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Back pain can range from annoying aches to debilitating pain. Research shows that up to 84% of the U.S. population experiences back pain at some point in their lives, with roughly 23% experiencing chronic lower back pain.
Pain throughout your back can significantly affect daily life and sleep quality, so it’s crucial to talk to a health care professional to develop a treatment plan. Everyone’s symptoms are different and require a tailored approach, but addressing sleep quality is one of the most important aspects of recovery, in addition to managing nutrition, stress, and activity levels. Replacing an old, worn mattress with the best mattress for back pain could help.
Based on our testing results, we developed a comprehensive list of mattress options for people with back pain. Each one had to offer plenty of pressure relief, surface support, and functional support to make this list. They also meet or exceed the industry standard for trial periods (100 nights), so you can try a mattress for a long time knowing you can return or exchange it if it doesn’t work. Our top picks were tested and reviewed by experts, so we hope our list of mattresses for back pain helps you make the right decision.
We found several important factors when testing mattresses specifically for backache, including:
A medium-to-firm option is the best doctor-recommended mattress for back pain, according to the Journal of Orthopaedics and Traumatology.
Many people with associated pain around the shoulders or hips may benefit from a pressure-relieving bed for a good night’s sleep.
To help relieve pressure on the back, opt for a mattress that supports your spine and allows it to rest in its most natural position.
Look for a mattress that’s easy to move around in, as many with back pain also have difficulty moving in bed or getting up in the morning.
Check out the video below to learn more about how we chose the best mattresses for back pain with Nicole Hernandez, PT, DPT.
As a licensed physical therapist and NCOA mattress reviewer, Hernandez explains what we look for to determine whether a mattress is a good fit for those with back pain, and why we chose the options we did.
Note: We update our written reviews regularly, so these picks may differ.
The Saatva Rx is our best overall pick for back pain because it’s designed to adapt to each sleeper’s body and sleep position, accommodating specific needs. It’s a true medium firmⓘ Brands rate firmness on a scale from one to 10. One is the softest, and 10 is the firmest. It’s generally accepted that 6.5 is considered medium on this scale. , making it ideal for generalized back pain.
This mattress is uniquely equipped to conform and mold to your body’s shape, allowing you to find a neutral sleeping position throughout the night. It offers foam-capped coils, which individually react to provide support or pressure relief where you need it most. You also get targeted support at the lower back to meet the shape of your spine, which is often more comfortable.
According to our survey of 500 recent mattress customers, 81.1% of respondents with back pain reported difficulty changing positions or getting out of bed. Testers appreciated that the Saatva Rx performed well in functional support, making movement less effortful or painful.
Lastly, Saatva offers unparalleled customer support. The mattress comes with free white-glove delivery, so you don’t have to lift anything and risk reinjuring your back. You also have one year to try your mattress at home, and if you decide to keep it, you receive a limited lifetime warranty.
Read more about the Saatva Rx and similar options in our review of orthopedic mattresses.
“The Saatva Rx performed impressively well. It’s comfortable for every position and was easy to move around. I even like how luxurious it looks. It has this top layer of well-stitched plush quilting. I can’t think of many negatives other than the price.”
The Saatva Rx is the best overall pick because it accommodates most body types and sleep positions, which means it should accommodate most pain conditions well.
Who may love it
Who may want to avoid it
The Saatva Classic has a 4.9-star rating out of five, with more than 70 reviews on its website. While there aren’t many reviews compared to other models, we spotted several referencing back pain improvements due to improved sleep.
“We’ve had the king-size Rx for a week now. It has improved our sleep. We are 6 feet and 5 inches and 6 feet and 6 inches and this has improved our lower back pain. This mattress is a side and back sleeper’s dream. Well worth the hype I myself, enjoy sleeping on my stomach, and I feel that the supportive plush on this mattress may be a bit too soft. But still does not make it a dealbreaker. Definitely the most supportive and comfortable mattress we’ve ever owned.”
—LRGC., verified customer on 4/27/2024
“I’ve had my Saatva Rx for 1.5 months. There was not an immediate relief of my back and hip pain, but it was comfortable and supportive from the beginning. The gains I’ve made with exercise and stretching and massage (which I’ve been doing for a long time) seem to be “staying” now, and I no longer feel like my back is thinking about going into a spasm when I first get up. This has been a great purchase for me.”
—Linda M., verified customer on 3/7/2024
We did notice a few negative reviews, but there aren’t many. One reviewer mentioned delivery issues. Another bought an adjustable base with their mattress and found it was not assembled correctly.
The Helix Midnight Luxe is our best pick for back and hip pain because of its well-rounded composition, which offloads pressure away from sore joints without compromising support. This hybridⓘ Hybrid mattresses combine the features of both innerspring and foam mattresses, with springs surrounded by a thick comfort layer of foam or latex. mattress is medium-firm and is most comfortable for light- and average-weight sleepers (less than 250 pounds) in any position.
Our tester gently sank into the pillow-top surface during testing, but a coil layer provided great support at the lower back. This targeted support filled the lower back’s natural curve to keep the spine neutral. Meanwhile, the coils at the shoulder and hip provided more give to reduce uncomfortable pressure points. According to research, targeted lower back support may reduce back pain, particularly side sleepers who need pressure relief away from joints.
Our testers found the transition layer and coils in the Midnight Luxe responsive and adapted quickly to pressure changes, bolstering its functional support score. Moving around, changing positions, and getting in and out of bed were relatively easy. Our testers also noticed good reinforcement around the edges of the mattress. Without good edge supportⓘ This refers to the bed’s stability along the edges. , the mattress will collapse under your weight, which may increase your risk of falls.
