- We spent more than 1,000 hours researching and testing the top mattresses on the market and consulting 21 health care professionals and sleep experts to compile our recommendations.
- Our testers evaluated more than 130 models and recorded our findings on a 42-question standardized testing form to identify standout features and services, document issues with each product, and describe our personal experience lying on each mattress.
- We paid close attention to specific considerations that sleepers of all ages seek, as identified by respondents in our two surveys of 1,200 mattress owners total (one targeting general customers and one targeting higher-weight sleepers more than 250 pounds). This included price, features, and overall satisfaction.
- We researched current studies and cross-referenced our work with sleep experts to pick the best mattresses for back pain.
- Learn more about how we tested the best mattresses for back pain.
Key takeaways
- The Saatva Classic is our pick for the best mattress for back pain overall because it meets our criteria: a near medium-firm feel, excellent support and pressure relief, a long trial period, and white glove delivery options.
- Based on more than 1,000 hours of testing and our survey of 1,200 total mattress owners, we found that sleepers with back pain seek relief from targeted support and pressure relief from mattress materials that provide the right firmness level to fit their needs.
- Mattresses for back pain can cost from $665–$3,000 or more, depending on size, construction, and materials.
Back pain and sleep have a difficult relationship. If your pain is severe, you might be unable to get a restful night’s sleep. But lack of sleep can worsen pain. This cycle can be frustrating and take a toll on your mental health.
The relationship between sleep and pain makes finding the best mattress for back pain crucial. The ideal mattress depends on your needs, but the right levels of comfort and support, whatever those may be for you, are imperative. To help improve your journey to quality sleep, our Handbook Team rounded up the nine best mattresses for back pain based on results from our extensive testing. We also surveyed 1,200 total mattress owners and consulted sleep experts, physical and occupational therapists, and pain specialists to identify features that benefit back pain.
Our pick of the best mattresses for back pain
- Saatva Classic: Best overall mattress for back pain
- Helix Dusk Luxe: Best mattress for stomach sleepers with back pain
- Nectar Premier: Best soft mattress for back pain
- DreamCloud Hybrid: Best mattress for neck and back pain
- The WinkBed: Best mattress for lower back pain
- Nolah Evolution 15″: Best mattress for side sleepers with back pain
- Emma Original: Best affordable foam mattress for back pain
- Bear Pro Hybrid: Best mattress for back sleepers with back pain
- Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid: Best affordable hybrid mattress for back pain
What to look for in a mattress for back pain
- Firmness: Sleepers with back pain often need a medium-firm mattress (6.5 out of 10 on the firmness scale), so most of our picks are close to (or exactly) this rating.
- Comfort: Survey participants with back pain (in our general 600-person survey) identified that targeted support and adequate pressure relief away from sore areas are key comfort features.
- White glove delivery: Participants with back pain also identified in-home delivery and setup as the second most important consideration after price.
- Trial periods: Pick a brand with a minimum 100-night trial period (the industry standard), which will give you enough time to try your mattress at home and see if it works for you.
Best mattress for back pain overall: Saatva Classic
Why Saatva Classic is our pick for best overall mattress for back pain
When our testers lie on the luxury firm version of the Saatva Classic, they say it provides strong targeted support at the lower back balanced by a pressure-relieving Euro top A type of pillow top sewn into the mattress cover. This style is flush with the edges of the mattress and provides better support than your typical pillow top mattress along with offering a soft, plushy center. . Since Saatva provides free white glove delivery and a generous one-year trial period, this mattress ticks all the boxes as our top pick for back pain.
Who may like the Saatva Classic: Most sleepers will find this mattress comfortable regardless of position.
Who may dislike the Saatva Classic: Some lighter-weight (less than 130 pounds) side sleepers may find this mattress too firm at the shoulder and should choose the plush soft version at checkout. Easily disturbed sleeping partners may also want more motion isolation The containment of movement on one area of a mattress so it doesn’t impact other areas. .
Saatva Classic tester insights
If you’re looking for the best mattress for back pain, you may want to consider the Saatva Classic. It meets all our team’s criteria for the best option and offers plush soft and firm versions to accommodate everyone’s preferences.
Research shows that the best mattress for improving sleep quality and preventing general low back pain is medium-firm, or about 6.5 out of 10 on the firmness scale. The mattress industry deems a 6.5 firmness Brands rate their mattresses’ firmness on a scale from one to 10, with 10 being the firmest. rating the “true medium” for mattresses. Our team scores the luxury firm Saatva Classic a half-point firmer at 7 out of 10, but it still offers the right combination of support and pressure relief most sleepers with back pain seek.
