Best Mattresses for Scoliosis 2025
Scoliosis is a potential cause of back pain among older adults. Discover six mattresses that can help align your spine for more comfortable sleep.
- Our testers like the Saatva Rx for its ability to relieve back pain and pressure, while keeping your spine aligned.
- Other top picks include Helix Midnight Luxe (Best for Lower Back Pain), Nectar Premier Memory Foam (Best for Side Sleepers), and WinkBed Plus (Best for Arthritis).
- The best mattresses for scoliosis range in cost for a queen from $1,865–$3,399, and most brands offer frequent discounts.
NCOA supports everyone’s right to age well. So we take the time to research, test, and recommend products that can help you live a healthier life. We’ve spent more than 2,500 hours researching and testing mattresses to give you the most accurate product reviews. To find the best mattresses, we:
- Consulted with sleep specialists like doctors, occupational therapists, and physical therapists for guidance on choosing the best mattress
- Put more than 130 models through a series of 19 different tests at our in-house lab
- Mystery-shopped more than 40 brands
- Surveyed more than 2,000 older adults on their sleep quality
- Interviewed experts on the importance of good sleep for older adults
- Worked with older adult testers to evaluate mattresses and get their opinion
- Read thousands of verified customer reviews
We’re constantly testing new mattresses and sleep products to give you the most accurate and up-to-date recommendations. Read more about our mattress review methodology.
Back pain can quickly lead to disrupted sleep, often worsening your symptoms. The mattress you sleep on can make a big difference. For instance, you may want to find the best mattress for sciatica, the best mattress for arthritis, or the best mattress for a herniated disc. Even scoliosis, typically diagnosed in adolescence, impacts spinal health in 68% of adults over 60.1
“Scoliosis can occur in older adults due to progressive degenerative changes,” said Larry Davidson, MD, FAANS, a spinal surgeon based in South Carolina. “While not always symptomatic, scoliosis can lead to significant issues, such as back pain and mobility problems.”
The best mattresses for scoliosis help reduce the extra strain the spinal curve can put on muscles and joints. “A good mattress for scoliosis needs to keep your spine as neutral as possible while you sleep,” said Gbolohan Okubadejo, MD, a spinal and orthopedic surgeon in the NYC area. “Too soft and you sink in, throwing your spine out of line. Too firm and it pushes against your body, causing pressure.”
These five mattresses all fall into the medium-firm category. We also looked for mattresses with other features that may benefit someone with scoliosis, like some of the best orthopedic mattresses. Read on to discover the best mattresses for scoliosis according to our tests.
Saatva Rx: Best Overall for Scoliosis
- Designed to help ease pain
- Strong pressure relief
- Reinforced support for lower back
Helix Midnight Luxe: Best for Lower Back Pain
- Earned top back pressure and pain relief testing scores
- Reinforced support for the low back
- Plush feel but still firm enough to support movement
Nectar Premier Memory Foam: Best for Side Sleepers
- Can help relieve pressure on key joints
- High pain relief score
- Works with almost any adjustable base
Best mattresses for scoliosis in 2025
- Saatva Rx: Best Overall
- Helix Midnight Luxe: Best for Scoliosis and Lower Back Pain
- Nectar Premier Memory Foam: Best for Side Sleepers with Scoliosis
- Nolah Evolution: Best for Couples with Scoliosis
- WinkBed Plus: Best for Arthritis and Scoliosis
- Birch Natural: Most Accessible for Scoliosis
Only 1 out of 4 people with scoliosis have symptoms. For that reason, scoliosis is frequently caught on screening examinations. As one gets older, they can start developing pain in deformity sections of the spine.”
— Dr. Michael Gerling, spinal surgeon
Comparing the best mattresses for scoliosis
| Comparison Features | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Score (out of 10) | 9.5 |
9 |
9.2 |
9.2 |
9.2 |
9.2 |
| Best for | Best Overall |
Lower Back Pain |
Side Sleepers |
Couples |
Arthritis |
Most Accessible |
| Brand firmness rating | 3.5 |
6 |
6.5 |
6.5 |
5 |
6.5 |
| Trial period (nights) | 365 |
100 |
365 |
120 |
120 |
100 |
Understanding our scoring
Our mattress recommendations are based on our thorough research and testing. We created two scores:
- Accessibility score: A combined score reflecting factors that make it easier to move around and get in and out of bed.