Unfortunately, bouncy coils tend to negatively affect motion isolationⓘ The ability of a mattress to keep movement on one side of the bed from affecting the other side. . People who sleep with a restless partner will likely feel their movements. If this is a deal-breaker, check out The WinkBed hybrid mattress instead, which dampens motion across the surface better.
Helix doesn’t currently offer in-home setup (also known as white-glove delivery). We recommend recruiting help from family, friends, or a local moving service to haul the mattress to your bedroom safely, especially if you’re recovering from a lower back injury. But you do receive a 100-night trial period and a 15-year warranty.
“The Helix Midnight Luxe has a comfy pillow top that allows my shoulders and hips to sink into the surface, which does make it more forgiving than firmer mattresses. It takes a little effort to roll over and push up to sitting as I’m getting out of bed, but it’s still relatively easy compared to softer all-foam beds we’ve tested. It’s a small tradeoff to consider.”
If you have back and hip pain, this mattress could be a good fit due to its great support, pressure relief, and functional support. This can include people with sciatica or back pain and hip arthritis.
Who may love it
Who may want to avoid it
The Helix Midnight Luxe has a 4.4-star rating out of five and more than 6,100 reviews on its website. Many reviewers mention the mattress’s positive effects on their back pain.
“We have really enjoyed our new Helix mattresses. They were easy to set up and we are sleeping much better. I have also enjoyed less back pain while I sleep.”
– Jennifer S., verified buyer on 6/12/2024
“The first month or so with this mattress, my lower back was sore (back and side sleeper)… Didn’t think my body would ever adjust. Luckily, my back adjusted now I sleep like a baby. Can’t really compare with other ‘expensive’ mattresses, but no regrets.”
– Juan A., verified buyer on 5/13/2024
On Google, the Helix Midnight Luxe mattress has a 4.3-star rating with 8,270 reviews. While most users gave the mattress a positive rating, some reviewers complained about the mattress being too soft or losing support over time. This mattress does seem softer than a true medium, according to our testing results. If you’re concerned the pillow top feel may soften over time, opt for a hybrid mattress with a dense feel, like the Bear Elite Hybrid or Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe.
Check out our Helix Midnight Luxe mattress review for more information.
The Saatva Classic is one of the most supportive mattresses our team has tested. It’s a hybrid-innerspring mattress with a targeted layer of memory foam across the center for added lower back support. It also offers two layers of coils to provide extra lower back reinforcement and a responsive surface, which makes movement less effortful. If your health care provider recommends purchasing a mattress with a large amount of support for your back pain, this is a great option.
Our team also likes how Saatva provides options to customize this mattress to the firmness level you prefer. We tested the luxury firm version, which we found slightly firmer than medium at seven out of 10 on the firmness scale, with 6.5 being the true medium per the industry standard. But you can opt for a softer or firmer feel. We think the luxury firm feel is best for back, stomach, and combination sleepersⓘ People who sleep in more than one position throughout the night. . But side sleepers may need the softer version to avoid sharp pressure points at the shoulder and hip while still supporting the midsection in a more comfortable, neutral position for the back.
The Saatva Classic also offers a lot of functional support, so we found it quite easy to move on this responsive and bouncy mattress. Our testers loved the protective edge support that acts as a boundary around the perimeter of the mattress to help prevent rolling off the bed. This is an important consideration for those with back pain and coinciding mobility issues who feel unsafe changing positions toward the edge of the bed.
“We’ve tested a number of Saatva mattresses at this point. They’re consistently supportive and easy to move on. The Classic is no different, offering what our team considers to be the gold standard in edge support.”
The Saatva Classic is one of the best mattresses for people with back pain who prefer sleeping on a firm, supportive surface. If you find relief by placing a thin pillow under your lower back for added reinforcement, you may like this mattress because it offers a similar effect.
Who may love it
Who may want to avoid it
The Saatva Classic has a 4.8-star rating out of five and more than 3,400 reviews on its website. Of these, 1,111 specifically mentioned positive effects on back pain.
“I used to have back pain with my prior mattress, but that’s disappeared with the Saatva Classic (it is constructed with extra support in the center of the mattress). Most people that have complained about the Saatva Classic felt it was too firm. It’s definitely not the soft sink-in feeling of a memory foam mattress, rather you sleep more on top of the mattress.”
— Eric., on 5/18/2024
“I live with chronic back pain due to degenerative disc disease. I now wake up without lower back, neck, shoulder, and hip. The Classic luxury firm mattress is a life changer. […]”
— Dione H., on 3/31/2024
On Google, the Saatva Classic mattress has a 4.4-star rating with 4,300 reviews. Some users did complain about the luxury firm being too firm of a mattress and feeling the softness levels were not accurate. This is consistent with our findings—the Saatva Classic is firmer, so keep this in mind as you shop.
Check out our Saatva mattress review for more information.
Research shows that just one night of sleep disturbance can increase your perception of pain, negatively impacting your recovery. [4] Staffe A, et al. Total Sleep Deprivation Increases Pain Sensitivity, Impairs Conditioned Pain Modulation, and Facilitates Temporal Summation of Pain in Healthy Participants. PLOS ONE. Dec. 4, 2019 If you want to limit how often your partner’s movement disrupts your sleep during the night, you may need a motion-isolating mattress, like the Nectar Premier.
“Sleep is the brain’s reset button! The brain processes pain. When the brain is well-fed, hydrated, and allowed to get the rest it needs (eight hours uninterrupted sleep*) people can experience less pain. If people don’t sleep, they will perceive and experience pain magnified.”
— Caryn McAllister, physical therapist at High Quality Home Therapy in Stamford, Connecticut and Rye, New York.
*While seven to nine hours of sleep is ideal for adults, many older adults get less (six to seven hours) than that because of changing sleep patterns.
