Are you tired of waking up every morning with back pain or joint ache? I know I was.
That’s when I started looking into orthopedic mattresses, and sleeping on one has helped me to get some well-deserved sleep. Sleep is the foundation of a better quality of life, and selecting a good mattress can make all the difference. Chiropractors and medical practitioners often recommend orthopedic mattresses to treat various musculoskeletal issues, and I can see why.
These mattresses are designed to provide targeted support to pressure zones of your body, helping to alleviate discomfort in the shoulders, neck, joints, pelvis, back, and hips.
But then, how do you know if the mattress you buy is orthopedic? That’s a question that bothered me when I was shopping for one.
I wanted to invest in a mattress which would genuinely reduce my body aches and improve my sleep health. If you’re in the same fix as me, read this article.
Here I have detailed everything about orthopedic mattresses and provided a curated list of chiropractor-recommended mattresses with their key features, pros and cons. If you have some time to spare head to our Mattress Review section, to gain better understanding of these mattresses.
Now you don’t have to be overwhelmed by an abundance of choices. Instead wake up feeling refreshed as you catch up on your well-deserved Zzzzs!
Orthopedic mattresses emerged in the late 1950s as a product of extensive research into bone and joint functionality. Following rigorous testing, numerous mattress manufacturers created specialized products designed to address the discomfort experienced by individuals dealing with joint pain and back pain due to their mattress choice.
Chiropractors and medical practitioners recommend an orthopedic mattress to treat pain in your joints, back, and the entire body. It is also helpful to treat abnormalities of the spine and posture. These mattresses are usually firm with targeted, customized support. Orthopedic mattresses work by adjusting the alignment of your spinal cord and rehabilitating joint problems and other ailments.
There’s no strict, set definition for what makes a mattress ‘orthopedic,’ but they’ve become well-known because of continuous advancements and enhancements. Furthermore, these beds and orthopedic mattresses are now being manufactured by all reputable mattress companies. The mattresses are of specific types, with each type promoting unique features. These are detailed below.
1. Open Spring Mattress
Generally, they are called open coil or continuous coil mattresses. These mattresses have a network of interconnected coil springs, which form the core support structure. Coil springs are made from tempered steel wire and are attached to a wire frame, creating rows of springs.
A border wire is usually added around the mattress to provide edge support and maintain the mattress’s shape. On top of the spring system, layers of padding, foam, or other materials are added for comfort and support.
The best feature of such mattresses is that they are significantly inexpensive. They are lightweight and mobile and can easily move from one location to another.
However, it has one major drawback: these mattresses are not long-lasting or durable, and metal springs also lose their support quickly.
2. Pocket Spring Mattress
Pocket spring mattresses offer individualized support by using separate springs encased in fabric pockets. This design allows each spring to react independently to your body’s contours, reducing motion transfer and providing better support for different sleeping positions. These mattresses are known for their comfort and longevity.
One drawback of pocket spring bed and orthopedic mattresses is their cost, as they tend to be more expensive than traditional innerspring mattresses. Additionally, they may lack the durability of other premium options like memory foam or latex mattresses. The individual pocketed springs can also sometimes create pressure points if not designed properly.
3. Memory Foam Mattress
In recent years, this mattress has grown significantly in popularity. Since it is made from foam, it effortlessly adapts to your body’s shape. Memory foam cradles all your pressure points and joints and relieves pain. It ensures that your body is optimally aligned. As a result, it is best suited for individuals who suffer from joint and back pain. Memory foam absorbs motion and fairs well in its motion isolation abilities.
However, many dislike the sinking sensation of memory foam. Moreover, it retains body heat, making it uncomfortable for hot sleepers. Many manufacturers have come up with newly-researched versions of cooling gel memory foam mattresses which prevent heat buildup and keep the mattress surface cool.
Gain clarity on Memory Foam mattresses. Read our mattress guide.
4. Gel Mattress
Gel mattresses are quite similar to memory foam. The foam, laced with gel, makes it both supportive and moldable. Gel also helps in keeping the mattress cool.
We have a curated list of popular cooling gel memory foam mattresses in the industry. If you draw an interest in this subject, give it a read.
5. Latex Mattress
Latex is a great material for the preparation of mattresses. It is a naturally hypoallergenic and very breathable substance, which is both long-lasting and durable. Aerated latex is used to create foam that adapts to your body’s contour and delivers orthopedic support. Moreover, a latex mattress is a smart investment as they highly durable mattresses.
