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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 nightโs sleep. The best mattresses for shoulder pain are typically soft to medium-firm, offering pressure-relieving contouring and support that keeps your spine aligned.
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, allowing us to help more than 145,000 people find their new favorite bed over the years.
We also consulted Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM, for insight on how to deal with hip pain. Our medical product tester, Dr. Joe Tedesco, DPT, OCS, ATC, CSCS, also tried out the majority of these beds and offered his orthopedic perspective on each. Weโll give you the low-down on why these beds are great for hip pain and who will love them the most.
Sleepopolisโ Best In Rest โ Shoulder Pain
The best mattress for shoulder pain is the Helix Midnight because it relieves pressure without sacrificing support. Its medium-firm feel should appeal to a wide range of sleepers who love a balanced hybrid.
The Best Mattresses for Shoulder Pain
- Best Overall Mattress โ Helix Midnight Mattress
- Best Mattress for Neck and Shoulder Pain โ Saatva Classic
- Best Hybrid Mattress for Shoulder Pain โ WinkBed Mattress
- Best Cooling Mattress for Shoulder Pain โ Nectar Classic Memory Foam Mattress
- Best Mattress for Back and Shoulder Pain โ Saatva Rx Mattress
- Best Mattress for Couples with Shoulder Pain โ Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
- Best Mattress for Athletes with Shoulder Pain โ Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress
- Best Mattress for Back Sleepers with Shoulder Pain โ Nolah Signature 12โณ Mattress
- Best Supportive Mattress for Shoulder Pain โ Brooklyn Bedding Titan Plus Luxe
- Best Organic Mattress for Shoulder Pain โ Birch Luxe Natural Mattress
Top Deals
- Helix Midnight Mattress โ 20% Off Sitewide with Code SUMMER20
- Saatva Classic โ Up to $625 Off
- WinkBed Mattress โ 30% Off All Mattresses
- Nectar Classic Memory Foam Mattress โ Save Up to 50% on Mattresses & 66% on Bundles
- Saatva Rx Mattress โ Up to $625 Off
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.
How We Picked the Best Mattresses for Shoulder Pain
How hard or soft you like your bed is mainly a matter of personal preference, but certain firmness levels are better suited to alleviating shoulder pain. We rate firmness on a scale of 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest and 10 being the firmest.
Weโve found that mattresses that score around 6.5 or softer tend to alleviate shoulder pain best. This should provide a good mix of support and pressure relief, both of which are essential for comfort. We attempted to stay within this range for our list, with some exceptions for certain sleeper types who may need extra support.
Pressure relief is essential for alleviating pain, as it cushions and cradles sensitive parts of the body. Ideally, you shouldnโt encounter any resistance as your shoulder sinks into the mattress.
We assign every mattress a pressure relief score out of 5, based on our testersโ ratings for back and side sleeping. To ensure we included only mattresses that should work for shoulder pain, we chose beds that scored 4 or higher in one or both sleeping positions.
A pressure-relieving mattress is heavenly for pain, but itโs nothing without the support to back it up. โA supportive mattress ensures the spine remains in its proper alignment,โ says Dr. Raj Dasgupta. โIt should follow the natural S-shape curve of your spine without allowing any part of your body to dip or arch uncomfortably.โ
While we donโt have an official support rating, itโs always at the forefront of our mattress evaluation. Our testers, including medical product tester Dr. Joe Tedesco, note which sleeper types should feel aligned on any given mattress. Rest assured that weโd never recommend an unsupportive mattress.
Weโve developed a rigorous 13-point testing methodology that tells us how each mattress performs and who it might be a good fit for. All of the beds on this list have been evaluated for pressure relief, cooling abilities, responsiveness, edge support, and much more.
Our team of Certified Sleep Science Coaches has tested more than 500 mattresses over the last decade, allowing us to guide more than 145,000 people to the best mattress for them. Not only do we use and evaluate these products ourselves, but we also consult with Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM, whoโs quadruple-board certified in pulmonary, sleep, internal, and critical care medicine, to ensure we keep up to date with the latest in sleep science and medicine.
Additionally, Dr. Joe Tedesco, DPT, OCS, ATC, CSCS, comes into our studio to personally test mattresses and give a medical perspective on each product, and sleep and nutrition experts such as Lauren Panoff, MPH, RD, regularly verify our articles.
Need help finding the right mattress?