This mattress has three layers of memory foam that contour the body and divert force away from areas that build up pressure, like the shoulder and hip, when lying on the side. It’s not as supportive as mattresses that incorporate coil layers or zoned support, but those who find relief from a conforming surface won’t miss it.
These memory foam layers are also responsible for the excellent motion dampening from side to side. To test this, one person on our team lay on one side while another got in bed and moved around. “If I were asleep, there is no way I would notice your movement,” said one of our testers. Our team was impressed.
But if you feel back pain while moving in bed, this bed may not be for you. When our testers dropped a 10-pound ball on the surface to test bounce and sinkage, we noticed the weight cradled into the surface with minimal rebound. Once it settled, there was a moderate amount of sinkage into the memory foam. Testers agreed that lying in the bed feels like you’re “in” the mattress, so changing positions is relatively more difficult than it is on a hybrid or innerspring mattress with responsive coils.
If you want to try this mattress, Nectar offers a one-year trial period, so you can test it out in the comfort of your own home before fully committing. If you keep it, you get a limited lifetime warranty. You can also opt for white-glove delivery at an extra cost ($199), but this offer changes often. Check with customer service at checkout to ensure it’s available with your purchase.
“As a 130–140 pound sleeper, I found this mattress to feel softer than expected, but still in the medium range. It was comfortable in most positions, but it’s not the easiest mattress to move around on. Couples with back pain should like how the forgiving foam dampens movement and relieves pressure from the body, like sleeping on a cloud. But if your pain affects your mobility, you may need something more firm and responsive.”
Light-sleeping couples with chronic back pain benefit from a mattress with motion isolation to encourage consistent sleep throughout the night. The Nectar Premier transfers little to no motion across its surface, making it perfect for those who need to improve uninterrupted sleep patterns as part of their pain management plan with their doctor.
Who may love it
Who may want to avoid it
The Nectar Premier has a 4.4-star rating out of five with more than 5,800 reviews on the brand’s website. Many reviewers mention this mattress’s positive impact on their back pain and overall comfort throughout the night.
“This mattress is so comfortable, I can’t believe that even in day one I had the best night’s sleep. It’s soft but firm if that makes sense. It molds to your body, and I am a side and back sleeper. My back pain in pretty much gone. I also can barely feel my husband when he moves.”
— Dana S., verified buyer on 6/16/2024
“Should have purchased sooner. We’re no longer waking up with back and hip pain.”
— Heather A., verified buyer on 6/12/2024
Like many mattresses, the Nectar Premier isn’t for everyone. Negative reviews stated that the mattress felt softer than expected, which is consistent with our testing results. It feels slightly softer than the true medium firmness per industry standard. If you need a firmer and more supportive option, especially if you or your partner weigh(s) more than 250 pounds, try the Titan Plus instead.
Our team tested the luxury firm version of The WinkBed and determined that it’s a well-rounded choice because of its balanced support and pressure relief, good functional support, and true medium firmness level, which is recommended for those with general low back pain.
But one of the main reasons The WinkBed is on our list is that it scored highly in its cooling abilities. Our team took temperature gun readings before and after two testers lay on the mattress for five minutes. The results showed that the mattress only heated up by 6 degrees, which is considered a great score.
This mattress provides this level of cooling through the Tencelⓘ A brand of lyocell fiber made from wood pulp that’s known for being soft, breathable, and absorbent. cover, a soft and breathable natural material our team has found effective in dispersing heat. Hybrid mattresses with thick coil layers also allow airflow to prevent heat buildup throughout the night. But bed sheets can influence a mattress’s cooling features, so pair your purchase with the Tencel cover if you’re a hot sleeper. We’ve also found bamboo to work well for cooling.
The WinkBed mattress comes with a lifetime warranty, but unfortunately, white-glove delivery is not yet available. Make sure you get help from a neighbor or local moving service.
It also comes with a 120-night trial period term, which includes a unique exchange program for those who want to experiment with firmness levels at home. This brand offers four firmness levels (softer, luxury firm, firmer, plus), and if you don’t like the option you purchase, the company will send you a mattress with a different firmness level for $49. You get to keep your original purchase and the potential replacement mattress for up to 60 days before deciding to return one. To our knowledge, no other brand allows you to compare two mattresses simultaneously in the comfort of your home.
“Moving around on this mattress is less stressful than normal. I don’t feel stuck in this mattress at all. When I push up to seating, the surface isn’t too bouncy under my hand, which makes it simpler. And when I stand up, it’s easy, because the mattress is taller than I’m used to. I also notice how cool the mattress feels—it’s such a well-rounded option.”
The WinkBed is great for hot sleepers with generalized back pain. Tossing and turning to stay cool can disturb sleep, leading to unrestful and non-restorative sleep.
Who may love it
Who may want to avoid it
The WinkBed has a 4.8-star rating out of five with more than 8,600 reviews on its website. Most people report an easy time adjusting to the mattress after purchase, and some reference improvements in back pain.
“The mattress was a gift for my brother, and he absolutely loves it. He suffers from back pain, and the mattress has helped reduce it. Overall, he is sleeping much better and is feeling healthier as a result. He states that the mattress is soft, but not too soft. He also finds it easy to turn in bed. Overall, a great purchase!”
— Mary K., on 2/5/2024
“We’ve been sleeping on our mattress for a month and a half now, and so far we are very happy with the firmness and quality. The inner springs don’t squeak, the foam top layer is cushioning without being enveloping, and both of us have noticed a great improvement in our back pain. The only thing I would wish for is built in handles on the sides of the mattress. It is decently heavy and requires rotating so frequently, I have hurt my fingers a few times trying to keep a grip as we rotate.”
