Do you wake up with a sore back or feel stiff and achy throughout the day?
If so, you are not alone. Back pain is one of the most common health problems in the world. A recent U.S. National Survey reveals that 8.2 percent of American adults suffer from chronic severe back pain with 74.8 percent of individuals experiencing challenges in mobility, work or self-care. Back pain can interfere with your daily activities, your mood, and your sleep quality.
But did you know that your mattress can play a big role in how your back feels?
Sleeping on the wrong mattress can worsen your back pain or even cause it in the first place. On the other hand, sleeping on the right mattress can provide comfort, support, and relief for your back.
So how do you choose the best mattress for back pain? In this blog, we will cover topics on how back pain is caused and how an ill-fitting mattress can worsen back pain.
By the end of this article, you will definitely have a better understanding of how your mattress affects your back and learn tips to find the best mattress for your specific needs. Let’s get started!
Back pain is a painful ailment that may or may not be caused by an underlying disease. It is sometimes due to overstretching for a variety of causes and can affect persons of any age, though it is most common in the middle and elderly.
Aside from your doctor or prescription, the most important aspect of pain relief is easy! Sleeping in an uncomfortable position can make the discomfort worse, and vice versa. It’s worth noting that a medium-firm mattress that supports the spine and joints is usually beneficial for back discomfort.
We are here to guide you in your search for the best mattress to get relief from back pain and at the same time have a sound sleep.
The answer is yes.
A bad mattress can make your back pain worse or even cause it in the first place. A worn out or old mattress is one that does not provide adequate comfort and support for your body, resulting in poor spinal alignment, pressure points, and muscle tension.
Thus, a bad mattress can affect your back pain in several ways:
Therefore, it is important to choose a mattress that suits your body type, sleeping position, and personal preferences. A good mattress should offer a balance of comfort and support, contouring to your body without letting you sink too much or feel too firm. A good mattress should also last for at least 7 to 10 years before showing signs of wear and tear.
In the next section, we will discuss how to choose a mattress aligned to your sleeping position, whether you are a back sleeper, a stomach sleeper, a side sleeper, or a combination sleeper.
Your sleeping position can affect your back pain and your overall sleep quality. Different sleeping positions put pressure on different parts of your body, so you need a mattress that supports your body and keeps your spine aligned in any position.
Here are some tips on how to choose a mattress aligned to your sleeping position.
If you sleep on your side, you need more support at the shoulders and hips, plus plenty of pressure relief. A slightly softer bed that cushions the pressure points and has firmness between ‘5.5 to 6.5’ on the industrial mattress firmness scale (firmness scale ranging from 1 to 10) can help reduce stress on these areas. You may also benefit from a memory foam or pillow-top mattress that conforms to your body’s curves.
If you sleep on your back, you need a medium-firm mattress that maintains spine alignment while softly supporting the hips. You should aim for a ‘6 to 7’ on the firmness scale. A hybrid mattress, which combines coils and foam, can offer a good balance of comfort and support for back sleepers.
If you sleep on your stomach, you need a slightly firmer mattress that keeps your hips level with your shoulders. You should look for a ‘6.5 to 7.5’ on the firmness scale. A firmer mattress can prevent your spine from sinking into the mattress and causing lower back pain. An innerspring or hybrid mattress with a supportive base can work well for stomach sleepers.
If you switch sleeping positions during the night, your mattress needs to support you whether you’re on your side, front, or back. A medium-firm option with a softer top (as found in hybrid mattresses) is a good choice to keep your spine in position and pressure points cushioned. You should look for a ‘5 to 7’ on the firmness scale. A latex or memory foam mattress can also offer enough flexibility and responsiveness for combination sleepers.
Remember, your sleeping position is not the only factor to consider when choosing a mattress. You should also take into account your body type, weight, personal preferences, and budget. The best mattress for you is the one that suits your individual needs and helps you sleep better and reduce back pain.
Let’s now explore the best mattresses aligned to these sleeping positions. Keep reading.
Mattress Type: Hybrid/Innerspring
Firmness: Soft
Mattress Height: 15 inches
Warranty Period: Lifetime
Trial Period: 120 Nights
Shipping: Free
Mattress Size: Full, Queen, Twin, Twin XL, King, Cal King
Smart Mattress Buy’s Review
Nolah Evolution 15 is a mattress that provides decent pressure relief and body contouring. Tailored for side sleepers, it also appeals to back sleepers who prefer a softer mattress. The addition of a soft pillow top enhances the overall comfort, making it particularly beneficial for those experiencing shoulder or hip pain. This mattress is recommended for both back and side sleepers, with a focus on lightweight and average weight individuals.
