Written by Julia Forbes, Lead Product Tester
Many orthopedic mattresses are available on the market, making it overwhelming to know which one is right for you. Some mattresses are made from memory foam, while others feature pocketed coils or natural latex. You can also opt for added features like cooling technology or even adjustable firmness levels.
Each type of mattress offers different levels of support and comfort, making it essential to understand the options available before making a purchase. By taking the time to explore the variety of orthopedic mattresses on the market, you can make an informed decision and invest in a bed that will provide you with the rest you deserve.
Best Orthopedic Mattresses
- Nectar – Editor’s Pick
- Saatva Classic – Best Orthopedic Mattress for Back Pain
- Helix Midnight – Best Orthopedic Mattress for Pressure Relief
- DreamCloud Premier – Best Hybrid Orthopedic Mattress
- WinkBed – Best Orthopedic Mattress for Couples
- Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid – Best Orthopedic Mattress for Back Sleepers
- Nolah Signature – Best Orthopedic Mattress for Side Sleepers
- Bear Original – Best Orthopedic Mattress for Athletes
- Titan Plus – Best Orthopedic Mattress for Heavyweight Sleepers
- Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid – Best Orthopedic Mattress for Hot Sleepers
Dr. Raj Talks What to Look for in an Orthopedic Mattress
Compare the Best Orthopedic Mattresses
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| Nectar Mattress | Saatva Mattress | Helix Midnight Mattress | DreamCloud Premier Mattress | WinkBed Mattress | Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid | Nolah Signature 12″ Mattress | Bear Original Mattress | Titan Plus | Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress | |
| Rating | ||||||||||
| Firmness | Firm: 7.5/10 | Multiple firmness options | Medium-firm: 6/10 | Medium: 5.5/10 | Multiple firmness options | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Medium-firm: 6/10 | Firm: 7/10 | Firm: 8/10 | Multiple firmness options |
| Material | Foam | Innerspring | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Foam | Foam | Hybrid | Hybrid |
| Cooling | — | — | — | — | — | — | ||||
| Warranty | Lifetime warranty | Lifetime warranty | 10-year warranty | Lifetime warranty | Lifetime warranty | Lifetime warranty | Lifetime warranty | Lifetime warranty | 10-year warranty | 10-year warranty |
| Shipping | Free shipping | Free white glove delivery | Free shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping | Free white glove delivery | Free shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping |
| Trial Period | 365 nights | 365 nights | 100 nights | 365 nights | 120 nights | 365 Nights | 120 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights |
| Best For | Back Sleepers, Back Pain, Stomach Sleepers, Side Sleepers, Couples | Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Hot Sleepers, Seniors | Couples, Back Sleepers, Side Sleepers | Back Sleepers, Hot Sleepers | Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Hot Sleepers, Side Sleepers, Hip Pain, Seniors | Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers | Side Sleepers, Back Pain | Hot Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Side Sleepers, Hip Pain | Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Hip Pain, Seniors | Couples, Back Sleepers, Hip Pain |
How We Test the Best Orthopedic Mattresses
At Sleep Advisor, our mattress reviews are based on our findings from mattress tests that we do in-person—so you can rest assured knowing every mattress we recommend has been touched and laid on by a member of our diverse testing team.
We evaluate mattress performance for back, side, and stomach sleeping—for sleepers of all shapes and sizes. We look at a variety of performance categories, but we focused on a select few that are most important for orthopedic beds. More on that below!
What We Want to See in the Best Orthopedic Mattresses
A lot goes into a good orthopedic mattress, but here’s what we prioritize in our testing:
Cradling and Cushioning
Those with orthopedic concerns want to make sure that any sensitive areas are protected from pressure buildup, which can exacerbate any existing issues. These mattresses should feature a contouring top, usually some type of foam, that conforms to your body’s unique shape.
Spinal Alignment
Alongside softness to keep joints cushioned, it’s important to have a bed that properly supports you and keeps your spine in a comfortable position. The ideal mattress will have just the right amount of lift and give so your spine remains neutral and relatively straight, without causing undue stress.
