Back pain and poor sleep can drive a vicious cycle. Back pain reduces sleep quality, while poor sleep over the long term increases your risk of experiencing back pain. (
1
) Finding a mattress that provides the right balance of support, comfort, and pressure relief can help you break free from this loop, allowing you to wake up feeling rested and pain-free.
“Back pain can be caused by various reasons, [and] a poor mattress may cause or contribute to it,” says Dr. Kevin Lees, D.C., Director of Chiropractic Operations from The Joint Chiropractic. He continues, “It’s important to speak with your doctor to understand the underlying cause of your back pain. Sleeping allows your body to heal and reset. If your mattress isn’t supporting your back well, it may create new pains or aggravate existing problems.”
Now, there isn’t one mattress that can solve all pain problems. Each body is different, and we all have our own preferences and needs that can impact which sleep surface provides optimal comfort and support. We considered these differences throughout our testing of the
best mattresses
to help curate our list of the best mattresses for back pain, including various mattress materials, firmness levels, and price ranges. Explore our top picks below to find the best option for you.
Our picks for the best mattresses for back pain
Compare mattresses for back pain
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Rating |
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Price |
$3,295 | $1,483 | $2,373.80 | $1,099 | $2,305 | $1,799 | $2,499 | $1,865 |
Material |
Hybrid (coils and foam) | Hybrid (coils and foam) | Hybrid (coils and foam) | Foam | Hybrid (coils and foam) | Hybrid (coils and foam) | Hybrid (coils and foam) | Hybrid (coils and foam) |
Firmness |
Medium-firm | Medium-firm | Medium | Medium-firm | Soft, medium, firm | Softer, luxury firm, firmer, plus | Plush, luxury firm, firm | Soft, medium, firm |
Trial Period |
365 nights | 365 nights | 100 nights | 365 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights |
Best overall mattress for back pain:
Saatva RX
The Saatva RX combines zoned lumbar support with a Therapeutic Support Core™, offering maximum back pain relief.
Key product features
White glove delivery
Free
Back support
Lumbar Zone® Quilting
Fiberglass-free
Yes
Best for
Side and back sleepers
Trial period
365 nights
What you should know
Saatva layers its RX model with unique features designed to target chronic back and joint pain directly. Its comfort and support blend comes from over 1,600 micro coils, zoned lumbar support, and pocketed coils capped with foam modules.
-
This mattress delivers an exceptional balance of support and comfort that perfectly cradles the body for optimal spinal alignment.
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You’ll pay top dollar for the signature elements incorporated in this mattress, which exceeds $3,000 when not on sale.
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While ideal for side and back sleepers, stomach sleepers and heavier-weight individuals will benefit from a firmer mattress to keep their hips lifted.
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The organic cotton cover, gel-infused foam, and phase change material help regulate body temperature.
Pros
Tailor-made to relieve chronic back and joint conditions
Exceptional pressure relief
Made from durable, high-quality materials
Gracious 365-night sleep trial and lifetime warranty
Free white glove delivery
Cons
Spending over $3,000 on a mattress may be too much for many shoppers
Mediocre support when sitting near the edge
It may be too soft for some stomach sleepers
Why we like Saatva RX as best overall
With claims of being the first of its kind, the Saatva RX is a
luxury mattress
specially crafted to help alleviate discomfort associated with chronic back and joint pain. It offers exceptional pressure relief and zoned lumbar support to alleviate discomfort in those suffering from conditions like sciatica, arthritis, herniated discs, and scoliosis. The RX is a favorite among chiropractors, earning approval from the Congress of Chiropractic State Associations and the American Chiropractic Association. We were eager to test this mattress to see if it lived up to all the hype.
When our testers climbed into this bed, they were not disappointed. The comfort and support were tangible from the start. The organic cotton cover provides plush comfort and a breathable, cool sleep surface. We felt the support offered by the Lumbar Zone® Quilting with the spine staying well-aligned through multiple position changes.
The pressure relief and cooling properties continue into the next mattress layer, a thin section of gel-infused foam. However, below, we discovered the distinctive characteristics that set this mattress apart from its competitors. A cutting-edge micro-coil layer with high-density foam layered above and below contours the body and relieves pressure points. Moreover, stronger coils strategically placed in the lumbar zone enhance back support.
Next up are the individually wrapped steel coils. While these aren’t unique to the RX mattress, the individual foam modules topping each coil are. These small, cylindrical caps help reduce motion transfer and enhance contouring. They’re also infused with graphite and phase change material (PCM) to boost cooling abilities beyond traditional memory foam.
Coils in hybrid mattresses can also be critical for offering edge support. This mattress keeps sleepers well-supported when lying near the edge. However, it didn’t perform as well when sitting along the perimeter. It wasn’t the worst we’ve encountered, but it can be good to keep in mind for those with mobility issues who need extra support when getting in and out of bed.
Our testers rated this mattress at a 6.5 out of 10 on the firmness scale, which translates to a medium-firm feel. According to research, this is the optimal firmness level to help improve sleep quality and reduce discomfort in those with back pain. (
2
) Side, back, and combination sleepers will be most comfortable here. While it still felt comfortable, there was some sinkage around the hips, so we recommend a firmer mattress for those who primarily sleep on their stomach.
If you’re suffering from back pain, you may be cringing at the thought of lugging a heavy mattress into your bedroom and lifting it onto your bed frame. Fortunately, Saatva offers free white glove delivery, meaning the delivery team will do the heavy lifting to set up your mattress and remove your old one.
Unfortunately, this is not a budget-friendly mattress, with a price tag surpassing $3,000. However, if you can afford it, we feel it’s worth it to experience the pain relief this mattress offers, which can help you more fully enjoy daily life.
