If you suffer from back pain, you are likely not getting a good night’s sleep. Aches and pains in your back can certainly be a hindrance to getting quality shut-eye, but an unsupportive mattress can make it even worse. Luckily, the best mattresses for back pain can help support your spinal alignment and provide some much-needed relief.
According to Tamara Huff, M.D., F.A.A.O.S., an orthopedic surgeon based in Columbus, GA, some of the most common causes of back pain include degenerative disc disease, muscle imbalance, postural issues, and the natural wear and tear of the spine. But another common culprit is from the way you sleep—and not just sleeping in the wrong position, either, but from sleeping on an uncomfortable mattress. “A mattress that does not correctly support the low back may be an aggravating factor [of back pain] during the night,” explains Troy Wood, M.D., a specialist in pain medicine, physical medicine, and rehabilitation at the Atlantic Health System.
Meet the Experts: Tamara Huff, M.D., F.A.A.O.S., a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and the founder of Vigio Orthopedics in Columbus, GA; Troy Wood, M.D., a specialist in pain medicine, physical medicine, and rehabilitation at the Atlantic Health System; and Raj Dasgupta, M.D., a quadruple board-certified physician specializing in internal medicine, pulmonology, critical care, and sleep medicine and chief medical advisor for Sleepopolis.
Generally, a good mattress for back pain is one that allows “the spine to experience pressure relief while maintaining alignment throughout the night,” says Dr. Wood. “A good mattress for back pain supports a neutral spine and prevents sagging through the night,” agrees Raj Dasgupta, M.D., a quadruple board-certified physician specializing in internal medicine, pulmonology, critical care, and sleep medicine and chief medical advisor for Sleepopolis. “A medium-firm mattress does best for most people with lower back pain because it both contours and has firm support, which helps keep the spine aligned and avoids strain on the lumbar muscles and discs.”
Thankfully, there are plenty of mattress options that can help relieve back pain—and we rounded up the best ones right here, as recommended by sleep experts and tested by our own editors. Whether you’re looking for a supportive mattress for side sleepers or a comfy mattress for stomach sleepers, shop the best picks below that can alleviate back pain and help you snooze more comfortably.
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Hannah Jeon is an Associate Commerce Editor at Prevention, where she covers expert-driven commerce content for all things health, beauty, and wellness. Previously the Editorial Assistant at Good Housekeeping, she earned her bachelor’s degree in creative writing and psychology from Johns Hopkins University. When she’s not on the hunt for all the best products online, you can often find her trying out new food spots in New York City or clicking away behind a camera.
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This hybrid pick combines gel-infused memory foams with flexible micro-coils, featuring a Therapeutic Support Core that automatically adjusts to your body’s curves and movements to eliminate pressure points, along with Lumbar Zone technology that keep your spine in alignment to provide enhanced back support and help alleviate back pain. What an editor says: Prevention’s Art Director, Bruce Perez, who suffers from chronic back pain, said this mattress is a “solid choice” for back pain that’s “well worth the investment” in his review. “The lumbar support, which feels great on the lower back, is a unique feature that hits in just the right place. This region of the mattress has extra memory foam, so it offers stronger support without feeling too stiff,” he wrote. “I think this feature alone has made a big difference for me, as my lower back seemed to sag further into the old mattress and getting up was a painful struggle…I no longer have that issue, and I get out of bed much more easily.””,”image”:”https://vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/1762891732-1762877457-1749668822-1748537211-1747875066-69136007f30be.jpg”,”brand”:{“@type”:”Brand”,”name”:”Saatva”},”review”:{“@type”:”Review”,”name”:”Rx Mattress”,”image”:”https://vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/1762891732-1762877457-1749668822-1748537211-1747875066-69136007f30be.jpg”,”author”:[{“@type”:”Person”,”name”:”Jake Smith”},{“@type”:”Person”,”name”:”Hannah Jeon”}],”reviewBody”:”One of our most editor-loved mattress brands, Saatva, has a mattress designed specifically for back pain: The Saatva Rx. It’s designed to provide maximum support and pressure relief to help alleviate discomfort associated with chronic back and joint conditions, including sciatica, arthritis, herniated disc, and scoliosis. This hybrid pick combines gel-infused memory foams with flexible micro-coils, featuring a Therapeutic Support Core that automatically adjusts to your body’s curves and movements to eliminate pressure points, along with Lumbar Zone technology that keep your spine in alignment to provide enhanced back support and help alleviate back pain. What an editor says: Prevention’s Art Director, Bruce Perez, who suffers from chronic back pain, said this mattress is a “solid choice” for back pain that’s “well worth the investment” in his review. “The lumbar support, which feels great on the lower back, is a unique feature that hits in just the right place. This region of the mattress has extra memory foam, so it offers stronger support without feeling too stiff,” he wrote. “I think this feature alone has made a big difference for me, as my lower back seemed to sag further into the old mattress and getting up was a painful struggle…I no longer have that issue, and I get out of bed much more easily.””,”positiveNotes”:{“@type”:”ItemList”,”itemListElement”:[{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”1″,”name”:”Enhanced back support with Lumbar Zone Technology”},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”2″,”name”:”Gel-infused memory foam provides pressure relief”},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”3″,”name”:”Flexible micro-coils provide body-cradling support”},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”4″,”name”:”Breathable foams and organic cotton cover “}]},”negativeNotes”:{“@type”:”ItemList”,”itemListElement”:[{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”1″,”name”:”Pricey”},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”2″,”name”:”Returns involve a processing fee”}]}}}},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:2,”item”:{“@context”:”https://schema.org/”,”@type”:”Product”,”name”:”Memory Foam and Spring Hybrid Mattress”,”url”:”https://www.prevention.com/health/sleep-energy/g70608408/best-mattress-for-back-pain/#slide-2″,”description”:”Looking for a budget-friendly mattress? This affordable, best-selling pick—which has over 200,000 ratings on Amazon and comes in at under $300—offers great medium-firm support that’s ideal for back and stomach sleepers. The hybrid mattress combines the contouring comfort of memory foam with the durable support of springs, and it comes in multiple sizes as well as four different height options. Plus, it comes with a 10-year warranty and is easy to set up, as it comes compressed and rolled in a box and fully expands once opened. What a reviewer says: “Love this mattress…They are extremely comfortable and for someone who deals with back pain, this is the only mattress I have slept on which supports my back, and I wake up pain-free,” said one shopper. “I would pay double the price of this mattress for that luxury.””,”image”:”https://vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/1772653744-41zQ5NPJA7L._SL500_.jpg”,”brand”:{“@type”:”Brand”,”name”:”Linenspa”},”review”:{“@type”:”Review”,”name”:”Memory Foam and Spring Hybrid Mattress”,”image”:”https://vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/1772653744-41zQ5NPJA7L._SL500_.jpg”,”author”:[{“@type”:”Person”,”name”:”Jake Smith”},{“@type”:”Person”,”name”:”Hannah Jeon”}],”reviewBody”:”Looking for a budget-friendly mattress? This affordable, best-selling pick—which has over 200,000 ratings on Amazon and comes in at under $300—offers great medium-firm support that’s ideal for back and stomach sleepers. The hybrid mattress combines the contouring comfort of memory foam with the durable support of springs, and it comes in multiple sizes as well as four different