Pain Relief
The combination of the two points above also contributes to perhaps the most important factor of an orthopedic mattress: the bed’s ability to relieve pain—whether it’s by offering pressure relief or providing support in the proper areas. We evaluate which beds are best for pain relief in relation to your sleeping position, body type, and where the pain might be centralized.
Our Best Orthopedic Mattress Picks
Nectar – Editor’s Pick
The Advisor Says: We believe that Nectar offers a quality bed backed up by generous policies, and for under $1,000 for a queen (after discounts). If you’re looking for a firmer foam mattress on a budget, the Nectar Classic has you covered.
Saatva Classic – Best Orthopedic Mattress for Back Pain
The Advisor Says: The Saatva Classic is the gold standard for lower-back support, strong edges, and customizable luxury. It’s not the softest or most motion-isolating bed out there, but it’s a dependable, bouncy hybrid that consistently impresses our testers with its two coil units.
Why the Saatva Classic Earned Best Orthopedic Mattress for Back Pain
The Saatva Classic is one of my favorite beds to recommend for back pain, as its signature construction focuses on healthy spinal alignment and lumbar support.
Its two coil units plus proprietary Lumbar Zone® Technology work to prevent pressure buildup while keeping you pleasantly aloft. The Classic was also awarded a seal of approval from chiropractors, making it a strong choice for those with general orthopedic needs.
What’s the Saatva Classic Made Of?
Each Saatva Classic begins with a 3-inch Euro pillow top. Covered by organic cotton, this plush comfort layer consists of soft foams, but tightens up slightly around the middle to better lift your lumbar spine.
Underneath is a layer of high-density memory foam that takes up the same middle region of the bed. It’s meant to combine pressure relief with additional targeted lumbar support.
Next is the first of the Classic’s two coil units: a zoned layer of pocketed coils that provide extra pushback in the bed’s center third (again, directly under the lumbar area.) It’s backed up by a second coil unit, wherein the springs are interconnected and augmented by a Lumbar Zone® Active Spinal Wire. This wire—you guessed it—borders the lumbar region for even more lift.
This bed comes in two heights: 11.5 or 14.5 inches. You can also choose between a Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, or Firm feel.
My Take: The Saatva Classic is a standout when it comes to preventing back pain, since it’s designed with lumbar support in mind. You can find specialized lower back support added into plenty of layers in the mattress, fromits pillow top to its dual coil units.
Customer Reviews of the Saatva Classic
The Saatva Classic rates 4.8 stars out of 5 on Saatva’s website. One negative aspect customers found with the Saatva Classic mattress is that it may feel too firm for some users, while a notable advantage is its high-quality materials, providing durability and support.
To learn more about the Saatva, check out our Saatva Classic mattress review. To explore more beds built for achy backs, read our list of the best mattresses for back pain.
Helix Midnight – Best Orthopedic Mattress for Pressure Relief
The Advisor Says: The Midnight has one of the most impressive score spreads of all the mattresses we’ve reviewed. The best word to describe it is “balanced”: it’s got pressure relief, support, and cooling power in spades, plus a versatile medium-firm feel that tends to satisfy lots of sleepers.
DreamCloud Premier – Best Hybrid Orthopedic Mattress
The Advisor Says: Its fancy quilted cover and generous foam layers make the DreamCloud Premier a slightly softer bed than the original DreamCloud. But, it still skews firm for a hybrid, so it’s best for back and side sleepers who like an initial bit of cushion followed by lots of lift.
WinkBed – Best Orthopedic Mattress for Couples
The Advisor Says: Our testers often compare the WinkBed to a luxury hotel mattress, which is no surprise given its handcrafted touches and elegant hybrid design. It’s also one of the most customizable beds out there, with a firmness level for every body type.
Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid – Best Orthopedic Mattress for Back Sleepers
The Advisor Says: Saatva’s Memory Foam Hybrid combines the best of both words: soft, pressure-relieving foam and sturdy, supportive coils into one mattress. We recommend this hybrid for luxury shoppers wanting a medium-firm bed with plenty of bounce. Bonus points if you sleep on your back or with a partner.
Nolah Signature – Best Orthopedic Mattress for Side Sleepers
The Advisor Says: We recommend the Nolah Signature for sleepers looking for a foam bed that has a soft but accommodating firmness. It also runs cooler than most foam beds, and has enough pressure relief to cradle sensitive joints.
Bear Original – Best Orthopedic Mattress for Athletes
The Advisor Says: With a name that inspires hibernation, it’s no surprise we found the Bear Original to be an attractive all-foam mattress at its fair price. It’s got a firmer feel that’s sure to please folks looking for support—and a surprising amount of bounce.
Titan Plus – Best Orthopedic Mattress for Heavyweight Sleepers
The Advisor Says: Brooklyn Bedding created the Titan Plus to cater to heavier shoppers looking for a bed that truly met their needs, and we believe they’ve delivered. Consider buying the Titan Plus if you’re looking for a comfortably supportive mattress with added benefits like cooling and bounce.
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid – Best Orthopedic Mattress for Hot Sleepers
The Advisor Says: For shoppers on a budget, the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid is one of the top hybrids we recommend. It’s simultaneously soft and bouncy, with three firmness options and decent cooling power.
Why the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Earned Best Orthopedic Mattress for Hot Sleepers
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid has multiple features that keep it cool. First, TitaniumGel™ infused into the TitanFlex™ foam minimizes heat retention. The coil layer also increases airflow, which helps the bed stay breezy. Brooklyn Bedding also provides the option to add a GlacioTex™ cooling cover for extra-hot sleepers.
The Signature Hybrid is also available in three different firmness levels, allowing customers to choose the level of support that best meets their needs. This is particularly important for people with orthopedic concerns, who may require a firmer or softer mattress to properly support their spine and alleviate tension from pressure points.
What’s the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Made Of?
The Signature Hybrid mattress from Brooklyn Bedding features a five-layered construction and stands 12.5 inches tall. You can buy it in a Soft, Medium, or Firm feel.
The first two layers beneath the breathable quilted top are proprietary foams: a Supreme Response comfort layer for immediate bounce-back and a VariFlex™ layer to prevent sinkage and transition into the coil layer below. The innerspring unit consists of individually wrapped coils, designed to deliver excellent support for proper spinal alignment. More Ascension® coils line the perimeter for stronger edges.
Finally, the base layer is made from high-density foam, which adds durability and even more support to the mattress.
Our Take: “Because [the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid] is so responsive, adjusting positions is super easy. Plus, with the supportive yet comfortable feel, this bed is super versatile for all sleeping positions.” – Emma, Sleep Advisor Mattress Tester
Customer Reviews of the Signature Hybrid
On Brooklyn Bedding’s website, the Brooklyn Signature has 4.7 out of 5 stars. The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid mattress receives praise from customers for its versatility with different firmness options, but some have mentioned that it may produce slight noise when bearing weight.
To learn more about the Signature Hybrid, check out our Signature Hybrid mattress review. For more beds that help hot sleepers, read our roundup of the best cooling mattresses.
What We Test to Find the Best Orthopedic Mattresses
When you are shopping for an orthopedic mattress, you will want to take note of beds that have been constructed to provide gentle cradling to your joints and spine. These mattresses should also have a sturdy foundation that promotes spinal stability and alignment. Good orthopedic mattresses often combine a supportive base with pressure-relieving foam or latex.
What is an Orthopedic Mattress?
Simply put, an orthopedic mattress is a mattress that addresses orthopedic concerns. So, orthopedic mattresses can come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and there’s no one-size-fits-all option, since every sleeper has different experiences and preferences. Generally, though, these beds will offer a steady balance of softness and support. They should keep your spine in alignment to prevent pressure buildup and pain, while also cushioning joints and other sensitive areas. This can be done with foams, springs, latex, air chambers, or any combination of the four!
