Our Recommendations For Back Pain Relief:
- Best Overall: Saatva Classic
- Firmness: Medium
- Trial Period for Returns: 100 nights
Who it’s best for: The Casper Wave Hybrid is an excellent match for all sleep positions as well as hot sleepers, according to the experts at Mattress Advisor. They gave this luxury mattress a 9 out of 10 score for both spine alignment and cooling. It performed nearly as well for pressure relief.
How it feels: The Casper Wave Hybrid feels a bit more plush than a true medium-firm bed. Testers said the memory foam layer hugs your body, while the latex foam and coil base prevents you from sinking into the bed.
Pros: This hybrid mattress uses a unique zoned support system that’s softer at the shoulders with gel pods supporting your waist and lower back. Back pain sufferers receive continuous support from their shoulders to the base of their spines, so they can get comfortable no matter which sleep position they choose.
Cons: The Casper Wave Hybrid is the most expensive mattress on this list, so it’s not the best choice for those on a budget.
Testers who frequently switch sleep positions during the night appreciated the Wave Hybrid’s exceptional bounce . This makes turning from side to side to stomach a frictionless experience. The Casper Wave Hybrid comes with a 100-night sleep trial and 10-year warranty.
Keep reading to find out how lingering back pain affects your sleep and how it could be causing you to miss out on precious ZZZs.
A Luxury Model Thats Worth Every Penny
tempurpedic.com
- Sizes: Twin, Twin Long, Full, Queen, King, Split King, California King and Split California King
- Trial period: 90 nights
Filled with special Tempur-Material that was originally developed by NASA, this luxury mattress provides advanced pressure relieving power thats ideal for those with back pain. Responding to your weight, shape and temperature, this adaptive mattress conforms to your body even if you shift positions throughout the night. The proprietary material also absorbs motion better than other memory foam mattresses so if you sleep with a partner, you wont get jostled awake if they toss and turn in the middle of the night.
What To Look For In A Mattress
It can feel overwhelming to sift through the confusing terminology that saturates the mattress industry. At the end of the day, however, buying a mattress basically boils down to a few key points. Focusing on the following factors can help you see past the marketing hype and choose the best mattress for your sciatica.
Recommended Reading: What Is The Best Sleep Number For Lower Back Pain
What Sleep Number Model Do You Recommend Then
The higher the model number, the more inches of comfort foam will be on top of your mattress. Side sleepers typically prefer lower Sleep Number model numbers, so beds like the c2 and c4 and Sleep Number 360 p5 could be good choices. The other options p5, p6, i7, i8, and i10 will have significantly thicker layers of foam above the mattress , which might not give enough support to people who sleep on their side.
What Else We Tested
I test a new mattress every two weeks. While I’ve tested dozens of models, I only considered 12 candidates for potential inclusion in this guide. Here are the beds we still recommend but that didn’t make the cut.
What else we recommend and why:
Under $1,100
Casper Original Mattress: The medium-firm feel of the Casper Original will appeal to a broad range of back-pain sufferers, especially hot sleepers since it has impressive heat dissipation. It was easy to set up and move around in our tests and features impressive motion isolation. However, the edge support was poor. Read our full review.
Bear Mattress: If you’re interested in checking out the cooling properties of Celliant fibers and want a firmer mattress, you might consider the medium-firm Bear Original. It’s made of CertiPUR-US and Greenguard Gold certified foams, including a graphite gel memory foam that I found did a great job of cooling. However, it failed my motion isolation tests, and it wasn’t comfortable for side sleeping.
Under $2,000:
Puffy Lux Hybrid Mattress: I slept on the Puffy Lux while recovering from a back-pain spell, and I think it did a great job of facilitating my recovery. I also like that this mattress comes with a lifetime warranty, is easy to move around, and has great motion isolation. On the downside, it had a strong initial odor that took days to dissipate, the edge support is poor, and it will be too soft for many back pain sufferers.
Over $2,000
Read Also: How To Make Lower Back Stop Hurting
Sleep Number 360 C2 Smart Bed Mattress
The SLEEP NUMBER 360® c2 SMART BED is the latest in sleep technology. This mattress is a new type of adjustable bed. The c2 stands for comfort on each side. The c2 Smart Bed is designed to be the same on each side, with the ability to adjust both sides independently of each other. Each side of the bed can be set to one of comfort and firmness levels.
This bed can also be programmed to have different levels on each side. This is ideal for couples that sleep in different positions. The Smart Bed also can automatically adjust to you. This means that if you move or change positions, the bed adjusts to support you.
The bed features the new Air Feel® technology with over 10 million adjustable air cells responding to your movements and providing the perfect support level. In addition, the sleep experience is enhanced by a three-sided adjustable base that can raise and lower the head and foot of the bed, as well as tilt your bed to the most comfortable position.
What I Like:
- The SLEEP NUMBER 360® c2 SMART BED is a groundbreaking mattress that offers the first dual-side technology, allowing you to adjust the firmness on each side of the bed.