Compare the Best Mattresses for Shoulder Pain
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| Helix Midnight Mattress | Saatva Classic | WinkBed Mattress | Nectar Classic Memory Foam Mattress | Saatva Rx Mattress | Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid | Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress | Nolah Signature 12โณ 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 | โ | โ | โ | โ | โ | โ | โ | โ | ||
| 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 |
Side Sleepers,
Back Sleepers |
Best Mattress for Shoulder Pain 2026 Video Review
Helix Midnight โ Best Mattress for Shoulder Pain Overall
The Helix Midnight is amongst Helixโs line of six standard mattresses. Itโs known for its more balanced feel, allowing it to accommodate back sleepers, who usually need a medium-firm bed. 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:
โI think the Helix Midnight is a good choice for couples. It has excellent cooling abilities, responsive materials for sex, and strong edge support, so you can use the whole mattress without fear of sinkage or sagging near the sides. Combination sleepers should also be comfortable, as it has some bounce.โ โ Sosha Lewis, senior staff writer and certified sleep science coach
Why the Helix Midnight is the Best Bed for Shoulder Pain
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 score (4.3 out of 5), this medium-firm mattress also had 4s or higher out of 5 in edge support, responsiveness, and motion isolation.
Motion Isolation: 4/5
Aside from gentle movements, our testers could not detect much motion transfer.
Cooling: 3/5
During testing, we found that the Midnight feels neutral rather than cool to the touch.
Response: 4/5
While the Helix has layers of soft foam, its bouncy innerspring coils make it easy to maneuver.
Edge Support: 4.4/5
Our testers felt super secure when lying near the edge of the Midnight in every sleeping position.
Pressure Relief: 4.3/5
The Helix Midnight effectively relieves pressure overall, despite our average-weight tester detecting slight back tension.
Firmness: 6.5/10
The plush foam layers and reinforced innerspring coils give the Helix Midnight a true medium-firm feel.
What Stood Out About the Helix Midnight
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 we tested the Midnight, we liked how the foam upper layers provided a lovely, slow sink that melted the pressure away from my shoulders.
Dr. Joe Tedesco thought the mattress was good for pain relief overall. โI rate it at a solid 4 for shoulder pain, hip pain, arthritis, or tendonitis,โ he said. โItโs firm enough to provide the support for someone with a shoulder impingement, and you donโt feel like youโre caving in at the shoulders.โ
The Helix Midnight also has excellent edge support. My colleague Riley Otis rated it at 4.4 out of 5 and particularly enjoyed how secure she felt while lying down: โThese edges felt just as secure as the center of the bed, and I never felt at risk of falling off,โ she said. โI think sleepers will be able to fully spread out and use the entire surface of the mattress and still feel supported.โ
What to Keep in Mind About the Helix Midnight
Riley wasnโt all too impressed with the Midnightโs cooling ability, though. โI thought this bed had pretty average cooling abilities, which was reflected by the 10.5-degree increase in our thermal gun test,โ she explained. โThe longer I laid there, the more I could feel it heating up below me. I didnโt feel uncomfortably hot, but I wouldnโt recommend this bed to sleepers prone to overheating.โ
After a bed that sleeps cool? Check out the Nectar mattress. Or read more about this bed in our full Helix Midnight Mattress review.
Saatva Classic โ Best Mattress for Neck and Shoulder Pain
The Saatvaโs coil-on-coil construction provides a classic innerspring feel. Itโs a good option for combo sleepers, who will want to feel free to switch positions and avoid feeling โstuckโ 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:
โThe Saatva Classicโs springy surface is perfect for combination sleepers looking for ease of movement as they toss and turn throughout the night. Also, back sleepers are perhaps best suited to the bedโs lifted support and balanced cushioning from the pillow top.โ โ Livvi DiCicco, staff writer and certified sleep science coach
Why the Saatva Classic is the Best Bed for Neck and Shoulder Pain
As a mediocre middle-aged CrossFitter who holds tension in her neck and occasionally injures her shoulder, I am well aware that neck pain and shoulder pain often show up as an unwanted dynamic duo. Fortunately, luxury brand Saatva hits a bullseye with the innerspring Saatva Classic: It combines a soft Euro pillow top with hearty upcycled steel coils, earning it an impressive 4 out of 5 in pressure relief and a near-perfect 4.8 out of 5 for edge support.
Motion Isolation: 2.7/5
Our tester could feel a lot of his partnerโs movement on the Saatva.
Cooling: 4/5
This bed has a temperature-neutral feel.
Response: 5/5
The Saatvaโs innerspring feel makes it super bouncy and easy to move around on.
Edge Support: 4.8/5
The perimeter of the Saatva Classic is rock-solid.
Pressure Relief: 4/5
Pressure relief is better for back sleepers than side sleepers on this bed.
Firmness: 7.5/10
The Luxury Firm model of the Saatva Classic has a firmer feel.
What Stood Out About the Saatva Classic
The Classic 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.
This mattress also 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.
