Best Mattresses for Back Pain 2023: Top Recommendations and Curated Reviews

Despite what many people believe, a rigid-as-a-board mattress isn't necessary for your achy back. In reality, there isn't a one-size-fits-all mattress for alleviating back pain. Rather, those experiencing back pain should opt for mattresses that offer a medium-firm feel. These types of beds are more likely to alleviate both soreness and stiffness. We have compiled a list of ten mattresses, spanning various price ranges and features, which we believe will cater to the needs of most individuals dealing with back pain.

Best Mattresses for Upper and Lower Back Pain

• Saatva – Saatva Classic
• Helix – Helix Dusk
• Nectar – Nectar Memory Foam
• Nolah – Nolah Evolution 15
• Brookly Bedding – Brooklyn Bedding Titan Plus
• Winkbeds – Winkbeds EcoCloud
• Bear – Bear Elite Hybrid
• Brookly Bedding – Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid

What Causes Back Pain?

Back pain is commonly caused by central sensitization, but it can also result from various factors such as injuries like falls or pulled muscles. Additionally, back pain can be caused by conditions like pinched nerves or degenerating discs.

Types of Back Pain

There are several different types of back pain. While chronic lower back pain caused by central sensitization is a common type, here are a few other common types of back pain:

• Non-specific muscle pain: This type of pain is often described as a dull ache or a feeling of tightness. It can be worse with movement, and it may be accompanied by stiffness.
• Muscle spasms: Muscle spasms can be very painful, and they can make it difficult to move. The affected muscle may feel hard and knotted.
• Radicular pain: Radicular pain is caused by compression or irritation of a nerve root. The nerve root is a bundle of nerves that branches off the spinal cord and travels to the body's extremities. Radicular pain can be very sharp and shooting, and it may be accompanied by numbness, tingling, and weakness.
• Sciatica: Sciatica is a type of radicular pain that affects the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve is the longest nerve in the body, and it runs from the lower back down the legs. Sciatica can cause pain, numbness, and tingling in the lower back, buttocks, and legs.

Mattresses that effectively relieve persistent back pain also promote better quality sleep. The leading contenders in this segment focus on achieving a harmonious blend of pressure relief and spinal alignment to ensure maximum comfort.

Saatva has emerged as a top contender across the board, with the Saatva model claiming the top spot as our overall favorite. Additionally, two other models from the same brand have made their mark on this list. Ultimately, we have curated a selection of the finest mattresses suitable for various sleep preferences and budgets, all aimed at alleviating back pain. Keep reading to discover the perfect mattress that fulfills your dreamy sleep needs.

Factors to Contemplate Before Purchasing a Mattress for Back Pain

Cause Of Back Pain:

While it's commonly understood that maintaining good posture is crucial while sitting or standing, its significance during nighttime when you're lying down is often overlooked. A mattress that lacks ample support can worsen preexisting back pain or lead to new discomfort by disturbing the alignment of your spine. The specific way in which this occurs, however, varies depending on the location of the pain.

When a mattress is excessively soft or begins to sag, it often triggers discomfort in the lower back. Due to the increased flexibility of the lower back compared to the rest of the spine, inadequate support from the mattress can result in the sinking of the hips and misalignment of the spine.

On the other hand, mid-back pain may arise if the mattress fails to achieve the appropriate equilibrium between cushioning and support, tailored to your preferred sleeping position. For instance, a mattress that is too firm may not conform to the shoulders and hips of a side sleeper, leading to the accumulation of pressure in these areas and eventual discomfort around the mid-back region.

When the upper body, neck, and shoulders are not properly aligned with the rest of the spine, it can result in discomfort in the upper back. This misalignment is often caused by the improper height of stacked pillows that do not correspond to a specific sleeping position.

Type Of Mattress

• Innerspring: Utilizing springs as its primary support system, this conventional mattress style generally provides robust support. Nonetheless, over time, innerspring mattresses can lose their shape and develop pressure points. To prevent potential future back pain, it's essential to choose a reputable brand known for its durability.
• Foam: These beds are primarily known for their responsive quality, which conforms to the spine's natural curvature and supports joints. Nevertheless, some individuals may feel as though they're being engulfed by their memory foam mattress. Depending on both your body weight and the firmness level of the mattress, you might encounter excessive sinking, leading to an aggravation of back pain.
• Hybrid: Renowned for their ability to provide a balanced combination, hybrid mattresses present an excellent option for individuals experiencing back pain. With their top comfort layers designed for pressure relief and underlying supportive coils to enhance spinal alignment, they offer a comprehensive solution for improved sleep quality.
• Latex: Frequently considered a natural substitute for memory foam, latex mattresses gently support the joints without excessive sinking, maintaining sufficient support to ensure proper spinal alignment.