- Pain relief score: A combined score reflecting factors that help relieve pain while in bed.
Video: Best Mattress for Back Pain
Scoliosis can make it challenging to find a mattress that supports spinal alignment while easing pressure on sensitive areas. In the video below, our team highlights six mattresses that performed well in testing for back pain relief, with options for side sleepers, back sleepers, and higher-weight people. These insights can help you compare features and find a mattress that promotes better comfort and rest with scoliosis.
Top features of the best mattresses for scoliosis
We looked for the following features when choosing the best mattresses for scoliosis in older adults
Pain relief score
Unique to NCOA, a high pain relief score refers to a mattress that eases pain and is easier to get in and out of due to a balance of bounce and support.
Good pressure relief
Scoliosis creates an unnatural curve of the spine that can lead to uneven pressure points and muscle strain. We looked for mattresses that distribute weight evenly to relieve pressure under the back, shoulders, and hips.
Spinal support
Mattresses that help maintain a neutral spine position can help ease the strain on your back. Responsive materials such as memory foam that contour to the shape of your body can help maintain a neutral spine in any sleeping position.
Firmness
Some research has found that medium-firm mattresses offer better overall comfort and sleep quality. The right firmness also offers improved spinal alignment, compared to soft or firm mattresses. A medium-firm mattress has also been shown to be most effective at easing back pain.2
Saatva Rx: Best Mattress Overall for Scoliosis
We chose the Saatva Rx as the Best Mattress Overall for Scoliosis because it is specifically designed for back support. It received some of the highest marks for back pain and pressure relief among all the mattresses we tested. Its Therapeutic Core and Lumbar Zone Quilting add extra support for your back. Our testers also reported that it does a great job of relieving pressure, regardless of their position.
- Exceptional pressure relief on the back and side
- A mix of support and comfort helps ease pain
- Reinforced lower-back support to help keep spine neutral
- Our pain relief score: 4.32/5
- Accessibility score: 4.04/5
- Mattress type: Hybrid
- Brand’s firmness rating: 3.5/10
Pros
- Helps relieve pressure in all positions (especially back and side)
- Cradles joints
- Helps promote spinal alignment
- Extra lower back support
- Free in-room delivery and setup
Cons
- More expensive
- Slightly unstable edges
- Movement may wake lighter sleepers
Helix Midnight Luxe: Best for Scoliosis and Lower Back Pain
We chose the Helix Midnight Luxe as our Best Mattress for Scoliosis and Lower Back Pain. We were impressed by its top scores for easing low-back pain and pressure, especially with the optional ErgoAlign layer ($259). It is made with zoned support for increased firmness beneath the lower back while maintaining a plush feel at the shoulders and hips. This design helps keep the spine in a neutral position.
- High marks for back pressure and pain relief
- Reinforced support for the lower back
- Feels plush, but still firm enough to support movement
- Our pain relief score: 4.21/5
- Accessibility score: 4.06/5
- Mattress type: Hybrid
- Brand’s firmness rating: 6/10
Pros
- Great pain relief scores
- Extra support for the back, especially with ErgoAlign
- Even pressure relief helps keep the spine aligned
- Memory foam adds cushioned support
Cons
- Edges could be stronger
- Partners may feel each other move
- Shorter-than-average trial period (100 days)
- White glove-delivery costs extra (starts at $119)
Nectar Premier Memory Foam: Best for Side Sleepers with Scoliosis
We selected the Nectar Premier Memory Foam as our Best Mattress for Side Sleepers with Scoliosis. It earned the highest pressure relief score for side sleepers and received high all-around support scores. People with scoliosis may find that sleeping on their side relieves some of the pressure on their spine and helps ease back pain. The Nectar Premier Memory Foam also received high marks for pain relief and compatibility with adjustable bases.
- Had the highest possible score for side pressure relief
- Easier to move on than a lot of memory foam
- Great for pain relief
- Works with practically any adjustable base
- Our pain relief score: 4.20/5
- Accessibility score: 4.06/5
- Mattress type: Memory foam
- Brand’s firmness rating: 6.5/10
Pros
- Outstanding side pressure relief test scores
- As responsive as many innerspring or hybrid mattresses
- Supports the spine in a neutral position
- Can be used with most adjustable bed bases
- Long trial period (365 nights per year)
Cons
- May feel too soft for some
- Edges could be more stable
- Only one firmness option
Nolah Evolution: Best for Couples with Scoliosis
We chose the Nolah Evolution Luxury Firm as our Best Mattress for Couples with Scoliosis. It’s great for easing back pain and minimizing motion, so you won’t feel a partner moving in bed. This hybrid mattress performed as well in motion transfer tests as some of the top memory foam models. But it still has the responsive support of springs.