Our testers say the mattress’s soft Euro top relieves pressure well. People with back pain should appreciate how this mattress cushions sharp joints and diverts pressure away from sore spots. According to our survey of 600 general mattress customers, about 46 percent of people with back pain prefer sleeping on their side. In our experience, this mattress accommodates side sleepers well by cushioning the joints and providing targeted support under the midsection. However, one average-weight tester, around 135 pounds (the average weight range is 130–250 pounds), cautions side sleepers with petite statures to consider getting the plush soft version to feel more comfortable.
Saatva is also the only brand in this review (and in the industry) to offer a limited lifetime warranty, a one-year trial period, and free white glove delivery. We love how Saatva considers the needs of its customers, offering ample time to try the mattress at home and moving services for those who could use a hand.
From one of our Saatva testers:
“This mattress has solid support, especially along the edges and the center of the mattress. It targets my lower back (although I’m short and need to scoot down a bit so it hits the right area) and feels comfortable in every position. I’m used to firmer bouncy beds, but I appreciate its soft top to help balance the springs underneath.”
Read our in-depth Saatva mattress review for more information.
Alternative to the Saatva Classic for couples
Although we like the Saatva Classic, it may not be the best choice for couples easily disturbed by each other’s movements because it scores poorly in motion isolation. Undisturbed sleep can be important for pain management, so if you’re a light sleeper, pick a bed with motion-dampening materials (like foam).
The Nectar Premier is a good choice, but it has an all-foam design, which feels entirely different from the Saatva Classic . If you like springs but want less motion transfer, choose The WinkBed and its hybrid A type of mattress made with both foam layers and spring layers. design instead.
Best mattress for stomach sleepers: Helix Dusk Luxe
Why the Helix Dusk Luxe is our pick for best mattress for stomach sleepers with back pain
The Helix Dusk Luxe is our top pick for stomach sleepers with back pain because it provides a firm surface with support targeting the midsection to prevent our lower back from swaying awkwardly into the mattress. But it also has a plush pillow top, which our testers find pressure-relieving despite the bed’s firm feel.
Who may like the Helix Dusk Luxe: All stomach sleepers and most combination sleepers who switch positions.
Who may dislike Helix Dusk Luxe: Lighter-weight (under 130 pounds) side sleepers may find this bed too firm.
Helix Dusk Luxe tester insights
Typically, stomach sleepers need a firmer mattress with support under the midsection and hips to elevate the body. Otherwise, your lower back sways into the material, which isn’t the most comfortable position, especially for those with back pain who may benefit from a more neutral spine position.
According to our survey
Stomach sleeping is the second most common sleep position among people with upper and lower back pain (about 24 percent), according to our general 600-person survey of mattress customers.
Although Helix advertises this mattress as a medium, we think it’s on the firm side (7 out of 10 on the firmness scale), with solid targeted support along the center. This is ideal for stomach sleepers and prevents people with lower back pain from arching their back past their comfort zones.
The Helix Dusk Luxe also features a pillow top, which offers added cushion. We find that the pillow top makes other positions more comfortable, like lying on your side and back. Unlike some plush layers, this pillow top doesn’t add resistance to our movement as we change positions. Sleepers who change positions throughout the night may like how the Dusk Luxe accommodates other positions. But we also acknowledge that some stomach sleepers prefer a more solid top surface. If this describes you, consider the Helix Dusk base model instead.
From one of our Helix testers:
“I like how this bed feels like a firm and uniform surface despite having some cushion. My body isn’t dipping anywhere, so I can be on my stomach without feeling like I’m in any awkward positions.”
Best soft mattress for back pain: Nectar Premier
Why the Nectar Premier is our pick for best soft mattress for back pain
The Nectar Premier is a good soft choice for people with back pain because it offers excellent pressure relief, decent support, a white glove delivery option, and a generous one-year trial period.
Who may like the Nectar Premier: Lower-weight (under 130 pounds) and average-weight (130–250 pounds) sleepers may like this mattress for back and side sleeping.
Who may dislike the Nectar Premier: Higher-weight sleepers (more than 250 pounds) won’t receive enough support.
Nectar Premier tester insights
Our testers think the Nectar Premier feels softer than advertised online and scored it a 5.5 out of 10 on the firmness scale. This is borderline soft but still in the medium range. We credit this mattress’s softer feel to the thick, forgiving memory foam design that contours our bodies and provides plenty of pressure relief away from sore areas.
Although research and health care experts recommend a medium-firm bed for back pain, the Nectar Premier is a decent option if you prefer a softer mattress. In our experience, softer beds can lack support, but our testing has revealed that the Nectar Premier offers enough to keep your spine neutral and prevent sagging. Unfortunately, its support may not be strong enough for higher-weight sleepers who need a more durable mattress.