To learn more about this model, visit our full
Saatva mattress review
.
If you are interested in learning more about mattresses for specific conditions, check out our guides for the
best mattresses for sciatica
, the
best mattresses for scoliosis
, and the
best mattresses for arthritis
.
Specs
Price |
$3,295 |
Material |
Hybrid |
Firmness |
Medium-firm |
Warranty |
Lifetime |
Trial |
365 nights |
Shipping |
Free |
Height |
15” tall |
Weight (Queen) |
124 lbs |
Best mattress for lower back pain:
DreamCloud Hybrid
The DreamCloud Hybrid blends firm support with contouring comfort to help alleviate lower back pain through proper spinal alignment.
Key product features
Cooling features
Gel-infused foam
CertiPUR-US certified
Yes
Warranty
Forever™
Motion isolation
Excellent
Returns
Free
What you should know
With a combination of comfort memory foam and supportive coils, the DreamCloud Hybrid mattress helps keep the spine aligned and relieves pressure in the neck, back, hips, and shoulders. Its cashmere cover adds a luxurious touch that makes this mattress seem like it should be more expensive than it is.
- With a medium-firm feel, this mattress provides sleepers with generous support.
- Budget-conscious buyers can find this mattress frequently on sale for just $665.
- Couples can benefit from fewer sleep disturbances thanks to this mattress’s superb motion isolation.
- It offers a more temperature-neutral feel instead of being noticeably cooling.
Pros
Promotes optimal spinal alignment
Reduces motion transfer for fewer sleep disruptions
Affordably priced at $1,483
Gel foam and breathable coils help regulate body temperature
Foam layers meet CertiPUR-US standards for health and safety
Cons
Strict side sleepers may need a softer mattress
In-home setup is an added fee of $199
Why we like DreamCloud Hybrid as best for lower back pain
The DreamCloud Hybrid lives up to the expectations set by its name, offering buyers a blissful night’s sleep with its combination of support and pressure relief. Its hybrid design layers contouring foam on top of supportive coils to help maintain the spine’s natural curve. Finding a mattress like this that promotes good sleep posture can effectively help reduce lower back pain. (
3
)
The cashmere cover adds softness to the mattress’s medium-firm feel. While it doesn’t diminish the supportive structure, it offers a more lavish touch and adds a breathable, moisture-wicking material at the surface. After that, four layers of CertiPUR-US-certified foams can give you peace of mind that you’re sleeping on a mattress that meets rigorous testing standards for safety and environmental factors. (
4
)
The first two layers of quilted foam provided a cushioning feel. However, thanks to the responsive nature of the gel-infused layer, we didn’t sink excessively into the mattress. While some sleepers may miss the slow sinkage of traditional memory foam, others will appreciate that it’s easier to move around and change positions on this mattress.
As we explored the deeper layers of the mattress, we found another layer of gel foam responsible for the pressure relief we experienced. It targets common high-pressure areas like the neck, back, shoulders, and hips. Our testers noted this held up when sleeping on the back and stomach or for those who change positions frequently. Unfortunately, sleepers who spend most of the night on their side may feel discomfort in their hips and shoulders.
The final foam layer keeps the spine aligned and helps gently transition sleepers onto the individually wrapped coils below. These pocketed coils move independently from one another to help reduce motion transfer. You’ll appreciate these motion isolation qualities if you
share your bed with a pet
or a restless partner.
While this mattress is reasonably priced, you can snag it for
under $1,000
during frequent holiday and seasonal sales. We often see it listed for $665, which can appeal to those who don’t want to empty their pockets on a mattress purchase.
Fortunately, this isn’t a “you get what you pay for” situation, as the cheaper price doesn’t indicate low-quality materials. Our testers noted how durable the materials felt, which should ensure long-lasting comfort.
Check out our comprehensive
DreamCloud
mattress
review
for more information.
What customers are saying
You can purchase the DreamCloud Hybrid directly from the company’s website or Amazon. It earns high praise from Amazon customers, with an average of 4.2 stars and over 1,700 reviews.
One Amazon reviewer with the username “KJ” found the mattress eased their back pain, and the unboxing process provided much entertainment. They wrote, “We love our DreamCloud queen mattress. The way it expanded was fun to watch. My four-year-old nephew was giggling when it was expanding. The comfort is amazing. I can’t believe this mattress fit in the box it came in. It supports our bad, old backs and is soft enough to take the pressure off our hips and shoulders. It’s great and worth the money. We would recommend it and purchase again if the need arises.”
However, some customers feel this mattress lacks adequate edge support, as Amazon reviewer Mike D. describes: “I did a lot of online research, and this mattress was rated very high by most users. I have been sleeping on it for a couple of weeks now, and I have to say it is very comfortable. It’s not too soft and not too hard. I think they’ve found the sweet spot as far as firmness goes. My one real issue with this mattress is the lack of good edge support. When I roll over and get close to the edge of the bed, I can feel it sloping downward. It makes me feel like I might roll off, even though it hasn’t happened. If you like sitting on the edge of your bed when getting dressed, like I do, you will dislike the edge support. The mattress just sinks; I will slide right off it if I’m not careful. I’m still not sure if I will keep it or return it. I hope this helps anyone else looking to purchase this mattress.”
Specs
Price |
$1,483 |
Material |
Hybrid |
Firmness |
Medium-firm |
Warranty |
Forever |
Trial |
365 nights |
Shipping |
Free |
Height |
12” tall |
Weight (Queen) |
78 lbs |
The Helix Midnight Luxe delivers a soft, luxurious feel that gently cradles the body and keeps the neck and back well-supported.