We also invited physical therapist Dr. Joe Tedesco to try out the Saatva Classic and give us his professional opinion. He thought it was great for back sleepers struggling with shoulder pain, as well as anyone dealing with an achy neck.
โI really like this mattress for people who have shoulder pain and sleep on their back,โ Dr. Tedesco explained. โWhen Iโm on my back, I feel great pressure relief on my shoulders because they are staying open. If you have a shoulder impingement and youโre a back sleeper, I think youโll find a lot of relief here.โ
He added, โGenerally speaking, I think people with neck pain would be very comfortable on this mattress. My head actually stays still and Iโm not having to rock back and forth to get the support and find the comfortable position I need.โ
โI prefer a firmer mattress, so the Saatva was a perfect fit for me,โ said mattress tester Kenny Timper. โI felt supported on my back on this bed. I noticed very minimal sinkage from the Euro top layer, but I thought it was comfy.โ Kenny also appreciated the Saatvaโs excellent response, which should make it a breeze for combination sleepers to switch between their preferred positions.
What to Keep in Mind About the Saatva Classic
Although the Classic is Saatvaโs flagship model, it is still a luxury bed made with high-end materials. As such, it wonโt be in everyoneโs budget. For a more affordable bed for neck and back pain, check out the Leesa Sapira Chill. It also doesnโt offer much in the way of motion isolation, meaning youโll likely feel your partnerโs movements even on your side of the bed โ something couples should keep in mind.
Read more about this mattress in our in-depth Saatva Classic review.
WinkBed โ 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:
โIf 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, Iโd also recommend it to folks who suffer from lower back pain.โ โ Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
Why the WinkBed is the Best Hybrid for Shoulder Pain
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 youโre in the market for a hybrid bed for shoulder pain, I recommend the durable WinkBed. In our testing, it earned high marks โ 4.4 and 3.8 โ 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.
Motion Isolation: 4.3/5
Our tester didnโt notice much movement during our ripple test.
Cooling: 3.5/5
Our cooling test found that the WinkBed did not excel at temperature regulation.
Response: 3/5
It was a little difficult to move around on the WinkBed, despite its hybrid construction.
Edge Support: 4.4/5
We found the WinkBedโs edges to be very strong.
Pressure Relief: 3.8/5
While pressure mapping the WinkBed, our testers found some pressure buildup on their side.
Firmness: 6.5/10
The Luxury Firm WinkBed has a medium-firm feel.
What Stood Out About the WinkBed
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.
Dr. Joe Tedesco, physical therapist and Sleepopolisโs chief medical product tester, agreed that the WinkBed would likely work well for folks with shoulder pain after testing it with us.
โI didnโt feel significant pressure buildup in any of the three sleeping positions that would indicate that it could be problematic for those with shoulder pain,โ he explained. โThere is enough softness to provide the right kind of contouring needed to prevent pressures around the shoulder, especially in the side-sleeping position.โ
The WinkBed also comes in multiple firmness options, as well as a Plus variant for sleepers over 230 pounds. Although I tested the Luxury Firm model and loved it on my back, 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.
Edge support is really where the WinkBed shines. My colleague Riley Otis noticed only a touch of sinkage when sitting at the perimeter but didnโt feel unstable while perched at the edge. She gave it a 5-out-of-5 rating for support lying down, saying, โI thought the edges felt just as strong as the center of the bed, and I didnโt feel the mattress sagging anywhere.โ
What to Keep in Mind About the WinkBed
Iโll also note that for a hybrid, the WinkBed isnโt very bouncy; it earned its lowest score in responsiveness, due to the doughy pillow top that impeded Rileyโs movements. For complete ease of movement, we recommend the Saatva Classic.
Read more about this mattress in our full Winkbeds mattress review.
Nectar โ Best Cooling Mattress for Shoulder Pain
The Nectar delivers a balance of comfort and support: itโs 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:
โI think back sleepers are going to love the Nectar Classic. These sleepers will get plenty of support from the firm memory foam in the Nectar Classic, which should translate to great pressure relief and a good nightโs sleep. Similarly, lightweight and average-weight stomach sleepers should find that they get enough support around their hips to sleep comfortably on this mattress. The Nectar Classic is firm enough to keep these sleepersโ spines in a healthy position.โ โ Kenny Timper, staff writer and certified sleep science coach
Why the Nectar is the Best Cooling Bed for Shoulder Pain
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 drawback 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 Nectarโs 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, and marking it as an excellent cooling mattress.
On top of that, with a 4-out-of-5 score for back-sleeping pressure relief and contouring foams, this bed is a great choice to keep you cool and ease your shoulder pain.
Motion Isolation: 4.7/5
The memory foam version of the Nectar does a great job of dampening motion.