The downside of latex mattresses is that it is difficult to move and reposition due to its weight and thickness.
Wondering how to choose the right mattress that is also durable? Read more about durability of different types of mattresses.
6. Hybrid Mattress
Hybrid mattresses are a suitable choice when it you consider its value for money. A hybrid mattress is a combination of two types of mattresses that offers the benefits of each. They usually have an innerspring and a foam substance combined to provide optimum spinal support and pressure relief to your joints. They are crafted to provide support and comfort and thereby make the finest orthopedic mattresses.
However, one drawback of hybrid mattresses is that they can be relatively expensive compared to traditional innerspring or foam mattresses. In today’s competitive mattress market, the wide variety of bedding options can make it challenging to find the perfect mattress that truly caters to your unique needs.
To make your decision easier, I’ve compiled a list of the top orthopedic mattresses available. Keep reading to find your ideal match.
Explore our thoughtfully selected compilation of the top orthopedic mattresses as recommended by chiropractors.
Best Orthopedic Mattress for Side Sleepers
Helix Midnight strikes a good balance between comfort and support, making it ideal for side sleepers. The Helix Midnight could be the appropriate mattress for you if you are looking for a supportive orthopedic mattress. On top of that, a memory foam layer will help ease pressure on your pressure zones – shoulders, neck, hips and pelvis. At the same time, the coils support your body by maintaining a good alignment.
The top layer gives a memory foam feel to it, which is relaxing. This is a desired orthopedic mattress in Queen, King, Full, Twin XL, Twin and Cal King sizes. Further a Luxe version of Helix Midnight is also available, which provides extra comfort and cooling.
Key Features
Pros
Cons
Learn More About Helix Midnight Mattress From Our Comprehensive Mattress Review.
Grab The Best Deals On Helix Mattresses this Black Friday!
Best Overall
Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid mattress balances comfort and support through its combination of coils and gel memory foam. This mattress has a medium level firmness and is recommended by chiropractors for specific sleeper types, particularly back sleepers and stomach sleepers.
This mattress is ideally suitable for individuals who predominantly sleep on their backs, delivering an optimal balance of soft contouring and support. It accommodates both lightweight and average weight individuals who are back sleepers.
Additionally, Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid mattress caters to the needs of lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers, ensuring a well-rested and rejuvenated awakening. Whether you prefer sleeping on your back or stomach, this mattress is designed to enhance your sleep quality and overall well-being.
Key Features
Pros
Cons
Curious To Learn More About Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid? Read Our Detailed Mattress Review!
Best in Pressure Relief
Brooklyn Bedding Sedona is a budget-friendly luxury mattress that is designed to provide pressure relief. The mattress keeps your shoulder and hip well supported and is a comfortable option for side sleepers. In addition, if you have shoulder pain, a balanced combination of memory foam and coils provide relief from sores and sharp pains. Four comfort layers of memory foam add up to 5-inch, giving you excellent relief on those pressure points.
The 8-inch thick coil layers help prevent sinking feeling of all-foam mattresses. Thus, Sedona balances comfort and support pretty well and is a desired orthopedic mattress. Now, let’s get into the pros and cons of Sedona as an orthopedic mattress.
Key Features
Pros
Cons
Best for Posture & Spinal Alignment
It is a hybrid mattress with three firmness levels to provide optimal spinal alignment. The bed’s quilted Euro-top is suitable for sleepers looking for a cushioned surface to cradle parts of the body that are prone to unpleasant pressure accumulation.
The Evolution comes in plush (5), luxury firm (6), and firm (8) models. The luxurious Euro-top is quilted with a layer of patented AirFoamICE polyfoam, followed by cooling foam that adapts to the body. These layers work together to provide enough contouring for pressure-relieving areas like the hips, shoulders, and spine.
Your lower back is protected from sinking into the bed by a firmer foam layer followed by high-density foam for additional support. Finally, a thick coil structure provides firm support and generates pressure alleviation.
This bed should be pleasant for sleepers of different weight categories and positions, as there are three firmness settings to select from. The softer variants will generally appeal to side sleepers, while the firmer models would appeal to stomach sleepers.
Additionally this mattress provides cooling features for sleepers who tend to sleep warm. The Euro-top and AirFoamIce features are designed to dissipate heat away from a sleeper’s body during the night. A permeable gusset aerates the foam comfort layer, and the coils inside allow air to circulate throughout the bed’s core.