- Great at isolating motion between partners
- Top marks for back pain and pressure relief
- Sleeps cool
- Our pain relief score: 4.31/5
- Accessibility score: 3.96/5
- Mattress type: Hybrid
- Brand’s firmness rating: 6.5/10
Pros
- Great motion isolation, so you’re unlikely to feel a partner move
- High pain relief test scores
- Zoned support for the low back
Cons
- May not feel firm enough for higher-weight sleepers
- Edge support could be stronger
- Cooling is only average
The WinkBed Luxury Firm: Best for Arthritis and Scoliosis
We chose The WinkBed Luxury Firm as the Best Mattress for Arthritis and Scoliosis. It has one of the highest pain relief scores of any mattress we tested. It was designed for higher-weight sleepers, so it distributes weight evenly and keeps pressure off achy joints.
- Helps ease joint and back pain
- Made of breathable materials that stay cool
- Responsive support makes moving on it easier
- Our pain relief score: 4.78/5
- Accessibility score: 4.51/5
- Mattress type: Hybrid
- Brand’s firmness rating: 8.5/10
Pros
- Solid pain relief for joints
- Made for higher-weight sleepers
- Four firmness options, including one for higher-weight sleepers
- Regulates temperature well, so you sleep cooler
- Excellent responsiveness for those with mobility issues
- Zoned support for the low back
Cons
- Motion isolation is only average, so light sleepers may feel movements
- No option for white-glove delivery (in-home set-up)
- May feel too firm for some
Birch Natural: Most Accessible for Scoliosis
We chose the Birch Natural as our Most Accessible Mattress for Scoliosis because its solid edge support and high responsiveness made moving on it easier than most other mattresses we tested. Even switching positions can be difficult when you have back pain from scoliosis. This mattress also received high scores for back support. It’s made with natural and organic materials, which is a plus for anyone with sensitivities to synthetic chemicals.
- Testers found it to be one of the easiest mattresses to get in and out of
- Strong, stable edges
- Made with natural and organic materials
- Our pain relief score: 4.55/5
- Accessibility score: 4.51/5
- Mattress type: Hybrid
- Brand’s firmness rating: 6.5/10
Pros
- Springs and latex aid movement
- Strong, stable edges make it easier to stand up
- Great pressure relief for the lower back
- Made with natural and organic materials
- Compatible with many adjustable beds
Cons
- Motion transfer may wake lighter sleepers
- Not suitable for stomach sleepers
- Shorter trial period (100 days)
Our process testing the best mattresses for scoliosis
Our team has spent thousands of hours researching and testing mattresses so you can feel confident in our reviews. We work with experts in sleep, physical therapy, and occupational therapy. So we know what features are most important when searching for the best mattress for back sleepers.
For this review, we personally tested 30 mattresses identified through our research to offer pain relief and ease pressure. Each mattress was subjected to rigorous testing by older adults with pain to ensure we have real-world data on how they perform.
We considered these important factors when testing the best mattresses for scoliosis:
Pain relief score
Unique to NCOA, a high pain relief score refers to a mattress that eases pain, and is easier to get in and out of due to a balance of bounce, support, and firmness. This usually indicates that a mattress is both firm and comfortable to move on. This is a great combination for people challenged by changing positions or getting in and out of bed due to scoliosis or other chronic back pain.
Pressure relief
Scoliosis creates an unnatural curve of the spine that can lead to uneven pressure points and muscle strain. Our pressure relief score reflects our testers’ experiences on the mattress and the results shown on our pressure map. The pressure map uses sensors to display the pressure the body feels when lying on the mattress, as well as in which areas. We looked for mattresses that distribute weight evenly to relieve pressure under the back, shoulders, and hips.
Spinal support
Mattresses that help keep your spine in a neutral position can help ease the strain on your back, especially when you have scoliosis. A mattress offering strong spinal support contours to the body while offering enough resistance to press back into the curves of the lower spine. We looked for this kind of support from testers, and we confirmed it using our pressure map results. If a mattress lacks support in the lower spine, it shows white on the pressure map, indicating no contact or support in the area.