Sleep Position

Your predominant sleeping position during the night influences the choice of mattresses that can effectively address your back pain concerns.

• Side sleepers: For individuals who predominantly sleep on their sides, an ideal mattress should offer a gentle cradling effect for crucial pressure points such as the hips and shoulders, while ensuring ample support to prevent excessive sinking that may disturb the spine's alignment. This category of sleepers typically benefits from a mattress with a medium-soft to medium-firm feel to alleviate back pain.
• Back sleepers: Sleepers who prefer lying on their backs usually find a mattress beneficial that prevents the hips from sinking, allowing for the natural curvature of the spine. Optimal support is provided by a medium-firm to firm mattress, offering both cushioning for the upper back and substantial support for the midsection.
• Stomach sleepers: For individuals who sleep on their stomachs, opting for a firmer mattress is advisable to prevent the midsection from sinking into the bed, consequently alleviating stress on the lower back.
• Firmness: In general, a mattress ranging from medium-firm to firm should cater to the needs of most sleepers with back pain, as it strikes a balance between support and comfort. Nevertheless, as previously indicated, the choice of firmness ultimately depends on individual preferences. Typically, stomach sleepers find a firm mattress more suitable, while side sleepers tend to prefer a softer bed. Back sleepers usually benefit from a mattress that falls in between the two extremes.
• Spine Alignment: While searching for a mattress, ensure that it can offer comprehensive support for your entire body, including your back and spine. Maintaining proper spine alignment is vital for alleviating back pain, as a neutral and healthy posture aids in reducing pressure on your lower back. To ensure sufficient spine alignment, a mattress should possess supportive, pressure-relieving qualities and be firm enough to prevent excessive sinking.
• Durability: A mattress that sags and dips under your weight does not promote relief from back pain. That's why it's crucial to select a robust, long-lasting bed capable of supporting your weight, particularly when seeking a mattress for individuals with more substantial body weight.

What Type Of Mattress Is Best For Back Pain?

Back pain often arises when your mattress fails to provide sufficient support to your body throughout the night, leading to spinal misalignment. The key to alleviating an aching back is to find a mattress that offers appropriate support. According to an orthopedic surgery expert, it's essential to look for a mattress that maintains the natural curve of your spine both when lying flat and on your side.

Memory foam and latex mattresses are frequently regarded as top choices for addressing back pain because they conform to your body, gently supporting the spine and maintaining its alignment while cradling pressure points. However, hybrid and coil mattresses can offer comparable advantages, provided you select one that is explicitly engineered for support, alignment, and pressure relief.

Are Memory Foam Mattresses Effective for Back Pain?

• Memory foam mattresses are often recommended for people with back pain. However, it is important to find a mattress that is the right firmness and density for you. Too soft of a mattress will not provide enough support, while too firm of a mattress can be uncomfortable.
• Side sleepers who suffer from back pain may find relief with a memory foam mattress. The material is good at conforming to the body and relieving pressure points in the hips and shoulders.
• When choosing a memory foam mattress, look for one with a density of at least 5 PCF. This will provide the support you need to maintain proper spinal alignment. Mattresses with a density of 4 PCF may be slightly softer, but they will still provide enough support for most people.
• Look for a mattress with zoned support. This means that the mattress is designed to provide more support in certain areas, such as the lower back. This can help to relieve pressure and improve spinal alignment.

By finding a memory foam mattress with the right firmness, density, and zoned support, you can increase your chances of finding relief from back pain and getting a good night's sleep.

Are Latex Mattresses Effective for Back Pain?

• Latex mattresses are highly recommended for individuals dealing with chronic back pain. Unlike memory foam, latex is more responsive and offers better temperature regulation. Additionally, latex is derived from natural sources, making it an appealing choice for those seeking eco-friendly options.
• Being a buoyant material that quickly responds to movements, latex mattresses make it easier for individuals with pain to shift positions or get in and out of bed. They excel in evenly distributing body pressure, outperforming polyfoam beds in this regard.
• While latex mattresses are considered a more luxurious option with a corresponding price tag, their exceptional durability ensures they can last for an extended period of time.
• However, it's important to consider potential drawbacks. While latex mattresses provide effective pressure relief, they generally do not offer the same level of contouring as memory foam. If you prefer the sensation of sinking into your mattress, latex may not be the ideal choice for you.