Best Orthopedic Mattress Type
Innerspring Mattresses
Innerspring mattresses feature a traditional design, constructed with coils that are used to support sleepers, often with thin comfort layers on the top. When it comes to an innerspring mattress that will help with orthopedic aches and pains, those with supportive coils can help keep your spine neutral. However, traditional innerspring beds usually don’t have thicker foam layers to help with pressure relief, which is why they may not be the best choice here.
Hybrid Mattresses
Beds that combine innerspring coils with thick upper layers of memory foam, latex, or poly foam are known as hybrid mattresses. These beds are a great solution for those who like innerspring mattresses but worry about their lack of pressure relief.
If you are looking for an orthopedic hybrid mattress, it is important to find one that has an upper layer that is soft enough to provide pressure relief for your shoulders, hips, and lower back, combined with a base that will promote spinal support.
Memory Foam Mattresses
Memory foam mattresses are made with a specialized material that contours to your body, providing a cradling, hug-like feel. This offers excellent pressure relief due to their contouring nature, which can help cushion sensitive joints for those with orthopedic concerns.
It’s also important to make sure that an orthopedic bed not only gives you great pressure relief but also balances this out with support that keeps your spine in a healthy alignment. So make sure those cushy layers are backed up by a dense support core.
Latex Mattresses
Latex mattresses are also great for pressure relief, offering a slightly different feel from memory foam, though. While memory foam is more slow-moving, latex is quick-responding to movement, which is great because this can make it easier to change positions. Both of which should be helpful for folks seeking pain relief from orthopedic issues.
Though latex beds are highly durable, they do come at a higher price point. That said, this durability may be worth it for shoppers who want longevity in their orthopedic bed.
Sleeping Position
If you are a back sleeper, you’ll want to look at mattresses that are going to evenly distribute your weight, giving you both spinal support and pressure-relieving comfort. With side sleepers, these folks need to make sure they’re looking at beds that excel at pressure relief.
This is because the weight is concentrated in the hip and shoulder when you are lying on your side.
Stomach sleepers need to ensure their mattress keeps their hips level with the rest of their body. If a mattress isn’t supportive enough to do this, they could wind up arching their lower back too much, which could result in pain (or worsen existing pain). Lastly, combination sleepers should look at mattresses that are adaptable for multiple sleep positions for both support and pressure relief, along with beds that foster easier repositioning.
Weight/Body Type of Sleepers
Your body weight is a major consideration when finding the best orthopedic mattress because it can impact how a bed accommodates your needs.
Usually, average-weight people are a great fit for beds with a medium or medium-firm feel, though some folks who are stomach sleepers, for instance, may prefer something slightly firmer. should look for a bed that has a medium to medium-firm feel.
Lightweight sleepers feel beds as more firm because they don’t sink in as much. As such, they are typically better off with soft to medium mattresses, depending on their sleep position. Softer beds allow petite sleepers to still experience quality pressure relief, especially for side sleeping. Heavyweight sleepers, which are considered those above 230 pounds, typically find better comfort on highly supportive, firmer mattresses that help ensure they don’t bottom out.
Support and Firmness
Support refers to how well your body is supported, whereas firmness reflects how soft or hard the bed feels. For great support, you want to check that the bed has a strong support system of either high-density foams or innerspring coils.
As mentioned, side sleepers tend to prefer softer mattresses that provide more gentle support to the shoulder and hip areas. A firmer mattress can put uncomfortable pressure on these regions for side sleepers, especially if you’re lighter in weight.
Stomach and back sleepers often appreciate a more firm and supportive mattress due to how this helps support spinal alignment in these positions. Additionally, heavier people typically like firmer models since they often have more robust support. Having the right mattress firmness is essential for orthopedic concerns, as a bed that’s too firm or too soft will lead to an improperly aligned spine, uncomfortable sinkage, or unwanted pressure buildup.
