洗衣机一般是多少功率的 Best Mattresses for Back Pain 2025

Back pain is one of the most common conditions we experience in our lifetimes. That’s especially true for older adults: As we grow older, our spines also age, and become less flexible and less capable of handling stress.1 Research estimates that up to 75% of older adults experience low-back pain,2 and of those, 60% report sleep problems due to their back pain.3 One of the biggest difference-makers can be your mattress. To help you get the comfortable sleep we all need, we researched and tested the best mattresses for back pain on the market. 

These eight mattresses passed our rigorous testing with flying colors—they all he specific design features to ease back pain and scored highly in our pressure and pain relief tests. We prioritized mattresses that not only help soothe back pain but are also easy to get in and out of, providing a medium-firm level of firmness. Medium-firm mattresses he the best firmness for easing pain and promoting comfort, according to research.4 Keep reading to see our picks of the top mattresses for back pain. 

Our Top PickNectar Premier HybridBest Overall9.1 out of 10Excellent

Fall into sings

Se up to 50% on mattresses and 66% on bundles

Visit Site

Fall into sings

Se up to 50% on mattresses and 66% on bundles

Visit Site Excellent pressure relief Supports hips and shoulders for better alignment Individually wrapped coils for extra support Helix Midnight LuxeBest for Lower Back Pain8 out of 10Good

NCOA Exclusive Labor Day Sale - Extended

27% off sitewide with code NCOA27

Visit Site

NCOA Exclusive Labor Day Sale - Extended

27% off sitewide with code NCOA27

Visit Site Excellent pressure relief Reinforced back support helps release tension Great for all sleeping positions Nectar Premier Memory FoamBest for Side Sleepers9.2 out of 10Excellent

Fall into sings

Se up to 50% on mattresses and 66% on bundles

Visit Site

Fall into sings

Se up to 50% on mattresses and 66% on bundles

Visit Site Eases pressure on hips and shoulders Foam supports and contours Great for all sleeping positions Best mattresses for back pain in 2025 Nectar Premier Hybrid: Best Overall Helix Midnight Luxe with ErgoAlign: Best for Lower Back Pain Nectar Premier Memory Foam: Best for Side Sleepers with Back Pain The WinkBed Plus: Best for Back Sleepers with Back Pain Saatva Classic: Best for Pressure Relief and Back Pain Bear Elite Hybrid: Best for Cooling and Back Pain Titan Plus: Best for Higher-Weight People with Back Pain  Birch Natural: Most Accessible for Back Pain Comparing the best mattresses for back pain in 2025 Comparison Features

Nectar Premier Hybrid

Visit Sitefor Nectar Premier Hybrid

Helix Midnight Luxe

Visit Sitefor Helix Midnight Luxe

Nectar Premier

Visit Sitefor Nectar Premier

The WinkBed Plus

Visit Sitefor The WinkBed Plus

Saatva Classic

Visit Sitefor Saatva Classic

Bear Elite Hybrid

Visit Sitefor Bear Elite Hybrid

Titan Plus

Visit Sitefor Titan Plus

Birch Natural

Visit Sitefor Birch NaturalScore (out of 10)*

9.1

9

9.2

8.4

9.4

7.9

9.1

9.2

Type

Hybrid

Hybrid

Memory foam

Hybrid

Spring

Hybrid

Hybrid

Hybrid

Firmness

Medium-firm

Medium-firm

Medium-firm

Medium-firm

Medium-firm

Medium

Firm

Medium-firm

Pain relief score (out of 5)

4.17

4.21

4.20

4.78

4.87

3.53

4.36

4.55

Accessibility score (out of 5)

3.91

4.06

4.06

4.51

4.55

3.54

4.30

4.51

*Ratings reflect a brand's overall offering; the best overall pick doesn't necessarily he the highest score

Understanding accessibility and pain relief scores

Based on our testing, surveys, and focus groups with older adults, we created these two scores: 

Accessibility score: The higher the score, the easier it is to get in and out of the bed and change positions.  Pain relief score: The higher the score, the more likely it can help relieve pain. Video: Best Mattresses for Back Pain

Back pain can make it difficult to find a comfortable position and stay asleep throughout the night. In the video below, our team reviews the top six mattresses for back pain, highlighting picks for different sleeping positions, higher-weight sleepers, and those needing extra pressure relief. Each option was selected based on research and testing to help you compare features and find a mattress that supports better rest.

Please note, details like pricing can change over time, and we are always testing new mattresses. What you see in this article may be slightly different from what we've reviewed on video. Top features of the best mattresses for back pain

We looked for the following features when choosing the best mattress for back pain in older adults: 

Firmness

Medium to firm mattresses are best for dealing with back pain, according to research.

High pain relief score

Unique to NCOA, mattresses with a high pain relief score he a winning combination of pressure relief, firmness, and more, which can help soothe back pain.

Spinal support

Mattresses that keep your spine in a neutral position can help ease the strain on your back.

Good pressure relief

Mattresses with good pressure relief along the shoulders, back, and hips (common pressure points when lying on your back) can help reduce pain. 

Nectar Premier Hybrid: Best Overall

The Nectar Premier Hybrid is our pick for the Best Mattress for Back Pain. It combines a thick layer of memory foam with individually wrapped coils for support and stability. A cooling cover and dense polyfoam ActiveLift layer help reinforce alignment. In testing, we found the mattress provided targeted support while contouring to areas prone to pain. Several testers described the feel as both comfortable and supportive, making it a great fit for people with back pain.

Our Top PickNectar Premier HybridBest Overall9.1 out of 10Excellent

Fall into sings

Se up to 50% on mattresses and 66% on bundles

Visit Site

Fall into sings

Se up to 50% on mattresses and 66% on bundles

Visit Site Responsive support foam moves with your body Great bounce for ease of movement 2-inch thick pressure relief layer offers excellent cushioning for aches and pains Our pain relief score: 4.17/5 Accessibility score: 3.91/5 Mattress type: Hybrid Brand’s firmness rating: Medium-firm Why we chose the Nectar Premier Hybrid as the Best Overall

The Nectar Premier Hybrid earned the title of Best Overall for Back Pain due to its top scores in the areas that matter most for those sleeping with pain. It received high scores for pressure relief in our objective tests using a pressure map, and our subjective tests with older adult testers. These results confirmed that  the Nectar Premier’s 2 inches of adaptive memory foam may provide the necessary cushioning to reduce nighttime pains. 

The best bed for back pain also hits the sweet spot for supportive relief. Under its foam layer, the Nectar Premier features ActiveLift, a responsive support foam that moves dynamically with you. ActiveLift allows for better contouring and ease of movement. Its support is reinforced by eight inches of individually wrapped steel coils, which not only create a more durable mattress, but also help the bed to excel in motion isolation.

Doctor recommendation:

"Make sure your mattress keeps your spine in a natural, straight line while you sleep, no matter your position. A good sleep surface is one of the simplest ways to protect your back and oid waking up in pain." —Gbolahan Okubadejo, MD, FAAOS, board-certified spinal surgeon and head of The Institute for Comprehensive Spine Care in Jersey City, New Jersey

Nectar Premier Hybrid pros and cons ProsRelieves pressure in all positions (especially back and side)Cradles joints to soothe painPromotes spinal alignmentResponsive design for easier position changesConsNot recommended for higher-weight stomach sleepersWhite-glove delivery costs extra Our testing experience with the Nectar Premier Hybrid

Like other Nectar models, the Premier Hybrid has a medium-firm feel, rated 6.5/10 by the brand. Most experts recommend this level of firmness. “I’ve seen patients with years of fragmented sleep due to back or hip pain experience significant improvement within weeks of switching to a supportive medium-firm mattress. Many report less morning pain, fewer night wakings, and better energy levels during the day,” said Suzanne Manzi, MD, pain specialist at Performance Pain & Sports Medicine in Houston, Texas

Our testers saw similar benefits. Chris, a 65-year-old back sleeper with spinal stenosis, praised the mattress in multiple positions. When lying on his back, he said, “My shoulders and hips are aligned. This is the best mattress all day. I feel good support in my lower back.” When he moved to his side, he added, “Everything feels aligned. This is still the most comfortable mattress. No pressure at all in the hips and shoulders.”

Chris, who has spinal stenosis, felt the Nectar Premier Hybrid was the best mattress he tested.

Chris noted less support while stomach sleeping. “I sink in too much and my back starts to arch.” But one erage-weight tester had the opposite reaction: “My hips feel elevated. This is the best I’ve felt on my stomach during testing. I he no discomfort and good spine alignment.”