Pros
Cons
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Mattress Type: Hybrid
Firmness: Medium
Mattress Height: 13.5 inches
Warranty Period: 10-15 Years
Trial Period: 100 Nights
Shipping: Free
Mattress Size: Twin XL, Twin, Queen, Full, Cal King, King
Smart Mattress Buy’s Review
Helix Midnight Luxe is a supportive mattress, particularly ideal for side sleepers and well-suited for back sleepers. Featuring a thick comfort layer of memory foam, it excels in providing ample pressure relief and contouring. The inclusion of zoned coils contributes to robust support, making it one of the best types of mattress for lower back pain. Recommended for both average weight and heavyweight individuals, the Helix Midnight Luxe caters specifically to the needs of back and side sleepers.
Pros
Cons
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Mattress Type: Foam
Firmness: Medium Firm
Mattress Height: 11 inches
Warranty Period: 10 Years
Trial Period: 90 Nights
Shipping: Free
Mattress Size: Full, King, Queen, Twin XL, Twin, Cal King
Smart Mattress Buy’s Review
Tempur-Pedic Adapt is celebrated as the brand’s classic model, featuring a traditional memory foam feel with substantial sinkage and contouring. Designed to cater to a variety of sleep preferences, it particularly stands out as an excellent choice for side sleepers. With its innovative design and focus on temperature regulation, the TEMPUR-Adapt aims to provide a comfortable and cooling experience for those who tend to overheat during sleep.
Pros
Cons
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Nolah Original 10 is a foam mattress designed with medium firmness, catering especially to side sleepers. This mattress stands out for its focus on providing soft foam, maximum pressure reduction, and enhanced comfort. It incorporates a special foam layer that significantly reduces peak pressure in the hips and back, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer sleeping on their sides. The innovative design aims to alleviate pressure points in the lower back, and makes Nolah one of the best type of mattress for lower back pain.
Pros
Cons
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Puffy Mattress stands out as a decent bedding investment for side sleepers, especially those weighing 230 pounds or less. With a medium firmness level, it promotes improved spinal alignment and delivers pressure reduction, making it a compelling option for individuals dealing with back pain. Featuring six layers and a 12-inch thickness, the mattress offers balanced support and contouring. Notably, the body-adjustable memory foam contributes to spinal strain relief and muscle shaping. Additionally, Puffy Mattress also incorporates lumbar support and pressure release qualities, emphasizing back pain relief.
Pros
Cons
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Mattress Type: Hybrid/Innerspring
Firmness: Firm
Mattress Height: 14.5 inches
Warranty Period: Lifetime
Trial Period: 365 Nights
Shipping: Free
Mattress Size: Full, King, Queen, Twin XL, Twin, Cal King
Smart Mattress Buy’s Review
Saatva Classic mattress features a coil-on-coil construction, offering a traditional innerspring feel. Designed to accommodate various sleeping styles, it is particularly a good option for back sleepers who prefer freedom of movement without feeling trapped. With three firmness levels available, the Saatva Classic provides customizable options to meet individual preferences. Notably, it is recommended for back sleepers experiencing back pain, offering tailored support and comfort for a restful night’s sleep. Thus Saatva Classic is one of the best types of mattress for lower back pain.
Pros
Cons
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Mattress Type: Hybrid
Firmness: Firm
Mattress Height: 12.25 inches
Warranty Period: 10 Years
Trial Period: 120 Nights
Shipping: Free
Mattress Size: Full, King, Queen, Twin XL, Twin, Cal King
Smart Mattress Buy’s Review
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid is a hybrid mattress that seamlessly combines memory foam and latex foam. Offering a unique blend of comfort and support, it caters to the needs of various sleepers, with a particular focus on providing an optimal sleep experience for back sleepers, especially those dealing with back pain. Thus it is one of many best mattress for back and shoulder pain. The mattress boasts a good amount of bounce, making it an attractive choice for combination sleepers who tend to move around during the night.
Pros
Cons
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Mattress Type: Hybrid/Innerspring
Firmness: Medium Firm
Mattress Height: 11 inches
Warranty Period: 10 Years
Trial Period: 100 Nights
Shipping: Free
Mattress Size: Full, King, Queen, Twin, Cal King, Twin XL
Smart Mattress Buy’s Review
Leesa Sapira Hybrid mattress seamlessly blends gentle foams with pocketed coils, delivering a winning combination of pressure relief and support. Designed to cater to various sleeper types, it particularly shines as an optimal choice for back sleepers, including those dealing with back pain. The mattress provides a responsive feel, ensuring that back sleepers receive the support they need while enjoying a comfortable night’s sleep.