— Kristen P., on 1/15/2024
Negative reviewers frequently expressed disappointment because they were expecting a potentially pain-free experience. Although a mattress can influence comfort, it’s not the main approach to pain management. Always discuss symptoms with your doctor. Others mentioned how the mattress gets softer over time. If you’re concerned about the firmness level, consider going firmer and adding a mattress topper. You can also take advantage of the brand’s exchange program (explained above).
Review our WinkBed mattress review for more information on this bed.
The Titan Plus is our top choice for higher-weight sleepers (more than 250 pounds) looking for a firmer mattress that supports the body yet relieves pressure from joints. Our testers found its surface bouncy with above-average edge support, making this mattress relatively easy to move around on. This is important to consider if your back pain is associated with changing positions or getting in and out of bed.
We also like that this mattress has a taller version (the Luxe) with an additional layer of foam padding for extra pressure relief. We recommend the Luxe for those who border on 250 pounds and may prefer more cushion around the shoulder and hip while sleeping on the side. This can also help maintain a more neutral spine position.
The Titan Plus is also surprisingly good at isolating motion. Despite its firm and bouncy surface, the memory foam layers and individually encased coils dampen motion relatively well. This makes it a good choice for light sleepers with restless partners. But it’s not as effective as The WinkBed (specifically, the plus version designed to accommodate higher body weight), which could be a great alternative if motion isolation is non-negotiable.
Your mattress comes with a 120-night trial period and a 10-year warranty. Unfortunately, white-glove delivery is not available for Titan mattresses, so make sure you recruit help from a neighbor or local moving service to avoid injury.
“This mattress is ideal for people who weigh more than 250 pounds, but there is concern for pressure buildup at the shoulder and hip while laying on the side since it’s so firm. If I were purchasing this mattress, I’d try it out and purchase a mattress topper if I need more pressure relief.”
No matter what type of back condition you have, finding a mattress that best supports your body type is important to prevent pain-provoking sag over time. Luckily, the Titan Plus is designed to support higher body weights, which means it’s more likely to last.
Who may love it
Who may want to avoid it
The Titan Plus has a 4.7-star rating out of five and more than 2,500 reviews on its website. Many higher-weight people (including some who sleep with a partner) reported that it supported body weight while remaining comfortable, which is important for those with back pain.
“If you are a bigger person and need a supportive bed that keeps you cool, I highly recommend the Titan Plus. We bought this bed due to our aches, pains and wanted a supportive bed. I did more research than I ever had to find an affordable bed that works for the hubby and myself. This bed checked many boxes for us. It’s supportive, keeps us cool, and it’s so comfortable. We picked the medium firm Titan Plus and we love it.”
— Lorita M., verified buyer on 6/16/2024
“I really like this so far! I was having serious neck and back pain from a memory foam mattress and realized I needed something much firmer. I tried this in a mattress store and ordered right away. I am a back and side sleeper and it’s good for both, but extra good for back sleeping. Definitely a very firm mattress but I’d rather have something that I can add a topper to if needed instead of something that’s too soft. […]”
— Savannah T., verified buyer on 4/29/2024
We also saw negative reviews, with some callouts similar to our testing findings. A common theme was the mattress’s edge support. While it scored above average during our testing, it may feel too forgiving for heavier people and sink when sitting on the edge. If this is a concern, you may want to browse other options in our mattress round-up for higher-weight people.
Review our Titan Plus mattress review for more information.
The luxury firm version of the 15-inch-thick Nolah Evolution may be one of the best mattresses for low back pain. During testing, this firmer medium mattress relieved pressure on the shoulder and hip, particularly in the side-sleeping position. This mattress is also one of the best for edge support, so if you’re concerned about safety as you carefully move around on your mattress, the Nolah Evolution 15″ is an excellent choice.
The standout feature of this mattress is its double-zoned support. Nolah uses its own type of foam called AirFoam, which is perforated more at the shoulder and hip to compress easily and relieve pressure. The foam at the center of the mattress is perforated less, making it denser and more supportive at the lower back. It also has a supportive coil layer targeting the low back for added reinforcement.
Our team also recommends this mattress to couples because it has good motion isolation, similar to the Titan Plus. Our testers only felt larger bouncing movements, like getting into bed. But smaller movements are subtle. Couples may also like this mattress because it’s comfortable for most body types and sleep positions. You and your partner will likely enjoy this mattress, even if you have different sleep preferences or injuries.
The Nolah Evolution 15″ has a 120-night trial period and a limited lifetime warranty. White-glove delivery is optional through a third-party site called Load Up and costs between $150–$300, depending on whether you need old mattress removal, set up, or both. If you’re confident you’ll love this mattress, you can remove the trial period and save up to $100.
“The Nolah Evolution is soft yet supportive. It’s easy to switch positions because I’m not fighting the material, and standing from the edge is simple due to its height. Overall a great mattress, ideal for any average-weight person (130–250 pounds) who sleeps in any position.”
The Nolah Evolution provides balanced support, making it a great choice for people with generalized lower back pain. Those with associated soreness at the hip may also appreciate its high-scoring pressure relief during back and side sleeping.
Who may love it
Who may want to avoid it
The Nolah Evolution has a 4.9-star rating out of five on the brand’s website. Some reviewers mention the mattress’s impact on their back pain and sleep quality.
“We love our Nolah, we both wake up rested with much less aches and pains.”
— Ondria G., verified buyer on 10/4/2023
“I appreciate this company directed what bed for different weight people. I bought the recommended Luxury Firm. No more back pain. It cradles while at the same time is supportively firm.”
— Rainbow T., verified buyer on 11/14/2023
We noticed some negative reviews too, although they seemed few. One reviewer weighing 180 pounds reported early sagging over time, while others expected the mattress to feel softer. If you’re concerned about sag due to your body type, consider a firmer mattress or one designed to support higher-weight people, like the Titan Plus.
Review our Nolah mattress review for more information.