This mattress also stood out for its responsiveness. The bed scored 4/5 for bounce, which is higher than expected, given its plush feel. One tester noted it was easy to change positions. Another agreed: “It’s plenty bouncy and responsive. I would he no issues switching positions through the night.”

Our testers were surprised to find the Nectar Premier Hybrid mattress was both plush and responsive, making it comfortable and easy to move around on.

Motion isolation was another highlight. Many beds trade motion control for responsiveness, but the Premier Hybrid performed well in both categories. “It wasn’t hard or jerky enough to shake me awake,” one tester said. Another added that the mattress softened movement enough to oid disrupting sleep.

Who is the Nectar Premier Hybrid right for?

The Nectar Premier Hybrid could be a good option for those who experience either acute or chronic pain in their backs, shoulders, and hips. Those seeking extra support when moving positions in bed may find it in the Premier Hybrid. Its scores for edge support hover around erage, so if you’re looking for more assistance when standing up out of bed, the Birch Natural may be a better choice. While the Nectar Premier Hybrid scored well for pressure relief in all positions, we don’t recommend it for higher-weight stomach sleepers, who would probably feel better in the Titan Plus. 

I may love it if I:Sleep with a partnerYesHe chronic painYesFeel hot at nightYesHe mobility concernsYesSleep in the following positionsSide, back, stomach The Nectar Premier customer experience Trial period: 365 nights Shipping: Free In-home setup and mattress removal: $199 Warranty: Lifetime Customer service

You can contact Nectar customer service by:

Phone: 888-863-2827, seven days per week from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. PT Email: suppport@nectarsleep.com Live chat: Available via the chat icon on the website, 24/7 Calling or visiting a viewing room

Payment options 

Ways to pay Visa Mastercard Discover American Express Amazon Pay PayPal Discounts? Yes, military, first responders, and health care professionals Financing: Yes, Affirm and Splitit Helix Midnight Luxe with ErgoAlign: Best Mattress for Lower Back Pain

The Helix Midnight Luxe with ErgoAlign is our Best Mattress for Lower Back Pain for its exceptional performance in our testing. It provided excellent pressure relief on our testers’ backs, no matter what position they were in. Its combination of support and comfort may help soothe your pain. We especially love the optional ErgoAlign layer ($249) that provides extra, targeted support to your lower back.

Helix Midnight Luxe with ErgoAlignBest for Lower Back Pain9 out of 10Very Good

NCOA Exclusive Labor Day Sale - Extended

27% off sitewide with code NCOA27

Visit Site

NCOA Exclusive Labor Day Sale - Extended

27% off sitewide with code NCOA27

Visit Site Excellent back pressure relief Great support helps ease pain  Reinforced, targeted back support Our pain relief score: 4.21/5 Accessibility score: 4.06/5 Mattress type: Hybrid Brand’s firmness rating: Medium-firm Why we chose the Helix Midnight Luxe with ErgoAlign as the Best for Lower Back Pain

The Helix Midnight Luxe with ErgoAlign was the clear winner when it comes to easing pain and pressure on your lower back. In our testing with older adults, it earned the highest score for relieving pressure when lying on the back. Its hybrid construction and mix of support and comfort make it especially suited to soothing back pain that may keep you up at night.

The Helix Midnight Luxe did very well in our testing. Those seeking even more comfort can add the optional ErgoAlign layer to provide additional support for the lower back. ErgoAlign is a top layer of ultra-dense foam that helps align the spine, with extra density around the midsection to offer pressure relief to your hips and lower back. Despite the extra foam, the ErgoAlign layer doesn’t compromise the mattress’s firmness. Instead, it conforms to the body’s natural contours, for better support in all the right places. 

Helix Midnight Luxe pros and cons ProsRelieves pressure in all sleeping positions (especially back)Promotes spinal alignmentErgoAlign layer offers extra lower-back supportOptional cooling coverConsNot the best edge supportShorter trial period (100 days)Higher cost Our testing experience with the Helix Midnight Luxe with ErgoAlign

The Helix Midnight Luxe is a hybrid mattress with three layers of foam (one relieves pressure, one cradles the body, and the other provides base support) above a layer of steel coils. Testers loved how the Helix Midnight Luxe kept their spines aligned while easing pressure on their lower backs. “My whole body feels aligned,” one tester said while lying on her back. “I don’t feel any extra pressure on my lower back or hips. My body feels equally supported all over.” 

When our testers measured this using a pressure mat (a mat with sensors that detects pressure buildup when someone lies across it), the Helix Midnight Luxe earned the highest back pressure relief score of any mattress we tested. 

The results of our pressure relief test for the Helix Midnight Luxe. Note the amount of blue in the image—that reflects the Midnight Luxe’s high score for back pressure relief.

The above image is from our pressure map test of the Helix Midnight Luxe. The outline is the body of our tester, Sheila, a 67-year-old woman of erage weight. The colors refer to pressure buildup—the redder the color, the more pressure (see key on right side). The image shows almost all blue with only a little green and yellow (with some red at the head), which reflects its top score in pressure relief for the back. 

Our tester tries out the Helix Midnight Luxe’s ability to relieve pressure on her back. It passed with flying colors.

Besides lying on your back, testers thought this mattress could be a good fit no matter what position you sleep in. “My body feels well supported all over in every sleeping position,” one tester said. While lying on their stomach, they said, “My lower back feels aligned and not curved. My spine feels pretty good, and I don’t feel any extra pressure.” 

Although the Midnight Luxe performed well in terms of back pain and pressure relief, it scored just erage in edge support, which refers to the stability of the mattress's edges. Edge support can steady us when sitting on the edge of our beds, helping to ensure we don’t fall when getting in and out of bed. “I do feel a little bit like I'm going to slide off a bit,” one tester said when lying on the edge to assess edge support. “I don't need to use my hands for balance or support, but it doesn't he much of a bounce to it when I sit back up so I he to exert more energy.

For older adults looking for a mattress that can help ease lower back pain, we think you can’t do better than the Helix Midnight Luxe with ErgoAlign. If you need to ease back pain but want stronger, more stable edges, we recommend the Birch Natural. 

Who is the Helix Midnight Luxe with ErgoAlign right for?

The Helix Midnight Luxe with ErgoAlign is best for someone who wants relief from lower back pain, who sleeps in any position (but doesn’t change positions frequently throughout the night), and who feels hot at night. 

For combination sleepers who frequently move around at night and sleep with a partner, the Helix Midnight Luxe may not be the best option. That’s because the Midnight Luxe scored only slightly above erage in motion isolation. Motion isolation refers to how easy it is to feel movement in the bed while you’re lying down. 

I may love it if I:Sleep with a partnerNoHe chronic painYesFeel hot at nightYesHe mobility concernsYesSleep in the following positionsSide, back, stomach The Helix Midnight Luxe customer experience Trial period: 100 nights Shipping: Free shipping In-home setup and mattress removal: $159 Warranty: Limited lifetime Customer service

You can contact Helix Sleep customer service by:

Phone: 831-777-5976, Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET Email: help@helixsleep.com Live chat: Available via the chat icon on the website, Monday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET Contact form  Calling or visiting a viewing room

Payment options 

Ways to pay Visa Mastercard American Express Discover Paypal Google Pay Shop Pay Amazon Pay Discounts? Yes, find more information here Financing: Yes, Affirm Nectar Premier Memory Foam: Best for Side Sleepers with Back Pain

We chose the Nectar Premier Memory Foam as our Best for Side Sleepers with Back Pain because it relieved pressure on sleepers’ sides better than any other mattress. Its contouring memory foam cradles the body while providing solid overall support. Although it's great for side sleepers, it’s also comfortable for different positions.

Nectar Premier Memory FoamBest for Side Sleepers with Back Pain9.2 out of 10Excellent

Fall into sings

Se up to 50% on mattresses and 66% on bundles

Visit Site

Fall into sings

Se up to 50% on mattresses and 66% on bundles

Visit Site Eases pressure on hips Suitable for all sleeping positions (especially side) Contouring and supportive memory foam Our pain relief score: 4.20/5 Accessibility score: 4.06/5 Mattress type: Memory foam Brand’s firmness rating: Medium-firm Why we chose the Nectar Premier as the Best for Side Sleepers with Back Pain

The Nectar Premier Memory Foam does an exceptional job of easing pressure and pain not only on the back but also on your side. Testers thought the memory foam excelled at supporting their bodies and soothing pressure points while providing a comforting contour around their spines. No other mattress we tested relieved as much pressure on our sides as the Nectar Premier Memory Foam, and testers ge it almost-perfect scores for pressure relief in all positions (especially the side).