height options. Plus, it comes with a 10-year warranty and is easy to set up, as it comes compressed and rolled in a box and fully expands once opened. What a reviewer says: “Love this mattress…They are extremely comfortable and for someone who deals with back pain, this is the only mattress I have slept on which supports my back, and I wake up pain-free,” said one shopper. “I would pay double the price of this mattress for that luxury.””,”positiveNotes”:{“@type”:”ItemList”,”itemListElement”:[{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”1″,”name”:”Contouring support with medium-firm feel”},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”2″,”name”:”Great value”},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”3″,”name”:”Comes in a box for easy set-up”}]},”negativeNotes”:{“@type”:”ItemList”,”itemListElement”:[{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”1″,”name”:”Some reviewers say it feels too springy”}]}}}},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:3,”item”:{“@context”:”https://schema.org/”,”@type”:”Product”,”name”:”Classic Memory Foam Mattress”,”url”:”https://www.prevention.com/health/sleep-energy/g70608408/best-mattress-for-back-pain/#slide-3″,”description”:”For a good memory foam mattress for back pain, Dr. Dasgupta recommends this popular pick from Nectar. “The Nectar Sleep Classic mattress is a good option to consider. It is a medium-firm memory foam option that contours to the shoulders and hips while keeping the lower back supported,” he says. “Memory foam helps spread pressure evenly, which can reduce morning stiffness.” In fact, the mattress is endorsed by the American Chiropractic Association to help relieve back pain. The five-layer construction also includes a motion isolation layer, as well as a breathable top cover made with cooling fibers. What a reviewer says: “As I have gotten into my later years, a good night’s sleep and waking up without shoulder and back pain was a thing of the past. My son purchased a Nectar mattress a year ago and after staying with him one night on his mattress, I found great relief!” one reviewer shared. “So, I bought one over the Black Friday sale and wow! It has been a life changer. Sleep is much better, and those aches and pains are slowly going away. What a great product! I am so much happier, pain free and well-rested.””,”image”:”https://vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/1772726477-1770828775-screenshot-2026-02-11-at-11-50-43-am-698cb3675cdbe.png”,”brand”:{“@type”:”Brand”,”name”:”Nectar”},”review”:{“@type”:”Review”,”name”:”Classic Memory Foam Mattress”,”image”:”https://vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/1772726477-1770828775-screenshot-2026-02-11-at-11-50-43-am-698cb3675cdbe.png”,”author”:[{“@type”:”Person”,”name”:”Jake Smith”},{“@type”:”Person”,”name”:”Hannah Jeon”}],”reviewBody”:”For a good memory foam mattress for back pain, Dr. Dasgupta recommends this popular pick from Nectar. “The Nectar Sleep Classic mattress is a good option to consider. It is a medium-firm memory foam option that contours to the shoulders and hips while keeping the lower back supported,” he says. “Memory foam helps spread pressure evenly, which can reduce morning stiffness.” In fact, the mattress is endorsed by the American Chiropractic Association to help relieve back pain. The five-layer construction also includes a motion isolation layer, as well as a breathable top cover made with cooling fibers. What a reviewer says: “As I have gotten into my later years, a good night’s sleep and waking up without shoulder and back pain was a thing of the past. My son purchased a Nectar mattress a year ago and after staying with him one night on his mattress, I found great relief!” one reviewer shared. “So, I bought one over the Black Friday sale and wow! It has been a life changer. Sleep is much better, and those aches and pains are slowly going away. What a great product! I am so much happier, pain free and well-rested.””,”positiveNotes”:{“@type”:”ItemList”,”itemListElement”:[{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”1″,”name”:”Pressure-relieving memory foam”},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”2″,”name”:”Motion isolation layer”},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”3″,”name”:”Breathable top cover with cooling fibers”}]},”negativeNotes”:{“@type”:”ItemList”,”itemListElement”:[{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”1″,”name”:”Some reviewers say it’s firmer than expected”}]}}}},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:4,”item”:{“@context”:”https://schema.org/”,”@type”:”Product”,”name”:”Sapira Chill Hybrid Mattress”,”url”:”https://www.prevention.com/health/sleep-energy/g70608408/best-mattress-for-back-pain/#slide-4″,”description”:”“The Leesa Sleep Sapira Chill Hybrid is a solid hybrid that balances pressure relief and support while sleeping cooler than dense foam mattresses,” says Dr. Dasgupta. Available in three different firmness levels—plush, medium-firm, and firm—this mattress combines four layers of foam that are cradling and responsive with zoned springs that offer extra hip and edge support. Plus, it’s topped with a billowy quilt top cover that’s infused with cooling fibers that pull heat away from your body. What an editor says: Senior Commerce Editor Charlotte Lewis Finigan said she loved this mattress’s cooling features in her recent review. “I am a shockingly hot sleeper…After two years of sleeping on this mattress I can say that my sweat-soaked nights are a thing of the past. The brand says these smart fibers are ‘like having your very own personalized climate control,’ and I have not experienced anything other than that truth,” she said. “I consistently wake up in less pain than I did with our last two mattresses…I have noticed significant improvement in my sleep quality. Not only do I sleep cooler, but I also rarely feel disturbed when my wife tosses and turns.””,”image”:”https://vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/1771362136-1767818425-https-3a-2f-2fimages-contentstack-io-2fv3-2fassets-2fbltdab0c7b06198f4c2-2fblt3f85f3ae6ddd38c1-2f68f8ed7c827d998bfb4e691e-2fleesa-mattress-chill-sapira-04-695ec23e8ec8f.png”,”brand”:{“@type”:”Brand”,”name”:”Leesa”},”review”:{“@type”:”Review”,”name”:”Sapira Chill Hybrid Mattress”,”image”:”https://vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/1771362136-1767818425-https-3a-2f-2fimages-contentstack-io-2fv3-2fassets-2fbltdab0c7b06198f4c2-2fblt3f85f3ae6ddd38c1-2f68f8ed7c827d998bfb4e691e-2fleesa-mattress-chill-sapira-04-695ec23e8ec8f.png”,”author”:[{“@type”:”Person”,”name”:”Jake Smith”},{“@type”:”Person”,”name”:”Hannah Jeon”}],”reviewBody”:”“The Leesa Sleep Sapira Chill Hybrid is a solid hybrid that balances pressure relief and support while sleeping cooler than dense foam mattresses,” says Dr. Dasgupta. Available in three different firmness levels—plush, medium-firm, and firm—this mattress combines four layers of foam that are cradling and responsive with zoned springs that offer extra hip and edge support. Plus, it’s topped with a billowy quilt top cover that’s infused with cooling fibers that pull heat away from your body. What an editor says: Senior Commerce Editor Charlotte Lewis Finigan said she loved this mattress’s cooling features in her recent review. “I am a shockingly hot sleeper…After two years of sleeping on this mattress I can say that my sweat-soaked nights are a thing of the past. The brand says these smart fibers are ‘like having your very own personalized climate control,’ and I have not experienced anything other than that truth,” she said. “I consistently wake up in less pain than I did with our last two mattresses…I have noticed significant improvement in my sleep quality. Not only do I sleep cooler, but I also rarely feel disturbed when my wife tosses and turns.””,”positiveNotes”:{“@type”:”ItemList”,”itemListElement”:[{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”1″,”name”:”Quilt top infused with cooling fibers”},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”2″,”name”:”Zoned springs with extra hip and edge support “},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”3″,”name”:”Available in 3 firmness levels”}]},”negativeNotes”:{“@type”:”ItemList”,”itemListElement”:[{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”1″,”name”:”Runs soft”}]}}}},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:5,”item”:{“@context”:”https://schema.org/”,”@type”:”Product”,”name”:”Original”,”url”:”https://www.prevention.com/health/sleep-energy/g70608408/best-mattress-for-back-pain/#slide-5″,”description”:”This