Softer memory foam mattresses can feel hot as you sink into them, but Nectar uses phase change material A substance that changes its phase (or matter state) depending on its temperature. It will store or release heat to keep a constant temperature. to help regulate temperature throughout the night. We test a mattress’s cooling capabilities using a temperature gun A tool that uses thermal imaging to measure how quickly the bed’s surface heats up after someone lays in it. to measure the difference in mattress temperature before and after testers lie down for five minutes. The bed only heats up five to 10 degrees, which is considered good, especially for foam.
All-foam beds also have a reputation for being good motion isolators, making them great for couples or people who like to sleep with their pets. Those with back pain who prioritize consistent sleep as part of their recovery may appreciate how well the Nectar Premier prevents disturbing movements.
Finally, our testers love how the Nectar Premier pairs well with an adjustable bed, which could be a helpful tool to position yourself comfortably and relieve back pain temporarily (depending on your condition). In our experience testing sleep products, flexible materials like foam conform better to the base’s movement. Nectar offers a bundle deal that costs around $1,700 for a queen-size when you purchase the Nectar Premier with one of the adjustable base options.
From one of our Nectar testers:
“Like many traditional memory foam beds, we found it to excel in pressure relief, which is beneficial for those with painful or sensitive areas.”
To learn more, read our Nectar mattress review. If you’re looking for additional soft options, check out our best soft mattresses review.
Alternative to the Nectar Premier for higher-weight sleepers
Higher-weight sleepers need a firm, more supportive mattress to prevent sagging over time. If you have lower back pain, finding a bed for your body type is even more important, as it encourages a more neutral spine position and prevents painful pressure points.
Check out our review of the best mattresses for higher-weight sleepers for more options.
Best mattress for neck and back pain: DreamCloud Hybrid
Why the DreamCloud Hybrid is our pick for the best mattress for back and neck pain
The DreamCloud Hybrid is the best mattress for back and neck pain because its design helps align the spine, especially when sleeping on the back or side. Paired with the right pillow, this mattress promotes a neutral position, which many should find comfortable.
Who may like the DreamCloud Hybrid: All back, side, and combination sleepers of any body type.
Who may dislike the DreamCloud Hybrid: Stomach sleepers weighing more than 130 pounds may not feel supported by the plush top layer, causing the hips to dip into the surface.
The DreamCloud Hybrid tester insights
The DreamCloud Hybrid uses soft memory foam and individually wrapped coils to create a near-medium-firm sleep surface (7 out of 10 on the firmness scale). It supports and cushions our testers to help align our backs in a comfortable and neutral position, which can influence the head and neck position.
The spine runs from the neck to the lower back, so aligning the back can help position the neck better. Our team likes how this mattress’s design helps promote this despite not having “targeted” support (like the Helix Dusk Luxe). However, our survey participants with neck and back pain who recently purchased a mattress do not prioritize support as highly as pressure relief and the right firmness level.
From one of our DreamCloud testers:
“This mattress is really middle-of-the-road—while there’s give, it still feels firm, and my weight is evenly distributed.”
Pillows more directly influence the neck’s position. We suggest a pillow with the appropriate loft (height) for your sleep position. Back sleepers benefit from a low-to-medium loft, while side sleepers benefit from a high loft to fill the space between the head and the bed. Stomach sleepers with neck pain may need to make temporary adjustments to their position for relief—try swapping your pillow for a thin one (or none at all) to limit forces on the neck.
Read more in our in-depth DreamCloud mattress review.
Best mattress for lower back pain: The WinkBed
Why The WinkBed is our pick for best mattress for lower back pain
The WinkBed is a medium-firm hybrid mattress with a pressure-relieving Euro top and a supportive layer of coils. We think the targeted lumbar support and cushion may be an ideal option for people shopping for the best mattress for lower back pain.
Who may like The WinkBed: All back and side sleepers of any body type.
Who may dislike The WinkBed: Higher-weight stomach sleepers may want to opt for the firmer or plus version.
The WinkBed tester insights
Lower back pain can be exacerbated when a mattress lacks adequate support, which can cause the spine to rest at awkward angles. If a mattress fails to keep the lower body lifted, or if there’s a gap between the mattress and the lumbar region, finding a relieving position for the lower back might be challenging. We’ve found that The WinkBed is the best mattress for lower back pain because it contours the lower back comfortably through its Euro top and zoned lumbar support.