The medium-firm version of the Bear Elite Hybrid stands out as a great choice for side sleepers with back pain because it offers zoned coil support and excellent pressure relief. Plus, it truly feels like a medium-firm mattress should, which research shows is the best firmness level for people with general back pain. [3] Bolton R, et al. Effects of Mattress Support on Sleeping Position and Low-Back Pain. Sleep Science and Practice. May 10, 2022
In fact, one tester and her partner own this mattress and frequently sleep on their sides and can attest to its comfort. The only drawback they found was the off-gassingⓘ The chemical odor given off from a new mattress. The smell is harmless and is usually gone within the first few days. , which occurs with most hybrid or foam mattresses. The material’s smell took about three days to clear out of the bedroom (even with the windows cracked), so consider this if you purchase any mattress with foam.
The Bear Elite Hybrid is composed of a cushion cover, memory foam, and individually encased coil layers. The cushion cover and memory foam are key for side sleepers on this mattress. When our team tested the pressure relief of this mattress using a pressure mapping systemⓘ A mat with sensors that detects pressure buildup when someone lays across it. , we found almost no force buildup under prominent joints, like the hip and shoulder. This is a great sign for side sleepers because force buildup can be uncomfortable, leading to tossing and turning throughout the night to find a better position.
Our team also liked the zoned coil support in this mattress. The coils in the center are reinforced to maintain a spinal alignment while lying on your side. A neutral spine position may relieve back pain because it keeps the body from twisting or bending, potentially leading to discomfort and pain during the daytime. Our testers noticed how the coiled reinforcement felt gentler and less obvious, which some people might prefer, compared to a mattress like the Saatva Classic. Because each coil of the Bear Elite Hybrid is individually wrapped, motion doesn’t transfer as much as traditional interconnected coils, so you’re less likely to disturb a sleeping partner if you switch sides at night.
The Bear Elite Hybrid has a 120-night trial period and a limited lifetime warranty. White-glove delivery is available, but it will cost an extra $175 at checkout.
Check out our Best Mattresses for Side Sleepers roundup if you want more options.
“The Bear Elite Hybrid offers a true middle ground in mattress firmness. My weight is evenly distributed, and it’s responsive enough to adapt to my position changes. Overall quite comfortable.”
According to our survey of 500 recent mattress customers with upper or lower pain, 39.1% report side sleeping is their preferred position. About 47.6% of the same customers also chose medium or firm mattresses with a firmness level of five to seven out of 10 on the firmness scale. We think side sleepers with general back pain should enjoy the Bear Elite Hybrid and its supportive, pressure-relieving design.
Who may love it
Who may want to avoid it
The Bear Elite Hybrid has a 4.6-star rating out of five with more than 3,700 reviews on the brand’s website. Similar to our testing results, most customers found this mattress has a medium-firm feel and encourages less painful sleep.
“I don’t know how many mattresses I’ve purchased over the years, and I was always horribly disappointed. This mattress is amazing! My chronic back pain has actually decreased, and I’ve never slept better. I highly recommend this product!”
— Tina D., verified buyer on 1/17/2024
“Has only been a bit over a month but currently loving the Elite Hybrid. Great nights sleep, the back pain I was dealing with from my last mattress is gone. Will see how it holds up, but nothing but positive things to say for now!”
— David D., verified buyer on 5/10/2024
We also came across some negative reviews. Some people perceived this mattress to be on the firmer side. We also found a few couples who expected better motion isolation and support for two people. While the Bear Elite Hybrid scores above average for both support and motion isolation, it’s not the highest-scoring, so light-sleeping or higher-weight couples might opt for another model.
Take a look at our Bear mattress review for more information.
The Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe is our best firm mattress for lower back pain because of its solid feel while also offering great pressure relief.
Our team tested the medium-firm option, which felt firmer than anticipated (7.5 out of 10 on the firmness scale). This mattress did well during our pressure map testing, likely because it offers a combination of conforming and responsive foam layers. If your health care provider recommended a firm mattress to accommodate your back pain, try the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe. If you want to go even firmer, select the “firm” option at checkout.
This mattress is also a good choice for those with mobility issues associated with pain. Because this mattress is firmer with bouncy coils and great edge support, it earned a high functional support score. This means the surface is easy to navigate, so you won’t have to fight against the material to roll over or push yourself up to sitting.
Like the Bear Elite Hybrid, this mattress offers zoned support that gently fills and reinforces the gaps between the spine and sleeping surface to maintain a neutral position. But because this mattress is denser, curvy or lighter-weight body types may not find it conforming enough to hug the body and provide good enough midsection support.
Our team was also impressed by how cool this mattress felt to the touch compared to other mattresses. Based on our research, we believe the impressively cool feel is because the first foam layer is infused with phase-change materialⓘ A material that stores or releases heat to maintain a constant temperature. , which is designed to store or release heat and keep you cool all night.
The Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe has a 120-night trial period and a 10-year warranty. Since white-glove delivery is unavailable, be sure to recruit help when you set up this mattress in your home.
Looking for other firm mattress options? Our team has also reviewed the best firm mattress brands and models on the market.
“This is a good all-around mattress. It’s on the firmer side at first, but you sink in over time. It feels different than other mattresses we’ve tested. It’s comfortable in any sleep position and is easy to move on, but the cover is slick. It’s easy to slide off the edge when you’re sitting, even though the bed feels solid. Bed sheets with more friction could help.”
The Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe is best for people with back pain who feel sensitive to pressure, particularly the hip and shoulder. This could be a good mattress for you if you have associated sore areas due to secondary conditions, like sciatica or joint pain.
Who may love it
Who may want to avoid it
The Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe has a 4.7-star rating out of five with more than 3,500 reviews on the brand’s website. Many reviewers reported improved comfort and pain throughout the night.