Nectar Premier pros and cons ProsEases pressure in all sleeping positions (especially side)Extra comfortableMemory foam hugs and supports bodyLong trial period (one year)ConsMay be too soft for someMay trap heatSlightly unstable edges Our testing experience with the Nectar Premier Memory Foam

The Nectar Premier is a memory foam mattress with four layers: an upper cotton cooling cover, a middle core of memory foam, a supportive core, and a thicker bottom layer designed to minimize the transfer of movement. This mattress relieved pressure while lying on your back or side. While lying on their side, one tester said, “I feel really aligned. I think this is one of the most comfortable mattresses. I feel no pressure at all on the hips and shoulders.” 

And they were right. When we used a pressure mat to test pressure buildup for side sleeping, the Nectar Premier Memory Foam got the highest score (see image below). Areas of yellow, orange, and green indicate slight pressure buildup. Hips and shoulders are the most common areas of pressure buildup for side sleepers. Memory foam can help ease pressure for side sleepers, as it contours to the body while supporting key contact points, such as the shoulders and hips. 

The results of our pressure relief test for the Nectar Premier Memory Foam. Note how we only see slight yellow and orange at the hips and shoulders—that reflects the Nectar Premier’s exceptional ability to ease pressure for side sleepers.

One of our testers, Ruth, a 70-year-old stomach sleeper of erage weight with sleep apnea, thought the Nectar Premier did a great job easing pressure while lying on her side. “I do feel like this mattress hugs my body nicely,” she said. “This mattress feels comfortable on my side and I am not a huge side sleeper. I feel like the top is hugging your body enough while the other layers offer good support.”

Testers were unanimous that the Nectar Premier offers good support all around, but especially to the back and side. “My shoulders, spine, and hips are aligned. This is one of the best I’ve tested,” one tester stated. “I feel really good support in my lower back.”

Doctor recommendation:

"Side sleepers usually sleep best on a mattress that’s medium-soft to medium-firm because it cushions the shoulders and hips without letting the body sink too deeply. Memory foam or hybrid mattresses are good choices because they contour to the curves of the body, helping keep the spine in a straight line. Too firm a mattress can create pressure points and pain in the shoulders or hips, while too soft a mattress can let the hips sag, throwing the spine out of alignment." —Dr. Okubadejo, spinal surgeon

It is worth noting that, although all testers liked the Nectar Premier Memory Foam, some preferred firmer mattresses. “It feels soft everywhere—a little too soft for my preference,” one tester said. “There’s no pressure on my lower back, but I would like it to be firmer. If you like a soft mattress, this might work for you.” 

The Nectar Premier Memory Foam is slightly softer than every other mattress on this list—it’s a medium firmness and most others are medium-firm or firmer. That’s why the Nectar Premier wouldn’t be our first choice for stomach sleepers. The softer mattresses are, generally the less support they offer stomach sleepers. A soft surface lets hips sink into the mattress when you’re lying on your stomach, which can curve your spine, especially if you’re a higher weight sleeper. 

Also, the Nectar Premier’s memory foam may make you feel hot. Memory foam tends to trap heat because it has less airflow and can be thick. When we tested the Nectar Premier’s ability to dispel heat, it scored just erage. But our testers didn’t seem worried. One tester noted, “Lying down the mattress is contoured around me, which feels like it’ll make me sweat. But I’m surprised that it doesn’t heat me up too bad. I’m pleasantly surprised.” 

Our testers measure edge sinkage in the Nectar Premier Memory Foam. Edge support was just erage, at three out of five.

Memory foam can also he weak edges. Although the material has excellent contouring abilities, it can also be less stable. Our testers rated the Nectar Premier’s edge support as erage (three out of five), noting that while they felt secure, they would he liked it to feel even more secure. “The edges sink, but not too much. I don’t feel like I’m sliding off, but it doesn’t feel secure,” one tester said. “I feel fine sitting, but because the edges are a little soft, it doesn’t help me stand up.”

Who is the Nectar Premier right for?

The Nectar Premier Memory Foam is ideal for someone seeking pain relief, side sleepers, and those who prefer a balance of body-hugging contouring and strong support. 

For combination sleepers who may feel hot at night, the Nectar Premier Memory Foam is probably not the best fit. 

I may love it if I:Sleep with a partnerYesHe chronic painYesFeel hot at nightNoHe mobility concernsYesSleep in the following positionsSide, back, stomach The Nectar Premier customer experience Trial period: 365 nights Shipping: Free In-home setup and mattress removal: $199 Warranty: Lifetime Customer service

You can contact Nectar customer service by:

Phone: 888-863-2827, seven days per week from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. PT Email: suppport@nectarsleep.com Live chat: Available via the chat icon on the website, 24/7 Calling or visiting a viewing room

Payment options 

Ways to pay Visa Mastercard Discover American Express Amazon Pay PayPal Discounts? Yes, military, first responders, and health care professionals Financing: Yes, Affirm and Splitit The WinkBed Plus: Best for Back Sleepers with Back Pain

We chose the WinkBed Plus as the Best for Back Sleepers with Back Pain because testers said it did an exceptional job limiting pressure when lying on their back. It has a good balance of support and contouring to cradle your body, keep your spine aligned while lying on your back, and ease back pain. Plus, because it’s made for higher-weight sleepers, its surface and edges are extra stable.

The WinkBed PlusBest for Back Sleepers8.4 out of 10Good

Labor Day Sale

$300 off all mattresses

Visit Site

Labor Day Sale

$300 off all mattresses

Visit Site Eases pressure on your back Supports and cradles body to ease pain Strong, stable edges Our pain relief score: 4.78/5 Accessibility score: 4.51/5 Mattress type: Hybrid Brand’s firmness rating: Medium-firm Why we chose the WinkBed Plus as the Best for Back Sleepers with Back Pain

The WinkBed Plus received some of the highest ratings from testers for its ability to ease pressure, and it's one of the best mattresses for back sleepers. Only the Helix Midnight Luxe scored higher. Testers noted that the WinkBed Plus’ hybrid construction kept their spines aligned while lying on their backs, and the combination of firmness and pressure relief was exceptionally comfortable, helping to ease their back pain. 

The Winkbed Plus pros and cons ProsEases pressure when lying on your backSoothes back pain with a mix of firmness and pressure reliefStable edgesDesigned for higher-weight sleepersConsMovement may wake lighter sleepersHigher priceMay not be suitable for lower-weight sleepersShorter trial period (120 days)

The WinkBed Plus is a hybrid mattress with a bottom layer of individually wrapped coils supporting a layer of gel foam and a moisture-wicking pillow top. 

The WinkBed Plus is specifically designed for higher-weight people in mind—each side can support up to 450 pounds, with a maximum weight of 900 pounds. Because it’s made for higher-weight people, it’s going to offer a little extra firmness, which is why the brand rates it as medium-firm. 

Despite the firmness, testers were blown away by how comfortable it was, especially when lying on their backs. “My body feels really evenly supported in this position,” one tester said. “Even the curve of my spine feels good and my lower back feels supported. My body feels very nice and even.” 

Testers lying on their side were equally comfortable. “I feel really good in this position. My bottom is sinking in more which allows my spine to feel neutral,” one tester said. “Everything else is laying lightly on the mattress and feels really good. There isn't much pressure in any part of my body.”

Doctor recommendation:

"Back sleepers should look for a mattress that’s medium-firm so it supports the natural curve of the spine without sagging. A mattress that’s too soft can let the hips sink too far, leading to lower back strain. Good lumbar support helps keep the spine straight and prevents aches in the morning. Materials like memory foam or latex can work well because they mold to the body while still holding firm support." —Dr. Okubadejo, spinal surgeon

When rating the firmness and level of sinkage, testers found the WinkBed Plus ge a good mix of support and comfort. “My legs and my upper back feel on the mattress and my lower back feels like it is sinking in. I feel like the bed is soft and cradling my body nicely,” the tester said. “Even the gap from my legs and lower back is filled in with the plushness of the mattress. This bed is very supportive.” 

The results from our pressure mat test reflect the same—a cradling mix of support and comfort. The WinkBed Plus earned some of the highest scores for relieving pressure on the back, ranking behind only the Helix Midnight Luxe and Saatva Rx, respectively. 

The results of our pressure relief test for the WinkBed Plus. The more blue you see, the better the bed relieves pressure. This reflects the WinkBed Plus’ excellent pressure relief for the back.

Note how the image is mostly blue—the more blue there is, the more the WinkBed Plus relieves pressure. We see only slight pressure at the hips and upper back, which are common areas of pressure for back sleepers. 