Cooling: 4.5/5
After lying on it for 5 minutes, the temperature of the Nectar only increased by 5.4 degrees.
Response: 4/5
Despite being an all-foam bed, the Nectar is surprisingly easy to change positions on.
Edge Support: 4/5
There was more sinkage along the edge while sitting on it, but one could lie on it without falling off.
Pressure Relief: 3.8/5
The Nectar Classic felt great on our testersโ backs, but they noticed some pressure buildup on their sides.
Firmness: 6.5/10
The Nectar Classic is a medium-firm memory foam mattress.
What Stood Out About the Nectar
During our pressure relief testing, all of our back images showed nearly all blue, indicating 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. If you prefer a softer mattress, Iโd recommend upgrading to Nectarโs 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, โIโd go so far as to say that if you have a shoulder issue, this wouldnโt make the issue worse, as some mattresses would. Instead, there is a chance you would find some pressure relief overnight.โ
The Nectar mattress should also be a great pick for couples. It earned a near-perfect motion isolation score, which means you shouldnโt be disturbed by your partnerโs movements. My colleague Kenny Timper noted it was also โsurprisingly easy to move around on for an all-foam mattress,โ which should also make it a great mattress for sex.
What to Keep in Mind About the Nectar
The one area we could see some improvement in is seated edge support. Kenny noted, โI could definitely feel myself sliding off a bit.โ If you require a sturdy perimeter to get in and out of bed, I recommend the Birch Luxe Natural instead.
Read our full Nectar mattress review for additional insight and details.
Saatva Rx โ Best Mattress for Back Pain 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 thatโs 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:
โOverall, the mattress offers a pleasant mix of comfort and support to create a balanced, medium-firm feel. While lying on the bed, I experienced plushness and cushioning from the quilted cover and upper foam layers, but felt firmly supported by the coils below. I think the unique design of this bed, with features like micro coils and the foam caps on the pocketed coils, contributes to this very balanced feel. โ โ Sosha Leiws, senior staff writer and certified sleep science coach
Why the Saatva Rx is the Best Bed for Back and Shoulder Pain
If youโre 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 pain and joint conditions in mind. Of course, we wanted to test this claim and other aspects of the bed for ourselves, and Iโm happy to report that the Rx delivers, receiving a near-perfect 4.8 pressure relief score.
Motion Isolation: 5/5
Our experts did not detect any movement ripple across its surface during testing.
Cooling: 3.5/5
The plush cover layer causes the Saatva Rx to retain more heat than other hybrid model
Response: 4/5
Despite its plush, pressure-relieving foam pillow top, the Rx is easy to move on.
Edge Support: 3.2/5
The soft memory foam layers cause the perimeter of the Rx to sink more than other hybrid beds.
Pressure Relief: 4.8/5
The Saatva Rx is a homerun for anyone with joint pain, thanks to its near-perfect pressure relief.
Firmness: 6.5/10
The Saatva Rx has a medium-firm feel that is suitable for most sleepers.
What Stood Out About the Saatva Rx
Our testers felt comfortable on their back and sides while resting on this mattress. Lightweight tester Riley Otis preferred how it felt for back sleeping: โI feel very aligned. There is nice cushioning in my lower back that is adding some lumbar support,โ she said. โOverall, I think this is a great pick for back sleepers, especially people with back pain.โ
Her sentiments were echoed by Dr. Joe Tedesco. โI feel supported and weightless at the same time while resting on my back,โ he said. โIf you have some lumbar, hip, or knee arthritis, youโre going to feel great pressure relief on this bed.โ
Also, thanks to its soft, cushy foams, the Rx earned a perfect motion isolation score. Our in-house tester cited excellent results in the partner test: โI could hardly tell when a person was entering or exiting the bed. Any movement was so light that it was barely noticeable.โ
What to Keep in Mind About the Saatva Rx
However, the super-soft feel ended up causing problems with the bedโs edge support. They collapsed quite dramatically when we were seated or lying down at the perimeter, which made it difficult for sleepers to make full use of the bedโs surface area. For better edge support in a Saatva mattress, I recommend the Classic.
You can read more about this bed in our Saatva Rx mattress review.
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid โ 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. Itโs 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:
โBack sleepers who like an โon topโ feel to their bed should also be able to sleep comfortably on the Signature Hybrid. And thanks to its robust edge support, I recommend it to folks with mobility concerns. These individuals should get enough support from the innerspring coils to bear down on the perimeter of the mattress and get up in the morning.โ โ Kenny Timper, staff writer and certified sleep science coach
Why the Signature Hybrid is the Best Bed for Couples and Shoulder Pain
Finding a bed that will accommodate shoulder pain and a partnerโs needs may seem like a big ask, but the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid has the answers. This bed is available in multiple firmness options to cater to multiple sleeper types, and it performs well for those with shoulder pain. It earned a 4.8 out of 5 for pressure relief, a 4.7 for motion isolation, and a 4 for responsiveness โ the latter two should especially benefit couples.