Key product features
Back support
Zoned lumbar
Cooling features
TENCEL™, GlacioTex™
Financing
Available
Best for
Side sleepers
Fiberglass-free
Yes
What you should know
As part of Helix’s luxury mattress line, the Midnight Luxe blends the plush cushioning of memory foam with enhanced support from durable steel coils. Its advanced cooling technology prevents overheating, even for the hottest sleepers.
- It offers targeted pressure relief and zoned support, keeping the neck, spine, and hips aligned for reduced pain.
- For a hybrid mattress, it’s on the more expensive side at $2,373.80, and the optional upgrades can further increase the price.
- This mattress’s softness is ideal for side and back sleepers, and its responsiveness makes it easy for combination sleepers to change positions.
- The premium cooling features will help keep hot sleepers cool and comfortable throughout the night.
Pros
Targeted support and pressure relief
Advanced cooling features
The softer feel is ideal for side sleepers
Its bouncy feel makes it easy to change positions
Cons
100-night sleep trial is shorter than many competitors
Too soft for stomach sleepers
Underperforms in motion isolation
Why we like Helix Midnight Luxe as best for back and neck pain
The Helix Midnight Luxe offers a medium feel that provides optimal comfort for side and back sleepers, the
ideal sleeping positions
for relieving neck and back pain. (
5
,
6
) A mattress that’s too soft or firm can cause pressure buildup at critical points, but this mattress finds the sweet spot with balanced firmness that helps reduce the strain on common pain points.
It comes standard with a premium TENCEL™ cooling pillow top that initiates the mattress’s pressure relief and cushioning qualities. Our testers found the dual comfort layer below offered a hugging feeling as it cradled the body. The reactive nature of both foams quickly adapts to the unique shape of each sleeper’s body, which helps reduce pressure in sensitive areas like the lower back and neck.
If you frequently experience pain, Helix offers an optional upgrade to an ErgoAlign Layer for an extra $249 for a queen mattress. This additional layer features a zone of ultra-dense foam in the middle third of the bed. Extra support and pressure relief around your midsection can help further reduce lower back pain, while the top and bottom thirds contour your body’s shape to help your neck, back, and hips stay aligned.
The optional modifications don’t end there. If you’re an overly hot sleeper, you might consider adding the GlacioTex™ cooling cover. However, we felt the standard mattress slept plenty cool, so it may not be necessary to dish out the extra money here.
The foam layers can’t take all the credit for Midnight Luxe’s pain-relieving abilities—the robust steel coils at the mattress’s core also offer zoned support. With reinforced coils in the middle, it targets support around your hips and back to help keep your spine aligned. We found the same enhanced support around the entire perimeter of the bed, offering exceptional edge support on all four sides.
Another notable highlight is this mattress’s superior responsiveness, thanks to the bouncy springs. Our testers could effortlessly switch between sleeping positions and noted that it’d be an
excellent choice for couples looking for a good mattress
for sex. The downside here is that all this bounce leads to poor motion isolation. If you easily awaken to your partner’s movements, we recommend looking for a better mattress to reduce motion transfer.
To learn more, see our full
Helix mattress review
or our picks for the
best mattresses for neck pain
.
Specs
Price |
$2,373.80 |
Material |
Hybrid |
Firmness |
Medium |
Warranty |
15 years |
Trial |
100 nights |
Shipping |
Free |
Height |
13.5” tall |
Weight (Queen) |
115 lbs |
Best mattress for back pain on a budget:
Nectar Memory Foam
The Nectar offers value for money, with its adaptive memory foam layers balancing comfort and support to reduce aches and pains.
Key product features
Materials
Foam or hybrid
CertiPUR-US certified
Yes
Firmness
Medium-firm
Returns
Free
Trial period
365 nights
What you should know
The Nectar’s foam-over-foam design conforms to the body’s natural shape and helps evenly distribute weight, minimizing pressure buildup that can often cause or worsen back pain. Its soft feel is balanced with a dense base that helps the mattress maintain structure and support.
- It outperforms most hybrid and innerspring mattresses at reducing motion transfer throughout the mattress.
- It is frequently on sale for 40% off, saving you hundreds of dollars on your purchase.
- Our testers felt most comfortable lying on their side and back, noting that their hips sank too much to stay supported when sleeping on their stomach.
- The gel foam helps keep the mattress cooler but may not be enough for excessively hot sleepers.
Pros
High-quality materials at the economical price of $1,099
Gel foam offers superb pressure relief
Excellent motion isolation
Its lightweight design can help with setup and regular rotations
The breathable cover promotes airflow
Cons
The all-foam design may lead to overheating
Sinkage of traditional memory foam makes it harder to change positions
Why we like Nectar Memory Foam as best for on a budget
The Nectar Memory Foam mattress proves that you don’t have to break the bank to get a good night’s rest. Managing back pain can be stressful enough, and we appreciate this mattress doesn’t add to that with the financial burden that can come with higher-priced competitors. Nectar also didn’t trade quality for affordability. Its premium all-foam design offers a plush, cushiony feel around the joints while keeping the spine well-supported.
When dissecting this mattress, we found three different foam types that work together to provide a cloud-like sleep environment. The gel-infused layer molds to the body and relieves pressure by distributing body weight evenly. We owe the cradling effect we felt while lying on this mattress to the dynamic foam layer below, which helped keep our spine correctly aligned. Finally, we encountered a thick, dense base layer that offers durability so you can feel confident that your mattress will withstand years of nightly use.
The medium-firm feel is your only option for firmness level, but its balance of comfort and support accommodates many sleep positions and body types. Whether sleeping on your side or back, you’ll experience little to no pressure buildup. However, our testers noted that their hips sank lower than the rest of their bodies, so stomach sleepers should opt for a firmer mattress.