It’s worth noting that what makes the WinkBed Plus good for higher-weight sleepers may keep it from being a good option for lower-weight (less than 130 pounds) or erage-weight (130–250 pounds) people. That’s because the extra firmness in the WinkBed Plus may make it harder for lower-weight or erage-weight people to sink into the mattress, leing them “on top” of the mattress. 

Testers experienced this when trying stomach sleeping on the WinkBed Plus. “It does feel like there’s a little pressure in my lower back. My chest feels a little elevated, causing pressure in my lower back,” one tester said. “I would not sleep on this mattress in this position.”

And while the WinkBed Plus scored just erage in motion isolation (2.5 out of five), it was one of the lowest scores in that category of any mattress we tested. “I feel like the motion isolation is just erage. I can definitely feel a ripple when another person gets in bed,” one tester said. “I felt like a ripple went through the bed, but it did die down. I think normal motion would wake me up in this bed.” 

Results of our WinkBed Plus motion isolation test. A tester got into bed like normal and we recorded movement using a seismograph. The high peaks that extend beyond the lines in every axis (X, Y, Z) shows lots of motion and not much dampening.

We measured motion isolation using a seismograph (an instrument that measures movement, typically vibrations or shaking during an earthquake). In the image above, notice the high peaks? That’s when our tester got into bed. The fact that in each axis (X, Y, and Z) the peaks extend beyond the lines reflects erage or slightly below erage motion isolation. The movement also ripples, reflected in the fact that there are several peaks and valleys right after the other.

Who is the WinkBed Plus right for?

The WinkBed Plus is best suited for a higher-weight sleeper (over 250 pounds) with chronic pain, particularly back pain, who may require a little extra assistance to get in and out of bed. This mattress could also work well for those who tend to overheat at night, as well as back, side, and combination sleepers. It’ll likely be too firm for lower–weight stomach sleepers.

I may love it if I:Sleep with a partnerNoHe chronic painYesFeel hot at nightYesHe mobility concernsYesSleep in the following positionsSide, back, stomach WinkBed customer experience Trial period: 120 nights Shipping: Free In-home setup and mattress removal: No Warranty: Limited lifetime Customer service

You can contact WinkBed customer service by:

Phone: 855-946-5233, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET Email: info@winkbeds.com Live chat: Available via the chat icon on the website, same hours as phone Calling or visiting a viewing room

Payment options 

Ways to pay Visa Mastercard Discover American Express Google Pay Shop Pay Apple Pay Discounts? Yes, military and first responders Financing: Yes, Bread Saatva Classic: Best Pressure Relief for Back Pain 

We chose the Saatva Classic as our Best Pressure Relief for Back Pain because it effectively relieved pressure in every sleeping position—no other mattress did so across all positions. The Saatva Classic’s construction makes it especially good at easing pressure and back pain, no matter what position you’re in. It also has strong, stable edges, making this mattress very easy to get in and out of. 

Saatva ClassicBest Pressure Relief for Back Pain9.4 out of 10ExcellentVisit SiteVisit Site Excellent pressure relief in every sleeping position Mix of support and comfort helps ease pain Easy to get in and out of Our pain relief score: 4.87/5 Accessibility score: 4.55/5 Mattress type: Spring Brand’s firmness rating: Medium-firm Why we chose the Saatva Classic as the Best Pressure Relief for Back Pain

The Saatva Classic relieved pressure in every position better than any other mattress we tested. Most mattresses will relieve pressure in one or maybe two sleeping positions—testers rated the Saatva Classic’s pressure relief almost perfectly for every position. Not only that, but the Saatva Classic’s double layer of coils provides the right mix of support and comfort to cradle joints and ease pressure. We love this combination in a bed for back pain. 

Saatva Classic pros and cons ProsRelieves pressure in all sleeping positionsMix of comfort and support helps ease painStrong edges and easy to get in and out ofFree in-room delivery and setupOne-year trialConsMore expensive than erageMay trap heat Our testing experience with the Saatva Classic

The Saatva Classic is the only innerspring mattress on this list. It features two layers of springs: one at the bottom, providing base support, and another on top with individually wrapped coils to help cradle your body. It has an organic cotton surface to help keep you cool.

Testers loved the Saatva Classic. When one tester lay down on their back, the first thing they said was, “I love this! I’ll see you in an hour after this nap!” After changing positions and returning to their back, the tester confirmed a good mix of body-hugging contour and support. “I can’t believe how comfortable it is. My spine feels straight and my back feels relaxed.” 

A tester evaluates the Saatva Classic’s ability to relieve pressure for stomach sleepers.

Another tester agreed. When lying on their stomach, they said, “I feel like I he a neutral spine. Throw a blanket over me—I could sleep just like this,” even though they’re not normally a stomach sleeper. 

No mattress we tested scored as well in pressure relief for every position as the Saatva Classic. But a few came close: The Saatva Rx and WinkBed Plus both earned 4.5 in each position.

One of our testers evaluates the ability of the Saatva Classic to relieve pressure for side sleepers.

When we tested the Saatva Classic using a pressure mat, it received high marks in each position.

Testers were also impressed by the Saatva Classic’s stable edges. The Classic earned a solid 4/5 for edge support. One of our testers, Patty, a 61-year-old side sleeper of erage weight who’s fallen out of bed in the past due to unstable edges, said she’s confident in the Classic’s stability. “I feel a hard piping to the edge of the mattress. This has good support,” she said. “I he experience in the past with bad edge support and he fallen off my mattress a few times. This one feels like it helps my body when standing out of the bed.”

We measured how much the Saatva Classic’s edges sank under weight and found it only sank two inches—one of the best scores we recorded. The less an edge dips under pressure, the more stable you’ll feel sitting on the edge. 

The Classic might not be great for people who are woken easily by movement. We tested how much movement we could feel lying on the Classic. “I can feel all the movement. It’s a little jarring,” said one tester. “I feel like the fabric is being pulled and I’m being bounced a little with every movement. There’s a bit of a ripple effect. I definitely think this motion would wake me up to the point that I’d be annoyed.” 

Who is the Saatva Classic right for?

The Saatva Classic is best for someone with chronic pain of any type (but especially back pain), who sleeps in any position, and who may need extra help getting in and out of bed. 

It may not be a good choice for those who share a bed with a partner and who switch positions often while they sleep.

I may love it if I:Sleep with a partnerNoHe chronic painYesFeel hot at nightNoHe mobility concernsYesSleep in the following positionsSide, back, stomach Saatva Classic customer experience Trial period: 365 nights Shipping: Free In-home setup and mattress removal: Free Warranty: One-year limited Customer service

You can contact Saatva customer service by:

Phone: 860-452-3977, ailable 24/7 Email: info@saatvamattress.com Live chat: Available via the chat icon on the website, 24/7 Calling or visiting a viewing room

Payment options 

Ways to pay Visa Mastercard Discover American Express Google Pay PayPal Discounts? Yes, find more information here Financing: Yes, Affirm Bear Elite Hybrid: Best Cooling Mattress for Back Pain 

We chose the Bear Elite Hybrid as the Best Cooling Mattress for Back Pain because it stayed cooler than any mattress we tested. Not only that, but testers said the Bear Elite Hybrid did an excellent job relieving pressure in every sleeping position. Its ability to regulate heat plus relieve pressure for all sleeping positions makes it a great option among the best beds for back pain. 

Bear Elite HybridBest Cooling7.9 out of 10Good

Fall sale

30% off sitewide with code: FALL30

Visit Site

Fall sale

30% off sitewide with code: FALL30

Visit Site Exceptional at limiting heat buildup Relieves pressure for all sleeping positions Innersprings promote airflow Our pain relief score: 3.53/5 Accessibility score: 3.54/5 Mattress type: Hybrid Brand’s firmness rating: Medium Why we chose the Bear Elite Hybrid as Best Cooling Mattress for Back Pain

The Bear Elite Hybrid is the obvious choice for Best Cooling Mattress for Back Pain because it stayed colder than every mattress we tested. The ability to remove heat is important for all sleepers, but especially for older adults. People generally get their best sleep between 68–77 degrees Fahrenheit, according to research.5 When temperatures increase to 77–86 degrees, the same research found your sleep quality goes down by 5–10%. 

Older adults bodies’ also tend to be less efficient with regulating temperature than younger people, according to research.6 So if you tend to sleep hot, a mattress like the Bear Elite Hybrid could help you regulate your body temperature better at night, leading to more restful sleep.