Motion Isolation: 3.7/4
The springs cause some noticeable motion transfer that may impact those who are easily disturbed.
Cooling: 4.5/5
The breathable construction and lightweight cover layer make the Signature Hybrid extremely effective at cooling.
Response: 3/5
The Signature Hybridโs soft cover layer might make it challenging for some combination sleepers to move around.
Edge Support: 4.2/5
The sturdy springs along the Signature Hybridโs edge let sleepers use the entire surface without falling off.
Pressure Relief: 3.2/5
The soft cushioning of the Signature Hybrid makes it a good option for sensitive joints; however, sleepers with larger bodies may notice excessive sinkage.
Firmness: 6.5/10
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid falls right at the industry standard of medium-firm.
What Stood Out About the Signature Hybrid
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. โThereโs enough cushioning to gently cradle the hips and shoulders without feeling overly soft,โ added lightweight tester Riley Otis.
Dr. Joe Tedesco, physical therapist and one of Sleepopolisโ chief medical product testers, agreed. โIf youโre a back or side sleeper with shoulder pain, this could be a great option,โ he said. โMy shoulders felt neutral on this mattress. They werenโt being pushed back or forward. I wasnโt lifted up; instead, the natural curvatures of my spine were supported as they were. I donโt feel any pressure points building up on this mattress.โ
As a hybrid with foam and coils, this mattress effectively absorbs motion and provides ease of movement. โEven though the mattress has a good amount of bounce, it still did a nice job dampening movement when weight was applied,โ Riley said. โI could pick up on a little bit of motion, but it was so minor that I donโt think it would be disruptive during the night.โ
What to Keep in Mind About the Signature Hybrid
Riley thought that the edge support on this mattress was alright, but nothing to write home about. She recorded noticeable sinkage in our weighted edge support test, indicating that sleepers of greater weight may feel more unstable when perched at the perimeter. They might feel more comfortable on the WinkBed instead.
Read more in our Brooklyn Bedding mattress review.
Bear Elite Hybrid โ 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 โon top ofโ feel allowing for ease of movement, and cooling features throughout. For more information, watch our video review.
What our tester says:
โIโd 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.โ โ Kenny Timper, lead reviewer and certified sleep science coach
Why the Bear Elite Hybrid is the Best Bed for Athletes with Shoulder Pain
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 a pressure relief score of 4.1 and near-perfect results in motion isolation and cooling, as well as a cover made with Celliantโwhich a company-sponsored study shows may assist in blood flow and muscle recoveryโthe Bear Elite Hybrid was an easy pick for this superlative.
Motion Isolation: 4.7/5
Our tester could only vaguely feel their colleagueโs movements on this bed.
Cooling: 4.5/5
There wasnโt much of a temperature increase after we lay on the bed.
Response: 4/5
It was fairly easy to move between sleeping positions on the Bear Elite Hybrid.
Edge Support: 4.4/5
We found that the Bear Elite Hybridโs edges were fairly sturdy.
Pressure Relief: 4.1/5
Back sleeping is best for pressure relief on this mattress.
Firmness: 7/10
The materials of the Bear Elite Hybrid resulted in a somewhat firmer feel for the mid-range model.
What Stood Out About the Bear Elite Hybrid
The Bear Elite stood out to me because despite its softer cover layer, our testers noted that they didnโt sink too far into the mattresses. If you appreciate plushness but want to feel like youโre sleeping โon topโ of your mattress, youโll likely be a big fan of the Bear Elite.
However, its pressure-relief performance makes this bed a walk-off home run for 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.
After trying the Elite Hybrid out, our medical product tester, Dr. Joe Tedesco, said he preferred it on his side. โIf Iโm on my side, it feels great,โ he said. โItโs soft enough to provide contouring but not so soft that Iโm sinking without support. And I donโt have any noticeable shoulder pressure buildup.โ
Athletes who turn in after an active day will likely appreciate the Bear Elite Hybridโs cool feel. I noticed its cool-to-the-touch feel when I first lay down on it, and it helped keep temperatures low; my thermal gun recorded a mere 5-degree increase after I rested on the surface for five minutes.
What to Keep in Mind About the Bear Elite Hybrid
We did notice that the Elite Hybrid wasnโt the most responsive mattress weโve tried. The soft upper layer could impede movement for folks with mobility concerns. However, I still thought it was fairly easy to switch positions.