How do we determine firmness? Most mattress companies provide a firmness rating with their beds, usually from 1-10. In our testing studio, we evaluate and determine a bed’s firmness using our own firmness scale and criteria. On our scale, 1 is as soft as a cloud, and 10 is like sleeping on a rock. Folks generally tend to prefer mattresses in the middle of the range; it’s rare to see a bed that’s at either end of the scale. How firm a mattress feels is a mix of how supportive and pressure-relieving the bed is, alongside personal preference and individual factors–such as your weight and size. We consider all of these before we dub a bed “soft” (3-4), “medium” (5-6), or “firm” (7-8).
What is Spinal Alignment?
You’ve heard us mention it a lot, but spinal alignment is crucial when it comes to orthopedic mattresses. A properly aligned spine is relatively straight, without any egregious dips or lifts that might make it curve at an uncomfortable angle. A mattress that’s too soft or too firm can throw your spine out of alignment and cause pain. So, you want to find a bed that keeps you lifted while also allowing for comfortable sinkage in areas like the shoulders or hips, depending on what sleeping position you prefer.
Cooling
Keeping your body temperature regulated throughout the night may help you sleep better because a lower body temperature can stimulate melatonin production, a hormone that promotes sleep.1 This is helpful for those with muscle and joint pain because when you sleep well, this reduces your sensitivity to pain.2
The coils in innerspring and hybrid mattresses and the open cell design of latex are excellent for air circulation. Additionally, many brands include other naturally temperature-regulating materials like cotton or TENCEL™.
Memory foam has a reputation for sleeping hot, but many newer iterations of these beds include gel-infused foam or advanced cooling covers.
How do we test cooling? Pictured above are the temperature guns we use to quantitatively measure a bed’s ability to regulate temperature. We take the bed’s surface temperature at multiple intervals: an initial reading before anyone lies on it, a reading after lying on it for five minutes, and five minutes after someone has laid down on it. The change (or lack thereof) in temperature allows us to have some physical proof beyond our experience. The best cooling beds maintain a temperature within 5 degrees Fahrenheit of the first reading.
Motion Isolation
Couples sharing a bed may be particularly interested in mattresses with motion isolation, even more so if you or your partner deal with orthopedic aches. Motion isolation means that movement on one side of the bed doesn’t make its way over to other areas. If your mattress doesn’t adequately absorb your partner’s movements, not only could it wake you, but it could also exacerbate your discomfort.
Memory foam beds are known for their motion-isolating properties, as well as many hybrids containing memory foam, particularly those that utilize individually wrapped coils.
Sex
Those who have orthopedic issues but are still sexually active often find that beds with lots of bounce and responsiveness make intimacy more enjoyable. This is because these beds are able to respond quicker to movement, keeping sleepers from feeling ‘stuck’ in a mattress.
Latex and latex hybrid mattresses can offer great pressure relief and support for orthopedic issues while maintaining great responsiveness for movement during sex.
Pressure Relief and Contouring
Another key component when shopping for an orthopedic mattress is pressure relief. Orthopedic beds typically provide pressure relief through top comfort layers from materials like memory foam or latex, which can conform the sleeper’s shape to cradle the joints and mitigate pressure buildup. This combination works to safely cushion areas prone to pain.
How do we test for pressure relief? We use what’s called a pressure map to get a super technical reading of pressure buildup. We have our testers in each weight category lie in different positions on top of the mattress, and the map records pressure in each area. It’s color coded to make it easy: blue and green means little to no pressure, whereas red and yellow mean a noticeable amount has built up. We’re able to spot a mattress’s potential weak points with this map and our own experience.
Edge Support
Orthopedic mattresses often provide good edge support when they’re designed with a strong perimeter, which helps prevent sagging when you sit or sleep near the edge of the bed. Folks with orthopedic concerns may have conditions or pain that makes it harder to get in and out of bed; strong edges also make that an easier process.
Edge support is typically provided by either high-density foams along the perimeter or reinforced coils.