“I’m only three weeks in on my new Aurora Luxe and although it hasn’t taken all of my aches and pains away, I do sleep much more sound and wake up more rested. I also sleep cool and comfortable. No more waking up in the middle of the night sweating. I have mobility issues due to arthritis in my back and hips and getting in and out of bed is so much easier for me now. Side support on my mattress is excellent and the springs give me a little extra boost when I get out of bed!”
— Marta H., verified buyer on 5/23/2024
“We have only slept in this bed for a week, but it is very comfortable. I sleep on my stomach and back, while my wife sleeps on her side. The medium firmness has been good for all sleep positions.”
— Brett S., verified buyer on 6/14/2024
We also noticed a few reviews from customers who were negatively surprised by some of the mattress’s features. Some found it softer or firmer than expected, and others wanted it to be cooler. While the Aurora Luxe boasts cooling properties and does feel cool to the touch, bed sheets can influence temperature regulation. Hot sleepers should pair their mattresses with breathable sheets made of Tencel or bamboo, which are materials we’ve found to work well.
Check out our Brooklyn Bedding mattress review for more information.
We think the Birch Natural is one of the best mattresses for people with mobility issues and back pain. During our testing, this mattress had a high functional support score, which means it required less effort to move on the surface compared to other options.
Our team noticed that this mattress had a notably bouncy and responsive surface to help us gain momentum as we got out of bed. Also, its edge support was protective, pushing us back toward the center of the mattress as we approached the edge. The only downside is the mattress’s 11-inch height, which is shorter than others on this list. If you find it easier to stand from a taller mattress, you can upgrade to the Luxe, which is 11.5 inches, for about $300 more. The Luxe also offers extra comfort layers and zoned coil support, which can come in handy for side sleepers who may find the Birch Natural too firm at the shoulder and hip.
Our testers agreed with the brand’s medium firmness rating (6.5 out of 10), which is the best firmness for those with back pain. But we think this mattress offers the best pressure relief and support for back sleepers and combination sleepers who weigh less than 250 pounds and often sleep on their stomachs.
The Birch Natural has a 100-night trial period and a generous 25-year warranty. White-glove delivery may be available in your area, but you’ll need to check on the product page by entering your ZIP code. This service starts at $129 for in-home set-up, but if you need additional services like old mattress removal or adjustable base set-up, it can cost up to $398.
“Flipping to my side, pushing up to sitting, steadying at the edge of the bed, and standing up are relatively easy from this mattress. It’s not very springy, but I don’t sink too much, making it much easier to stand.”
Those with back pain associated with moving in bed benefit from the Birch Natural the most. It may also be a good natural option for those who are more sensitive, like people with fibromyalgia and chemical sensitivities that negatively affect their condition.
Who may love it
Who may want to avoid it
The Birch Natural has a 4.6-star rating out of five with more than 4,500 reviews on the brand’s website. While analyzing reviews, many people mentioned that the mattress positively influenced their pain and sleep.
“I am so glad we purchased the birch and foundation. It’s the perfect level of firmness for me. I used to have occasional lower back pain with my previous mattress but none at all with the Birch! Highly recommend.”
— Sara A., verified buyer on 11/16/2023
“Bought a Birch mattress a couple weeks ago and wanted to test it out before leaving a review. Honestly, I’m very happy with this mattress. I haven’t been consistently waking up with my allergies going off or my back hurting like I did with my old mattress […]”
— Dallin Y., verified buyer on 1/18/2024
But we also found a few negative reviews. Many people reported feeling disappointed because the mattress wasn’t helping their aches and pains. A mattress could influence pain, but it’s not the best tool for pain management. Always discuss treatment options with your doctor.
Check out our Birch Natural mattress review for more information.
Our Reviews Team has dedicated more than 1,000 hours to researching the mattress industry, consulting with at least 10 health care professionals, and testing roughly 40 brands and 130 unique mattress models for quality and comfort. We’ve also interviewed eight older adults who recently purchased a mattress and surveyed more than 2,700 recent mattress customers to understand their experiences shopping for a new bed.
Each mattress undergoes a rigorous 36-page testing procedure to score its different characteristics, including firmness, support, and other aspects most shoppers consider. We choose the best mattresses for back pain based on the scores of the relevant criteria. See how we tested the most important considerations for this review below.
Our team developed this unique score to understand how well a mattress accommodates mobility issues, like difficulty moving around or getting up from the bed. We combined firmness (30%), support (30%), bounce (10%), and edge support (30%) to create a score between one and five, with five being the most helpful for movement in bed.
Our survey revealed how 79.4% of respondents said their pain affects their ability to move or get out of bed. For this reason, most of the mattresses in our review have an above-average functional support score.
Like most mattress brands in the industry, we use a one-to-10 scoring method when testing firmness, with 6.5 being the true medium-firm. Our testers rate this by lying on the surface and comparing the feel to other mattresses we’ve tested. Material density and coil strength influence firmness the most.
We narrowed down the best mattresses for back pain by selecting medium-to-firm mattresses, which are the most recommended.
We rate pressure relief on a scale of one to five, with five being the most pressure-relieving. We consider how it feels and use a pressure map with sensors to visualize pressure points around the body accurately. Blue and green pressure map results show great pressure relief, while yellows, oranges, and reds indicate pressure buildup.
According to our survey of recent mattress customers with back pain, 68.8% of respondents already experience disturbed sleep from their back pain, which leads to tossing and turning throughout the night. Since many people with upper and lower back pain can also experience associated shoulder and hip pain, we included some mattresses with the highest scores in this category.
We score support on a scale of one to five, with five being the most supportive. Mattresses with strong support contour and push into the curves of your body, particularly the lower back or midsection. Not only do we feel support during testing, but we can also visualize it through pressure map results. Maps with mostly white space at the lower back show how the mattress isn’t making contact with the area, which means the mattress isn’t supportive.