Finally, as a luxury mattress, the Bear Elite Hybrid may be a touch too expensive for our budget shoppers. I offer the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid as a more affordable option. Otherwise, you can read more in our Bear Elite Hybrid mattress review.
Nolah Signature โ Best Mattress for Back Sleepers with Shoulder Pain
If youโre looking for a firm and supportive memory foam option, the Nolah Signature should be a good fit. Itโs supportive enough for back sleepers, keeping their spine in a neutral alignment. Most stomach sleepers should get the firmness and support they need, too. Learn more in our video review.
What our tester says:
โThe Nolah is a good match for back sleepers in terms of spinal alignment, and itโs especially great for those who like a very firm, flat sleeping surface.โ โ Riley Otis, staff writer and certified sleep science coach
Why the Nolah Signature is the Best Bed for Back Sleepers with Shoulder Pain
Back sleepers with shoulder pain may find it frustrating when looking for a mattress that meets their sleep needs. 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 firm-feeling Nolah Signature provides exactly that, while also earning a 4 out of 5 or higher in cooling, edge support, and motion isolation.
Motion Isolation: 4.3/5
In our water test, we noticed virtually no rippling or jostling from the container, meaning light sleepers should experience little disturbance on their side of the bed.
Cooling: 4/5
The mattress felt a little warm to our tester, but most sleepers shouldnโt overheat.
Response: 5/5
Especially for a foam bed, the Signature is extremely responsive.
Edge Support: 4.8/5
The edges of the Nolah Signature barely buckled under our weight.
Pressure Relief: 3.3/5
The firmer feel of the Nolah Signature doesnโt offer much sinkage, leading to a lower pressure relief rating.
Firmness: 8.5/10
The Nolah Signature feels very firm.
What Stood Out About the Nolah Signature
While testing the Nolah Signature, my fellow mattress testers and I invited Dr. Joe Tedesco, DPT, OCS, ATC, CSCS, to weigh in on the mattress. After testing the Nolah himself, he agreed that this bed is a showstopper for back sleepers with shoulder pain.
โBack sleepers with shoulder pain will find they are very aligned, and they shouldnโt experience any pressure buildup,โ he said. โIf you have unstable shoulders, this bed could be a great fit. Once you relax into the mattress, your shoulders will remain in place as the memory foam cradles and stabilizes the joints.โ
I will note that our testers, myself included, did find this mattress on the firmer side. โThereโs some slight sinkage in the hips, which is good, but itโs not affecting my alignment,โ said our lightweight tester, Riley Otis. โIf you are a back sleeper that likes firm foam mattresses, it could be good,โ she added.
This firm feel did give it a leg up for edge support, an area which most foam beds tend to lag behind. โThis mattress feels very supportive along the perimeter,โ said our in-house tester. โWhen lying close to the side, I didnโt feel like I was on the edge of the bed at all.โ
What to Keep in Mind About the Nolah Signature
Back and stomach sleepers should do well on this mattress, but side sleepers with shoulder pain should look elsewhere. The low pressure relief score was mostly brought about by our testers wanting more sinkage while resting on their side.
After something softer? I recommend the Nolah Evolution. Check out our Nolah Signature bed review for more information.
Titan Plus Luxe โ Best Supportive Mattress for 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:
โIf youโre a heavy sleeper looking for a bed made of high-quality materials, the Titan Plus Luxe is a great option for you. Itโs built to last and should do a great job supporting heavier sleepers, especially back, side, and combination sleepers.โ โ Madison Schaper, former Sleepopolis staff writer and mattress tester
Why the Titan Plus Luxe is the Best Supportive Bed for Shoulder Pain
Sometimes, the cause of your shoulder pain might be from an unsupportive mattress. And many sleepers, including those weighing over 250 pounds, can have difficulty finding a mattress that helps ease their shoulder pain while keeping you in alignment. Sometimes the best mattresses for heavy people are also the best mattresses for support. Theyโre typically firmer to offer ample support for sleepers of all sizes, but shoulder pain is usually helped by sleeping on a softer mattress that provides adequate pressure relief.
Motion Isolation: 5/5
The motion-dampening layers of the Titan Plus Luxe make it ideal for sleepers with restless partners or pets.
Cooling: 4/5
Most sleepers should find the Titan cool enough, thanks to its innerspring coils.
Response: 5/5
The heavy-duty coils in the Titan make it incredibly responsive and easy to maneuver on.
Edge Support: 3.6/5
Our testers could feel the foam sink slightly along the perimeter of the Titan Plus Luxe.
Pressure Relief: 3.7/5
The supportive Titan Plus Luxe is great for back-sleeping pressure relief; however, side sleepers may find it too rigid for comfort.