top-rated mattress from Bear offers contouring comfort with three responsive layers of memory foam, including a top layer of cooling gel memory foam that pulls away extra body heat to help you sleep cooler. The second layer provides balanced support for great pressure relief, while the base layer—a high-density support foam—offers long-term durability. What’s more, all of these foam layers are constructed with an open-cell design for better airflow—on top of a soft, breathable quilted cover (you can also upgrade to an advanced cooling cover that pulls heat away from your body.What a reviewer says: “I no longer wake up with a sore lower back and I’ve been sleeping like a baby,” shared one reviewer. “Goodbye sore back!” said another. “Going on a full month now, and this bed is amazing! It’s firm but not too firm, and my back doesn’t hurt in the mornings like it was with my old mattress.” “,”image”:”https://vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/1702486181-BearOriginal-Enviro-FrontHeroContentBadge-1919×1079-Tencel_1440x.jpg”,”brand”:{“@type”:”Brand”,”name”:”Bear”},”review”:{“@type”:”Review”,”name”:”Original”,”image”:”https://vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/1702486181-BearOriginal-Enviro-FrontHeroContentBadge-1919×1079-Tencel_1440x.jpg”,”author”:[{“@type”:”Person”,”name”:”Jake Smith”},{“@type”:”Person”,”name”:”Hannah Jeon”}],”reviewBody”:”This top-rated mattress from Bear offers contouring comfort with three responsive layers of memory foam, including a top layer of cooling gel memory foam that pulls away extra body heat to help you sleep cooler. The second layer provides balanced support for great pressure relief, while the base layer—a high-density support foam—offers long-term durability. What’s more, all of these foam layers are constructed with an open-cell design for better airflow—on top of a soft, breathable quilted cover (you can also upgrade to an advanced cooling cover that pulls heat away from your body.What a reviewer says: “I no longer wake up with a sore lower back and I’ve been sleeping like a baby,” shared one reviewer. “Goodbye sore back!” said another. “Going on a full month now, and this bed is amazing! It’s firm but not too firm, and my back doesn’t hurt in the mornings like it was with my old mattress.” “,”positiveNotes”:{“@type”:”ItemList”,”itemListElement”:[{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”1″,”name”:”3 layers of memory foam, including cooling gel memory foam”},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”2″,”name”:”Open-cell design for airflow “},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”3″,”name”:”Breathable cover with an option for upgraded cooling cover “}]},”negativeNotes”:{“@type”:”ItemList”,”itemListElement”:[{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”1″,”name”:”Some reviewers say it’s more firm than expected”}]}}}},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:6,”item”:{“@context”:”https://schema.org/”,”@type”:”Product”,”name”:”Midnight Luxe”,”url”:”https://www.prevention.com/health/sleep-energy/g70608408/best-mattress-for-back-pain/#slide-6″,”description”:”“The Helix Sleep Midnight Luxe is a good hybrid choice, especially if you usually change positions at night,” says Dr. Dasgupta. “It uses zoned support with firmer reinforcement in the middle of the mattress to help maintain neutral spine alignment.” It boasts six layers for a medium-firm feel, including a Tencel pillow top (or you can upgrade to a GlacioTex cooling pillow top), cradling foam layers, and durable steel coils that offer zoned lumbar support. Plus, you can also opt for an additional ErgoAlign layer which the brand says is ideal for lower back pain relief. What a reviewer says: “We love our Helix! It’s been about 8 weeks since we received our Midnight Luxe mattress,” shared one reviewer. “I have noticed a huge difference in terms of diminished lower back pain and waking up without general soreness like I used to with our old mattress. The firmness is perfect for side and back sleepers, soft enough to lay into but firm enough for stability. Would highly recommend.””,”image”:”https://vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/1772731846-71gt9tym4hl-ac-sl1500-69a9bdb338aa1.jpg”,”brand”:{“@type”:”Brand”,”name”:”Helix”},”review”:{“@type”:”Review”,”name”:”Midnight Luxe”,”image”:”https://vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/1772731846-71gt9tym4hl-ac-sl1500-69a9bdb338aa1.jpg”,”author”:[{“@type”:”Person”,”name”:”Jake Smith”},{“@type”:”Person”,”name”:”Hannah Jeon”}],”reviewBody”:”“The Helix Sleep Midnight Luxe is a good hybrid choice, especially if you usually change positions at night,” says Dr. Dasgupta. “It uses zoned support with firmer reinforcement in the middle of the mattress to help maintain neutral spine alignment.” It boasts six layers for a medium-firm feel, including a Tencel pillow top (or you can upgrade to a GlacioTex cooling pillow top), cradling foam layers, and durable steel coils that offer zoned lumbar support. Plus, you can also opt for an additional ErgoAlign layer which the brand says is ideal for lower back pain relief. What a reviewer says: “We love our Helix! It’s been about 8 weeks since we received our Midnight Luxe mattress,” shared one reviewer. “I have noticed a huge difference in terms of diminished lower back pain and waking up without general soreness like I used to with our old mattress. The firmness is perfect for side and back sleepers, soft enough to lay into but firm enough for stability. Would highly recommend.””,”positiveNotes”:{“@type”:”ItemList”,”itemListElement”:[{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”1″,”name”:”Zoned lumbar support “},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”2″,”name”:”Breathable Tencel pillow top with option for cooling “},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”3″,”name”:”Optional ErgoAlign layer for lower back pain relief”}]},”negativeNotes”:{“@type”:”ItemList”,”itemListElement”:[{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”1″,”name”:”Some reviewers note the outside edges are a bit too soft”}]}}}},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:7,”item”:{“@context”:”https://schema.org/”,”@type”:”Product”,”name”:”Classic Mattress”,”url”:”https://www.prevention.com/health/sleep-energy/g70608408/best-mattress-for-back-pain/#slide-7″,”description”:”Saatva’s best-selling Classic mattress combines a responsive, durable dual-coil design with a soft, cushioned pillow top that provides pressure relief. Available in three firmness levels—Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, and Firm—it also provides great support with the brand’s patented Lumbar Zone technology, which promotes healthy spinal alignment in any sleep position to help alleviate back and joint pain. In addition to the dual-coil design that allows airflow, this mattress also has a naturally breathable, hypoallergenic cover made with organic cotton to help you sleep cooler. What an editor says: Shannen Zitz, former assistant editor at Prevention, called this mattress a “complete game-changer” in her review. “It hugs my body well and I don’t feel any pressure on my neck or lower back like I used to while back sleeping,” she wrote. “My quality of sleep has definitely improved over the last few months: I wake up less frequently throughout the night, I sleep cooler, I rarely wake up with aches and pains, and I feel much more energized throughout the day.” “,”image”:”https://vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/1771431242-1770827635-screenshot-2026-02-11-at-11-33-07-am-698caf4718b35.png”,”brand”:{“@type”:”Brand”,”name”:”Saatva”},”review”:{“@type”:”Review”,”name”:”Classic Mattress”,”image”:”https://vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/1771431242-1770827635-screenshot-2026-02-11-at-11-33-07-am-698caf4718b35.png”,”author”:[{“@type”:”Person”,”name”:”Jake Smith”},{“@type”:”Person”,”name”:”Hannah Jeon”}],”reviewBody”:”Saatva’s best-selling Classic mattress combines a responsive, durable dual-coil design with a soft, cushioned pillow top that provides pressure relief. Available in three firmness levels—Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, and Firm—it also provides great support with the brand’s patented Lumbar Zone technology, which promotes healthy spinal alignment in any sleep position to help alleviate back and joint pain. In addition to the dual-coil design that