Firmness
Some research has found that medium-firm mattresses offer better overall comfort and sleep quality, as well as improved spinal alignment, compared to soft or firm mattresses.4 A medium-firm mattress has also been shown to be most effective at easing back pain. Past testing has shown that firmer mattresses sometimes feel softer to people of a higher weight. Personal preference may also play a role in how comfortable and supportive a mattress feels.
What to consider when buying a mattress for scoliosis
Scoliosis can vary a lot in severity and location, so what you need in a mattress will depend on your specific situation. Scoliosis can also worsen over time, so the mattress that worked for you before may not work for you eventually. “Although there is no one-size-fits-all approach, patients often find medium-firm mattresses beneficial, as they provide even weight distribution and help maintain spinal alignment,” said Dr. Davidson. “Adjustable beds may also offer relief by allowing for slight elevation of the head or legs, which can reduce pressure on the lower back depending on the person’s curvature.”
Our testing and research with older adults confirm these are key features to consider when buying a mattress for scoliosis.
Mattress firmness
A medium-firm mattress has also been shown to be most effective at easing back pain. “Most people would go for a medium firmness if their back symptoms are controlled,” said Dr. Gerling. “If they have significant back pain, they may want to try something more firm, though modern medium-firm mattresses likely provide the added support they need.”
Pressure relief
Scoliosis causes the spine to curve to the left or right, resulting in uneven pressure points and muscle strain. The best mattresses for scoliosis should distribute weight evenly to relieve pressure, especially under high-stress contact points such as the back, shoulders, and hips.
Spinal support
“A good mattress for scoliosis needs to keep your spine as neutral as possible while you sleep,” said Dr. Okubadejo. “Too soft and you sink in, throwing your spine out of line. Too firm and it pushes against your body, causing pressure. “Spinal support means your hips and shoulders don’t drop lower than the rest of your body, and your back should stay straight when you lie on your side. One way to check is to lie down and have someone see if your spine curves unnaturally.”
Sleeping position
“Sleeping position makes a big difference when you have scoliosis,” said Dr. Okubadejo. “No matter the position, a mattress that holds your body in line without sagging is key.” Here are some strategies for reducing that stress in various sleeping positions.
- “Side sleeping is often the best choice, but you should keep a pillow between your knees to keep your hips level,” said Dr. Okubadejo. “It also helps to hug a pillow to support your upper body and reduce twisting.”
- “If you sleep on your back, putting a pillow under your knees can help reduce lower back strain,” said Dr. Okubadejo. “A small pillow under the lower back might also support the curve, depending on where the scoliosis is.”
- Stomach sleeping is usually the worst option, as it flattens the natural curve of your spine and twists your neck. “If you can’t avoid it, use a very thin pillow or no pillow at all under your head,” Dr. Okubadejo said.
- If you switch positions throughout the night, consider using a pillow for support as recommended above. It may help keep your spine in a neutral position and reduce pressure and pain on your joints.
How to choose the best mattress for scoliosis
“Every scoliosis curve is different in their own way, and people have inflammation in different parts of the curved spine, depending on how they use their back. It's important not to put stress on areas of the spine that are hurting or inflamed,” said Dr. Gerling. “High quality mattresses should be able to support the spine and even way regardless of sleeping position.” Some other things to consider include:
Mattress construction
Different materials have different properties. “Latex and hybrids offer good support with some bounce, while memory foam molds to your shape but can trap heat and feel too soft,” said Dr. Okubadejo. “Innerspring might feel too firm or uneven unless it has a good top layer.”
Mattress features
- Zoned support can add extra support for the low back or other high-stress areas. This can be good if you have low back pain.
- Motion isolation may be a consideration if you share a bed with a partner. Mattresses with poor motion isolation may cause interrupted sleep.
- Edge support for safe entry and exit. “Edge support matters if you sit or sleep near the edge, especially if getting in and out of bed is painful,” said Dr. Okubadejo.
- Pain from scoliosis or any other source can make moving more difficult due to stiff joints or achiness. A responsive mattress may help. Latex and hybrid mattresses with springs tend to be best in this regard, but memory foam can also offer good support.