Pros
Cons
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This mattress stands out as a luxurious hybrid option, combining the benefits of a medium firmness with advanced materials for optimal support and comfort. Tailored specifically for back sleepers dealing with back pain, this mattress features a blend of Gel and Premium Memory Foam. The carefully designed cover offers a soft and luxurious feel, ensuring strength, durability, and enhanced airflow. This makes it one of the best mattresses for back and shoulder pain.
The mattress incorporates strategic layers to protect vulnerable areas and pressure points, with foam providing support and comfort, and individually wrapped coils conforming to the body while offering additional support.
Pros
Cons
Zenhaven Latex Mattress stands out as a natural mattress, prioritizing support for back sleepers. With its unique design featuring Talalay latex in five zones, the mattress offers enhanced lower back support and effectively relieves pressure points. The zoned support system plays a crucial role in maintaining proper spinal alignment during sleep. Hence, it is one of the best types of mattress for lower back pain. The latex layer, known for its conforming properties and optimum buoyancy, ensures optimal support, making the Zenhaven Latex Mattress particularly suitable for individuals who prefer back sleeping.
Pros
Cons
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Mattress Type: Foam
Firmness: Ultra Firm
Mattress Height: 10.25 inches
Warranty Period: 10 Years
Trial Period: 120 Nights
Shipping: Free
Mattress Size: Full, King, Queen, Cal King, Twin XL, Twin
Smart Mattress Buy’s Review
Brooklyn Plank Firm mattress is a versatile all-foam mattress with a flippable design, offering both a firm side and an extra-firm side. This feature caters to the preferences of back sleepers and, particularly, stomach sleepers. The mattress aims to provide the right amount of support for stomach sleepers dealing with back pain. With a focus on durability and support, the Brooklyn Plank Firm mattress offers a tailored sleep experience for those seeking a firmer feel.
Pros
Cons
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Mattress Type: Hybrid
Firmness: Firm
Mattress Height: 11.5 inches
Warranty Period: 10 Years
Trial Period: 100 Nights
Shipping: Free
Mattress Size: King, Queen, Full, Cal King, Twin XL, Twin
Smart Mattress Buy’s Review
Helix Dawn is renowned as the firmest model in Helix Sleep’s offerings, delivering robust support to cater to the needs of back and stomach sleepers. Designed with a hybrid build, it not only provides a firm feel but also incorporates good bounce and mobility, allowing for easy position changes during the night. Tailored to the preferences of stomach sleepers dealing with back pain, Helix Dawn aims to offer a supportive and comfortable sleep surface.
Pros
Cons
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Mattress Type: Hybrid
Firmness: Firm
Mattress Height: 11.5 inches
Warranty Period: 10 Years
Trial Period: 100 Nights
Shipping: Free
Mattress Size: Queen, King, Full, Cal King, Twin XL, Twin
Smart Mattress Buy’s Review
Helix Twilight stands out as a firm hybrid mattress, offering a combination of plush memory foam layers and supportive pocketed coils. This unique blend caters to both stomach and back sleepers who prefer a firmer feel. Specifically designed to provide support and comfort, Helix Twilight is a fair choice for stomach sleepers dealing with back pain.
Pros
Cons
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Mattresses For Combination Sleepers With Back Pain: Your Shopping Guide!
Mattress Type: Hybrid/Innerspring
Firmness: Medium Firm
Mattress Height: 13 inches
Warranty Period: Lifetime
Trial Period: 120 Nights
Shipping: Free
Mattress Size: Full, Cal King, Queen, King, Twin XL, Twin
Smart Mattress Buy’s Review
Layla Hybrid offers a unique combination of copper-infused memory foam and pocketed coils, creating a mattress designed to alleviate aches and pains while providing comfort and support. Notably, this mattress is flippable, allowing users to choose between different firmness levels. Tailored to cater to a variety of sleeper types, the Layla Hybrid is particularly well-suited for combination sleepers dealing with back pain, offering versatility and targeted support.
Pros
Cons
Eager to Learn More? Read Review.