While a supportive mattress is recommended for people with back pain, some may not like the feel of strong support. Our team selected mattresses with various types of support, including targeted support at the lower back with different materials, to provide a few options.
To learn more about our testing and scoring methods, review our sleep methodology.
Our research and testing are ongoing, so our reviews evolve over time. We test new mattresses monthly to give you the most up-to-date information possible. Check back regularly for updates.
The top factors to consider when choosing the right mattress include firmness level, spinal support, pressure relief, white-glove delivery, and a trial period.
The right firmness level for someone with back pain is whatever feels most comfortable and allows for uninterrupted sleep. Medium-firm mattresses work the best for many people, but firmness is subjective, which means everyone has a different interpretation.
Individual interpretations of firmness are especially true for different body types. A person who weighs less than 130 pounds will perceive mattresses as firmer than someone who weighs more than 250 pounds.
Consider your mattress’s age if you have a medium-firm mattress and are still suffering from back pain. If you’ve had your mattress for seven to 15 years, it’s time to get a new one.
A supportive mattress fills the gaps between your body and the surface, providing reinforcement in the areas where you need it most. Many clinicians use the term “spinal alignment” to describe how a mattress supports the spine in a neutral position, which is comfortable for most.
While a perfect spinal alignment doesn’t have to be the goal for everyone, a supportive mattress with targeted reinforcement at the lower back (also known as zoned lumbar support) can ease tension for some people with general back pain. Many mattresses we recommend for back pain offer zoned support for this reason.
It’s important to consider a mattress with good pressure relief to avoid tossing and turning as you find a more comfortable position. Most options with high-pressure relief are foam-dominant hybrids or all-foam designs.
People with upper back pain may benefit most from a mattress with good pressure relief at the shoulders. Those with lower back pain may benefit most from a mattress with good pressure relief at the hips. Stomach sleepers typically require a firmer surface to support the body in a neutral position, so pressure relief isn’t always a priority. But if you have a larger chest, you may opt for a more forgiving surface to conform to your body’s shape and avoid discomfort from direct pressure. Otherwise, you may lie at an odd angle, influencing your back’s position and spine’s alignment.
Mattresses with poor pressure relief can disrupt your sleep and negatively impact your recovery. If you have tender areas sensitive to force build-up, you may need to consider a mattress with as much pressure relief as possible (like the Bear Elite Hybrid or Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe). But you may need to trade some responsiveness and bounce to get it.
Unfortunately, most online mattress companies do not offer white-glove delivery (free shipping and setup of new mattress and removal of old mattress). Instead, they offer free shipping to your home, but you must carry the mattress into your home and set it up. The only brand on our list that does not charge extra for white-glove delivery is Saatva, which is one reason it’s often at the top of our picks. Our team highly recommends looking into mattress brands with white-glove delivery if you have lower back pain or ask someone for help getting your mattress in place.
The industry standard trial period length is 100 nights. Our list only contains mattresses that meet or exceed the industry standard, so you have ample time to try your mattress in your home. Most mattress companies have clear return policies within the trial period, and some have exchange programs to help you find the right option. If you’re unsure which mattress is best for your back pain, we recommend looking into WinkBeds and its generous exchange policy.
How can I improve the quality of my sleep?
“I recommend the following three strategies. First, follow a consistent sleep schedule, even on days off or weekends. Second, ensure you have an adequate wind-down time before bed (about 30–60 minutes). And third, if you or a bed partner have noticed snoring, excessive movement in sleep, or other unusual activities during the night, contact your doctor for a sleep specialist referral.” — Deirdre Conroy, PhD, clinical associate professor of psychiatry and clinical director of the Behavioral Sleep Medicine Clinic at the University of Michigan
“There are many ways to improve sleep quality, including controlling your environment. Get enough daylight in the morning to cue your circadian rhythm, dim the lights as nighttime approaches, keep your bedroom cool and comfy, and set a digital curfew to remove screens before bed.” — Harneet Kaur Walia, MD, director of sleep medicine at Miami Cardiac & Vascular Institute and chief of clinical transformation for Baptist Health Medical Group
It can feel frustrating if you need to adjust your preferred sleep position due to lower back pain. Your current sleep position is rarely the root cause of pain, but making small adjustments or changing your position temporarily can have a positive impact on your sleep quality and overall recovery. For example:
If you have upper back pain, try a pillow for neck pain to better accommodate the neck and upper spine. Side sleepers benefit from puffier pillows to fill the space between their head and the mattress, while back sleepers will feel more comfortable with something flatter. Unless you’re using a pillow under the stomach to accommodate lower back pain, stomach sleepers often don’t need a pillow. But if you prefer one under the head, a flat down/feather pillow is best.
Although these strategies can help, make sure you’re working with a physical therapist to address the main issue.
The best type of mattress for back pain doesn’t exist. In fact, no one treatment strategy works to resolve back pain for everyone. Back pain—especially chronic back pain—requires a tailored approach with special attention to the whole person, including lifestyle and mental health. This can include addressing stress, activity level, and nutrition.
Research does point to a few mattress characteristics that seem helpful to people with back pain. For instance, medium-firm mattresses and zoned support tend to positively affect sleep quality and comfort throughout the night for those with general back pain. Our team has noticed how many of the mattresses with medium-firm comfort levels and zoned support are hybrids, which is why our review lists many hybrid mattresses.
But if you prefer the conforming feel of memory foam, look into Nolah. This brand incorporates zoned support in its unique foam. The Nolah Signature made our list of the best memory foam mattresses for this reason. You may also want to look into latex mattresses, a natural alternative to foam, which tends to feel forgiving yet supportive.