As we expected from a memory foam mattress, the Nectar offers no bounce. The slow sinkage that helps create the dreamy comfort also makes it more challenging to change sleeping positions. On the other hand, it impresses at isolating motion, so when you or your partner get into bed or move about, you don’t have to worry about disturbing one another.
Another setback we encountered was the lack of edge support. We felt we might slip off the bed if we got too close to the outside. When sleepers can’t utilize the entire width, this can make the mattress feel smaller than it is.
We were pleasantly surprised by how cool this mattress slept. Contrary to the heat-trapping effects of traditional memory foam, the breathable cover and gel foam provide airflow, draw heat away from the body, and wick moisture away.
Check out our full
Nectar mattress review
for more insights. Or, see more budget-friendly options in our roundup of the
best affordable mattresses
.
What customers are saying
“Not going to break the bank. It was easy to set up and get unpacked solo. The smell of the new mattress wasn’t too bad and is now non-existent.”
Jamie M. is another Amazon reviewer who says, “This mattress is great! I used to wake up with back and hip pain, so I bought this mattress, and it’s made such a huge difference in my sleep. There is no more pain when I wake up. I love it and have recommended it to all my friends and family.”
We found that many negative reviews center on how customers perceive the firmness. While some reviewers say the bed is too firm, others describe it as too soft. Comfort is subjective and can vary depending on many factors, including sleep position and body type, so it’s common to see these discrepancies.
Specs
Price |
$1,099 |
Material |
Foam |
Firmness |
Medium-firm |
Warranty |
Forever |
Trial |
365 nights |
Shipping |
Free |
Height |
12” tall |
Weight (Queen) |
83 lbs |
The Bear Elite Hybrid’s thoughtful design pinpoints common pain points with zoned support and targeted pressure relief.
Key product features
Cooling features
Copper-infused
Best for
All sleep positions
Fiberglass-free
Yes
Firmness
Soft, medium, firm
Returns
Free
What you should know
The Bear Elite features a hybrid design that merges the spinal support offered by innerspring coils with the luxurious pressure relief provided by multiple layers of adaptive foam. Plus, its copper-infused foam and cooling cover help keep sleepers comfortably cool.
-
This mattress provides enhanced support in troublesome areas, especially the hips and back.
-
We feel this mattress proves its value with its superior performance, making it worth the higher price of $2,305.
-
With advanced cooling technology infused throughout, it’s ideal for hot sleepers.
-
Three firmness levels to choose from make it an excellent choice for any sleep style and body type.
Pros
Exceptional pressure relief for hips, back, and shoulders
Zoned coils offer more lumbar support
Top-tier cooling features
Made from durable materials
Cons
Not as generous of a sleep trial as some competitors with only 120 nights
It does not offer in-home setup
May experience off-gassing from memory foam layers
Why we like Bear Mattress Elite Hybrid as best for back and hip pain
The Bear Elite Hybrid finds the perfect harmony of plush comfort and solid support to help sleepers manage hip and back pain. While the top memory foam layers gently cradle your hips, the durable steel coils below target support the lumbar area to ensure your spine stays aligned.
You can choose between three firmness options to find the one that best suits your sleep needs and preferences. We tested the medium mattress, which is reflected throughout this review. While we found plenty of comfort lying on our side, some side sleepers may prefer the softer option for a more plush feeling. Similarly, we didn’t experience much hip sinkage when lying on our stomachs, which helped prevent back pain. However, heavier sleepers may need the firmer option to stay supported on top of the mattress.
Bear forgoes traditional memory foam in this model by opting for copper-infused foam. Besides offering the cushiony feel and body contouring we expect, the copper also provides more reactiveness that helps the mattress adjust to your unique body structure. Moreover, its natural antimicrobial and cooling properties help keep your mattress clean and cool.
In hybrid mattresses, it’s vital to have a smooth transition between the foam and coil layers, and the dynamic foam in the Bear Elite does just that. Thanks to this layer, we felt supported on top of the bed without sinking excessively into the mattress. The support is amplified as the innerspring coils below come into play. The individually wrapped construction allows consistent support throughout the mattress to help keep your spine aligned. The responsive nature of the coils also made it easy to change positions. However, memory foam balances this springy feel to help reduce motion transfer.
With reinforced coils along the perimeter, this mattress tested well in edge support, meaning you can sprawl out without feeling like you’ll fall off at any point. If you experience mobility issues, you’ll also appreciate how easy it is to get in and out of this bed.
We’ve seen optional upgrades in many of the mattresses we’ve evaluated, but Bear offers a distinctive option for buyers. For an additional $200 for a queen-size mattress, you can add a Celliant-infused cover. Research shows materials incorporating these fibers can help promote body restoration, pain relief, and body temperature regulation. (
7
)
Check out more of the
best mattresses for hip pain
.
Specs
Price |
$2,305 |
Material |
Hybrid |
Firmness |
Soft, medium, firm |
Warranty |
Lifetime |
Trial |
120 nights |
Shipping |
Free |
Height |
14” tall |
Weight (Queen) |
110 lbs |
The firm support of the WinkBed Firm maintains proper spinal alignment while the pressure-relieving foam adds comfort.
Key product features
Back support
Lumbar pad
Financing
Available
Eco-friendly
Yes
Made in the USA
Yes
Warranty
Lifetime
What you should know
The WinkBed Firm’s advanced hybrid construction incorporates a lumbar pad into its foam layers, providing enhanced support for your lower back. Its pocketed coils move independently from each other as they adapt to your body’s curves and offer pressure relief.
- The firmer mattress provides strong support for proper spinal alignment.
- Hybrid mattresses can get expensive, but the WinkBed is one of the more affordable options at $1,799.