- Temperature regulation for comfort. “Breathability is important, so look for cooling covers, gel foam, or open-cell materials if you sleep hot,” said Dr. Okubadejo.
- Using an adjustable bed may help people with scoliosis better control the pressure on various parts of their spine. If you plan to use an adjustable bed, finding a compatible mattress is key.
Buying considerations
- Many mattress brands offer lengthy trial periods. Just make sure to read the fine print and know if you will be charged a fee for any returns and how they will be handled.
- Most quality mattresses come with a limited lifetime warranty against defects.
- Mattresses usually include free shipping in the contiguous United States, but not every company offers in-home set-up or will remove your old mattress and frame. Some offer this service, but at an additional cost. Be sure you know those details.
Tips for improving sleep with scoliosis
Research has shown that chronic lower back pain, like the kind caused by scoliosis in older adults, is linked to poor sleep.5 Chronic back pain appears to both affect and be affected by lack of sleep, which led to the term “the sleep-pain cycle.” With proper medical treatment by a health care professional, some lifestyle changes may help you sleep better and end that cycle.
How much do the best mattresses for older adults with scoliosis cost?
The mattresses in this review of the best mattresses for neck pain range from $1,865–$3,399 for a queen-sized mattress.
Factors that can affect the price of a mattress include the materials used, certifications, and features. While the mattresses we tested all offered free shipping, many brands charge an additional cost for white-glove delivery, a service that Saatva offers for free.
| Comparison Features | Saatva Rx |
Helix Midnight Luxe |
Nectar Premier Memory Foam |
Nolah Evolution |
WinkBed Plus |
Birch Natural |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost for a queen | $3,399 |
$2,375 |
$2,249 |
$2,127 |
$1,999 |
$1,865 |
| Shipping costs | Free |
Free |
Free |
Free |
Free |
Free |
| White glove delivery available? | Yes, free |
Yes, via LoadUp, starting at $119 |
Yes for $199 (up to 2 items) |
Yes, starting at $125 |
No |
Yes, for $199 |
| Warranty length | Limited lifetime |
Limited lifetime |
Limited lifetime |
Limited lifetime |
Limited lifetime |
Limited lifetime |
| Return fees | Yes, $99 processing fee for pick up |
None |
None |
Yes, $99 |
None |
Yes, $99 |
How to save money on mattresses
Purchasing a mattress is a big investment, considering you spend seven to nine hours or more a night sleeping. You want to make sure you’re comfortable with it, especially if you’re trying to avoid or reduce neck pain or other chronic pain issues.
Here are some ways you may be able to save some money on a mattress:
- Look for financing plans that many mattress companies offer. This might be a better deal than using your credit card.
- Many brands also offer discount codes and other offers, like sales codes, to help reduce the price.
- Purchase a mattress during holiday promotions, when most brands offer major savings. Labor Day, Memorial Day, and Black Friday are some of the more popular holiday sales.
- Certain groups of people may be eligible for deals such as discounts for veterans, health care workers, teachers, and students.
- You might find a good deal purchasing a “bed-in-a-box.” But if you have mobility issues or certain health conditions, setting up a mattress like this can be challenging.
- You might find a discount if you purchase the floor model in person at a store location.
- Look for long trial periods and warranties. Opt for lifetime or limited lifetime warranties, and longer trial periods (at least 100 nights, but 365 is best) so you can test out the mattress in your own home.
Frequently asked questions
Is a firm or soft mattress better for scoliosis?
In general, a medium-firm mattress tends to be best for easing back pain from scoliosis or other sources, and for overall comfort and sleep quality, some research shows.2
Should I sleep without a pillow if I have scoliosis?
Sleeping with a pillow is a good idea if you have scoliosis. Without a pillow, your neck is unsupported, and your head can tilt too far back or to the side, making pain or stiffness worse.
What are the symptoms of scoliosis?
Symptoms of scoliosis can include uneven shoulders or hips (one is higher than the other), back pain, leaning to one side when standing, limited range of motion, muscle spasms, and numbness or tingling in the legs. If you experience these or suspect you have scoliosis, see a health care professional.
Can I use an adjustable base with scoliosis?
Yes. Adjusting the height of the bed may help people with scoliosis control shoulder pain, upper back and neck pain, and find a more comfortable sleeping position.
Questions? Email us at reviewsteam@ncoa.org