How do we test edge support? We perform two simple tests to determine how strong a bed’s edges feel. First, we’ll have a tester sit and tie their shoes at the edge of the bed. Then, we’ll have them lie down for a minute. In both positions, we’ll be able to gauge the amount of sinkage witnessed, as well as how “secure” we feel near the perimeter of the bed. From there, we can make our judgment about how reliable the edges seem.
Certifications or Endorsements
Some orthopedic mattresses may include certifications from organizations such as CertiPUR-US® or OEKO-TEX®, which indicate that the materials used in the mattress meet strict standards for safety and environmental responsibility. Additionally, endorsements from medical organizations or groups like the American Chiropractic Association may provide additional reassurance for consumers.
Trial and Warranty
The types of warranties that are normally included with an orthopedic mattress vary depending on the manufacturer but typically include a limited warranty ranging from 10-25 years, though some brands offer lifetime deals as well.
Warranties usually cover defects in materials and workmanship. They may also have a prorated period during which the manufacturer will repair or replace the mattress at a reduced cost to the customer. Some warranties may also include specific guarantees related to certain features, such as pressure relief or motion isolation.
Budget
When shopping for a bed on a budget, you want to make sure you’re sacrificing comfort and support for a cheaper price tag. Orthopedic mattresses can be more expensive, but shopping online directly from manufacturers has helped bring down overhead costs we would usually see in traditional brick-and-mortar stores.
Another tip could be to go down a size if possible. For example, couples could purchase a Queen size rather than a King or California King to help them save on a new orthopedic bed. Also, shopping during holiday sales can save you big bucks.
Durability
Folks looking for an orthopedic mattress should also consider how long it’s going to last. There’s nothing more annoying than a sagging mattress when you’re trying to sleep pain-free, and the best beds that won’t sag are often those made with high-quality materials. Springs tend to be a good choice as they can bring industrial support. Latex can provide the soothing pressure relief of memory foam without leaving indentations. If you’re set on a foam bed, make sure it’s made of quality foams, has a dense support core, and boasts a long warranty to back up its longevity.
Speak With Your Doctor
Before buying an orthopedic mattress, we suggest discussing your options with your doctor. Everyone’s needs are unique, and they can address any specific medical conditions and talk to you about what might work for your individual needs. Ultimately, you want to ensure that you make an informed decision and invest in a mattress that will promote better sleep and overall health.
What Causes Back and Joint Pain?
Many people are affected with joint and back pain — the latter being one of the most common health issues in the United States.3
The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Diseases points to the following reasons why people develop back and join pain:3
- Weight gain and inactive lifestyle – Those who are overweight and don’t exercise regularly are at an increased risk of developing back and joint pain. Extra weight can put stress on the back and a lack of core strength can lead to spinal instability.
- Heavy lifting – Jobs or activities that require repeated heavy lifting or twisting can cause back and joint pain.
- Poor posture – If you spend hours working at a desk it may cause bad posture which can lead to back pain.
- Heredity and age – Back pain and joint pain become more common as you age, particularly after 45. Genetics may also mean that a disorder that causes back pain has been passed down to you.
- Spinal mechanical/structural problems – Problems with the structure or mechanics of your spine can create back pain. Some of these issues include sprains, herniated discs, fractured vertebrae, scoliosis, and spinal stenosis.
- Arthritis – Inflammatory conditions such as Ankylosing spondylitis, a specific type of spinal arthritis, can cause back pain. Additionally, other forms of arthritis can create painful joints.
- Temporary medical conditions – Temporary conditions like pregnancy and kidney stones may cause back and joint pain.
- Long-term medical conditions – Additionally, long-term medical conditions like endometriosis and fibromyalgia may cause people to feel back and joint pain.
How Can a Mattress Help with Back and Joint Pain?
- Enhanced support: Orthopedic mattresses can provide enhanced support to the body’s natural curves, reducing the risk of back pain.
- Alleviate pressure points: These mattresses help to alleviate pressure points, reducing the likelihood of developing painful conditions such as joint pain or arthritis.