Overall, latex mattresses are a highly recommended option for individuals seeking relief from back pain. Their responsiveness, coolness, durability, and ability to distribute pressure evenly make them a popular choice among those with chronic pain issues.

Do Innerspring Mattresses Help with Back Pain?

Yes, innerspring mattresses can be beneficial for individuals experiencing back pain. Specifically, orthopedic models are designed to provide comprehensive support to the entire body, often incorporating targeted support zones. These mattresses commonly feature pocket coil systems.

Innerspring mattresses consist of numerous coils, each individually wrapped. A higher coil count generally translates to better support, so it's advisable to look for mattresses with 1,000-2,000 springs if possible. For individuals weighing over 400 pounds, it may be beneficial to choose a mattress with more than 2,000 springs or to consider the gauge (thickness) of the wire.

In summary, innerspring mattresses, especially orthopedic models with pocket coil systems, can offer effective support for individuals with back pain. The abundance of coils, along with targeted support zones, helps promote proper spinal alignment and alleviate discomfort.

Do Hybrid Mattresses Help with Back Pain?

Hybrid mattresses are a good option for people with back pain because they combine the pressure-relieving properties of foam with the supportive nature of springs. The foam layers conform to the body and relieve pressure points, while the springs provide support for the spine. This can help to reduce pain and improve sleep quality.

Hybrid mattresses are also customizable, so you can find one that meets your individual needs. For example, you can choose a mattress with a soft foam top for pressure relief or a firm foam top for more support. You can also choose a mattress with a different type of foam, such as latex or memory foam.

Hybrid mattresses are more expensive than some other types of mattresses, but they offer a number of benefits. They can help to relieve back pain, improve sleep quality, and provide a customizable sleeping experience. If you are looking for a mattress that can help you get a good night's sleep and reduce back pain, a hybrid mattress is a good option.

Here are some additional benefits of hybrid mattresses:

• They can help to improve spinal alignment.
• They can reduce motion transfer, which is important if you share a bed with a partner who moves around a lot.
• They can be more durable than other types of mattresses.

Is A Firm Mattress Better For Back Pain?

Numerous individuals may claim that a firm mattress is the most effective for easing back pain, but that isn't always the case. The essential factor lies in discovering a mattress that provides the appropriate level of support. A mattress that is excessively firm can potentially lead to spinal misalignment by exerting pressure on the shoulders and hips. It is advisable to choose a medium-firm mattress that provides some cushioning for these critical pressure points.

In the end, your personal comfort is paramount, so ensure that you select a mattress brand that provides a substantial trial period, allowing you the option to keep, exchange, or return your purchase according to your preferences.

Are Memory Foam Mattresses Good For Back Pain?

Memory foam mattresses are frequently promoted as the optimal choice for back pain, and they can indeed be effective, given their combination of support and cushioning. Nevertheless, irrespective of the type of mattress you opt for, selecting the appropriate firmness is crucial. If you decide on this option, seek out a mattress crafted with premium, dense memory foam engineered to offer substantial support. It's important to note that numerous affordable memory foam mattresses are excessively soft, potentially leading to improper spinal alignment, which could exacerbate back and joint discomfort.

How Back Pain Impacts Sleep

Back pain can have various effects on your sleep, from causing discomfort in your pressure points to hindering your ability to move freely. Here are some ways in which back pain can affect your sleep:

• Difficulty Falling Asleep and Frequent Waking: When you're dealing with back pain, finding a comfortable position and falling asleep can be challenging. Additionally, the inflamed areas of your back may become more irritated due to your posture or the condition of your mattress, leading to restless sleep and frequent awakenings.
• Sleep Deprivation: Sleep plays a crucial role in the healing process of your body. However, if you're struggling to fall asleep or stay asleep for extended periods, you may miss out on the restorative deep sleep that your body needs. This can result in significant limitations to your physical and cognitive abilities, not only on the following day but also over prolonged periods.
• Disruption from Pain Treatments: Many individuals rely on medications to manage their pain. While these medications can aid in falling asleep, they may also interfere with your natural sleep cycle. Typically, the first half of the night is when we experience most of our slow-wave deep sleep, while the second half is dominated by rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, the stage associated with dreaming. Certain pain medications can disrupt this balance. Opioid medications, for example, may cause breathing difficulties during sleep, while antidepressants could contribute to restless legs syndrome. As a result, even if you manage to sleep for a full eight hours, you may wake up feeling less refreshed and rested.