allows airflow, this mattress also has a naturally breathable, hypoallergenic cover made with organic cotton to help you sleep cooler. What an editor says: Shannen Zitz, former assistant editor at Prevention, called this mattress a “complete game-changer” in her review. “It hugs my body well and I don’t feel any pressure on my neck or lower back like I used to while back sleeping,” she wrote. “My quality of sleep has definitely improved over the last few months: I wake up less frequently throughout the night, I sleep cooler, I rarely wake up with aches and pains, and I feel much more energized throughout the day.” “,”positiveNotes”:{“@type”:”ItemList”,”itemListElement”:[{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”1″,”name”:”Cushioned pillow top for pressure relief”},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”2″,”name”:”Responsive dual-coil design”},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”3″,”name”:”Lumbar Zone technology promotes healthy spinal alignment”},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”4″,”name”:”Available in 3 firmness levels”}]},”negativeNotes”:{“@type”:”ItemList”,”itemListElement”:[{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”1″,”name”:”Returns involve a processing fee”}]}}}},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:8,”item”:{“@context”:”https://schema.org/”,”@type”:”Product”,”name”:”Original”,”url”:”https://www.prevention.com/health/sleep-energy/g70608408/best-mattress-for-back-pain/#slide-8″,”description”:”The brand’s most affordable and versatile mattress, Nolah’s Original offers a medium level of firmness that provides the ideal balance of pressure relief and support. It’s constructed with six responsive, gentle foam layers that contour to your body, including Tri-Zone Foam, which provides enhanced lumbar support and pressure relief around your shoulders. Plus, the breathable foams are infused with cooper to provide cooling relief. It comes with a breathable knit cover, or you can upgrade to the GlacioTex pillow top with extra quilted foam for even more cooling relief and plush cushioning. What a reviewer says: “I’ve been sleeping on my new Nolah mattress for about a month now. Five stars isn’t right—there should be six stars,” raved one shopper. “The search for a Goldilocks mattress that could be firm enough to keep my back issues from flaring up while soft enough that it would not cut off circulation when I sleep on my side has been fraught for years…But this Nolah mattress fixed all of those issues from my first night sleeping on it, despite being relatively thin and sitting on a platform bed. My whole body is grateful for this mattress!” “,”image”:”https://vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/1681755093-original-main-image-desktop-850x-643d8b97b3ed8.jpg”,”brand”:{“@type”:”Brand”,”name”:”Nolah”},”review”:{“@type”:”Review”,”name”:”Original”,”image”:”https://vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/1681755093-original-main-image-desktop-850x-643d8b97b3ed8.jpg”,”author”:[{“@type”:”Person”,”name”:”Jake Smith”},{“@type”:”Person”,”name”:”Hannah Jeon”}],”reviewBody”:”The brand’s most affordable and versatile mattress, Nolah’s Original offers a medium level of firmness that provides the ideal balance of pressure relief and support. It’s constructed with six responsive, gentle foam layers that contour to your body, including Tri-Zone Foam, which provides enhanced lumbar support and pressure relief around your shoulders. Plus, the breathable foams are infused with cooper to provide cooling relief. It comes with a breathable knit cover, or you can upgrade to the GlacioTex pillow top with extra quilted foam for even more cooling relief and plush cushioning. What a reviewer says: “I’ve been sleeping on my new Nolah mattress for about a month now. Five stars isn’t right—there should be six stars,” raved one shopper. “The search for a Goldilocks mattress that could be firm enough to keep my back issues from flaring up while soft enough that it would not cut off circulation when I sleep on my side has been fraught for years…But this Nolah mattress fixed all of those issues from my first night sleeping on it, despite being relatively thin and sitting on a platform bed. My whole body is grateful for this mattress!” “,”positiveNotes”:{“@type”:”ItemList”,”itemListElement”:[{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”1″,”name”:”Pressure-relieving memory foam”},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”2″,”name”:”Copper-infused foam for cooling relief”},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”3″,”name”:”Option for cooling pillow top with quilted foam”}]},”negativeNotes”:{“@type”:”ItemList”,”itemListElement”:[{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”1″,”name”:”Some reviewers say there isn’t much edge support”}]}}}},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:9,”item”:{“@context”:”https://schema.org/”,”@type”:”Product”,”name”:”The Purple Mattress”,”url”:”https://www.prevention.com/health/sleep-energy/g70608408/best-mattress-for-back-pain/#slide-9″,”description”:”The best-selling Purple Mattress is constructed with two inches of GelFlex Grid, which instantly adapts as you move to cradle pressure points like hips and shoulders. Along a breathable cover, it also features built-in air channels in the Grid that dissipates heat to help you sleep cool. Additionally, this mattress features two layers of foam that provides support and pressure relief for shoulders and hips, as well as great motion isolation. The medium-firm feel of this mattress makes it ideal for back and combination sleepers, according to the brand. What a reviewer says: “Literally the best sleep I’ve have in YEARS! I never want to wake up and I look forward to going to sleep!! This bed hugs all the joints when you lay down. No more back pain!” one Amazon customer raved. “Also this bed is good if you have someone sleeping next to you because you literally do not affect your surrounding area. So if you get up in the middle of the night no one knows! I should have purchased this years ago.””,”image”:”https://vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/1737063737-71644geEo5L.jpg”,”brand”:{“@type”:”Brand”,”name”:”Purple”},”review”:{“@type”:”Review”,”name”:”The Purple Mattress”,”image”:”https://vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/1737063737-71644geEo5L.jpg”,”author”:[{“@type”:”Person”,”name”:”Jake Smith”},{“@type”:”Person”,”name”:”Hannah Jeon”}],”reviewBody”:”The best-selling Purple Mattress is constructed with two inches of GelFlex Grid, which instantly adapts as you move to cradle pressure points like hips and shoulders. Along a breathable cover, it also features built-in air channels in the Grid that dissipates heat to help you sleep cool. Additionally, this mattress features two layers of foam that provides support and pressure relief for shoulders and hips, as well as great motion isolation. The medium-firm feel of this mattress makes it ideal for back and combination sleepers, according to the brand. What a reviewer says: “Literally the best sleep I’ve have in YEARS! I never want to wake up and I look forward to going to sleep!! This bed hugs all the joints when you lay down. No more back pain!” one Amazon customer raved. “Also this bed is good if you have someone sleeping next to you because you literally do not affect your surrounding area. So if you get up in the middle of the night no one knows! I should have purchased this years ago.””,”positiveNotes”:{“@type”:”ItemList”,”itemListElement”:[{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”1″,”name”:”Grid layer provides support and pressure relief”},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”2″,”name”:”Great motion isolation”},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”3″,”name”:”Built-in air channels and breathable cover”}]},”negativeNotes”:{“@type”:”ItemList”,”itemListElement”:[{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”1″,”name”:”Some reviewers say it’s not long-lasting and sinks after a few years “}]}}}},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:10,”item”:{“@context”:”https://schema.org/”,”@type”:”Product”,”name”:”Green Mattress”,”url”:”https://www.prevention.com/health/sleep-energy/g70608408/best-mattress-for-back-pain/#slide-10″,”description”:”This top-rated mattress from Avocado is constructed with all organic materials that are GOTS- and GOLS-certified—including cotton, wool, and latex. The latex construction offers a firmer and bouncier