- Better sleep quality: Orthopedic mattresses may improve sleep quality by minimizing pain and discomfort, making it easier to sleep soundly.
- Long-term use: Orthopedic mattresses are typically made from high-quality materials for better durability and longevity.
Explore: Best Pressure Relief Mattress and Best Mattress for Arthritis
Disadvantages of an Orthopedic Mattress
- Price: Orthopedic mattresses may be more expensive due to the specialized materials and construction required.
- Break-in period: These mattresses may take some time to break in and become comfortable, especially if they are made from materials such as memory foam.
- Can be harder to differentiate: Not all mattresses advertised as orthopedic beds are truly orthopedic. Plus, each person’s orthopedic needs can greatly vary, so it’s important to do your research and consult your doctor to help you choose the right bed for your needs.
What Is the Best Sleeping Position for Back and Joint Pain?
Back Sleeping
Sleeping on your back can be an excellent way to alleviate back pain.4 If this is your preferred way to sleep or if you want to try it for relief, it is best to sleep on a mattress that will keep your spine aligned and still provide some pressure relief.
Using a medium-loft pillow should also ensure a healthy neck alignment with the rest of your spine. Also, placing a pillow under your knees can help ease pressure on your lower back.
Side Sleeping
Rather than side sleeping in the fetal position with your legs bent up, experts advise keeping your legs straight to more evenly distribute your body weight.4 Additionally, you can try adding a pillow between your legs when you’re sleeping on your side to further enhance your body alignment.
Combination Sleeping
It can be difficult to find consistent comfort if you’re experiencing back and joint pain, so even if you’re not naturally a combination sleeper, you may find yourself frequently adjusting to get comfortable. Combination sleepers will want a mattress that’s going to give them good support and pressure relief in multiple positions. However, they should also look at responsive beds that will make it easier to reposition during the night so they don’t aggravate their pain.
Stomach Sleeping
Stomach sleeping is considered the worst position to sleep in for pain because of its impact on the spine.4 This is because it puts a lot of strain on your lower back and neck. However, if you find it difficult to sleep on your back or side, there are measures you can take to improve your posture while on your stomach.
First, ensure you have a firmer mattress that will keep your midsection elevated so your lower back doesn’t curve. Also, use a flat pillow under your head (or no pillow at all) so that you don’t put too much strain on your neck.
Tips for Better Sleeping with Chronic Pain
- Experiment with different sleep positions: Try different sleep positions such as lying on your back with a pillow under your knees or lying on your side with a pillow between your legs. Find a position that is comfortable and reduces pressure on the affected area.
- Invest in a supportive mattress and pillow: An orthopedic mattress and pillow can provide the necessary support to keep your spine aligned and reduce pressure on your joints.
- Incorporate relaxation techniques: Practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or progressive muscle relaxation could help reduce stress and promote relaxation, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.
- Practice good sleep hygiene: Many people can get better sleep by incorporating good sleep hygiene into their daily routine. Good sleep hygiene refers to habits aimed at facilitating better sleep. These can include a regular bedtime and wake-up time, sleeping in a cool, dark, and quiet room, and having a relaxing nightly routine before bed.
Compare Prices of Orthopedic Mattresses
| Mattress | Price (Queen Size) | Pressure Relief | Support | Motion Isolation | Cooling | Bounce | Edge Support | Couples |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nectar | $999 | 4.5 | 4 | 5 | 2.5 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Saatva Classic | $1,995 | 4 | 5 | 2 | 4 | 4 | 5 | 4 |
| Helix Midnight | $1,199 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 3 | 3.5 | 2 | 3 |
| DreamCloud Premier | $1,832 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 3.5 | 3.5 | 4.5 | 3.5 | 3 |
| WinkBed | $1,799 | 4 | 5 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 4.5 | 4 |
| Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid | $1,795 | 4 | 5 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 4 | 5 |
| Nolah Signature | $1,599 | 5 | 5 | 3.5 | 3 | 2.5 | 4.5 | 3 |
| Bear Original | $999 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 3 | 3 | 4 | 3 | 3.5 |
| Titan Plus | $1,249 | 4 | 5 | 5 | 4 | 4 | 5 | 5 |
| Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid | $1,249 | 4 | 5 | 5 | 4 | 4 | 5 | 5 |
Best Orthopedic Mattress FAQs
What is the best orthopedic mattress?