Bear Elite Hybrid pros and cons ProsCopper-infused fibers help regulate temperatureWicks away heat and moistureGood pressure reliefSuitable for all sleeping positionsConsSofter (medium firmness) than most others on this listWeaker edges Our testing experience with the Bear Elite Hybrid

The Bear Elite Hybrid is a spring hybrid mattress with a layer of individually wrapped coils below a copper-infused top layer of foam. Copper has excellent heat transfer qualities,7 meaning it’s very efficient at transferring heat away from an object. And although more research is needed to understand temperature regulation in copper-infused mattresses, its reputation as a metal that efficiently transfers heat implies it can help slow heat buildup in your mattress.

We tested the temperature regulation of the Bear Elite Hybrid by first taking its normal resting temperature. Then we heated the surface to 90 degrees Fahrenheit (the erage temperature of human skin is 90–94 degrees Fahrenheit).8 Next, we let the mattress cool for five minutes, then took another temperature reading. The mattresses that showed the least amount of heat buildup earned higher scores. The Bear Elite Hybrid showed an increase of only 3.5 degrees (from a starting temperature of 64.9 to an ending temperature of 68.4). 

We measured the heat buildup in the Bear Elite Hybrid. It showed the best temperature regulation, increasing by only 3.5 degrees Fahrenheit after five minutes.

The Bear Elite Hybrid’s construction is likely key to its ability to reduce heat. It’s made using a mix of individually wrapped coils below a layer of copper-infused foam. The individually wrapped coils help promote airflow and breathability, and the copper helps transfer heat. 

Testers could feel the cooling effects almost instantly. “The cover is really cool to the touch and light,” said one tester. “Ultimately it warmed up only a bit. There’s not a lot of fabric, which I think helps the cover stay cool.” 

But even a slight temperature increase from 77–86 degrees Fahrenheit is enough to influence your cognitive performance, next-day activity levels, and feelings of stress, according to research.5 The same research found that increasing the temperature only nine degrees was similar to the sleep effects of:

Drinking alcohol at night Consuming nicotine at night Experiencing chronic pain

The Bear Elite Hybrid proved above-erage in relieving pressure for every sleeping position. When lying on their back, one tester said, “My body feels equally supported. My entire body sinks into the mattress but not too much in one area. I’m not feeling pressure buildup in any specific area.” 

While the Bear Elite Hybrid removed heat well, it’s worth noting that it’s one of the softest mattresses on this list (medium firmness), and has slightly weak edges. 

Testers still found the mattress to be stable, but cautioned that might not be true for everybody. “I don’t feel like I’m going to slide off. The edge feels stable and solid,” one tester said while sitting on the mattress’ edge. “But when I sit down I feel a little off-balance for a split second. 

Then the top supports both sides of my body. For someone with balance issues, this could be a problem.” 

Who is the Bear Elite Hybrid right for?

The Bear Elite Hybrid is best suited for someone seeking pain relief, those who frequently change positions during the night, and especially for those who tend to feel hot at night. 

For people who may he trouble standing up out of bed, we recommend a mattress with more stable edges, like the Birch Natural, which testers found to he the best edge support.

I may love it if I:Sleep with a partnerNoHe chronic painYesFeel hot at nightYesHe mobility concernsYesSleep in the following positionsSide, back, stomach Bear Mattress customer experience Trial period: 120 nights Shipping: Free In-home setup and mattress removal: $100–$200 Warranty: Limited lifetime Customer service

You can contact Bear customer service by:

Phone: 844-311-0035, ailable Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET Email: support@bearmattress.com Live chat: Available via the chat icon on the website, ailable Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET Calling or visiting a viewing room

Payment options 

Ways to pay Visa Mastercard American Express Discover Paypal Shop Pay Venmo Discounts? Yes, find more information here Financing: Yes, Affirm and ShopPay Titan Plus: Best for Higher Weight People with Back Pain

We chose Titan Plus as the Best for Higher-Weight People with Back Pain because it’s made specifically for higher-weight sleepers (it can support up to 1,000 pounds). Testers rated it an almost-perfect 4.5 out of five for relieving pressure on your back, and the Titan Plus had the most stable edges of all the mattresses we tested. The Titan Plus’ mix of great pressure relief on the back plus extra-strong edges make it a good choice as a bed for back pain.

Titan PlusBest for Higher Weight People with Back Pain9.1 out of 10ExcellentVisit SiteVisit Site Firm surface helps relieve pressure on your back Strong edges Made specifically for higher-weight people Our pain relief score: 4.36/5 Accessibility score: 4.30/5 Mattress type: Hybrid Brand’s firmness rating: Firm Why we chose the Titan Plus as the Best for Higher-Weight People with Back Pain

The Titan Plus is the clear winner of Best for Higher-Weight People with Back Pain. Testers ge it an almost-perfect score for easing pressure on your back, and it had the strongest/most stable edges of any mattress we tested. Edge support is important for all of us, but especially older adults and higher-weight people. The stronger the edge support, the less likely you are to slip or fall while sitting on the bed’s edge. 

The Titan Plus also has the highest weight limit of any mattress on this list. The WinkBed Plus is also made specifically for higher-weight people, but the Titan Plus can handle an extra 100 pounds more than the WinkBed Plus. That, and its strong performance in relieving pressure on the back, makes the Titan Plus a clear winner.

Titan Plus pros and cons ProsHighest weight limit on this list (1,000 pounds)Great at relieving pressure on the backStrong edge supportSuitable for most sleeping positionsLowest price on this listConsMay trap heatMotion may wake up lighter sleepers Our testing experience with the Titan Plus

The Titan Plus is a firm hybrid mattress with a base layer of foam, a layer of individually encased coils, another layer of foam to provide contouring and pressure relief, and a quilted top with gel foam for comfort.

While the Titan Plus is designed specifically for higher-weight people, both an erage-weight and a higher-weight tester ge the mattress top marks for relieving pressure on their backs. 

One of our erage-weight testers, Ruth, a 70-year-old stomach sleeper with sleep apnea, loved the Titan Plus. “It’s a firm surface with no sinkage. But I don’t feel any pain or pressure forming,” she said. “I think it’d be great for people with back pain because my spine feels really aligned.”

One of our higher-weight testers, Chris, a 65-year-old back sleeper who experiences back pain and has spinal stenosis, agreed. “Sleeping on my back on this mattress feels good. I feel great cushioning but my spine is still aligned,” he said. “There’s a very good balance between pressure relief and support. I feel like I could lie here forever.” Both testers scored the Titan Plus 4.5 out of five for relieving pressure on the back.

Our testers measure edge support on the Titan Plus. Edges sank by only about one inch under the weight of our erage-weight tester. That makes Titan Plus a very accessible mattress.

The Titan Plus also showed strong edges—they only sank one inch when our erage-weight tester sat on the edge. That’s the least amount of sinkage of any mattress we tested. Strong edge support (with the least amount of sinkage under weight) can help keep you more secure and oid falling when sitting on the edge of the bed. 

The bedroom (along with the bathroom and stairs) is the most common location for older adults to fall at home, according to research,9 so a mattress with strong edges may help reduce your at-home falls risk. 

Because the Titan Plus had the best edge support, it’s also easy to get in and out of. Its stable edges, plus high bounce and firmness, make this a good mattress for those who may need extra help getting in or out of bed. 

The Titan Plus did well in many areas, but not in temperature regulation and motion isolation, where it scored slightly below erage. 

The Titan Plus warmed by 11 degrees (from 59–70 degrees, see image below), which is below erage. The erage mattress warmed up by nine degrees. 

Our tester measures heat buildup in the Titan Plus. We took an initial temperature reading, then heated it to 90 degrees (the erage temperature of human skin). Once it reached 90 degrees, we let it cool down and took another reading after five minutes. Who is the Titan Plus right for?

The Titan Plus is best for someone who wants pain relief (and especially those who experience chronic back pain), who may he trouble getting into bed (since it has great edge support), and who sleeps in any position. 

I may love it if I:Sleep with a partnerYesHe chronic painYesFeel hot at nightYesHe mobility concernsYesSleep in the following positionsSide, back. stomach Titan customer experience Trial period: 120 nights Shipping: Free In-home setup and mattress removal: Not ailable Warranty: Limited lifetime Customer service

You can contact Titan customer service by:

Phone: 623-624-1222, ailable Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET, Saturday through Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET  Email: support@brooklynbedding.com Live chat: Available via the chat icon on the website, ailable Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET, Saturday through Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET

Payment options 

Ways to pay Visa Mastercard American Express Discover Paypal Google Pay Shop Pay Discounts? Yes, for military, first responders, educators, students, and medical professionals Financing: Yes, Affirm and Shop Pay Birch Natural: Most Accessible for Back Pain

We chose the Birch Natural as our Most Accessible for Back Pain because it was the easiest mattress to get in and out of. Testers said the edges were strong and stable, which helped make it easier for them to move from a lying position to sitting and standing. It’s also made with natural and organic materials, and earned high scores for relieving pressure on your back. 