- The Smart Bed utilizes Sleep Numbers exclusive, state-of-the-art Adaptive Flexing Support technology, which interfaces with remote control, which allows you to customize your sleep experience by adjusting the beds firmness and temperature to your personal preferences.
When In Doubt Go Medium
Research is limited, but in one study, researchers assigned new mattresses to more than 300 people with low back pain. They used either “medium-firm” or “firm” mattresses for 90 days. Those in the medium group reported the least amount of discomfort.
You might consider getting a memory foam mattress . The foam molds to your body. The downside: Some memory foam mattresses keep in heat and the material might have more chemicals.
Recommended Reading: What Is Better For Lower Back Pain
Sleep Number 360 P6 Smart Bed
OVERVIEW
- Pressure relief: 10/10
- Support: 8/10
The top side of the i7 mattress comes with a 5 inch layer of comfort and it is the only Sleep Number bed thats made of 100% memory foam. The cooling technology is present to help people achieve a balanced sleeping temperature. Compared to cheaper models, the i7 integrates the SleepIQ sensors that are built inside the mattress to help you gather data about your sleeping habits. Each morning, you can analyze the stats from the night before to determine information such as when you sleep best or what can be improved. The mattress material is a combination of polyester/polypropylene blend. Due to the generous layer of memory foam, the i7 manages to fall somewhere in between soft and firm.
Pros
- SleepIQ sensors integrated in the mattress
- The only memory foam mattress sold by Sleep Number
- Snore-Support technology integrated aimed at adjusting the bed for people who snore
Cons
- App may have connectivity and sync issues
Q: Which Type Of Mattress Is Best For Back Pain
A: Memory foam mattresses seem to be the most popular mattress type, but it’s not necessarily the most supportive. While some memory foam mattresses contain denser foams for added support, hybrid mattresses combine foam in their top comfort layers with innerspring coils at their core to properly align the spine while cushioning tender joints. Latex mattresses are also a good choice because they contour to your curves without letting the hips sink too deeply and out of alignment.
Also Check: What Helps Lower Back Pain During Pregnancy
What Drink Helps Back Pain
Cherry juice can help relieve muscle pain, which may be chronic or exercise-induced. Cherry juice is easily available to buy at grocery stores and commonly contains the tart cherry extract. Try drinking a glass of cherry juice on a daily basis and see if it has positive effects in relieving your back pain.
The Sleep Number 360 Smart Bed Classic Series
The under-$1,500 Classic Series is Sleep Numbers entry-level offering, and the mattresses in this line sure feel like it. The 8-inch c2 reminds me of a dormitory bednot surprising, since it contains only 2 inches of foam the rest of the mattress is made up of air encased in the bladder. The c4 has an inch more foam, for a total of 9 inches, and feels only slightly less institutional theres nothing cuddly about it. Unless youre used to sleeping on a mat or you plan on springing for a good mattress topper, we dont recommend this series.
In 2020, Sleep Number updated its 360 Smart Beds, adding temperature-balancing featuresincluding high air-flow fabrics and gel materialsmeant to make the mattresses feel cooler and more breathable.
Recommended Reading: How Can I Heal My Lower Back Pain
Casper Sleep Original Foam Mattress
The Casper mattress is versatile and comfortable foam mattress that should be an excellent fit for many different types of sleepers. This mattress is designed with a Zoned Support system that offers more targeted support than the average foam mattress. The Zoned Support system is a layer of memory foam that is firmer toward the center and softer toward the head and foot of the mattress. This unique design makes the mattress feel firmer or softer depending on what position someone is sleeping in.
What We Look Forward To Testing
As mentioned above, I test a new mattress every two weeks so that our picks reflect the best options available for back-pain sufferers. Here are some promising candidates that I plan on testing in the near future:
Parachute Eco Comfort Mattress: Parachute makes the top pick in our best mattress topper guide. The Eco Comfort mattress is unique because it doesn’t have any foam. It’s made of eco-friendly wool, cotton, and tempered steel. The bed has zoned support to keep your back aligned while offering pressure relief at the head and feet.
Tempur-Pedic Adapt Mattress: The Tempur-Adapt mattress is one of Tempur-Pedic’s most popular models. I’ve tested two other Tempur-Pedic models and appreciate the company’s patented memory foam. I’d like to see how this treats my back.
Helix Midnight Luxe: This is a jazzed-up version of our budget pick. Special features include a breathable Tencel cover, zoned lumbar support, and a quilted pillow top. I think this could be stiff competition for our top overall pick.
Read Also: Is Lower Back Pain A Sign Of Labor
A Mattress Thats Made For Most Sleepers
Amerisleep.com
Cyber Monday mattress sale: Get $300 off any Amerisleep mattress plus up to $699 in free gifts with code BF300.
- Materials: Memory foam, ultra-breathable cover
- Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King, Split King
- Trial period: 100 nights
The AS3 from Amerisleep is a mattress that can please almost anybody in any sleep position. It has a true medium feel thats tailored to adapt to all sleeping positions and most body types. The mattress is constructed of proprietary Bio-Pur memory foam that responds faster to position changes than traditional memory foamtechnology that helps eliminate the slow sink of most memory foam mattresses. It also has an open-cell design that wicks away heat and moisture so you sleep more comfortably, even if you get hot during the night.