- Back, stomach, and heavier sleepers will find this mattress most comfortable.
- The moisture-wicking cover, gel foam, and breathable coils help keep the mattress cool.
Pros
Anti-sag support maintains firmness to the edge of the bed
Cooling materials prevent heat from becoming trapped in the mattress
It offers four firmness levels
Generous lifetime warranty
Cons
This heavy mattress may make it challenging to set up and move around at 135 lbs
Mediocre motion isolation
Too firm for most side sleepers
Why we like The WinkBed Firm as best firm
The WinkBed Firm offers a hybrid design that promotes good sleep posture with solid support and balanced pressure relief. While firm mattresses aren’t suitable for all sleepers, some individuals need extra support to keep their spine aligned while sleeping. This can be especially helpful for stomach sleepers and those with heavier body types.
At first glance, this mattress may seem on par with other hybrid mattresses we’ve evaluated. However, as we dug deeper into its construction, we saw that it revealed various distinctive features. The Euro-pillow top offered enough softness to ease tension and pressure around the back and hips without allowing the body to sink too much. The gel-infused foam layers also boast extra benefits for the lower back, with a lumbar pad that offers enhanced support.
The foam gives way to a thick layer of durable recycled steel coils. Firmer coils are strategically placed in multiple zoned areas where the body can benefit from additional support, while softer coils allow the hips and shoulders to rest comfortably. We found this intentional balance of firmness and pressure relief helped keep our spine in a neutral position and improved sleep posture, which can lead to higher quality sleep. (
8
)
The one caveat of the firmer support here is that it impedes the mattress’s ability to reduce motion transfer. Our testers could feel a fair amount of movement throughout the mattress when getting in and out of bed or switching positions.
While we always test a mattress’s edge support, we focus extra on it when assessing firm mattresses. We want to see the mattress stay solid across the entire width so sleepers don’t feel like they must remain in the middle to get the needed support. Fortunately, the WinkBed maintains its firmness up to the edge, with minimal sinkage while sitting on the side of the bed.
Speaking of firmness, we love that WinkBed offers this mattress in four options to help sleepers find the best fit. Heavier sleepers can benefit from the ultra-firm support provided by the Plus model. But if a firm mattress isn’t right for you, the WinkBed comes in Luxury Firm and Softer options.
View more of the
best firm mattresses
to find the right choice for you.
Specs
Price |
$1,799 |
Material |
Hybrid |
Firmness |
Firmer |
Warranty |
Lifetime |
Trial |
120 nights |
Shipping |
Free |
Height |
13.5” tall |
Weight (Queen) |
135 lbs |
Best mattress for back pain for side sleepers:
Nolah Evolution
The Nolah Evolution’s advanced foam technology delivers optimal pressure relief while the zoned coils support the lower back.
Key product features
CertiPUR-US certified
Yes
Motion isolation
Excellent
White glove delivery
$125-$225
Fiberglass-free
Yes
Cooling features
ArcticTex™
What you should know
The Nolah Evolution employs several proprietary features, including its AirFoam™, HDMax™ Tri-Zone™ coils, and ArcticTex™ fibers, to balance comfort and support while keeping sleepers cool and dry.
- The mattress excels at balancing pressure relief in the shoulders and hips while maintaining solid back support.
- We recommend shopping sales events to help reduce the cost of this mattress, which nears $2,500 at full price.
- Breathable coils and cooling materials help dissipate heat to keep sleepers cool at night.
- An added perforated foam layer increases this mattress’s responsiveness, making it easier to change sleeping positions.
Pros
Exceptional pressure relief around the hips and shoulders
Maintains spinal alignment
Multiple cooling technologies infused throughout
Buyer’s choice for firmness
Can opt out of the trial period to save $100
Cons
No free returns—$99 fee
Need deep-pocketed sheets to fit the 15-inch profile
Thick, heavy mattress can be hard to move around
Why we like Nolah Evolution as best for side sleepers
The Nolah Evolution caters to the specific needs of side sleepers by delivering optimal pressure relief in the shoulders and hips without compromising back support. As one of the
best mattresses-in-a-box
, you’ll experience hotel-quality comfort as the mattress contours your body with a plush yet supportive feel.
This mattress has a higher profile than most of the others we tested, measuring 15 inches tall. It’s packed with layers of high-density foam atop a durable eight-inch innerspring coil layer. The Euro topper creates a cloud-like feel with two inches of quilted cushioning. To further increase the pressure relief, Nolah created a foam layer that is hole-punched in high-pressure areas while staying firmer in the lumbar zone. We could feel how this allowed our shoulders and hips to sink enough to keep our spine aligned while sleeping on our side. The mattress conformed beautifully to each tester’s body shape.
The comfort foam layers pair nicely with the durable steel coils below. As the name suggests, the HDMax™ Tri-Zone™ coils offer three targeted support zones. Similar to what we’ve seen in other hybrid mattresses, the middle section has reinforced coils that keep the back lifted and supported. We found two rows of identical thicker coils around the entire perimeter to help maintain stability along the edges.
For a hybrid mattress, we were impressed with how well this mattress reduces motion transfer. You can sleep soundly regardless of how often your partner tosses and turns. Thanks to the responsiveness, that same restless partner will also appreciate how effortlessly they can move around.
We can’t forget to mention the cooling features Nolah included in this mattress. The cover’s organic cotton and ArcticTex™ fibers and the cooling Euro topper help disperse body heat. Additionally, a border gusset improves airflow so the heat can escape instead of becoming trapped in the dense foam.
Unfortunately, this mattress’s price may put it out of range for budget-conscious shoppers. At $2,499, it’s one of the more expensive options on our list.
Check out our other top picks for the
best mattresses for side sleepers
if you’re still searching.