Birch NaturalMost Accessible for Back Pain9.2 out of 10Excellent

NCOA Exclusive Labor Day Sale - Extended

27% off sitewide with code: NCOA27

Visit Site

NCOA Exclusive Labor Day Sale - Extended

27% off sitewide with code: NCOA27

Visit Site Easiest mattress to get in and out of Strong, stable edges Natural and organic construction materials Our pain relief score: 4.55/5 Accessibility score: 4.51/5 Mattress type: Hybrid

Brand’s firmness rating: Medium-firm

Why we chose the Birch Natural as the Most Accessible for Back Pain

The Birch Natural is the most accessible mattress we’ve tested. It has the right mix of exceptional edge support, bounce, and firmness to provide a stable surface that makes it easier for you to get in and out of bed. Testers said it was easy to change positions while lying in bed, and did a great job easing pressure on their backs.

Birch Natural pros and cons ProsEasy to get in and out ofStrong, stable edges make it easier to stand upRelieves pressure buildup in backMade with natural and organic materialsConsMotion may wake lighter sleepersMay trap heatNot suitable for stomach sleepersShorter trial period (100 days) Our testing experience with Birch Natural

Birch Natural is a hybrid, natural, and organic mattress. It features a bottom layer of individually wrapped coils, a middle layer of organic latex, a layer of all-natural wool to prevent heat buildup, and a top cover made from organic cotton. 

When both sitting and lying on the edge of the Birch Natural, testers were blown away by the extremely stable edge support. “I don’t feel any need for extra support,” one tester said while sitting on the edge. “The edges bounce back quickly when I go from sitting to standing. It’s really firm on the edge.” 

Another tester lay down as close as possible to the edge without slipping off the bed and reported the same. “I think this is very supportive and I feel very stable in this position,” the tester said. “I sleep on the edge a lot, so this mattress is definitely better than mine. It’s very comfortable. When I’m lying on the edge I don’t feel like I’m going to roll off at all.” 

Our testers measure edge support on the Birch Natural. Testers rated edge support a perfect five out of five, and the edge only sank two inches under the weight of our erage-weight tester.

Both testers rated the Birch Natural’s edge support as a perfect five out of five, and when our erage-weight tester (167 pounds) sat on the edge, it only sank by about two inches. That’s better than the erage amount of edge sinkage (3.1 inches) of every mattress we tested. 

Testers also rated the Birch Natural highly (four out of five) for its ability to relieve pressure on the back. When lying on their backs, testers found the bed comfortable and supportive. “I feel really aligned. My butt’s in line with my shoulders,” the tester said. “I feel maybe a tiny bit of pressure on my lower back, but nothing on my hips at all. My body feels equally supported all over.” 

Another benefit of the Birch Natural: It’s the only mattress on this list made with certified natural and organic materials. Mattresses made from natural materials, like cotton and natural latex, he been shown to improve sleep quality and potentially prevent some health issues, according to research.10 The research notes that “latex foam can be an excellent natural replacement for polyurethane foam,” since it supports the body and allows even distribution of mass on the surface. In turn, this helps promote blood circulation, “helping to reduce muscle and joint stiffness and helping the body to relax completely.” The Birch Natural is made with natural latex, not polyurethane foam. 

Doctor recommendation:

"A responsive surface, like latex or a hybrid mattress, makes it easier to shift without feeling stuck. Good support keeps the spine aligned, whether someone is on their side, back, or stomach. Pressure relief is also important so joints don’t ache, no matter how often someone changes positions." —Dr. Okubadejo, spinal surgeon

The same research found that organic cotton is superior to non-organic cotton in mattresses. That’s because people may be exposed to the residual amount of pesticides used to grow the non-organic cotton, which they can absorb through their skin. The Birch Natural is made with 100% organic cotton, which the company says is breathable and naturally wicks away moisture. 

While the Birch Natural gets high marks in accessibility and natural construction materials, it scored below-erage in motion isolation. That means movement on this mattress is more likely to disturb you if you’re sleeping. 

Our testers assessed motion isolation, and they weren’t impressed. “It feels a little thin. I can feel every single movement and nothing feels dampened,” said one tester. “It feels like I’m getting bounced a little. It feels really springy and like none of the movement is dampened.” 

When we tested motion isolation using a seismograph, we saw what the testers felt. 

When we tested motion isolation on the Birch Natural using a seismograph, the mattress didn’t perform well. The more peaks you see, the worse the mattress is at reducing motion.

The image above captures the motion of one person exiting the Birch Natural. Note the several peaks and valleys—that shows the motion wasn’t dampened but rippled across the surface of the bed. Ideally, we would like to see one or two tall peaks followed by a quickly downward-pointing line. Instead, we see several sustained peaks of the same height. 

Who is Birch Natural right for?

The Birch Natural is best for someone who wants pain relief, who feels hot at night, and especially a person who may he trouble getting in and out of bed.

I may love it if I:Sleep with a partnerNoHe chronic painYesFeel hot at nightYesHe mobility concernsYesSleep in the following positionsSide, back Birch customer experience Trial period: 100 nights Shipping: Free In-home setup and mattress removal: $100–$400 Warranty: Limited lifetime Customer service

You can contact Birch customer service by:

Phone: 917-540-5525, Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET Email: info@birchliving.com Live chat: Available via the chat icon on the website, every day from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET Contact form  Calling or visiting a viewing room

Payment options 

Ways to pay Visa Mastercard American Express Discover Paypal Google Pay Amazon Pay Shop Pay Discounts? Yes, find more information here Financing: Yes, Affirm Our process for testing the best beds for back pain

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 a mattress to ease back pain. 

For this review, we personally tested 30 mattresses identified through our research to offer pain relief. Each mattress was put through a rigorous testing process by older adults with pain, to ensure we he real-world data about how they perform.

Pain relief

Our pain relief score is unique to our testing. In speaking with experts and surveying older adults, we learned the qualities a mattress should he to reduce pain. To determine our pain relief score, we created a weighted formula including our scores for pressure relief, mattress firmness, edge support, and bounce. 

Our combined pain relief score identifies mattresses with:

Enough bounce to adjust positions freely Pressure relief so the body’s weight is evenly distributed A firmness level that supports spinal alignment Edge support for easier movement in and out of bed Our tester evaluating mattress firmness Accessibility

Along with our pain relief score, we also created a unique score to evaluate a mattress’s accessibility. Our accessibility score measures how easily a person can get into and out of bed and change positions. It was essential to us that we made clear which mattresses were (and were not) accessible for people with mobility issues, or pain that affects the body’s ability to move easily. 

To create our accessibility score, we combined and weighted the following factors:

Edge support: A mattress with strong edge support offers a stable surface for getting in and out of bed, especially for those with chronic pain in their joints or back. Bounce: A bouncy mattress ensures sleepers don’t feel stuck, restricting the ability to adjust positions or get up out of bed. Motion isolation: A mattress with strong motion isolation ensures you remain comfortably placed in the bed, even if a partner moves through the night. Firmness: Finding the optimal mattress firmness will vary depending on your needs. But a medium-firm mattress is soft enough to rest comfortably, and firm enough to offer enough resistance to move easily.  Pressure relief

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 show how much pressure the body feels when lying on the mattress. Blue and green are great pressure relief; yellow, orange, and red show places where pressure builds up. 

Spinal support

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 specifically seek this support during our testing, and we confirm 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.

A group of our older adult testers after a day of testing mattresses. What to consider when buying a bed for back pain

When looking for the best mattress to ease your back pain, remember that no mattress is one-size-fits-all, and the experience of back pain can differ from person to person. But based on our extensive firsthand testing, in-depth research, conversations with medical experts, and our focus group with older adults who experience back pain, we think these are the most important things to consider when buying a mattress to ease back pain.

In our March 2025 Pain and Position Sleep Survey, 70% of our respondents stated they experienced better quality sleep after getting a new mattress. Mattress firmness

According to research, a medium to medium-firm mattress is most suitable for relieving back pain.4 But that can vary from person to person based on factors like body weight or sleeping position. A lighter-weight stomach sleeper will perceive a mattress’s firmness differently than a higher-weight back sleeper. 