feel than traditional memory foam, while the anti-microbial wool and breathable cotton help wick away moisture to help you sleep cooler. It comes in three different firmness levels: Medium (which offers balanced support for for all sleep positions), Firm (which comes with a tight-top for back and stomach sleepers), and Plush (which comes with a soft pillow-top for side and combo sleepers). What an editor says: This mattress is a favorite of Prevention’s Associate Commerce Editor, Hannah Jeon, who says it provides a great balance of softness and support. “As a combo side-and-back sleeper, I snooze comfortably every night and wake up without any pain or soreness,” she shared in her in-depth review. “On my side, the pillow-top cradles my body and offers great pressure relief on my typical pain points—my shoulders, neck, and hips. And on my back, my spine feels neutrally aligned without any uncomfortable pressure on my neck or lower back.””,”image”:”https://vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/1702487676-avocado-green-mattress-standard-6579e66de7901.jpg”,”brand”:{“@type”:”Brand”,”name”:”Avocado “},”review”:{“@type”:”Review”,”name”:”Green Mattress”,”image”:”https://vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/1702487676-avocado-green-mattress-standard-6579e66de7901.jpg”,”author”:[{“@type”:”Person”,”name”:”Jake Smith”},{“@type”:”Person”,”name”:”Hannah Jeon”}],”reviewBody”:”This top-rated mattress from Avocado is constructed with all organic materials that are GOTS- and GOLS-certified—including cotton, wool, and latex. The latex construction offers a firmer and bouncier feel than traditional memory foam, while the anti-microbial wool and breathable cotton help wick away moisture to help you sleep cooler. It comes in three different firmness levels: Medium (which offers balanced support for for all sleep positions), Firm (which comes with a tight-top for back and stomach sleepers), and Plush (which comes with a soft pillow-top for side and combo sleepers). What an editor says: This mattress is a favorite of Prevention’s Associate Commerce Editor, Hannah Jeon, who says it provides a great balance of softness and support. “As a combo side-and-back sleeper, I snooze comfortably every night and wake up without any pain or soreness,” she shared in her in-depth review. “On my side, the pillow-top cradles my body and offers great pressure relief on my typical pain points—my shoulders, neck, and hips. And on my back, my spine feels neutrally aligned without any uncomfortable pressure on my neck or lower back.””,”positiveNotes”:{“@type”:”ItemList”,”itemListElement”:[{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”1″,”name”:”Made from GOTS- and GOLS-certified organic materials”},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”2″,”name”:”Available in 3 firmness levels”},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”3″,”name”:”Generous year-long trial period”}]},”negativeNotes”:{“@type”:”ItemList”,”itemListElement”:[{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”1″,”name”:”Medium and Plush firmness cost extra”}]}}}},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:11,”item”:{“@context”:”https://schema.org/”,”@type”:”Product”,”name”:”The WinkBed”,”url”:”https://www.prevention.com/health/sleep-energy/g70608408/best-mattress-for-back-pain/#slide-11″,”description”:”Although medium-firm is the best density for back pain, you might want to go with a soft or firm option instead—and WinkBed allows you to choose from a range of different firmness levels (four, to be exact—including an “Plus” option for heavier people) in its flagship mattress. It features individually-wrapped coils and a pressure-relieving quilted pillow top with gel-infused foams to help alleviate back, hip, and shoulder pain—along with a soft, moisture-wicking Tencel cover to help you sleep cool. Plus, it also offers anti-sag support at the edges and great motion isolation.What a reviewer says: “After many months of research I finally chose the luxury firm WinkBed and could not be happier with my decision. It arrived sooner than promised. Very clear instructions on how to open. And the comfort and support are amazing. The first night in years I slept through and didn’t wake up with back pain. Highly recommend,” said a customer on the WinkBed website.”,”image”:”https://vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/1643843822-WinkBed-21_850x.png”,”brand”:{“@type”:”Brand”,”name”:”WinkBeds”},”review”:{“@type”:”Review”,”name”:”The WinkBed”,”image”:”https://vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/1643843822-WinkBed-21_850x.png”,”author”:[{“@type”:”Person”,”name”:”Jake Smith”},{“@type”:”Person”,”name”:”Hannah Jeon”}],”reviewBody”:”Although medium-firm is the best density for back pain, you might want to go with a soft or firm option instead—and WinkBed allows you to choose from a range of different firmness levels (four, to be exact—including an “Plus” option for heavier people) in its flagship mattress. It features individually-wrapped coils and a pressure-relieving quilted pillow top with gel-infused foams to help alleviate back, hip, and shoulder pain—along with a soft, moisture-wicking Tencel cover to help you sleep cool. Plus, it also offers anti-sag support at the edges and great motion isolation.What a reviewer says: “After many months of research I finally chose the luxury firm WinkBed and could not be happier with my decision. It arrived sooner than promised. Very clear instructions on how to open. And the comfort and support are amazing. The first night in years I slept through and didn’t wake up with back pain. Highly recommend,” said a customer on the WinkBed website.”,”positiveNotes”:{“@type”:”ItemList”,”itemListElement”:[{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”1″,”name”:”Quilted pillow top with gel-infused foams for pressure relief”},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”2″,”name”:”Soft, cooling Tencel cover”},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”3″,”name”:”Available in 4 firmness levels”}]},”negativeNotes”:{“@type”:”ItemList”,”itemListElement”:[{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”1″,”name”:”Doesn’t offer the same contouring as memory foam”}]}}}},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:12,”item”:{“name”:”How to choose the best mattress for back pain”,”url”:”https://www.prevention.com/health/sleep-energy/g70608408/best-mattress-for-back-pain/#slide-12″,”description”:”“You’re much more likely to have problems sleeping if you have back pain during the day,” Dr. Huff says, so it’s imperative that you find the right mattress—otherwise, you could be stuck in a painful 24-hour cycle. Here’s what you need to know before you go shopping:✔️ Choose the right firmness. Just 20 years ago, orthopedic surgeons would have recommended going with a firm mattress, but that recommendation has since changed, Dr. Huff explains. The ideal density is medium-firm, per a landmark 2003 study and another from 2015, which promotes “sleep comfort, quality, and spinal alignment.” Dr. Dasgupta also recommends a medium-firm mattress for most people with lower back pain, as “it both contours and has firm support, which helps keep the spine aligned and avoids strain on the lumbar muscles and discs,” he explains. ✔️ Consider the mattress type. Density has a bigger impact on sleep quality and back pain than material does, according to Dr. Huff; the right firmness is attainable with foam, coil, and hybrid mattresses. That being said, Dr. Dasgupta generally recommends foam or hybrid mattresses for back pain. “Memory foam and hybrid options are usually helpful because they contour where you typically need pressure relief without losing overall support,” he explains. “Materials that sag quickly or feel overly soft can allow the midsection to collapse, which increases stress on the lower back.”✔️ Think of your sleep position. Consider your sleep position, then buy a model that matches it. “If you’re a side sleeper, you likely want a softer mattress, because that relieves some of the pressure on your hips and shoulders,” Dr. Huff explains. “It also helps you align your spine.” Back-sleepers, meanwhile, can go with firmer mattresses, since their weight is more evenly distributed. And stomach-sleepers (like Dr. Huff herself) should seek out pillow-top mattresses (or mattress toppers) that allow easy airflow and less pressure on the neck.