Specs
Price |
$2,499 |
Material |
Hybrid |
Firmness |
Plush, luxury firm, firm |
Warranty |
Lifetime |
Trial |
120 nights (optional) |
Shipping |
Free |
Height |
15” tall |
Weight (Queen) |
115 lbs |
The Aurora Luxe Cooling excels at keeping hot sleepers comfortable with advanced cooling technology throughout its hybrid design.
Key product features
Cooling features
GlacioTex™
Best for
All sleep positions
Firmness
Soft, medium, firm
Made in the USA
Yes
Financing
Available
What you should know
Brooklyn Bedding’s Aurora Luxe Cooling mattress excels at temperature regulation, with advanced cooling technology infused throughout. Multiple layers of pressure-relieving foam and zoned coils help keep back pain sufferers comfortable at night.
- This mattress is noticeably cool to the touch and feels airy and breathable.
- Spending over $1,800 on a mattress can seem like a lot, but we feel this mattress is worth it for all it offers.
- With three firmness levels, this mattress offers comfort regardless of your preferred sleep position.
- The elasticity of the CopperFlex™ foam creates a responsive sleep surface that makes position changes effortless.
Pros
Sleeps exceptionally cool
Optimal pressure relief and back support
High-quality materials ensure durability
Accommodates various sleeping positions
Cons
Shorter warranty than most other brands at 10 years
Cooling cover may feel slippery and reduce edge support
The plush model may feel firmer than expected to some sleepers
Why we like Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Cooling as best cooling
Brooklyn Bedding takes cooling to another level with its Aurora Luxe Cooling mattress. Cooling technology is infused throughout from the cover to the foam layers to the innerspring core. Considering how impactful body temperature is to sleep quality, these attributes are vital for sleepers who often overheat at night. (
9
)
We instantly felt a difference in this mattress compared to others with how noticeably cool to the touch it was. The GlacioTex™ cover delivers a breathable, airy feel at the mattress’s surface. Below that, gel and copper-infused foams help regulate your temperature by drawing excess heat away from the body. Furthermore, the individually wrapped coils allow air to circulate so warm air doesn’t become trapped in the mattress.
While these are all excellent highlights, our testing didn’t focus solely on the cooling factors. The Aurora Luxe also earned high marks for comfort and support. The adaptive foams offer body contouring that helps cushion sensitive joints, and the pocketed coils provide a solid base that keeps the body well-supported. Our testers note how well the spine stays aligned while lying on their side, back, and stomach, making it ideal for all sleep positions.
The mattress’s versatility continues with three firmness options available for buyers: soft, medium, and firm. Regardless of which you choose, we found this mattress is extremely bouncy. Combination sleepers and intimate partners can move around all they want without feeling stuck in the bed.
The one area in which this mattress falls short is along the edge. There’s little sinkage when lying or sitting near the perimeter, so the support seems to be there. However, the cooling cover was very slippery, and our testers felt like they would slide off the bed. If you struggle with mobility issues, you may see this as a benefit instead of a shortcoming since it can ease getting in and out of bed.
See more of the
best cooling mattresses
for additional options.
Specs
Price |
$1,865 |
Material |
Hybrid |
Firmness |
Soft, medium, firm |
Warranty |
10 years |
Trial |
120 nights |
Shipping |
Free |
Height |
13.25” tall |
Weight (Queen) |
105 lbs |
How we test mattresses
Our team of experts performs hands-on testing and evidence-based research to develop our comprehensive and reliable mattress reviews. We collaborate with sleep science coaches, medical professionals, and real-world consumers during our evaluation to provide valuable advice and insight. Each mattress in this roundup underwent the same meticulous testing process to assess critical factors that can impact pain relief, including lumbar support, pain relief, and overall mattress performance. Read our full
mattress testing methodology
for more information.
Performance (sleep experience)—30%
A high-quality mattress should feel like it’s designed to provide you with the best sleep of your life. It should also deliver on the promise of a great sleep experience. Our sleep science coaches assess various factors to reflect the functional aspects of the mattress as well as the user’s sleep experience. Here’s what we’re looking for:
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Temperature regulation
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Motion isolation
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Edge support
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Technology
Comfort and support—30%
Alongside the sleep experience, comfort and support are just as important for a healthy and restful sleep. A high-quality mattress should assist in providing relief with certain aches and pains a user may experience when sleeping. It should also help users wake up feeling energized and rested. Here’s what we’re looking for:
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Firmness
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Pressure relief
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Spinal alignment support
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Customization
Value—20%
Assessing value involves a meticulous examination of several key factors that contribute to a mattress’s worth. A mattress that is priced just within reach of its target audience, yet surpasses competitors in terms of materials, performance, and support, presents a compelling value proposition. However value is not solely determined by the lowest price point. We also determine it by finding the balance between cost and the tangible benefits a mattress provides.
Customer experience—10%
Sometimes, the mattress can be great, but if the overall shopping experience wasn’t, that could easily put a sour taste in a user’s mouth about the mattress they just purchased. We put in the hours to determine how well the entire process of buying a mattress matches users’ expectations and what options are available when something goes wrong.
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Shipping
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Warranty
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Customer service
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Sleep trial
Health and safety—10%
It’s important to understand that a mattress is more than just a sleeping surface—it’s an environment where you spend a significant portion of your life. We meticulously assess critical aspects of mattresses that may directly impact your well-being and peace of mind.
Our factors in this rating include:
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Hypoallergenic materials
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Off-gassing and chemical exposure
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Safety certifications
How to choose the best mattress for back pain
With the seemingly endless number of mattress options, finding the right one for you can feel impossible. We’ve outlined some key considerations that can help you find a mattress that will alleviate your back pain and lead to a good night’s rest.