Key Features
Pros
Cons
Read Everything About Nolah Evolution 15 – Honest Mattress Review!
Best For Pelvis Pain
PlushBeds Botanical Bliss conforms to the body and relieves pressure and pain from the hips and pelvis. Its resilient latex also resists sagging to support your spine. Since this material springs back to its original shape quickly, those who often change positions due to pain will not feel trapped or sink in the bed.
Botanical Bliss is an orthopedic mattress which uses eco-friendly materials, and holds certifications like GOLS-certified natural latex, GOTS-certified New Zealand wool, and GOTS-certified cotton. Additionally, it has other certifications, including GreenGuard Gold, OEKO-TEX, and eco-INSTITUT. The mattress is also hypoallergenic.
It is a customizable mattress wherein you can rearrange the latex layers to adjust the firmness level, thereby accommodating your personal needs.
Each option has a support core of two layers of 3-inch Dunlop latex. The 9-inch and 12-inch beds each have a 2-inch organic Talalay latex layer, while the 10-inch mattress has 3 inches of organic latex. Further, the 12-inch mattress incorporates an additional layer of Dunlop latex (3-inch) to add height and provide a wider variety of customizable firmness.
An organic cotton cover wraps the mattress, and a layer of organic wool cushions the surface to wick away heat and moisture.
Although PlushBeds Botanical Bliss is expensive, its durability makes up for the high price. The Botanical Bliss has a bounce when you lie atop it, and it’s easy to move around while changing positions.
Key Features
Pros
Cons
Best For Couples
TEMPUR-Adapt mattress has a luxurious construction and cloud-like comfort that is desirable for couples. Due to its flexible all-foam design and pressure relief abilities, the mattress is also suitable for an adjustable bed base. Couples with different preferences can buy the TEMPUR-Adapt Split king or Split California king.
Apart from the king size option this mattress is available in 6 standard sizes. In terms of firmness, the TEMPUR-Adapt mattress has a medium (5) level firmness.
For side sleepers, especially those weighing up to 230 pounds, and back sleepers weighing less than 130 pounds, the mattress provides suitable comfort and orthopedic support. The TEMPUR-Adapt isolates motion extraordinarily well as it is an all-foam mattress with deep layers. When your partner changes positions, tosses and turns, or gets up in the middle of the night, the motion isolation ability of this mattress will prevent you from waking up.
If you require more support, a hybrid version of the mattress is available, which replaces the polyfoam base layer with a pocketed coil system. The coils support the sleeping surface with minimal motion transfer. There are also two upgrades available – a) TEMPUR-LuxeAdapt, which has 40% more TEMPUR foam than TEMPUR-Adapt, and b) TEMPUR-ProAdapt which has 20% more TEMPUR foam than the TEMPUR-LuxeAdapt.
While TEMPUR-Adapt is on the pricey side, it comes with complimentary White Glove delivery throughout the contiguous United States. Now let’s read about the pros and cons of TEMPUR-Adapt mattress.
Key Features
* White Glove Delivery means that delivery executives will bring your new mattress to your home, set it up where you want, and even take away your old mattress and box spring (if required). However, this service is applicable only when you buy specific mattresses.*
Pros
Cons
If You Have More Queries on TEMPUR-Adapt mattress, Read our Detailed Review!
Best Orthopedic Mattress For Back Pain
Casper Wave Hybrid Mattress is a highly recommended orthopedic mattress for back pain. It has received the prestigious endorsement of the American Chiropractic Association (ACA), highlighting its exceptional balance of firmness and its ability to relieve pressure.
What’s more, the mattress proudly boasts the “Seal-of-Approval” from the Congress of Chiropractic State Associations (COCSA), indicating that it meets the essential criteria for promoting spinal health. This versatile mattress caters to a broad spectrum of sleepers, making it an excellent fit for those with back pain, back-sleepers, and side sleepers alike.
Many hybrids on the market now are medium-firm or hard, thanks to their pocketed coil systems, which provide above-average support. Many of its competitors are noticeably softer than the Casper Wave Hybrid. The deep comfort system, which consists of four distinct layers that mold tightly to the body, gives this mattress a medium (5) feel.
People who have pain or pressure buildup in sensitive parts of the spine, such as the shoulders, lumbar region, or hips, may benefit from this deep cushioning.
Despite its soft appearance, the Wave Hybrid is built to offer adequate support. The top layer of polyfoam conforms to the body without sinking too deeply, while the following comfort layer is constructed of latex, which gives the surface a distinct bounce.