Mattress Type: Hybrid/Innerspring
Firmness: Medium Firm
Mattress Height: 11 inches
Warranty Period: 10 Years
Trial Period: 100 Nights
Shipping: Free
Mattress Size: King, Queen, Full, Cal King, Twin XL, Twin
Smart Mattress Buy’s Review
Leesa Hybrid is an innovative mattress that builds upon the success of the original model by incorporating pocketed springs for enhanced airflow and durability. Designed to provide the same benefits as the original Leesa mattress, the hybrid version caters to a diverse audience, particularly targeting combination sleepers dealing with back pain. The added bonus of an affordable price makes it an attractive choice for those seeking a balance of comfort, support, and value.
Pros
Cons
Mattress Type: Hybrid/Innerspring
Firmness: Medium Firm
Mattress Height: 11 inches
Warranty Period: Lifetime
Trial Period: 120 Nights
Shipping: Free
Mattress Size: Twin XL, Twin King, Queen, Full, Cal King,
Smart Mattress Buy’s Review
Nolah Natural mattress distinguishes itself by incorporating eco-friendly and hypoallergenic materials, aligning with a commitment to sustainability. Beyond its environmental benefits, the mattress is designed to provide pressure relief and comfort. With a special focus on back pain relief, the Nolah Natural is tailored to meet the needs of combination sleepers, delivering support and comfort throughout various sleep positions.
Pros
Cons
Eager to Learn More? Read Review.
Casper Wave Hybrid Mattress is a standout option designed for versatile comfort, making it particularly well-suited for combination sleepers. With a blend of active springs and hyper-targeted support, this mattress incorporates innovative gel pods strategically placed to offer additional support and ensure proper spine alignment, especially in the waist and lower back regions. The continuous zoned support system caters to the needs of back, side, and stomach sleepers. The quality foam adapts to the body, relieving pressure points, while the inclusion of durable springs provides a touch of bounce and lift for an overall comfortable sleep experience.
Pros
Cons
Back pain is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It can be caused by various factors, such as injury, stress, poor posture, aging, or underlying health issues. While there is no one-size-fits-all solution for back pain, choosing the right mattress can make a big difference in your comfort and quality of sleep.
When shopping for a mattress for back pain, there are several factors to consider, such as:
The ideal firmness level depends on your personal preference, body weight, and sleeping position. Generally, a medium-firm to firm mattress can provide adequate support and pressure relief for most back pain sufferers. However, some people may prefer a softer or harder feel, depending on their comfort needs.
A supportive mattress can help maintain proper spinal alignment and prevent sagging or sinking in the mattress. This can reduce the strain on your back muscles and joints, and improve your posture. Look for a mattress that has a strong core layer, such as innerspring, latex, or high-density foam, and a comfort layer that conforms to your body shape, such as memory foam, hybrid, or pillow-top.
A pressure-relieving mattress can cushion your pressure points, such as your shoulders, hips, and lower back, and distribute your body weight evenly across the surface. This can reduce the tension and inflammation in your back, and enhance blood circulation. Look for a mattress that has a soft to medium comfort layer, such as memory foam, latex, or hybrid, and a zoned support system that offers extra support or softness where you need it most.
A durable mattress can last for several years without losing its shape, support, or comfort. This can ensure that you get consistent and reliable performance from your mattress, and avoid having to replace it frequently. Look for a mattress that has high-quality materials, such as natural latex, organic cotton, or steel coils, and a good warranty and trial period.
There are many types of mattresses available on the market, each with its own pros and cons for back pain. Here are some of the most popular and recommended types of mattress for back pain, along with their benefits and drawbacks:
Back pain is a broad term that can refer to different types of pain that affect your upper, middle, or lower back. The type of back pain you experience can depend on the location, cause, duration, and severity of the pain.
Here are some of the common types of back pain, along with their symptoms and causes:
Chronic back pain is a persistent and debilitating condition that affects your daily life and well-being. It can be caused by various factors, such as injury, disease, stress, or lifestyle habits. While there is no cure for chronic back pain, getting enough quality sleep can help you cope with the pain and improve your health.
Sleep is essential for your body and mind, as it can:
During sleep, your body produces hormones and proteins that help repair and restore your tissues, muscles, and organs. This can help heal the damage and inflammation in your back, and prevent further injury or infection.
During sleep, your brain processes and stores information, and your nervous system regulates your emotions and mood. This can help you relax and rejuvenate your mind, and reduce the stress and anxiety that can worsen your back pain.
During sleep, your immune system fights off infections and diseases, and your metabolic system regulates your energy and appetite. This can help you boost and balance your health, and prevent the complications and comorbidities that can accompany chronic back pain, such as obesity, diabetes, or cardiovascular problems.