From one of The WinkBed testers:
“Resting on The WinkBed, we did notice that the comfort foam layers adequately filled in the lower back and gave some pressure relief and support to that area. It’s also a good bed for hanging out—I sat on the bed with two other testers (to mimic a partner and pet) without feeling like we were dipping toward the edges or the center. That even weight distribution means I don’t have to work hard to position myself comfortably, even when I’m just unwinding.”
Like the Helix Dusk Luxe, we like how The WinkBed offers targeted support through zoned coils that feel firmer under the lower back. However, The Winkbed is closer to the research-recommended medium-firm comfort level for those with lower back pain. If you have different preferences, you can choose the model’s softer, firmer, or plus (designed for higher-weight people) options instead.
Those with chronic lower back pain may also need to address sleep disruptions. We love how The WinkBed offers high-scoring motion isolation for a hybrid (similar to the DreamCloud Hybrid), allowing you to limit sleep disruption throughout the night if you have a restless pet or sleeping partner.
Lower back pain can also impact how easily you can move in bed. Our team noticed this mattress’s strong edge support protects you from falling off the edge if you take your time getting up or lying down. The edge of the bed sinks only a small amount when we sit on it, creating a small, safe seat for our body without collapsing under our weight.
Committing to a new bed while recovering from lower back pain can be scary because you don’t know if it’ll work for you. WinkBeds acknowledges this. The brand offers an exchange program for $49 where you can get a new firmness level to try if you’re unsure about your initial purchase. You get to keep both mattresses for up to 60 days while you decide which is best. Then, you’ll coordinate with the brand to return the one that doesn’t work. Based on our research, the WinkBeds exchange program is the most transparent and generous.
Best affordable memory foam mattress for back pain: Emma Original
Why the Emma Original is our pick for best affordable memory foam mattress for back pain
The Emma Original is a budget, all-foam mattress model that scores well across the board. However, it may not be suitable for certain body types because it does not have the same support or pressure relief as other mattresses in this review.
Who may like the Emma Original: Average-weight sleepers who like any sleep position.
Who may dislike the Emma Original: Higher-weight (more than 250 pounds) sleepers may find it unsupportive, and lower-weight (under 130 pounds) sleepers or people with broad shoulders may want more pressure relief while side sleeping.
Emma Original tester insights
Our testers are pleased by how well the Emma Original performs for its price. It offers adequate targeted support and pressure relief for most sleepers and a one-year trial period, matching Saatva and Nectar. The mattress can be discounted by up to 50 percent during its frequent promotions.
It’s advertised as medium (or 5 out of 10 on the firmness scale, according to the brand) but scored a 7 out of 10 in our testing, which is near medium-firm and more appropriate for lower back pain. Although this works in favor of Emma for this review, we think that’s a significant discrepancy you should be aware of.
The firmer feel is likely due to its three foam layers, which feel denser than other foams. Its base layer offers targeted support along the lumbar region, using solid foam along the center and cut-out zones along the hip and shoulder for cushion. While our testers feel supported, they don’t think the dense foam allows for as much pressure relief in the side-sleeping position. Other positions may feel more comfortable.
From one of our Emma testers:
“The Emma Original is a thin bed and feels relatively light. It also offers handles to help easily shift the bed (although I wouldn’t lift the bed by the handles because they don’t seem to be designed for that amount of force). White glove delivery is handy for setting up any mattress, especially if you have pain. But you may get away with not hiring a mover if you’re comfortable lifting and have a partner who can assist.”
Best mattress for side sleepers with back pain: Nolah Evolution 15″
Why the Nolah Evolution 15″ is our pick for best mattress for side sleepers with back pain
The Nolah Evolution 15″ has zoned support in its coil and foam design. This places the spine in a more neutral and aligned position, which many people may find relieving.
Who may like the Nolah Evolution 15″: Side sleepers of any body type or people who change positions throughout the night.
Who may dislike the Nolah Evolution 15″: Shorter people with trouble climbing in and out of a tall bed without pain.
Nolah Evolution 15″ tester insights
In our testers’ assessment of the luxury firm version of the Nolah Evolution 15″, we find it scores close to true medium-firm at about 7 out of 10 on the firmness scale. Despite being slightly firmer, we love how this mattress provides excellent pressure relief at the shoulder and hip for side sleepers.
We also like how this mattress provides support through foam and spring layers of targeted reinforcement along the center, while most mattresses only provide targeted support through one material. This could be great for people with chronic lower back pain—research suggests that zoned support benefits those who want to improve their comfort and pain during the night.
The Nolah Evolution 15″ also may work well for combination sleepers who often move to their side throughout the night. Our testers find it responsive Good responsiveness means the mattress has a bouncier surface that responds to pressure or the sleeper’s movements, making it easier to move around and switch positions. with good edge support Edge support is the bed’s strength and stability around the perimeter. , so repositioning should feel less effortful and safe despite sleeping on a tall mattress. If you like to place a pillow between your knees for relief, shifting into your favorite position should feel relatively easy.