✔️ Replace your mattress when it’s time. Dr. Huff cites one 2009 study that found a significant reduction in back pain and sleep interruptions when beds that were at least five years old were replaced with new ones. There isn’t great research around when to replace your mattress, Dr. Huff says, but she trusts the Sleep Foundation’s recommendation of getting a new one every six to eight years.✔️ Look for mattresses that come with a trial period. “So you can really see what works for you,” Dr. Huff says. And no matter which mattress you choose, she says, you should also use pillows strategically, keeping your spine aligned while you rest.”,”image”:”https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/prevention-line-break-1-1649871064.jpg”}},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:13,”item”:{“name”:”What type of mattress is best for back pain?”,”url”:”https://www.prevention.com/health/sleep-energy/g70608408/best-mattress-for-back-pain/#slide-13″,”description”:”The best type of mattress for back pain will, of course, vary for each person depending on their personal preference and severity of back pain—but generally speaking, experts recommend a medium-firm mattress, with a softer pillow top. “The goal is for the spine to experience pressure relief while maintaining alignment throughout the night,” Dr. Wood says. “It is important to have some compressibility or cushion to your sleeping surface; however, you do not want to sink in too much as this will distort the spine and put unfavorable pressure on the low back when you sleep. Alternatively, too firm of a mattress or sleeping surface will not adequately accommodate the curvature of the spine.” “,”image”:”https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/prevention-line-break-1-1649871064.jpg”}},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:14,”item”:{“name”:”What is the best sleep position for back pain?”,”url”:”https://www.prevention.com/health/sleep-energy/g70608408/best-mattress-for-back-pain/#slide-14″,”description”:”According to Dr. Wood, the best sleep position to prevent back pain is one that offloads the low back—specifically, a position that maintains the natural curvature of the lumbar spine and does not further apply pressure to the spine. So which sleep positions do exactly that? “Lying on your back, or [on your] sides with your knees flexed,” says Dr. Wood. There is, however, one position that may not be best if you’re experiencing back pain. “Sleeping on your stomach is an unfavorable position,” says Dr. Wood, “as it forces the lumbar spine in extension which may aggravate degenerative issues such as arthritis or stenosis.” “,”image”:”https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/prevention-line-break-1-1649871064.jpg”}},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:15,”item”:{“name”:”Is a memory foam or spring mattress better for back pain?”,”url”:”https://www.prevention.com/health/sleep-energy/g70608408/best-mattress-for-back-pain/#slide-15″,”description”:”Memory foam and spring (coil) mattresses each have their benefits. Memory foam, specifically, helps relieve pressure points and may help keep the back aligned while sleeping. That said, some people dislike the feeling of “sinking” into a memory foam mattress, finding it more difficult to move, which can be a problem for those with back pain. Spring mattresses, on the other hand, provide more support, but depending on the placement of the springs, could irritate pressure points that lead to pain. Testing memory foam, spring, and hybrid mattresses that use both options is the best way to determine which style of mattress is best for you, your back pain, your sleep position, and your personal needs. “,”image”:”https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/prevention-line-break-1648844191.jpg”}},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:16,”item”:{“name”:”How do I know if my mattress is causing my back pain?”,”url”:”https://www.prevention.com/health/sleep-energy/g70608408/best-mattress-for-back-pain/#slide-16″,”description”:”The primary way to tell if your mattress is causing or contributing to back pain is if you wake up in the morning with more pain or stiffness than you went to bed with. Also, if it’s hard to get comfortable, fall asleep, or stay asleep, your mattress may be causing more problems than it is helping. It’s also important to remember that a good mattress can go bad over time. If, after several years, you’re noticing signs of wear and tear, like lumps, saggy spots, sloping edges, or discernible springs, it’s likely time to trade in your old model for something new. “,”image”:”https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/prevention-line-break-1648844191.jpg”}},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:17,”item”:{“name”:”How to find relief for back pain”,”url”:”https://www.prevention.com/health/sleep-energy/g70608408/best-mattress-for-back-pain/#slide-17″,”description”:”Upgrading your mattress is one of the best ways to soothe back pain, but if you’re looking for additional ways to find relief, try some of these expert tips:✔️ Try an anti-inflammatory medication. A non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (like ibuprofen or naproxen) can help relieve pain for those who are dealing with a muscle or ligament strain, Justin J. Park, M.D., a board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon previously explained of effective treatments for back pain.✔️ See a physical therapist. Dr. Park added that the stretches and exercises you’ll learn in physical therapy (in addition to things like ultrasound and electrical stimulation) can help manage your back pain by strengthening your muscles and correcting any muscle imbalances.✔️ Add some movement to your daily routine. While you certainly have a case for taking it easy while experiencing back pain, some light movement each day can go a long way toward finding relief. By walking, performing gentle stretches, and avoiding sitting for long periods of time, you can help stabilize your spine and reduce pain.”,”image”:”https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/prevention-line-break-1-1649871064.jpg”}},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:18,”item”:{“name”:”How we chose the best mattresses for back pain relief”,”url”:”https://www.prevention.com/health/sleep-energy/g70608408/best-mattress-for-back-pain/#slide-18″,”description”:”First, we sought out the expert opinions of Tamara Huff, M.D., F.A.A.O.S., a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and the founder of Vigio Orthopedics in Columbus, GA; Troy Wood, M.D., a specialist in pain medicine, physical medicine, and rehabilitation at the Atlantic Health System; and and Raj Dasgupta, M.D., a quadruple board-certified physician specializing in internal medicine, pulmonology, critical care, and sleep medicine and chief medical advisor for Sleepopolis. We also took our own editor testing into account and combed through countless customer reviews, ratings, and specs to find the best mattresses for back pain.”,”image”:”https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/prevention-line-break-1648844191.jpg”}},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:19,”item”:{“name”:”Why trust us”,”url”:”https://www.prevention.com/health/sleep-energy/g70608408/best-mattress-for-back-pain/#slide-19″,”description”:”For more than 70 years, Prevention has been a leading provider of trustworthy health information, empowering readers with practical strategies to improve their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Our editors interview medical experts to help guide our health-focused product selections. Prevention also examines hundreds of reviews—and often conducts personal testing done by our staff—to help you make informed decisions.”,”image”:”https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/prevention-line-break-1648844191.jpg”}}]}}]
One of our most editor-loved mattress brands, Saatva, has a mattress designed specifically for back pain: The Saatva Rx. It’s designed to provide maximum support and pressure relief to help alleviate discomfort associated with chronic back and joint conditions, including sciatica, arthritis, herniated disc, and scoliosis. This hybrid pick combines gel-infused memory foams with flexible micro-coils, featuring a Therapeutic Support Core that automatically adjusts to your body’s curves and movements to eliminate pressure points, along with Lumbar Zone technology that keep your spine in alignment to provide enhanced back support and help alleviate back pain.