If youre looking for a firmer or plusher mattress, Amerisleep has you covered there, too. There are five mattress models that range from firm to ultra soft .
Physical Treatment Sleep Number Bed Best Setting For Lower Back Pain
Physiotherapists can show you how to rest, stand, and relocate a manner in which keeps your spinal column in proper positioning as well as relieves pressure on your back. They likewise can instruct you specialized workouts that reinforce the core muscles that support your back. A solid core is one of the best means to stop more back pain in the future. Studies reveal that when you raise your strength, versatility, and also endurance, back pain reduces however it requires time.
Read Also: Can A Bed Frame Cause Back Pain
Back Conditions That May Benefit From An Adjustable Bed
For some people, sleeping in an inclined or semi-upright position may be more comfortable than lying on a flat position. Certain lower back and neck positions, in particular, may be less aggravated with an adjustable bed. For example:
- Degenerative spondylolisthesis. For some people with degenerative spondylolisthesis, sleeping in a reclining position with support under the knees can reduce some of the pain or discomfort in the lower back, making it easier to sleep through the night.
What Is The Best Sleep Number For Lower Back Pain
Each product we feature has been independently selected and reviewed by our editorial team. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission.
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Best Overall
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Best Mattress for Side Sleepers
Helix Midnight
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Best Hybrid Mattress
Casper Wave Hybrid
If you or someone close to you is experiencing back pain, you’re not alone. Back pain is so common that the National Institutes of Health estimates 80% of adults in the United States suffer from either acute or chronic back pain. While a number of variables can cause this pain, your mattress is a fundamental onesleeping on the wrong mattress can cause back pain or make it worse. According to a 2015 study, the best mattress for back pain falls at a medium-firm level, which uses a balanced feel to alleviate aches and pains.
To find that ideal mattress fit, focus on firmness level, sleep position, and mattress type and materials. It’s also crucial to know how your bed supports spinal alignment and promotes pressure relief. Sound like a lot to keep track of? Not to worrythe experts at Mattress Advisor have taken all of these factors into account in their rigorous 14-point testing methodology, which they applied to over 150 mattresses. In this guide, we’ve selected 10 of the best mattresses for back pain based on their feedback from extensive testing.
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Launch Your Inner Endorphins
Endorphins are hormonal agents made naturally in your body. What many individuals do not recognize is that endorphins might aid obstruct discomfort signals from registering in your brain. Endorphins additionally aid reduce stress and anxiety, stress, and also anxiety, which are all associated with chronic back pain and also often make the pain even worse. Sleep Number Bed Best Setting For Lower Back Pain
Specific activities may improve your endorphin levels, such as aerobic exercise, massage therapy, or reflection.
Ease Aches With These Trusted Buys
Our editors independently research, test, and recommend the bestproducts, and articles are reviewed by healthcare professionals for medical accuracy. Youcan learn more about ourreview process here.We may receive commissions on purchases made from our chosen links.
Verywell / Sabrina Jiang
Anyone who lives with back pain understands what a major difference a restful nights sleep can makeand, on the flip side, how disruptive it is when you wake up already experiencing discomfort. Though there are many causes of back pain, regardless of how it started, you want to make sure that the mattress you sleep on every night is meeting your needs. But finding one that works for you is often easier said than done.
There is no best kind of mattress for your back problems, so you may need to be open to some trial-and-error, says Dr.Gregory Funk, a chiropractor and the owner of Ideal Health Chiropractic in Denver. At the end of the day, you should look for a mattress that not only aligns with your personal preferences, but can also provide adequate support for the natural curves and alignment of the spine.”
Here are the best mattresses for back pain on the market.
Also Check: Is A Sleep Number Bed Good For Lower Back Pain
Pillow Use For Stomach Sleepers
Stomach sleeping, also known as prone sleeping, is a very problematic sleep posture. Stomach sleepers put too much pressure and unnecessary tension on their rotator cuff tendons, facet joints, stomach, neck, spinal cord, and back muscles. Medical professionals advise patients to avoid it altogether. The sleeping posture also requires the neck to be rotated to one side for breathing purposes, further increasing your risks of getting a stiff neck.
Pillows do not do a good job of support with this position. However, you can try putting a flat pillow under your stomach to increase the length of your lower back curve. This further relaxes the muscles and rotator cuff tendons. You can try propping your head with a pillow to retain your bodys natural alignment during your sleep.
Correct positioning is essential to ease back pain. Although pillows may be effective, they often fall out of place during sleep. The best way to eliminate, or at least curb, upper back pain is to ensure a good nights sleep. That is best achieved by using an adjustable bed frame that can put the spine in a neutral position that does not strain the vertebrae, muscles, or joints. A good mattress is also essential. It should cushion the bodys joints. The best way to avoid upper back pain after sleeping is by ensuring you get a good restorative sleep every night.