From one of our Nolah testers:
“Both of us testers are side sleepers (one of us shorter, the other taller) and found this mattress really comfortable. I sink slightly into the top layer and feel no pressure concentration at my shoulder or hip.”
Read more in our Nolah mattress review.
Best mattress for back sleepers with back pain: Bear Pro Hybrid
Why the Bear Pro Hybrid is our pick for best mattress for back sleepers with back pain
Our team recommends the Bear Pro Hybrid as our top choice for back sleepers with back pain because its firmer hybrid design subtly contours and supports the spine. People who sleep with a pillow under their knees for relief should find it easy to position themselves.
Who may like the Bear Pro Hybrid: Back sleepers who change positions.
Who may dislike the Bear Pro Hybrid: Higher-weight (over 250 pounds) stomach sleepers may want a more supportive mattress.
Bear Pro Hybrid tester insights
We think back sleepers with back pain, especially those who like a slightly firmer bed, should consider this mattress. Many thinner, firmer mattresses we test don’t contour the spine’s curves well enough to provide support or cushion. But this option balances firmness, support, and sinkage to allow back sleepers to relax.
Although Bear advertises this bed as a medium-firm feel, we find it slightly firmer at 7 out of 10 (a half-point higher than medium-firm). This mattress also scored well in pressure relief, offering a “cradling” amount of sinkage. Although we feel more “on” this bed, we still feel cushioned around the hips, and the mattress’s material meets our lower back for support. Your body should also feel comfortable with a pillow under the knees for relief without the new weight distribution causing sinkage around the hips.
The Bear Pro Hybrid also accommodates most side and stomach sleepers, so it should work well for sleepers who change positions and often land on their back. But if you shift often because you’re hot, you may want to go with the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid. This mattress scores average for cooling capabilities, which isn’t bad but isn’t enough for hot sleepers. The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid is similar to the Bear Pro Hybrid but slightly thicker, which allows more airflow through coils.
From one of our Bear Pro Hybrid testers:
“I’m a combination sleeper (back and side, average weight), and I liked how this mattress felt in both positions. I’m lying close to the surface but sink just enough into the mattress to feel like my spine is aligned. It’s not as luxurious as some ‘cushier’ mattresses, but it definitely does the job.”
Read our full Bear mattress review for more information.
Best affordable hybrid mattress for back pain: Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
Why the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid is our pick for best affordable hybrid mattress for back pain
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid earns our pick for the best affordable hybrid mattress for back pain because it offers a near-medium-firm feel with good support and pressure relief at a fair price.
Who may like the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid: Lower-weight (under 130 pounds) and average-weight (130–250 pounds) sleepers, particularly those who sleep on their back.
Who may dislike the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid: Higher-weight (over 250 pounds) stomach sleepers or those who want a more supportive, durable option.
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid tester insights
According to our survey of recent general mattress customers, hybrid beds are the second-most popular material (just behind foam). However, more than half of the same participants said they need to stick to a budget between $500–$1,500. Our team finds hybrids often provide the balance of support and pressure relief most people with back pain need, but they can have many layers that complicate the design and hike the price. Luckily, the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid is an affordable option that scores well overall.
From one of our Brooklyn Bedding testers:
“The only drawback is its cooling capabilities. When we tested temperature change after one person lay on the bed for five minutes, it scored about average. But two testers together created more surface heat. This bed should be paired with cool sheets (natural fibers, like bamboo, do best), and hot sleepers may want to steer clear.”
This mattress’s medium feel (6 out of 10 on the firmness scale) provides the support and pressure relief most sleepers with back pain need to feel comfortable. Its support isn’t “zoned” or targeted like the Nolah Evolution 15″ or The WinkBed, but it does provide above-average reinforcement that should be comfortable for all lighter- and average-weight sleepers. It also provides a good amount of pressure relief for side sleepers of any body weight.
How we test and choose the best mattresses for back pain
The Handbook Team has researched nearly 200 mattresses online and in person. Based on our research, we hand-selected about 130 of the best models to test (and counting). We’ve also surveyed 1,200 total shoppers (in two 600-people surveys) and interviewed recent mattress customers to understand the buying process. More importantly, we wanted to know how their new bed has impacted their sleep quality, physical health, and mental wellness.
According to one survey
According to one survey of 600 mattress shoppers, about 80 percent of all respondents say their new mattress helps them sleep better, and 65 percent report improved mental health.