What an editor says: Prevention’s Art Director, Bruce Perez, who suffers from chronic back pain, said this mattress is a “solid choice” for back pain that’s “well worth the investment” in his review. “The lumbar support, which feels great on the lower back, is a unique feature that hits in just the right place. This region of the mattress has extra memory foam, so it offers stronger support without feeling too stiff,” he wrote. “I think this feature alone has made a big difference for me, as my lower back seemed to sag further into the old mattress and getting up was a painful struggle…I no longer have that issue, and I get out of bed much more easily.”
Features at a Glance
| Type | Hybrid |
| Sizes | Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Split King, CA King |
| Firmness Level | Supportive Plush |
| Height | 15” |
| Trial Period | 365 nights |
| Warranty | Lifetime |
For a good memory foam mattress for back pain, Dr. Dasgupta recommends this popular pick from Nectar. “The Nectar Sleep Classic mattress is a good option to consider. It is a medium-firm memory foam option that contours to the shoulders and hips while keeping the lower back supported,” he says. “Memory foam helps spread pressure evenly, which can reduce morning stiffness.” In fact, the mattress is endorsed by the American Chiropractic Association to help relieve back pain. The five-layer construction also includes a motion isolation layer, as well as a breathable top cover made with cooling fibers.
What a reviewer says: “As I have gotten into my later years, a good night’s sleep and waking up without shoulder and back pain was a thing of the past. My son purchased a Nectar mattress a year ago and after staying with him one night on his mattress, I found great relief!” one reviewer shared. “So, I bought one over the Black Friday sale and wow! It has been a life changer. Sleep is much better, and those aches and pains are slowly going away. What a great product! I am so much happier, pain free and well-rested.”
Features at a Glance
| Type | Memory foam |
| Sizes | Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Split King, CA King |
| Firmness Level | Medium-firm |
| Height | 12” |
| Trial Period | 356 nights |
| Warranty | Forever |
“The Leesa Sleep Sapira Chill Hybrid is a solid hybrid that balances pressure relief and support while sleeping cooler than dense foam mattresses,” says Dr. Dasgupta. Available in three different firmness levels—plush, medium-firm, and firm—this mattress combines four layers of foam that are cradling and responsive with zoned springs that offer extra hip and edge support. Plus, it’s topped with a billowy quilt top cover that’s infused with cooling fibers that pull heat away from your body.
What an editor says: Senior Commerce Editor Charlotte Lewis Finigan said she loved this mattress’s cooling features in her recent review. “I am a shockingly hot sleeper…After two years of sleeping on this mattress I can say that my sweat-soaked nights are a thing of the past. The brand says these smart fibers are ‘like having your very own personalized climate control,’ and I have not experienced anything other than that truth,” she said. “I consistently wake up in less pain than I did with our last two mattresses…I have noticed significant improvement in my sleep quality. Not only do I sleep cooler, but I also rarely feel disturbed when my wife tosses and turns.”
Features at a Glance
| Type | Hybrid |
| Sizes | Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King |
| Firmness Level | Plush, Medium-Firm, Firm |
| Height | 14” |
| Trial Period | 120 nights |
| Warranty | Lifetime |
“The Helix Sleep Midnight Luxe is a good hybrid choice, especially if you usually change positions at night,” says Dr. Dasgupta. “It uses zoned support with firmer reinforcement in the middle of the mattress to help maintain neutral spine alignment.” It boasts six layers for a medium-firm feel, including a Tencel pillow top (or you can upgrade to a GlacioTex cooling pillow top), cradling foam layers, and durable steel coils that offer zoned lumbar support. Plus, you can also opt for an additional ErgoAlign layer which the brand says is ideal for lower back pain relief.
What a reviewer says: “We love our Helix! It’s been about 8 weeks since we received our Midnight Luxe mattress,” shared one reviewer. “I have noticed a huge difference in terms of diminished lower back pain and waking up without general soreness like I used to with our old mattress. The firmness is perfect for side and back sleepers, soft enough to lay into but firm enough for stability. Would highly recommend.”
Features at a Glance
| Type | Hybrid |
| Sizes | Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, CA King |
| Firmness Level | Medium firm |
| Height | 13.5” |
| Trial Period | 120 nights |
| Warranty | Lifetime |
Saatva’s best-selling Classic mattress combines a responsive, durable dual-coil design with a soft, cushioned pillow top that provides pressure relief. Available in three firmness levels—Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, and Firm—it also provides great support with the brand’s patented Lumbar Zone technology, which promotes healthy spinal alignment in any sleep position to help alleviate back and joint pain. In addition to the dual-coil design that allows airflow, this mattress also has a naturally breathable, hypoallergenic cover made with organic cotton to help you sleep cooler.
What an editor says: Shannen Zitz, former assistant editor at Prevention, called this mattress a “complete game-changer” in her review. “It hugs my body well and I don’t feel any pressure on my neck or lower back like I used to while back sleeping,” she wrote. “My quality of sleep has definitely improved over the last few months: I wake up less frequently throughout the night, I sleep cooler, I rarely wake up with aches and pains, and I feel much more energized throughout the day.”
Features at a Glance
| Type | Spring |
| Sizes | Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, CA King, Split King, CA Split King |
| Firmness Level | Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, Firm |
| Height | 11.5 or 14.5 inches |
| Trial Period | 365 nights |
| Warranty | Lifetime |
The best-selling Purple Mattress is constructed with two inches of GelFlex Grid, which instantly adapts as you move to cradle pressure points like hips and shoulders. Along a breathable cover, it also features built-in air channels in the Grid that dissipates heat to help you sleep cool. Additionally, this mattress features two layers of foam that provides support and pressure relief for shoulders and hips, as well as great motion isolation. The medium-firm feel of this mattress makes it ideal for back and combination sleepers, according to the brand.