Firmness
Mattress firmness is one of the most vital elements of finding a bed that will help reduce back pain. Previously, doctors would suggest firm mattresses, but recent studies have demonstrated that a medium-firm mattress can better alleviate pain and lead to higher-quality sleep. (
10
) While each manufacturer gives its mattresses a firmness rating, it’ll ultimately come down to how it feels based on your body type and sleep position.
Body type
Each person’s body’s unique shape and size can make a big difference regarding perceived mattress firmness. Heavier-weight individuals typically prefer a firmer mattress that helps distribute their weight and provides adequate support. On the other hand, lighter people often perceive a mattress as firmer, so they need a softer option that won’t feel too hard on sensitive joints. (
11
)
Check out our
best mattresses for heavy people
if you’re looking for mattresses with adequate support.
Pressure relief
Finding a mattress relieving pressure can help remove stress from critical joints like your shoulders, hips, back, and neck. As the mattress hugs your body this way, it can also promote proper spinal alignment, which is crucial for reducing the strain on your back. Pressure relief is also paramount in how comfortable your mattress feels and how well you sleep.
Check out the
best mattresses for fibromyalgia
to see other options for reducing pain and discomfort.
Support
It’s one thing to find a mattress that offers cloud-like comfort, but it also needs to provide adequate support. Regarding back pain, you want to look at how each mattress incorporates lumbar support. This targeted support can help promote proper sleep posture as it maintains spinal alignment and relieves tension in the lower back.
If you are interested specifically in lumbar support, this is also an important feature of the
best orthopedic mattresses
.
Cost
You should always factor in cost when shopping for any product, especially for bigger ticket items like mattresses. Determine your budget before you start your search, remembering that a quality mattress is a long-term investment. You may feel uneasy as you prepare to make this big purchase, but remember that the upfront cost will be more than worth it if it leads to years of pain relief and quality sleep. We also recommend planning your mattress shopping in advance to take advantage of deep discounts. The
best time to buy a mattress
is around major U.S. holidays, like President’s Day, Memorial Day, and Labor Day.
Sleep trial
It can be hard to know whether a mattress is comfortable on your back until you’ve had time to sleep on it nightly. Choosing a brand that offers a decent sleep trial can give you ample time to try it out and decide if it’s a good fit. All of the mattresses on our list have at least a 100-day trial, with others generously offering up to a year.
Check out our article on
how to choose a mattress
to read more.
What is the best type of mattress for back pain?
The best type of mattress for back pain will be the one that feels the most comfortable and supportive to you. Because there are so many variances in how we perceive comfort, your ideal mattress may not be the same as the next person’s. We’ll break down the different types of mattresses to help you understand which one may suit you.
Hybrid
mattresses are typically the most popular choice and make up most of our list as the best for back pain. They offer a wonderful blend of comfort and support as various layers of contouring memory foam are complemented by a solid innerspring core. You’ll often see these mattresses boast zoned support, where they adjust the density of memory foam and the thickness of the coils around the lumbar area to help provide targeted support.
Memory foam
mattresses typically offer a slow sinking feel as the mattress adapts to your body’s shape and weight. They can be excellent at relieving pressure around sensitive joints while supporting the natural curvature of your body to help keep your spine aligned. However, you must find the best firmness for your sleep style and body type to ensure you strike the right balance of sinkage and support. Memory foam is also known for its lack of responsiveness, which may make it more challenging to change positions and move around in bed. Additionally, its dense nature often traps heat, which can be a dealbreaker for overly hot sleepers.
Innerspring
mattresses may be less popular than the above options for helping alleviate pain, but they can be appropriate for some individuals who prefer a firmer, bouncier sleep surface. The coil structure can offer zoned lumbar support and help distribute body weight to maintain proper spinal alignment. These mattresses are excellent at regulating body temperature and preventing overheating, allowing for better airflow. Unfortunately, they may not offer enough pressure relief for some individuals.
See more
mattress types
to find the best fit for you.
Mattresses to avoid if you have back pain
As we’ve learned throughout this article, mattresses aren’t one size fits all, thanks to personal needs and preferences variations. That also applies when determining which mattresses are best to avoid.
When you’re suffering from back pain, you need to find balance between comfort and support, so you’ll want to avoid mattresses that feel too firm or soft. An overly firm mattress can lead to pressure buildup in your back and other sensitive areas. Pain and joint discomfort throughout the night can lead to frequent sleep disruptions. Yet, a mattress that is too soft can be just as problematic. The soft, sinking feeling may feel dreamy at first, but if you’re not well-supported, your spine can sink too deeply and become misaligned.
Other sleep tips to improve chronic pain
A mattress can help improve back pain, but it’s not the only factor to consider when aiming for a restful and restorative night’s sleep.
Sleep position
How you position yourself, also called your sleep posture, can significantly impact how your back and joints feel throughout the night. As with anything else, you should find what feels most comfortable. However, certain sleeping positions can help reduce pain, while others may exacerbate it. The key is to find proper alignment through your head, shoulders, back, and hips to help keep your spine in a neutral position. (
6
)
Back
Sleeping on your back can be one of the best ways to reduce the pressure on your spine as you sleep. (
6
) In this position, your body weight is more evenly distributed to help keep your spine neutral. “Back sleeping for some people is more comfortable and alleviates pressure on the shoulders and hips,” states Dr. Lees. “Often back sleepers are more comfortable with a pillow under their knees to take pressure off their lower back, and {they should} use a slightly thinner pillow that doesn’t push their head too far forward, yet still supports their neck.