First-hand testing experience
The Handbook Team hand-tests every mattress we review. We evaluate brands and models by recording our findings on a 42-question standardized testing form to identify standout features and services, document issues with each product, and describe our personal experience lying on each mattress.
For this review, we focus on tests and scores related to firmness, support, and pressure relief. Firmness is tested subjectively, scoring the overall feel against other mattresses we test. When we test pressure relief, we use a pressure mat with sensors that map out where force concentrates on our body. A blue and green map is considered pressure-relieving, while a map with yellows, oranges, and reds is not. Testers evaluate support by using subjective feel and determining if the mattress’s material contours the lower back specifically, but you can also see the material contact the back in the pressure map, helping us score more accurately.
Mattress surveys and interviews
We pay close attention to specific considerations that sleepers of all ages seek, as identified by respondents in our two surveys of 1,200 total mattress owners. These include price, features, and the setup process. We also interview real people to better understand the motivations behind shopping for a new mattress and the benefits of purchasing one.
According to one 600-person survey of general mattress customers, people with upper and lower back pain prioritize price and white glove delivery. This is why we include relatively affordable options and many brands with white glove delivery in our roundup. Some focus group participants also identify how they waited a long time to purchase a new bed because of the commitment, so we only choose mattresses with trial periods of at least 100 nights long.
From our focus group
“I didn’t want to get a mattress and have to return it. I was pretty sure we would keep it, but knowing there was a trial period was huge for me.”
Objective and honest ratings
We use information from our surveys, focus groups, and expert interviews to determine the most important features in our brand and mattress testing scorecards.
To make our list, every model in this review needs to have around a medium-firm firmness level. Most options have at least a 3.5 out of 5 support score and about a 4 out of 5 pressure relief score. The only exception is the Nectar Premier, which has average support due to its relatively softer foam that’s designed to work well with an adjustable bed. Our roundups cater to different needs, so we filter the best mattresses uniquely to fit each review.
We also weigh the following factors to determine an overall rating for each brand we recommend.
| Factor | Weight | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Customer Service | 15 percent | Customer care center hours, support options |
| Brand Reputation | 10 percent | Years in business, lawsuits & class actions against this company |
| Features | 20 percent | Size options, firmness options, weight capacity, add-ons included (free sleep accessories) |
| User Experience | 35 percent | White glove delivery, CERTIPUR-US certifications, risk-free trials |
| Affordability | 20 percent | Price, warranty, promotions |
Learn more about our mattress testing and review methodology.
Our mattress for back pain testing process
Purchase mattress as mystery shoppers.
Set up mattress in testing lab.
Lie on mattress and rank firmness.
Lie on back, side, and stomach to find the best sleeping position.
Place 10-pound ball in mattress center and measure sinkage.
Find biggest pressure points using pressure map reading.
Evaluate cooling capabilities by recording temperature differences.
Drop 10-pound ball onto mattress to measure bounce score.
Test motion isolation.
Test edge support.
Calculate composite “family” scores.
How to choose a mattress for a good night’s sleep
Buying a mattress is a big, challenging decision. It’s hard to know what to look for, especially when you’re browsing with back pain in mind. But don’t wait too long to make a change if you know your mattress contributes to sleepless nights—sleep is important for pain regulation, mental health, and overall recovery.
From our focus group
“I was talking to my therapist about how I wasn’t sleeping well and how I just was going crazy at night, feeling like my boyfriend and my dog were squeezing me in. She was like, what are you waiting for? Do something about it. I was like, all right. So I did.”
We design our review to be a one-stop resource for you based on the most important considerations from our research. But if you’re still browsing, here’s what you could consider in addition to firmness, support, pressure relief, trial periods, and white glove delivery.
Material
The material of your mattress can influence its characteristics, like how bouncy or cushioned it feels. Material choice is highly preferential, but our surveys show that foam and hybrid beds are the most popular. According to our testing results, hybrids often provide the balanced support and pressure relief most people with back pain seek.
- Innerspring: An innerspring mattress is made primarily of coils and tends to provide a firmer, more responsive sleep surface.
- Memory foam: Memory foam mattresses can be firm or soft but tend to have a motion-dampening, cushioned feel.
- Hybrid: Hybrid mattresses have a mix of both innerspring and foam features. Many we’ve tested are close to a medium-firm feel but can vary depending on the design.
- Latex: Latex is a more organic alternative to foam. It provides the same cushion but tends to be more responsive and durable.
Check out the best materials for back pain for more information.
Sleeping position
You should choose a sleep position that feels most comfortable and allows you to sleep well. While there is no “ideal” sleep position, most people like side sleeping because it’s easier to find a neutral spine position, which may feel more comfortable for those with back pain.