[Sleep Tips: To get the most benefits from sleep, you should aim for 7 to 9 hours of uninterrupted and restful sleep every night. You should also follow a regular sleep schedule, avoid caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine before bed, and create a comfortable and dark sleep environment.]
For more tips keep reading.
Back pain can interfere with your sleep quality and quantity, and vice versa. Poor sleep can aggravate your back pain, and back pain can make it harder to fall asleep or stay asleep. To break this vicious cycle, you should follow some sleep tips to reduce your back pain and improve your sleep.
Here are some of the sleep tips to reduce back pain:
As mentioned earlier, choosing the right mattress based on your sleeping position, body weight, and comfort preference can help you support and align your spine, relieve your pressure points, and prevent sagging or sinking in the mattress. You should also replace your mattress every 7 to 10 years, or when it shows signs of wear and tear.
Using the right pillow can also help you maintain proper spinal alignment and cushion your head, neck, and shoulders. You should choose a pillow that matches your sleeping position, such as a thin or flat pillow for stomach sleepers, a medium or thick pillow for back sleepers, or a curved or contoured pillow for side sleepers. You should also replace your pillow every 1 to 2 years, or when it loses its shape or loft.
Enhance your sleep quality by making thoughtful adjustments to your sleeping position. Steer clear of sleeping on your stomach, as it may lead to spine arching and neck twisting. Opt for sleeping on your back or side instead, supporting your spine with a pillow under your knees or between your legs.
Maintaining a neutral spine and aligned hips is key. Explore alternatives like sleeping on a recliner or an adjustable bed to elevate your head and legs, effectively reducing pressure on your lower back. These changes contribute to minimizing strain, improving blood flow, and optimizing oxygen delivery
Stretching and exercising can also help you ease your back pain and improve your sleep. Stretching can help you loosen and relax your back muscles and joints, and improve your flexibility and range of motion. Exercising can help you strengthen and tone your back muscles and core, and improve your posture and balance.
You should do some gentle stretches and exercises in the morning and evening, such as cat-cow, child’s pose, pelvic tilt, or bridge. You should also do some moderate aerobic and resistance exercises during the day, such as walking, swimming, cycling, or yoga. However, you should avoid any exercises that cause pain, discomfort, or injury, and consult your doctor before starting any new exercise routine.
Besides choosing the right mattress, pillow, and sleeping position, there are some other lifestyle tips that can help you manage your back pain and enhance your well-being. Here are some of the top 3 lifestyle tips for pain management:
Stress can have a negative impact on your back pain, as it can cause your muscles to tense up, your blood pressure to rise, and your immune system to weaken. Stress can also affect your mood, sleep, and mental health. To manage your stress, you should practice some relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation, mindfulness, or progressive muscle relaxation. You should also find some healthy outlets for your stress, such as hobbies, socializing, or volunteering.
Excess weight can put extra pressure on your spine, discs, and joints, and increase the risk of inflammation, injury, or degeneration. Excess weight can also affect your posture, balance, and mobility. To maintain a healthy weight, you should follow a balanced and nutritious diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
You should also limit your intake of processed foods, added sugars, salt, and alcohol. You should also drink plenty of water, and stay hydrated throughout the day.
Smoking can have a harmful effect on your back pain, as it can reduce the blood flow and oxygen delivery to your tissues, muscles, and organs. It can also impair the healing process, and increase the risk of infection, inflammation, or cancer. It also affects your sleep quality, and make you more prone to snoring, sleep apnea, or insomnia.
To quit smoking, you should seek professional help, such as counseling, medication, or nicotine replacement therapy. You should also find some alternative ways to cope with your cravings, such as chewing gum, eating a snack, or calling a friend.
Back pain is a common and complex condition that can affect your sleep and quality of life. However, by choosing the right mattress, and sleeping position, and by following some sleep and lifestyle tips, you can reduce your back pain and improve your health and well-being. Remember, if your back pain persists or worsens, you should consult your doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Enjoy a restful night’s sleep with our premium mattresses, and take advantage of our exclusive Cashback Rebate option. As a token of appreciation, we offer discounts all year round, ensuring you get the best value for your investment.
We hope this article has been helpful and informative for you. Thank you for reading, and happy sleeping!
Q1. What are some doctor recommended mattresses for back pain?
Q2. Is memory foam mattress good for your back?
Q3. How do I know if my mattress is causing my back pain?
Q4. What level of firmness is best for back pain?
Q5. What kind of mattress do physical therapists or chiropractors recommend?