“Consider a firmness that's most comfortable for you, and factors like weight, preferred sleeping position, and the type of back pain you experience,” said Carleara Weiss, PhD, a sleep scientist, adult-geriatric nurse specialist, and assistant professor at the University at Buffalo Nursing School. 

“But medium-firm mattresses are generally considered the best choice for people with back pain. At this level, the mattress provides good support and comfort, keeping the spine aligned while contouring to the body's curves,” Weiss said. “The most suitable mattress for you will he the correct spring tension for your body weight and enough layers for you to sink slightly into it.”

NCOA writers Samantha Colaianni and Jill Waldbieser testing mattress firmness and edge support. Pressure relief

A mattress with good pressure relief will help cradle your back without straining it. In general, the best mattresses for pressure relief on your back are hybrid or memory foam, as they provide an ideal mix of comfort from the foam and support from the springs. 

A mattress with good pressure-relieving properties on the back can keep you from tossing and turning at night trying to find a more comfortable position, which may lead to more restful sleep and less pain/stiffness in the morning. 

Spinal support

Mattresses with good spinal support maintain your spine in a neutral position, helping to ease stress on your back. 

The mattress you sleep on influences the curve of your spine. And a curved or misaligned spine can lead to serious musculoskeletal problems.11 This research found that a medium mattress is best for keeping your spine supported and aligned when lying on your back, which can help soothe back pain and pressure.

Ask the experts: What’s the best sleeping position for back pain?

“Sleeping on your back is typically considered the best position if you he lower back pain. It distributes weight well along the spine, maintains the natural curve of the spine, and also reduces pressure on the lumbar spine (the lower part of your back).” 

—Carleara Weiss, sleep scientist

“Sleeping on your side with a pillow under your knees is optimal. That keeps your back straight and alleviates pressure from your lower vertebral column. Some prefer sleeping on their back with a pillow under their knees. That lets the lower back relax. But sleeping on your stomach tends to worsen back pain by tilting your neck and bending your back too much.” 

—Dr. Emma Lin, sleep medicine specialist

Pressure points based on sleeping position Each sleeping position has its own pressure points. Side sleepers can experience pressure buildup on their shoulders, hips, neck and knees; stomach sleepers on their neck, chest, and lower back; and back sleepers at their neck, shoulders, and hips. Sleeping position

“How you sleep can greatly affect how quickly you recover from or how well you cope with back pain,” said Weiss. The position you sleep in is likely not the sole cause of your back pain, but it can certainly contribute to it. 

Luckily, you can make a few small tweaks to your sleeping position to help soothe back pain and pressure at night

Side sleepers: Put a pillow between your knees to align your spine and hips. Placing a pillow between your knees helps ease pressure on your lower back and may help your spine stay more aligned. A participant in our older adult focus group, Lynn, a 69-year-old side sleeper, sleeps with a pillow between her knees every night. “I he to use a pillow between my legs at night. If I don’t do that, I feel pain and pressure buildup in my knees and the very small of my back,” she said. “It really helps me a lot.”  Stomach sleepers: Put a pillow under your hips, and consider putting one under your head to help straighten your spine and reduce pressure on your lower back. Boosting your hips higher helps keep them in line with your spine, and prevents your lower back from sinking too far down into the bed. Back sleepers: Put a pillow under your knees to ease the pressure on your lower back. Doing so can keep the spine in its natural curve and promote relaxation. A participant in our older adult focus group, Chris, a 65-year-old back sleeper with sleep apnea, sleeps with a pillow under his knees. “I lie flat on my back when I go to sleep and I always put a pillow under my knees,” he said. “Then I just lie there and totally relax. The pillow really helps ease pressure and it’s the most comfortable.” Chris, one of our testers, shows how he typically relieves pressure from his lower back by placing a pillow under his knees. Combination sleepers: Use pillows to give you extra support in any position. As you switch between the different positions above, use the pillow between your knees, under your hips, or under your knees. Doctor recommendation:

"Sleep positions can create pressure points because certain areas of the body press harder into the mattress, like hips and shoulders for side sleepers. A mattress that contours well, such as memory foam or a hybrid, helps spread out weight and reduce stress on these spots. Back and stomach sleepers need enough support to keep the spine in line but also a surface that doesn’t press too firmly into bony areas. The right mattress cushions pressure points while still giving solid support, helping prevent aches and numbness." —Dr. Okubadejo, spinal surgeon

What mattress type is best for back pain?

Mattress type and construction can he a big impact on your back pain. 

Through our research and testing, we’ve found that hybrid and memory foam mattresses tend to be better for easing back pain since they provide a good mix of comfort (from the foam) and support (from the springs) to reduce pressure buildup.

Innerspring mattress

Spring mattresses are the most traditional type—they’re made using layers of metal springs to provide bounce and support. Spring mattresses can help limit pressure on your back by providing good all-around support for the body and keeping your spine neutral. Look for spring mattresses with quilted or pillow-top covers that help provide some extra cradling, which springs usually lack. 

Memory foam mattress

Memory foam mattresses are made with whole pieces or shredded memory foam. Memory foam can help soothe back pain by providing a consistent, cradling support across your entire body. The even support helps distribute your body weight, keeping your spine straight and making it less likely for pressure to develop. 

Hybrid mattress

Hybrid mattresses are one of the best types of mattresses to treat back pain, according to our testing and research. Most of the mattresses in this list are hybrid. They tend to he the best of both worlds: strong base support from the layer of metal springs (often individually wrapped to provide extra stability and minimize sagging), and contouring comfort from memory foam. The memory foam distributes body weight, which reduces pressure points, and the springs provide a solid base to keep your spine straight.

Latex mattress

Latex mattresses offer a natural alternative to memory foam. Latex mattresses are similar to foam mattresses, except latex tends to be more durable, bouncier, and longer-lasting. A latex mattress can be a good choice for someone with back pain since, like memory foam, it helps distribute body weight evenly and keep your spine aligned. 

Survey says: The most common mattress type

In our most recent survey of 300 older adults who experience pain and purchased a mattress in the last five years, these were the most common types of mattresses:12

Memory foam: 52% Hybrid: 22% Spring: 15% Other: 11% Best mattress types for back pain Mattress typePressure reliefSpinal alignmentEase of movementGood for back pain?InnerspringLimitedVery goodEasySometimes, look for a pillow top for better pressure reliefMemory foamExcellentGoodModerate, look for a medium-firm or firm memory foam for easier movementYesHybridVery goodExcellentEasyYesLatexVery goodExcellentEasyYes Sleeping with pain?

We understand the importance of a good night's sleep, and how difficult that can be when you experience chronic pain. Learn more about finding the right mattress for your pain:

Best Mattress for Neck Pain Best Mattress for Sciatica Best Mattress for Herniated Disc Best Mattress for Shoulder Pain Best Mattress for Arthritis How to manage back pain at home 

Back pain affects more than just your sleep. It can impact your whole life. If you’re experiencing severe, consistent back pain, it’s important to see a health care provider who can help you find the underlying cause of your pain and offer potential solutions. Here are 10 more ways to manage back pain at home:

Focus on your posture: Improving your posture helps keep your spine aligned and strengthens supporting muscles. Avoid slouching, and aim to keep your shoulders back when standing and sitting. Move regularly: Regular movement can reduce pressure on your spine that builds up from sitting for too long. Aim to stand, stretch, and move your body every 30 minutes. Manage stress: Your body can react to stress through physical tension in the back. Using techniques like deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation can reduce your stress mentally and physically. From our focus group: Try deep breathing before bed

To learn more about how to improve your sleep quality while dealing with chronic back pain, we held a focus group with older adults to hear how their mattress helps or worsens their back pain. 

Ruth, a 70-year-old stomach sleeper with sleep apnea and arthritis, shared with us how she has been able to fall asleep easily with the help of deep-breathing techniques, such as the 4-7-8 technique.

“I do my deep-breathing exercises as I’m lying down, and they always put me to sleep. I take a deep breath, hold it, then let it out real slow. By the time I do it three times, I’m ready to say, ‘good night!’”

4. Engage in low-impact exercise: Walking, swimming, and yoga can strengthen core and back muscles, without adding strain to your spine and joints,  helping you to stay fit while also reducing pain. A little exercise goes a long way. You only need 20-30 minutes a day to make a big difference.

5. Use heat and cold therapy: Heat aids in muscle relaxation and improves blood flow, while cold can numb pain and reduce inflammation. Try using a hot or cold pack wrapped in a towel and apply it for no more than 15 minutes at a time. Make sure you check your skin every 5 minutes to ensure it’s not too hot or cold.

6. Look at your diet: Getting the right nutrients fuels your body and supports recovery. Ask your doctor if you he specific questions about improving your diet or ensuring you’re meeting your nutritional needs.