Firmness: 7/10
Our testers found the Titan Plus Luxe to be slightly firmer than the average mattress.
Fortunately, the Titan Plus Luxe exists, as it strikes an outstanding balance between support and pressure relief by using thick, responsive transition foam, sturdy, supportive high-density foam, and individually encased coils. It also earned perfect ratings for responsiveness and motion isolation.
What Stood Out About the Titan Plus Luxe
This bed comes in at a 7 out of 10 on our firmness scale, which is suitable for individuals with a heavier weight and those who like a slightly firmer feel. Our heavyweight tester rated side-sleeping pressure relief at a 4 out of 5 and back-sleeping pressure relief at a 5 out of 5. โThereโs no extra pressure, and I feel extra aligned and balanced,โ he said. โItโs super comfy, and I think heavyweight back sleepers will love you.โ
I found that the Titan Plus Luxe also balances motion isolation and responsiveness, two categories that typically oppose one another. Thereโs a bit of sinkage at the top, which helps absorb motion, but the overall feel is bouncier. Both couples and sexually active folks should enjoy this mattress.
What to Keep in Mind About the Titan Plus Luxe
For the most part, I was impressed by how the Titan Plus Luxe performed. However, I did notice quite a lot of sinkage when sitting and lying down on the edge. It felt like jello, especially when I lay down on my stomach and side. Couples who want to spread out for space on their mattress may prefer the Nolah Signature instead.
Read our Brooklyn Bedding Titan Plus Luxe review for more information and analysis.
Birch Luxe Natural โ 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 itโs a good fit for back sleepers and even side 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:
โThe Birch Luxe Natural impressed us from the start. Itโs a firmer hybrid mattress made with latex foam that gives it a buoyant, responsive feel. We think itโs a great fit for combination sleepers, back sleepers, and side sleepers who prefer a firmer feel.โ โ Riley Otis, staff writer and certified sleep science coach
Why the Birch Luxe is the Best Organic Bed for Shoulder Pain
If youโd like to lessen your shoulder pain and your carbon footprint when you sleep, let me direct you to the Birch Luxe Natural. 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. It earned a 4.4 out of 5 for overall pressure relief, as well as a perfect rating for responsiveness and a 4.7 for motion isolation.
Motion Isolation: 4/5
Our testers found that minimal motion traveled across the surface of the Birch Luxe mattress.
Cooling: 3/5
The innerspring coils give this mattress some breathability. However, its cotton and wool cover layer retains heat.
Response: 5/5
The highly responsive latex makes the Birch Luxe Natural easy to move around on.
Edge Support: 4.7/5
The bouncy innerspring coils and responsive latex give this mattress a highly responsive perimeter.
Pressure Relief: 4.2/5
Most back and side sleepers should get ample pressure relief from the Birch Luxeโs soft top layer.
Firmness: 7/10
Despite its plush top layer, the Birch Luxe Natural is a bit firmer than the average mattress.
What Stood Out About the Birch Luxe
Latex is not unlike memory foam in that it can provide plenty of pressure relief โ as evidenced by the Birch Luxeโs high score. Both side and back sleeping were a hit on this bed, though each of our testers scored the latter higher.
Lightweight tester Riley Otis called it โsoft and comforting,โ awarding it a 5-out-of-5 rating for back-sleeping pressure relief. โI appreciate how it contours the entire body, especially around the lumbar region. My hips sink in nicely, but theyโre also aligned with my shoulders.โ
Dr. Joe Tedesco conversely preferred the mattress on his side, saying, โI feel my body relaxing when I am on my side. I feel supported, and no part of my body is collapsing.โ
Regardless of which position you prefer, switching between them is easy with a latex hybrid. The Birch Luxe is extremely bouncy, which Riley praised in her responsiveness assessment. โIt literally springs me from one position to the next, without any effort,โ she said.
What to Keep in Mind About the Birch Luxe
Some studies tout latex as more breathable than traditional foam, but we found that wasnโt the case here. Riley noted that the Birch Luxe didnโt provide any active cooling, and she could feel it heating up throughout her testing โ but any warm spots did dissipate rather quickly. Iโd still recommend that hot sleepers check out the Bear Elite Hybrid, which scored better in this category.
Read our full Birch Luxe mattress review for more insights.
Other Mattresses I Considered
After much consideration, we settled on these top mattresses for relief from shoulder pain. However, plenty of others almost made the cut, a couple of which some of us own.
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 husbandโs Tilt-o-Whirl-style restlessness. I left it off this list because itโs not great for stomach sleepers. Also, it was a โtreat yourselfโ splurge for me, and we already had plenty of luxury mattresses on this list.
