?via%3Dihub
- Stutz Jan. Effects of evening exercise on sleep in healthy adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Sports Medicine. 2018. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40279-018-1015-0