The memory foam and polyfoam layers that follow are zoned to feel stronger in the middle and gentler elsewhere, providing extra support where people tend to carry extra weight.
Pocketed coils are strengthened with high-density foam in the support core. These components push back against body compression to keep you on an even plane and protect the perimeter significantly, yet without stiffening the mattress or causing excessive motion transfer. The coils also assist the Wave Hybrid in maintaining a comfortable interior temperature by circulating air.
In addition, a surface-level infusion of phase change material absorbs body heat on contact, keeping you cool all night. These qualities make Casper Wave Hybrid a popular orthopedic mattress. Queen, King, Full, Twin, Twin XL, and Cal King sizes are all available for this mattress option.
Key Features
Pros
Cons
Best Orthopedic Mattress For Adjustable Beds
Saatva Classic Mattress holds the prestigious “Seal of Approval” from the Chiropractic State Associations Congress, making it a trusted choice recommended by chiropractics.
The Saatva Classic’s Plush Euro Pillow Top feature ensures not only a luxurious feel but also effective relief from joint and back pain. Additionally, its Spinal Zone Technology and CertiPUR-US® certified Memory Foam work together to reduce pressure on the lower back and promote proper spinal alignment.
Furthermore, the versatility of this orthopedic mattress extends to being suitable for adjustable beds, making it an excellent choice for those seeking both comfort and support. Saatva Classic comes with a thick Euro-top and two coil layers that balance pressure relief, breathability, edge support, and bounce.
This innerspring type comes in three firmness options: Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, and Firm. The memory foam layer is present only in the center of the bed to assist spinal alignment and cradle the hips.
Saatva Classic mattress is good in pressure relief. The Euro-top and pocketed coil layer provide intimate contouring for better spinal alignment, while the coil core adds to the surface’s supportiveness and responsiveness.
A reinforced foam edge provides a comfortable boundary for people who sit or sleep at the bed’s edge. Sleepers of all body shapes and sleeping positions appreciate Saatva Classic for pressure relief capabilities.
Key Features
Pros
Cons
Read Our Comprehensive Mattress Review on Saatva Classic Mattress!
Best Mattress For Back Sleepers
The Puffy Lux Hybrid is a luxury orthopedic mattress that provides pressure relief, especially for back and side sleepers. If you want a Queen-size mattress, you might want to check out the Puffy Lux Hybrid.
Back sleepers with back pain or side sleepers with shoulder and hip pain will find optimum pressure relief in this mattress. Being an all-foam and softer model, it offers comfortable sinkage when you lie down on it alongside a desirable level of body contouring.
It has several comfort layers to dissipate heat: a layer of Cooling Cloud foam, a layer of Dual Cloud foam, and Climate Comfort foam. All these features make Puffy Lux a desirable orthopedic mattress for back pain and pressure relief.
Key Features
Pros
Cons
If You Want To Learn More About Puffy Lux Hybrid, Read Our Comprehensive Review.
Best For Heavyweight Individuals
Purple Hybrid Premier is desirable for heavyweight sleepers as it is a supportive mattress. It supports all the pressure points of your body as you sleep. The brand’s cooling, flexible gel grid increases the comfort and durability of the mattress.
Additionally, you can select between 3 or 4 inches of the grid as part of the design. The company recommends the larger grid size if you are a side sleeper or if you have more weight.
Key Features
Pros
Cons
Grab The Best Deals On Purple Mattresses this Black Friday!
Orthopedic mattresses are suitable for people with arthritis, muscular pains, joint pain and spinal discomfort.
Orthopedic mattresses provide proper spinal and lumbar support as they do not let your body sink. Rather the firm yet comforting support of these mattresses elevates your hips and keeps your spinal cord aligned. Orthopedic mattress makers attempt to create firm mattresses that do not sink beneath your weight causing your spine to curve.
Over time, sleeping with your spine in a bent position for 8 hours can cause major harm and result in back pain. One of the key benefits of orthopedic mattresses is spinal alignment and posture correction. An orthopedic mattress is a desirable option for people who have back problems.
An orthopedic mattress has an ergonomic design that supports your body form and distributes your weight evenly. Further, it is good for your spine, which isn’t the case with a standard mattress. Buying an orthopedic mattress from a trusted brand assures better sleep support. This is mainly because such mattresses are tailored keeping the physiology of the human body in mind, something that is missing in other mattresses.