What a reviewer says: “Literally the best sleep I’ve have in YEARS! I never want to wake up and I look forward to going to sleep!! This bed hugs all the joints when you lay down. No more back pain!” one Amazon customer raved. “Also this bed is good if you have someone sleeping next to you because you literally do not affect your surrounding area. So if you get up in the middle of the night no one knows! I should have purchased this years ago.”
Features at a Glance
| Type | Memory foam |
| Sizes | Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, CA King |
| Firmness Level | Medium-firm |
| Height | 9.25” |
| Trial Period | 100 nights |
| Warranty | 10 years |
How to choose the best mattress for back pain
“You’re much more likely to have problems sleeping if you have back pain during the day,” Dr. Huff says, so it’s imperative that you find the right mattress—otherwise, you could be stuck in a painful 24-hour cycle. Here’s what you need to know before you go shopping:
✔️ Choose the right firmness. Just 20 years ago, orthopedic surgeons would have recommended going with a firm mattress, but that recommendation has since changed, Dr. Huff explains. The ideal density is medium-firm, per a landmark 2003 study and another from 2015, which promotes “sleep comfort, quality, and spinal alignment.” Dr. Dasgupta also recommends a medium-firm mattress for most people with lower back pain, as “it both contours and has firm support, which helps keep the spine aligned and avoids strain on the lumbar muscles and discs,” he explains.
✔️ Consider the mattress type. Density has a bigger impact on sleep quality and back pain than material does, according to Dr. Huff; the right firmness is attainable with foam, coil, and hybrid mattresses. That being said, Dr. Dasgupta generally recommends foam or hybrid mattresses for back pain. “Memory foam and hybrid options are usually helpful because they contour where you typically need pressure relief without losing overall support,” he explains. “Materials that sag quickly or feel overly soft can allow the midsection to collapse, which increases stress on the lower back.”
✔️ Think of your sleep position. Consider your sleep position, then buy a model that matches it. “If you’re a side sleeper, you likely want a softer mattress, because that relieves some of the pressure on your hips and shoulders,” Dr. Huff explains. “It also helps you align your spine.” Back-sleepers, meanwhile, can go with firmer mattresses, since their weight is more evenly distributed. And stomach-sleepers (like Dr. Huff herself) should seek out pillow-top mattresses (or mattress toppers) that allow easy airflow and less pressure on the neck.
✔️ Replace your mattress when it’s time. Dr. Huff cites one 2009 study that found a significant reduction in back pain and sleep interruptions when beds that were at least five years old were replaced with new ones. There isn’t great research around when to replace your mattress, Dr. Huff says, but she trusts the Sleep Foundation’s recommendation of getting a new one every six to eight years.
✔️ Look for mattresses that come with a trial period. “So you can really see what works for you,” Dr. Huff says. And no matter which mattress you choose, she says, you should also use pillows strategically, keeping your spine aligned while you rest.
What type of mattress is best for back pain?
The best type of mattress for back pain will, of course, vary for each person depending on their personal preference and severity of back pain—but generally speaking, experts recommend a medium-firm mattress, with a softer pillow top.
“The goal is for the spine to experience pressure relief while maintaining alignment throughout the night,” Dr. Wood says. “It is important to have some compressibility or cushion to your sleeping surface; however, you do not want to sink in too much as this will distort the spine and put unfavorable pressure on the low back when you sleep. Alternatively, too firm of a mattress or sleeping surface will not adequately accommodate the curvature of the spine.”
What is the best sleep position for back pain?
According to Dr. Wood, the best sleep position to prevent back pain is one that offloads the low back—specifically, a position that maintains the natural curvature of the lumbar spine and does not further apply pressure to the spine. So which sleep positions do exactly that? “Lying on your back, or [on your] sides with your knees flexed,” says Dr. Wood.
There is, however, one position that may not be best if you’re experiencing back pain. “Sleeping on your stomach is an unfavorable position,” says Dr. Wood, “as it forces the lumbar spine in extension which may aggravate degenerative issues such as arthritis or stenosis.”
Is a memory foam or spring mattress better for back pain?
Memory foam and spring (coil) mattresses each have their benefits. Memory foam, specifically, helps relieve pressure points and may help keep the back aligned while sleeping. That said, some people dislike the feeling of “sinking” into a memory foam mattress, finding it more difficult to move, which can be a problem for those with back pain.
Spring mattresses, on the other hand, provide more support, but depending on the placement of the springs, could irritate pressure points that lead to pain.
Testing memory foam, spring, and hybrid mattresses that use both options is the best way to determine which style of mattress is best for you, your back pain, your sleep position, and your personal needs.
How do I know if my mattress is causing my back pain?
The primary way to tell if your mattress is causing or contributing to back pain is if you wake up in the morning with more pain or stiffness than you went to bed with. Also, if it’s hard to get comfortable, fall asleep, or stay asleep, your mattress may be causing more problems than it is helping.
It’s also important to remember that a good mattress can go bad over time. If, after several years, you’re noticing signs of wear and tear, like lumps, saggy spots, sloping edges, or discernible springs, it’s likely time to trade in your old model for something new.
How to find relief for back pain
Upgrading your mattress is one of the best ways to soothe back pain, but if you’re looking for additional ways to find relief, try some of these expert tips:
✔️ Try an anti-inflammatory medication. A non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (like ibuprofen or naproxen) can help relieve pain for those who are dealing with a muscle or ligament strain, Justin J. Park, M.D., a board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon previously explained of effective treatments for back pain.
✔️ See a physical therapist. Dr. Park added that the stretches and exercises you’ll learn in physical therapy (in addition to things like ultrasound and electrical stimulation) can help manage your back pain by strengthening your muscles and correcting any muscle imbalances.
✔️ Add some movement to your daily routine. While you certainly have a case for taking it easy while experiencing back pain, some light movement each day can go a long way toward finding relief. By walking, performing gentle stretches, and avoiding sitting for long periods of time, you can help stabilize your spine and reduce pain.
How we chose the best mattresses for back pain relief
First, we sought out the expert opinions of Tamara Huff, M.D., F.A.A.O.S., a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and the founder of Vigio Orthopedics in Columbus, GA; Troy Wood, M.D., a specialist in pain medicine, physical medicine, and rehabilitation at the Atlantic Health System; and and Raj Dasgupta, M.D., a quadruple board-certified physician specializing in internal medicine, pulmonology, critical care, and sleep medicine and chief medical advisor for Sleepopolis. We also took our own editor testing into account and combed through countless customer reviews, ratings, and specs to find the best mattresses for back pain.
Why trust us
For more than 70 years, Prevention has been a leading provider of trustworthy health information, empowering readers with practical strategies to improve their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Our editors interview medical experts to help guide our health-focused product selections. Prevention also examines hundreds of reviews—and often conducts personal testing done by our staff—to help you make informed decisions.
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