7. Stretch: Gentle stretching can improve flexibility and range of motion while releasing tension from tight muscles. Gently stretch your hamstrings, hip flexors, and shoulders to keep muscles from locking up in pain.

Nighttime stretches to ease back pain

“Stretching before bed really helps. I show my patients simple stretches like these to help ease their back pain.” 

Knee-to-chest stretch: Lie on your back; draw one knee at a time toward your chest slowly Child's pose: Kneel and sit on your knees; lean forward, resting your forehead on the floor Spinal twist: In a seated or reclining position, twist to one side, and to the opposite side gently

—Emma Lin, MD, pulmonologist and sleep medicine specialist

8. Consider pain relievers: Speak with your doctor about over-the-counter pain relievers and if they’re appropriate for you. Ibuprofen reduces pain and inflammation, but it may not be the right choice if you he certain medical conditions like ulcers or high blood pressure.

9. Improve your sleep hygiene: Sleep and recovery go hand-in-hand. Creating a routine to prepare your body and mind for sleep can allow you to fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.

10. Stay active: It can be hard to move when you’re in pain, but resting too much can weaken muscles and worsen pain over time. Keep moving and engaging in activities you enjoy so your body and mind stay healthy.

Finding comfort while sleeping with back pain isn’t just about the mattress. Check out our top picks for the best mattress toppers for back pain and the best pillows for back pain.

How much do the best mattresses for people with back pain cost?

The best mattresses for older adults with back pain range in price from around $1,200–$3,400 for a queen before discounts. Several factors influence the overall price you’ll pay for a new mattress, such as shipping fees, mattress size, a box spring, bed frame, or other foundational support, and any extra features. 

Comparing mattress costs Comparison Features

Nectar Premier Hybrid

Helix Midnight Luxe

Nectar Premier Memory Foam

The WinkBed Plus

Saatva Classic

Bear Elite Hybrid

Titan Plus

Birch Natural

Cost for a queen*

$2,313

$2,374

$2,249

$1,999

$2,099

$2,305

$1,249

$1,874

Delivery fees

Free shipping

Free shipping

Free shipping

Free shipping

Free white glove delivery

Free shipping

Free shipping

Free shipping

Warranty

Limited lifetime

Limited lifetime

Limited lifetime

Limited lifetime

Limited lifetime

Limited lifetime

Limited lifetime

Limited lifetime

Trial period

365 nights

100 nights

365 nights

120 nights

365 nights

120 nights

120 nights

100 nights

How to se money on mattresses

Mattresses can be an expensive investment, and their price typically increases when you require a mattress specifically designed to relieve pain. Spending $2,000 or more on a mattress can take a hit to your budget, so it’s worth finding ways to se. 

Most mattress brands offer financing, but unless the financing is interest-free, you’ll end up spending more over time. But there are ways to se on a new mattress for back pain. Here are some of our forites:

Shop the sales: Mattresses frequently go on sale, especially around holidays. If you can wait to shop, consider buying your mattress around Memorial Day, Labor Day, Presidents’ Day, or Independence Day. Otherwise, keep an eye on your forite brands; many offer significant sales regularly. Look for discounts: Military members, veterans and their families, health care professionals, first responders, teachers, students, government employees, and older adults are often eligible for year-round discounts by major mattress brands. Saatva, Helix, Nectar, WinkBed, Bear, and other brands offer discounts for selected groups. Some of these discounts are up to 40% off. Medicare: If prescribed by a doctor and the mattress is purchased through a Medicare-approved provider, your new bed may be covered wholly or in part through Medicare Part B as durable medical equipment. You’ll want to speak with your plan provider directly to learn if this option will work for you. Charitable programs: Habitat for Humanity ReStore, Beds4Vets, and brand-specific options, like Leesa’s One-Ten program allow those in need to receive a new or gently used mattress for free. Reaching out to these programs can allow you to rest easy on a new mattress without breaking the bank.

If you’re not ready for a new mattress, but still need better support, consider accessories like a mattress topper for back pain or a pillow for back pain to improve your sleep at a fraction of the cost of a new mattress.

Experts featured in this review: Suzanne Manzi,  MD, FAAPMR, CLCP™, pain specialist and partner at Performance Pain & Sports Medicine Gbolahan Okubadejo, MD, FAAOS, board-certified spinal surgeon and head of The Institute for Comprehensive Spine Care Carleara Weiss, PhD, a sleep scientist, adult-geriatric nurse specialist, and assistant professor at the University at Buffalo Nursing School.  Emma Lin, MD, pulmonologist and sleep medicine specialist Frequently asked questions What is the best mattress for seniors with back pain? 

The Nectar Premier Hybrid is our pick for the best mattress for older adults with back pain. While we like this mattress for its ability to offer pain relief for most sleepers, it may not be the ideal mattress for everyone. We recommend speaking with a health care professional to determine what you need in a mattress to provide the back support and pressure relief you need.

What type of mattress is best for seniors with lower back pain?

We believe older adults with lower back pain can benefit from the cushioned support of a hybrid mattress. Since hybrid mattresses typically use both memory foam and innerspring coils, they can often balance a solid structure with pressure relief. We especially like hybrid mattresses with zoned coils for improved back support, as well as beds that provide extra support for the lower back and hips, such as the Helix Midnight Luxe ErgoAlign layer. But people often experience lower back pain in different ways. So we advise you to speak with a health care professional to make sure your mattress addresses your specific concerns.

Can a mattress cause back pain?

The wrong mattress can worsen back pain. For example, if your mattress sags or dips in the middle, it may not be able to maintain your spinal alignment, hurting your back more over time. A mattress that’s not suitable for your sleeping position can also aggrate back pain. Still, back pain isn’t usually caused solely by a mattress. If you he undiagnosed chronic back pain, speak with your health care provider to identify the root cause before you blame your mattress. 

What mattress firmness is best for back pain?

Finding the right mattress firmness to relieve back pain will vary depending on several factors, including your type of back pain and preferred sleeping position. Through our research, we found most back and stomach sleepers with back pain feel better on a medium-to-firm mattress. This firmness level supports the spine enough to remain in a neutral position. Side sleepers with back pain may prefer a medium-soft-to-medium mattress. This slightly softer mattress can relieve pressure in the joints while contouring to the body for better spinal alignment.

Questions? Email us at reviewsteam@ncoa.org.

Sources Cleveland Clinic. Back Pain, Your Spine and Father Time: 13 Ways To Treat Age-Related Back Pain. Sept. 20, 2023. Found on the internet at https://health.clevelandclinic.org/back-pain-your-spine-and-father-time Merllin Batista de Souza I, et al. Prevalence of low back pain in the elderly population: a systematic review. Clinics (Sao Paolo). Oct. 23, 2019. Found on the internet at https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6807687/ Morelhão P, et al. What Are the Effects of Physical Activity on Sleep Quality and Low Back Pain in Older Adults? Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine. July 15, 2019. Found on the internet at https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6622514/ Caggiari G, et al. What type of mattress should be chosen to oid back pain and improve sleep quality? Review of the literature. Journal of Orthopaedics and Traumatology. Dec. 8, 2021. Found on the internet at https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8655046/ Baniassadi A, et al. Nighttime Ambient Temperature and Sleep in Community-Dwelling Older Adults. Science of the Total Environment. Nov. 15, 2024. Found on the internet at https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10529213/ Meade R, et al. Physiological factors characterizing heat-vulnerable older adults: A narrative review. Environment International. November 2020. Found on the internet at https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S016041202031864X#s0010 Copper Development Association Inc. Copper Is Conductive. Found on the internet at https://copper.org/education/copper-is/elements/conductive.html Science Direct. Skin Temperature. Found on the internet at https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/immunology-and-microbiology/skin-temperature Moreland B, et al. A Descriptive Analysis of Location of Older Adult Falls That Resulted in Emergency Department Visits in the United States, 2015. American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine. Aug. 7, 2020. Found on the internet at https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8669898/ Marković L, et al. Importance of Natural Materials for Good and Quality Sleep. 30th International Conference on Wood Science and Technology. December 2019. Found on the internet at https://www.researchgate.net/publication/338937460_Importance_of_Natural_Materials_for_Good_and_Quality_Sleep Wang Y, et al. The Influence of Mattress Stiffness on Spinal Curvature and Intervertebral Disc Stress—An Experimental and Computational Study. Biology (Basel). July 8, 2022. Found on the internet at https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9311775/ NCOA. Pain and Position Sleep Survey. 300 respondents. Conducted using Pollfish. Launched March 2025