You will notice a roll-together effect when you share your bed with your partner in an ordinary mattress. Regular mattresses sink under the weight of your body, resulting in depression. This depression further expands when your partner shares your bed, leaving little space between two people.
This can be pretty inconvenient during the summer; no matter how hard you try to retain the distance between yourself and the other sleeper, the roll-together effect make things uncomfortable. Orthopedic mattresses help get rid of such discomfort by providing robust support added with cushioned contouring.
Sleeping on a standard mattress may result in restlessness, back pain, pressure sores and discomfort over time. This causes a lack in sleeping hours and builds up anxiety and muscle tension or spinal issues. What you need is an orthopedic mattress as it provides uninterrupted sleep. Cutting on your sleep disrupts healthy functioning of your body and builds of toxin. Sleep nonstop and relax to gain back your sleep health, correct your position and modify your resting posture with an orthopedic mattress.
Sleep on an orthopedic mattress to relieve joint discomfort and body aches. You sleep sound when your spine is adequately supported and your body is well rested. Orthopedic mattresses are approved by chiropractors as they relief pressure from sore parts of your body, elevate your hips, and keep the spine neutrally aligned.
A standard mattress may lead to aching joints and muscles due to insufficient support during 8 hours of sleep, or it may aggravate existing back pain and joint problems. On the other hand, an orthopedic mattress prevent bed sores, body aches, evenly adjust to the curves and spread your body weight evenly, to provide firm support to your entire body. This mattress helps you sleep for as long as you want and relieve pressure pain so that you wake up refreshed in the morning.
Medical practitioners and chiropractors often recommend this type of mattress for people with back pain or lasting orthopedic conditions. It is also a good choice for providing correct posture and spinal support when sleeping.
An orthopedic mattress is a reliable option for folks who find it difficult to sleep on a regular mattress due to medical conditions. Doctors frequently prescribe orthopedic mattresses for those who suffer from chronic back discomfort. However, like any other mattress, an orthopedic mattress has drawbacks and adverse effects. We have detailed them below. Read on.
Orthopedic mattresses have a few drawbacks. They are heavyweight, thick, and expensive in comparison to standard mattresses.
The price of an orthopedic mattress is higher than that of a standard mattress. As a result budget shoppers may seek other options as an orthopedic mattress might cost up to 50% more than a traditional one.
An orthopedic mattress is thick-set and heavy, making it difficult to move from one location to another. You may require additional help to set-up the mattress and I would suggest you read our mattress set up guideline to place your mattress in a hassle free manner.
Further we have made this Black Friday ‘Special’.
How?
Get ‘Cash Back on Mattress Purchase’ with SmartMattressBuy.com! Don’t miss out on this Rebate offer. Shop your desired orthopedic mattress today, and enjoy extra savings.
These deals won’t last long!
In this article I detailed into the topic of orthopedic mattress, the types, benefits and disadvantages, and unique features that make a mattress not appropriate to some but desirable to another. Now that we are at the bottom of the article lets revise on some tips to choose the right mattress.
Orthopedic mattresses are designed to make your body feel better and relieve you from pressure pains. These mattresses are all about easing those aches in your shoulders, neck, and hips. They are supportive yet soft to cushion painful pressure sores your body; while their supportive firmness keeping your spine aligned in a nice, straight line.
If you’re dealing with back pain, orthopedic mattresses can alleviate pain from your neck, shoulders, and joints. Often times they have a medium level of firmness and are chiropractor recommended. So, here are some smart tips before you choose the right mattress. Check your needs; first things first, figure out what you need. Different brands offer different options, so pick the one that suits your sleep style. Test it out; don’t be shy to lie down on a few mattresses in the store. You’ll be spending a lot of time on your new mattress, so make sure it feels just right.
Read reviews; take a peek at what others are saying. Sometimes, real experiences or expert viewpoints can really make a difference in making your choice. Follow a mattress set up manual; when it comes to setting up a mattress at home, follow the manufacturer’s instructions. It’s usually not hard, but it’s best to do it right.
So there you go! Choose your orthopedic mattress wisely, and you’ll be all set to experience pain-free nights.
Q1. What type of mattress do orthopedic experts recommend for joint pain?
Q2. What is the optimal thickness for an orthopedic mattress?
Q3. Which is better, orthopedic foam or memory foam?
Q4. Are orthopedic beds firm or soft?
Please note that these sources are not connected to Smart Mattress Buy. They’re here to help you learn more about orthopedic mattresses, and back pain and give you useful tips about mattresses to make you feel better.