- Stomach sleepers: Most stomach sleepers benefit from a firmer bed to keep the hips elevated and prevent the back from swaying uncomfortably into the bed. See our full stomach sleeper mattress guide.
- Side sleepers: Side sleepers typically benefit from a medium mattress with good pressure relief at the joints and support at the midsection to encourage spinal alignment. See our full side sleeper mattress guide.
- Back sleepers: Back sleepers often need a medium-firm bed that gently contours the spine without sagging or gaps between the body and sleeping surface. See our full back sleeper mattress guide.
Sleeper’s body composition
Our bodies influence how a mattress might feel. Weight, age, and health conditions are all considerations that should factor into what you choose.
- Weight: Many brands offer mattresses designed to support higher weights, which is important for your mattress’s longevity. Lack of support can lead to discomfort over time. See our full mattresses for heavy sleepers guide.
- Age: Pain isn’t exclusive to adults—kids can experience pains, bumps, and bruises as they grow. Some mattresses account for child development. See our full mattresses for kids guide.
- Health conditions: Similar to back pain, other chronic health conditions can influence what you need in a mattress. For example, hip pain is a common condition that might benefit from extra pressure relief. See our full guide on mattresses for hip pain.
Temperature
Mattresses may have cooling materials built into the design, but fabrics and foams don’t always have as much of an influence as your bed sheets or bedroom environment. Hot sleepers may want to prioritize innerspring or hybrid beds to promote airflow, especially if you have back pain and struggle with consistent, restful sleep. Many of our best cooling mattresses contain coils in the design for this reason.
Price
The average cost of a queen-size mattress in our review (before discounts) is just above $1,700. Your budget may vary depending on the material and advanced features you seek. Learn more about options at the lower and higher ends of the price spectrum by reading our best affordable mattress and best luxury mattress reviews.
What is the best type of mattress for back pain?
Modern mattresses come in various constructions, but no single mattress type is shown to improve back pain. Again, the key is a mattress that balances comfort and spinal support in your preferred sleep position.
If you experiencing back pain
If you’ve been experiencing back pain at night and are having trouble sleeping, always discuss your symptoms with a doctor and ask to see a sleep specialist and a physical therapist. A mattress could affect your symptoms, but other factors could be at play. Working with a health care professional and developing a treatment plan is best.
Innerspring
This construction combines a thin layer of comfort materials atop innerspring coils, giving the mattress a traditionally bouncy and responsive feel. But true innerspring mattresses are rare these days. While they may be advertised as such, they’re more likely to have a hybrid design. For back pain, the coil layer in an innerspring mattress can provide a responsive surface for more effortless movement and help support a neutral spine for comfort.
See our full spring mattress review for more information.
Hybrid
Hybrid mattresses share the same construction as an innerspring, with a different ratio of comfort layers to the innerspring support layer. Hybrid mattresses may use memory foam, polyfoam, or latex in the uppermost layers to impart benefits like pressure relief, contouring, or a plush feel balanced by the springs below. These mattresses are often the best choice for people with back pain because they offer the support and cushion most people seek.
Read our hybrid mattress review for more information.
Memory foam
Memory foam mattresses respond to pressure to contour closely around the body’s curves, evenly distributing body weight, preventing pressure from building, and ensuring spinal support. However, memory foam’s “hugging” sensation may not appeal to all sleepers. The material is prone to retaining heat and isn’t as responsive as springs, making it difficult for those with painful movement to get out of bed.
Check out our memory foam mattress review to learn more.
Latex
Latex is an organic alternative to memory foam for pressure relief but has more buoyant and supportive properties. It’s among the most durable materials for a mattress, but it adds substantial weight and can increase the price (sometimes significantly). People with back pain who like the feel of dense memory foam may want to consider latex.
Read our latex mattress review or organic mattress review to learn more.
Can a mattress cause back pain?
An uncomfortable mattress for your preferred sleep position can lead to tossing and turning as you find a better position, which could aggravate or even cause back pain. The same study in Sleep Science and Practice that suggested zoned support is helpful for sleep quality and pain also correlated frequent position changes per hour with increased back pain. However, some repositioning during the night may be necessary to help prevent pressure buildup in sore areas.
Sleep and pain perception are definitely interconnected. Poor sleep can alter your body’s ability to cope with pain, creating a vicious cycle where pain disrupts sleep and poor sleep exacerbates pain.
Amanda Weeks, a Philadelphia-based licensed occupational therapist at B. Well Health
It’s challenging to determine whether your mattress is influencing your back pain. Noticeable aches and pains after you wake up could be an indication, but visible sagging or indentations are clear signs that your bed is no longer serving you. Sleeping on a different mattress, like one in a hotel or a family member’s house, could be a good test to determine if your bed influences how you sleep and feel.