Your sleep position should also be considered when shopping for a mattress for back pain. Different firmness levels work better for certain positions to allow for better support or more pressure relief. Sleep positions often influence what type of pillow you may need to help maintain a neutral spine position throughout the night, which can be less painful on the upper and lower back.
We created the chart below to help you determine what firmness level and pillow works best for your sleep position, encouraging a better night’s sleep. See our roundup of the best pillows for specific recommendations.
| Sleeping position | Ideal firmness level | Best pillow height pairings |
|---|---|---|
| Back sleepers | Medium-firm (6.5 out of 10) | Medium loft |
| Side sleepers | Medium (5–6.5 out of 10) | Medium to high loft |
| Stomach sleepers | Medium-firm to firm (6.5–9 out of 10) | None or low loft |
| Combination sleepers | Medium-firm (6.5 out of 10) | Medium loft or adjustable* |
*Some pillows have adjustable lofts. This means you can change how much filling is inside the pillow, which influences its height.
Many of us experience lower back pain as we age, but it doesn’t need to be the norm. Chronic lower back pain can feel limiting, preventing you from enjoying daily activities independently. According to an analysis of more than 135,000 adults age 60–102 years:
It’s possible to combat lower back pain with the help of your doctor and a skilled rehabilitation clinician, no matter your age. Occupational and physical therapists can teach you strategies to manage your symptoms, maintain your independence, and enjoy your favorite activities.
Lindy Royer, a physical therapist and educator at Balanced Body in Centennial, Colorado, highlighted the importance of sleep and what happens if we don’t get enough. “Our body’s healing mechanisms are compromised, and we are less able to recover,” she said. The relationship between pain and sleep is also backed by research, which shows how brief and unrestful sleep can leave you more vulnerable to painful experiences. Pain can disrupt your sleep, creating a vicious cycle. If you’re experiencing poor sleep quality, ask your doctor if you’d benefit from a referral to a sleep specialist.
A comfortable mattress may be able to help your recovery, but it shouldn’t be your only approach. In addition to working with a health care professional, you can try these 10 ideas to manage your back pain at home:
Replacing an old, worn mattress with one comfortable enough to encourage better sleep can be expensive. The average cost of a queen-size mattress in this review is about $1,900, which is a hefty investment, especially if you’re on a fixed income or have other expenses.
While financing is an option, with any added interest, you could end up owing more than the original amount over time. Fortunately, there are programs available to help make a new mattress more affordable, including:
If your mattress is still in good condition but you want to try something new for your pain, purchasing a mattress topper could be a more budget-friendly solution. A mattress topper is a thin, cushioned layer made of memory foam or latex used to alter the mattress’s feel or protect the bed. It can make the mattress feel softer, firmer, more supportive, or more pressure-relieving. Price depends on the brand and size, but you can find mattress toppers for less than $200 on Amazon.
| Mattress type | Hybrid | Hybrid | Innerspring | Foam | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Latex hybrid |
| Brand’s firmness rating | Luxury firm | Medium | Luxury firm | Medium-firm | Luxury firm | Firm | Luxury firm | Medium | Medium | Medium-firm |
| Trial period | 365 nights | 100 nights | 365 nights | 365 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights | 100 nights |
| Warranty | Limited lifetime | 15 years | Limited lifetime | Limited lifetime | Limited lifetime | 10 years | Limited lifetime | 10 years | 10 years | 25 years |
| White-glove delivery* | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | No | No | Yes | No | No | Yes |
Finding the best mattress for back pain can feel daunting, but it’s important to talk to a health care professional to understand more about your unique needs from a pain management perspective. Once you have an idea of what to look for, you can more easily consider your personal preferences, including firmness and mattress type.
We love the Saatva Rx because it accommodates an array of sleep positions, boosts your ability to move around in bed with less effort (and potentially less pain), and offers a medium-firm feel, which is known to best help manage generalized back pain. But every option in our list offers something slightly different, like extra support or more pressure relief, so you can find a mattress that works for you. If you still need help making a decision on the best mattress for your specific back pain, we encourage you to take advantage of trial periods—all models in this review exceed the industry standard of 100 nights—or opt for the exchange program from WinkBeds.
A one-size-fits-all mattress for back pain doesn’t exist. Although our team chose the Saatva Rx as the best overall mattress for its ability to accommodate most sleepers, it may not work for everyone. It’s best to talk to a health care professional first, like your doctor or a physical therapist, to determine what to look for when shopping for a mattress.
The best mattress firmness for back and hip pain can differ for each person. But we have found that back and stomach sleepers with back pain can often maintain a neutral spine with a medium-to-firm mattress. For side sleepers, a medium-soft-to-medium mattress typically provides pressure relief for joints while allowing the mattress to contour to the body so the spine remains aligned
A mattress can provoke or exacerbate pain. This can happen if you choose a mattress that doesn’t suit your specific sleeping position. It can also happen if you sleep on an old, sagging mattress, which creates pressure points. But a mattress isn’t usually the main contributor to painful conditions. Those with chronic pain should consider other factors, such as nutrition, stress, activity level, and general sleep hygiene. It’s always best to talk to a health care professional to determine the root cause of your pain before you purchase a new mattress.
According to our testing results, the best mattress for side sleepers with back pain is the Bear Elite Hybrid because it offers gentle zoned support, great pressure relief at the shoulder and hip, and good functional support to make moving around in bed less effortful. We also like the Helix Midnight Luxe for people with back and hip pain for similar reasons, so it’s a good alternative.
Memory foam could be good for those with backaches, depending on their sleep position, the amount of support they need, and the amount of support the foam provides. It’s best to talk to a health care professional about what to look for in a mattress, so you can accommodate your specific symptom(s) when shopping for a mattress.
Have questions about this review? Email us at reviewsteam@ncoa.org.