In summary, back pain can disrupt your sleep patterns and lead to difficulty falling asleep, frequent awakenings, sleep deprivation, and interference from pain treatments. It is important to address and manage your back pain effectively in order to improve the quality of your sleep and overall well-being.

Tips for Adjusting Your Lifestyle to Sleep Better with Chronic Pain

In concluding this guide, we would like to share some lifestyle tips and strategies for sleeping with chronic pain. These recommendations focus on making adjustments beyond your mattress choice. While medication and surgery are often part of the solution, improving your overall well-being centers around three key principles: nutrition, sleep, and movement.

• Nutrition: Maintaining a well-balanced diet has been shown to promote better sleep, which can aid in reducing stress and pain levels. A good starting point is to decrease your consumption of caffeine and sugar, as these can disrupt sleep patterns. Modifying your diet to prioritize optimal slumber can have a positive impact on managing chronic pain.
• Sleep: As emphasized throughout this guide, getting sufficient sleep is crucial for individuals experiencing pain. Sleep plays a significant role in managing stress levels, making it essential to allocate enough time for proper rest and recovery each night. Establishing a consistent bedtime and developing a nighttime routine can help promote better sleep habits and enhance overall sleep quality.
• Movement: Incorporating regular exercise into your routine is another vital component of managing chronic pain. Engaging in low-impact exercises can improve mobility, leading to better spinal alignment and reduced discomfort. Regular physical activity has also been consistently associated with improved sleep quality. Finding a consistent exercise regimen that suits your needs and abilities can contribute significantly to the overall quality of your sleep.

By adopting these lifestyle adjustments, you can support better sleep and pain management. Remember that achieving a pain-free state involves a comprehensive approach that encompasses nutrition, sleep, and movement.

FAQs

- Can a pillow help alleviate back pain?
Yes, a pillow can help alleviate back pain. When paired with a suitable mattress, a supportive pillow can provide better alignment and support for the neck and shoulders. This can help to reduce stress on the back and improve sleep quality.

- Are firm or softer beds better for back pain?
The best mattress firmness for back pain depends on the individual. Some people find that a firm mattress provides the best support, while others prefer a softer mattress that provides more pressure relief. It is important to experiment with different firmnesses to find the one that is most comfortable and provides the most relief.

- What's the best sleeping position for lower back pain?
The recommended sleep position for lower back pain is back sleeping. This position helps to keep the spine in alignment and reduces pressure on the back. If you are not used to sleeping on your back, you may need to use a pillow under your knees to make it more comfortable.

- What's the best sleeping position for upper back pain?
The best sleeping position for upper back pain is side sleeping. This position helps to keep the spine in alignment and reduces pressure on the upper back. You may need to use a pillow between your knees or under your arm to make it more comfortable.

- What type of mattress is best for back pain?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The best mattress for back pain depends on the individual's body type, sleeping position, and preferred firmness. Some people find that memory foam mattresses provide the best relief, while others prefer innerspring mattresses. It is important to try out different mattresses to find the one that is most comfortable and provides the most relief.

- Can a firm mattress cause lower back pain?
The impact of a firm mattress on lower back pain depends on the individual's sleeping position. Side sleepers typically find that a firm mattress exacerbates their lower back pain and prefer softer beds. On the other hand, stomach sleepers may find that a firm mattress helps alleviate their back pain by providing extra support and promoting neutral spinal alignment.

- Is a memory foam mattress good for back pain?
Memory foam mattresses can be beneficial for back pain. Their slow response to pressure allows for contouring around the shoulders and hips, relieving tension in these areas and providing relief to the upper and lower back. However, not all memory foam mattresses are created equal, and some may be too firm or too soft for people with back pain. It is important to try out different memory foam mattresses to find one that is comfortable and provides the most relief.

- How do I choose the right mattress for back pain?
To choose the right mattress for back pain, consider your body type, sleeping position, and preferred firmness. You may also want to consider other factors, such as the materials used in the mattress and the warranty offered. It is a good idea to try out different mattresses before making a purchase.

- How do I know if my mattress is causing my back pain?
If your back pain occurs or worsens after sleeping on your mattress, that is a clear indication that it may be contributing to the problem. Restlessness during the night can also suggest that your mattress is not suitable for your back. Pay attention to your comfort level as well. If your mattress feels saggy or lacks support, it is likely exacerbating your back pain.