There is no one “best” orthopedic mattress that will work for everyone, as individual preferences and needs can vary greatly. However, some common features to look for in a high-quality orthopedic mattress include specialized materials such as memory foam or latex, zoned support systems, and multi-layer construction. It’s also important to choose a mattress that offers proper spinal alignment, reduces pressure points, and promotes even weight distribution for maximum support and comfort.
Should orthopedic mattresses be firm or soft?
The ideal firmness level of an orthopedic mattress will depend on individual preferences and needs, but generally speaking, many orthopedic mattresses have a medium or medium-firm feel that provides a balance of support and pressure relief. However, it’s important to note that firmness is also subjective. For example, one bed may feel firmer to a lightweight person than it would to a heavyweight person.
What orthopedic mattresses do doctors recommend?
Doctors may recommend different types of orthopedic mattresses depending on an individual’s specific needs. As such, we advise talking with your primary care doctor, who will have a more thorough understanding of your orthopedic issues, which can help you determine the orthopedic mattress that would be best for you.
What are orthopedic mattresses made from?
Orthopedic mattresses can be made from a variety of materials, but commonly used materials include memory foam, latex, high-density poly foam, and innerspring coils. Many orthopedic beds use a combination of these materials in order to provide better support and overall comfort.
How much does an orthopedic mattress cost?
The cost of an orthopedic mattress can vary depending on factors such as the size of the mattress, the materials used, and the brand. On average, a high-quality orthopedic mattress may be around at least 1,000 dollars for a Queen size. While very low-budget beds might seem appealing at first glance, it’s also important to consider the long-term benefits of investing in a high-quality orthopedic mattress, as improved sleep comfort and reduced orthopedic issues can lead to better overall health and well-being.
Where can I buy an orthopedic mattress?
Orthopedic mattresses can be purchased from a variety of retailers, including mattress stores, department stores, and online retailers. It’s important to do your research and read reviews before purchasing an orthopedic mattress, as the quality and effectiveness can vary depending on the brand and materials used. Additionally, be sure to check the retailer’s return and warranty policies before making a purchase.
How do you find peaceful sleep with chronic pain?
Chronic pain is bothersome to deal with, and sleep should be a time for rejuvenation, but that’s not always the case. There’s a chance your pain might be exacerbated by an ill-suited mattress. It’s important to find a bed that works best for you, based on your individual needs and preferences. For folks with orthopedic concerns, find a bed that relieves pressure while keeping you properly supported. If you can’t afford a whole new bed, you can enhance your sleep experience with a mattress topper or invest in pillows that comfortably fit your sleeping position.
Other ways might be to enhance relaxation before bedtime. Try to practice good sleep hygiene: implementing practices like keeping the room dark, cool, and stress-free.
If your pain isn’t helped by your own self-care habits, it’s important to speak with your healthcare provider about other options.
Julia Forbes
Lead Product Tester
About Author
Julia is the Lead Reviewer at Sleep Advisor, specializing in testing out mattresses and sleep accessories – she’s in the right line of work, because she loves to sleep.
Stomach Sleeper
References:
- Xu, Xiaoying., et al. “Association of Melatonin Production with Seasonal Changes, Low Temperature, and Immuno-Responses in Hamsters”. National Library of Medicine. 2018.
- Torp Staffe, Alexander., et al. “Total sleep deprivation increases pain sensitivity, impairs conditioned pain modulation and facilitates temporal summation of pain in healthy participants”. National Library of Medicine. 2019.
- “Back Pain”. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. Webpage accessed October 27, 2023.
- “The Best — and Worst — Sleep Positions for Back Pain”. Keck Medicine of USC. Last modified August 12, 2022.