Tips for reducing back pain at night
- Consider a new pillow: A pillow under the neck influences the position of the upper back’s spine and the muscles or nerves that travel between the two regions. If you find yourself fluffing it through the night or adjusting its position, your pillow may not support you properly, and you may want to consider changing it first.
- Adjust your sleeping position: If your favorite sleep position no longer works for you, consider making small adjustments before swapping your position altogether. Side sleepers can place a pillow between the knees to encourage better spinal and pelvic alignment. Back sleepers can place a pillow under the knees, which helps offload pressure on the hips and lower back for some people.
- Buy a mattress topper: If your budget doesn’t allow for a new mattress right now, try getting a mattress topper first. This adds an extra layer (often foam or latex) to soften or firm up the mattress. But if your bed is indented and worn, a mattress topper may also indent with the surface underneath.
- Practice sleep hygiene habits during the day: Although reducing screen time and getting more sunlight may not directly influence your pain at night, practicing
good sleep hygiene
The personal habits and environmental sleeping conditions, such as diet and use of television and other electronic devices in the bedroom, that can affect your ability to get consistent, uninterrupted sleep.
may help you fall asleep faster (and stay asleep longer), which can influence your pain sensitivity and mindset the next day.
- Try meditation before bed: Back pain is associated with muscle tension, and stress may benefit from meditation. Guided progressive muscle relaxation is a simple technique, but other types of meditation might help you relax, too.
Our final verdict
According to our research, surveys, and expert guidance, the best overall option in our review is the Saatva Classic because it meets all our criteria for the best mattress for back pain: a medium-firm feel, high support and pressure relief, a long trial period, and white glove delivery options (in this case, free). We included the best options for stomach (Helix Dusk Luxe), side (Nolah Evolution 15″), and back sleepers (Bear Pro Hybrid) with back pain to consider, and we also added affordable options that meet our standards to help accommodate most budgets.
Although we have our opinion on the best picks, the best mattress for back pain is the one that helps you feel more comfortable and sleep better throughout the night.
Compare the best mattresses for back pain in 2024
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|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $1,295–$2,372 | $1,373.80–$2,873.80 | $1,049–$2,398 | $1,013–$2,326 | $1,149–$2,049 | $412–911 | $1,499–$3,198 | $1,135–$2,396 | $665–$1,599 |
| Our firmness rating* | 7/10 | 7/10 | 5.5/10 | 6.5/10 | 6.5/10 | 7/10 | 7/10 | 7/10 | 6/10 |
| Material | Innerspring-hybrid | Hybrid | Foam | Hybrid | Hybrid | Foam | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid |
| Warranty | Lifetime | 15 years | Limited lifetime | Limited lifetime | Limited lifetime | 10 years | Limited lifetime | Limited lifetime | 10 years |
| Trial period | 365 nights | 100 nights | 365 nights | 365 nights | 120 nights | 365 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights |
| Ideal for** | Sleepers with back pain who like responsive beds | All, especially stomach sleepers | Back and side sleepers | Back and side sleepers | N/A | Sleepers with back pain and neck pain | All, especially side sleepers | Back sleepers | Sleepers with back pain who switch sleeping positions |
*Based on our testing results.
**Based on an average-weight (130–250 pounds) sleeper’s testing data for sleep positions. Further suggestions are detailed under each product in this review.
Frequently asked questions about mattresses for back pain
Side sleepers with back pain should opt for a memory foam or a hybrid mattress. These beds provide good pressure relief to ease buildup at the hip and shoulder. There are sturdy coils in hybrid beds, but keep an eye out for high-density foams in all-foam mattresses for support—side sleepers still need their bodies lifted throughout the night.
Memory foam mattresses can be good for back pain, as long as they have supportive foundation foam to prevent the body from sinking too far into the mattress material. Look for high-density foam and high-quality materials to prevent sagging.
- Finan, P. H., Goodin, B. R., & Smith, M. T. (2013). The Association of Sleep and Pain: An update and a Path forward. The Journal of Pain, 14(12), 1539–1552. Link
- Haack, M., Simpson, N., Sethna, N. F., Kaur, S., & Mullington, J. (2019). Sleep deficiency and chronic pain: potential underlying mechanisms and clinical implications. Neuropsychopharmacology, 45(1), 205–216. Link
- Scott, A. J., Webb, T. L., Martyn-St James, M., Rowse, G., & Weich, S. (2021). Improving sleep quality leads to better mental health: A meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials. Sleep Medicine Reviews, 60, 101556. Link