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 didnโt find it comfortable in that position.
Bear Original
My colleague is a weightlifter who sleeps on the Bear Original. Although this mattress has many attributes she likes, it fell a little short of the Bear Elite Hybrid, which did make our list. She said, โIโm a back and a side sleeper. This mattress is awesome for back sleepers โ I donโt 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, Iโm sure.โ
What Goes Into the Best Mattresses for Shoulder Pain
โYour mattress can make your shoulder pain significantly worse if it isnโt supportive, isnโt the right firmness, or canโt relieve pressure points,โ says Dr. Raj Dasgupta. โA softer mattress with good cushioning, good pressure relief, and proper alignment in your spine and hips can help relieve your shoulder pain.โ
Letโs dive deeper into how we determine whether a bed checks all these boxes.
Firmness
Firmness is often the first mattress feature people think about. How firm or soft your bed is determines how it feels and how much support and pressure relief it provides. 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 fall between 5 and 8 on a firmness scale, and we use 6.5 as our standard medium-firm.
โAn overly firm mattress may lead to poor spinal alignment and lack of support, contributing to discomfort in your shoulder,โ Dr. Dasgupta says. โAn overly soft mattress will provide the cushioning you need in your shoulder. However, it might misalign your spine and hips.โ
For side and back sleepers with shoulder pain, weโd 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.
Pressure Relief
Weโve 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 โpressure map,โ 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.
For the best mattresses for shoulder pain, we obviously went with beds that showed little to no pressure buildup at the shoulders.
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 sleeperโs 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.
What to Consider When Buying a Mattress for Shoulder Pain
In your search, you may quickly realize that deciding on the best bed is slightly more overwhelming than expected. Donโt worry. We will break down the terms and what else you need to know when you are considering buying a mattress for your shoulder pain.
Mattress Type
Different mattress types offer more or less shoulder pain relief, so youโll also want to pay close attention to the materials you choose. I recommend a mattress that is both contouring and supportive to alleviate shoulder pain, like memory foam mattresses or hybrids with thick comfort layers. 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, weโd 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 donโt 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 youโre 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 wonโt 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.
Sleeping Position
A mattress that supports your sleep posture can help relieve tension throughout your body, including 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 your shoulders and hips when sleeping on your side, so youโll want to look for a mattress with thick foam layers that will cradle these joints. โSide sleepers may also benefit from a supportive pillow between the knees and a mattress with some softness but not too much to misalign their spine,โ advises Dr. Raj Dasgupta.
- Back Sleepers: Back sleepers with shoulder pain should opt for a medium-soft to medium-firm mattress, according to a 2021 review and Dr. Dasguptaโs recommendation. Youโll 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 youโre 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.
- 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. โStomach sleepers should opt for a firm mattress and a thin pillow or none for the head,โ says Dr. Dasgupta. We recommend these folks opt for a firm mattress with a thin quilted pillow top that offers a little pressure relief.
- 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, weโd recommend a medium-soft hybrid mattress to these folks. However, an all-foam mattress might be a better option if youโre willing to sacrifice some mobility to relieve more pain.
Body Type
We recognize that people come in all shapes and sizes, and everyone deserves 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 โaverage,โ or those weighing 130 to 230 pounds.
Most mattresses you buy online are built for people under 230 pounds. So, heavier people with shoulder pain may want to opt for a slightly firmer mattress. If youโre a heavy person choosing from this list, Iโd 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 youโre under 130 pounds and deal with shoulder pain, weโd look for a foam mattress in the 5 to 5.5 range on the firmness scale.
Cooling
Hot sleepers with shoulder pain can struggle to find a bed because memory foam and pillow-top mattresses, which are among the best for shoulder pain, often trap body heat. To help mitigate this issue, weโd recommend opting for a bed with gel, copper, or graphite-infused foams. 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.
We 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 would say 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 donโt want a mattress thatโs easy for your partner to accidentally wake you up. You also donโt want a partnerโs 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. We use a water container and a partner test to test motion isolation in mattresses. First, we see how much movement (getting in/out of bed or switching positions) disturbs the water inside the container. Less movement or rippling means better motion isolation.
In the partner test, two people rest on the bed; one is blindfolded while the other moves around. Whenever a disturbance is felt, the blindfolded tester signals. Depending on how much they feel, a bedโs overall motion isolation can rank anywhere from 1 to 5 out of 5. Iโd recommend that light sleepers who share the bed should never try out a mattress that earns below a 4 in this category.
FAQs
What firmness of a mattress is best for shoulder pain?
If you have shoulder pain, your mattressโs 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 youโre sleeping on a mattress that isnโt 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.
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