Side
Another solid choice for back pain sufferers, sleeping on your side can also help promote proper spinal alignment. “Side sleeping is the most popular sleeping position, and if supported correctly, can be one of the best for preventing back pain,” shares Dr. Lees.
You may need to take a few extra steps in this position to ensure maximum comfort. Experts recommend avoiding the fetal position and stretching out with a slight knee bend. (
6
) Also, placing a pillow between your legs can help align your hips and spine. You’ll also want to switch sides regularly throughout the night to help reduce pressure buildup and imbalances from favoring one side over the other.
Stomach
Unfortunately, sleeping on your stomach may do more harm than good, flattening your spine and forcing you to crank your neck to one side. (
12
) Dr. Lees emphasizes this: “Stomach sleeping can put your spine in awkward positions that can cause twisting and increased pressure on spinal joints.” Slowly training yourself to sleep in a new position or spend less time on your stomach can help reduce pain.
Pillows
Like your mattress, you must find a pillow that balances comfort and support to help align your head, neck, and spine. Your ideal pillow will depend on your sleep position and mattress firmness. Typically, side and back sleepers find more comfort in a thicker pillow, while stomach sleepers need a thinner pillow to reduce the strain on their neck and back. Similarly, you can stick to a thinner pillow when sleeping on a firmer mattress. Conversely, a thicker pillow can help fill the bigger gap created by the sinking allowed by softer mattresses.
You can also use pillows to support other body areas and help ease strain on the spine. Returning to the discussion around sleep position, a pillow between the legs when sleeping on your side or under the knees when lying on your back can help improve sleep posture.
Mattress toppers
If upgrading your mattress isn’t in the cards right now, you might consider a mattress topper as another helpful solution. These can also be an excellent option for further customizing a new mattress to meet your needs.
A mattress topper can be especially helpful in adjusting the firmness level of your sleep surface. It can add cushioning for more pressure relief or make it feel firmer to help provide additional support. Some toppers even have enhanced features incorporating zoned lumbar support to target back pain specifically.
Talk to your doctor
Because back pain can significantly disrupt sleep and impact daily activities, it’s always best to consult a medical professional to discuss what you’re experiencing. Your doctor can provide medical advice and help diagnose any underlying conditions that may be contributing to your pain.
FAQs
Is a firm or soft mattress better for back pain?
While some studies indicate that medium-firm mattresses are most effective at reducing back pain, there isn’t one universal mattress type that can solve everyone’s pain issues. (
2
) Firmness is a subjective measure that varies based on many factors. Your ideal mattress firmness will ultimately depend on your preferences, sleep style, and body type.
What type of mattresses do chiropractors recommend?
The American Chiropractic Association endorses several of the mattresses on our list, including the Saatva RX, Helix Midnight Luxe, and Bear Elite Hybrid. Overall, chiropractors recommend a mattress that balances comfort and support while helping maintain proper spinal alignment. Because there isn’t one standard mattress that will work for everyone, we recommend talking with your medical provider or chiropractor to help determine which one best suits your needs.
Are memory foam mattresses good for back pain?
As memory foam adapts and conforms to your body, it can relieve pressure on your joints and support the natural curve of your spine, which can help reduce back pain. “For most people, memory foam mattresses provide great support and help alleviate pressure points because the pressure is spread out more evenly,” says Dr. Lees. The key is to choose the right firmness level for your sleep position and body type to ensure your mattress offers an ideal balance of support and sinkage.
How do I know if my mattress is causing my back pain?
If you notice new or worsening pain after sleeping, your mattress may be at least contributing to, if not causing, your back pain. Likewise, if you frequently toss and turn throughout the night or notice your mattress is sagging, it may be a sign that your bed isn’t comfortable or supportive enough to help you rest well.
What type of mattress is best for spinal alignment?
Your mattress should adapt well to your body type and sleep position to help maintain proper spinal alignment. Because we all come in different shapes and sizes and have different sleep preferences, no one mattress can provide universal comfort and support. Consider your unique needs when browsing mattress options, and choose one that has a decent sleep trial so you can try it out risk-free.
Our experts
Soma Mandal
Dr. Mandal is a board-certified internist and one of the top physicians in midlife women’s health. She has helped thousands of women navigate aging and reinvent themselves. Her peers have selected her for Castle Connolly Top Docs, New York Top Doctors, Inside Jersey Top Doctors, and Millburn- Short Hills Super Doctors. Dr. Mandal completed an internship and residency at NYU Langone Medical Center and a prestigious research fellowship in evidence-based medicine at the University of Oxford, England. She practices at a thriving practice in Summit Health, New Jersey.
Krista Manning
Krista Manning is an accomplished medical copy editor and fact-checker who stands out in the pharmaceutical, health, and wellness domains. With a meticulous eye for detail and a command of medical language, Krista ensures the accuracy and clarity of content. Beyond her professional expertise, Krista is an advocate for mental health awareness. Recognizing the crucial intersection of psychological and physical well-being, she actively contributes to projects that promote mental health awareness within the healthcare narrative. Krista’s commitment extends beyond the pages she edits, emphasizing the holistic nature of health communication.
Corey Jungwirth, NBC-HWC
Fortune Recommends Staff Writer
About Author
Corey Jungwirth is a National Board Certified Health & Wellness Coach with over 11 years of experience working in health and wellness. Additionally, she has earned certifications as a Behavioral Health Coach and Lifestyle Medicine Coach. For over five years, Corey has enjoyed combining her wellness knowledge with her passion for writing. When she’s not writing about it, Corey enjoys engaging in her own health by running, taking Peloton classes, and playing soccer and volleyball. She also enjoys spending time with her family, reading, and being outdoors as often as possible. Corey lives in a cozy home in the woods in Wisconsin with her two kids, husband, and dog, Kona.
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