Hybrid mattresses are made of all-foam or latex layers on top of a coil base. This construction performs well for those with back pain because it provides a good amount of contouring to the body along with adequate support. Depending on what these mattresses are topped with, they also have a decent amount of bounce and responsiveness. Our list of best hybrid mattresses has some of our favorite of this type of bed
Mattress Nerd consulted Vivian Eisenstadt, MAPT, CPT, MASP to ensure that this article met our editorial standards
If you’re getting the recommended 7 to 8 hours of sleep per night, you’ll spend one-third of your life in bed. That makes the mattress you choose one of the most important factors in the quality of your life. If your sleep quality is suffering, and not providing you pain relief, the importance of investing in the right mattress increases drastically.
In this guide, I will review the most important factors to consider when purchasing a new mattress for back pain relief. I will also dive into the specifics of each of our top picks, and help you decide which might be the best choice for you. So, if you have a bad back, explore our top picks for the best mattress for back pain in 2021, and discover which may aid in your pain relief!
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Best Mattresses for Lower and Upper Back Pain
- Best for Side Sleepers with Back Pain – Helix Midnight Luxe
- Best Mattress for Lower Back Pain – Saatva
- Best Mattress for Back Sleepers with Back Pain – Nectar Premier Copper
- Best Mattress for Stomach Sleepers with Back Pain – DreamCloud
- Best Cooling Mattress for Back Pain – WinkBeds
- Best Mattress For Upper Back Pain – Brooklyn Bedding Signature
- Best Mattress For Couples with Back Pain – GhostBed Flex
- Best Luxury Mattress – Tempur-ProAdapt
- Best for a Conforming Foam Feel – Puffy
- Best for Value Shoppers with Back Pain – Cocoon Chill
Best Mattress for Side Sleepers with Back Pain: Helix Midnight Luxe
We rank the Helix Midnight Luxe among our best mattresses for side sleepers. Zoned support provides the hips, shoulders and neck with just the right amount of cushion to keep the spine aligned and ensure you wake up pain-free. Plus, it's 2 inches thicker than the standard Midnight.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. We rank the Helix Midnight Luxe among our best mattresses for side sleepers. Zoned support provides the hips, shoulders and neck with just the right amount of cushion to keep the spine aligned and ensure you wake up pain-free. Plus, it's 2 inches thicker than the standard Midnight.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. We rank the Helix Midnight Luxe among our best mattresses for side sleepers. Zoned support provides the hips, shoulders and neck with just the right amount of cushion to keep the spine aligned and ensure you wake up pain-free. Plus, it's 2 inches thicker than the standard Midnight.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress.
Best Mattress for Side Sleepers with Back Pain
Helix Midnight Luxe Mattress
Read Full Review
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6/10
Warranty
15-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Best Mattress for Side Sleepers with Back Pain
Helix Midnight Luxe Mattress
Read Full Review
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
15-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Best Mattress for Side Sleepers with Back Pain
Helix Midnight Luxe Mattress
Read Full Review
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6/10
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
15-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Helix does an incredible job of being inclusive with their products. They have a variety of customized options so shoppers can find what’s just right. So it’s no surprise they have a model that fits the bill for back and hip pain. We recommend the firmer options for individuals with back pain, but if you prefer a more cradling feeling, one of the medium-firm options may work well for you. Helix also comes with a 10-15 year warranty.
Read our full Helix Midnight Mattress Review to learn more!
Best Mattress for Lower Back Pain: Saatva Classic
The Saatva Classic is an innerspring mattress delivered to your home by delivery professionals. It's made with luxury materials like organic cotton, a plush pillow top, and durable coils. Choose from Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, and Firm options.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Saatva Classic is an innerspring mattress delivered to your home by delivery professionals. It's made with luxury materials like organic cotton, a plush pillow top, and durable coils. Choose from Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, and Firm options.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Saatva Classic is an innerspring mattress delivered to your home by delivery professionals. It's made with luxury materials like organic cotton, a plush pillow top, and durable coils. Choose from Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, and Firm options.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress.
Best Mattress for Lower Back Pain
Saatva Mattress
Read Full Review
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
180 nights
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
15-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Best Mattress for Lower Back Pain
Saatva Mattress
Read Full Review
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
15-year warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Trial Period
180 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Best Mattress for Lower Back Pain
Saatva Mattress
Read Full Review
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
180 nights
Warranty
15-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
If you’re a fan of a more classic-style mattress, but still want relief from low back pain, the Saatva mattress might just be the right fit for you. The Saatva mattress has the innerspring base of a traditional mattress but with the newer, hybrid technology of wrapped coils, a plush pillow top, and memory foam.
The Saatva mattress is designed to provide additional support to the middle third of the mattress where your lumbar region (i.e. lower back) would be. Additionally, an added foam layer of “visco-elastic” memory foam supports the areas most commonly associated with pressure points. It comes in a plush soft, luxury firm, and firm option.
Whether you require extra support to relieve your chronic lower back pain, or simply prefer the firmness of a traditional-style mattress and the added benefits of pain-free sleep, the Saatva mattress is a great option.
See our full Saatva Mattress Review to learn more!
Best Mattress for Back Sleepers with Back Pain: Nectar Premier Copper
The Nectar Premier Copper is a luxury foam mattress infused with special cooling materials such as gel, copper, and Phase Change Material. This mattress is a great option for back sleepers who love all-foam beds.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Nectar Premier Copper is a luxury foam mattress infused with special cooling materials such as gel, copper, and Phase Change Material. This mattress is a great option for back sleepers who love all-foam beds.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Nectar Premier Copper is a luxury foam mattress infused with special cooling materials such as gel, copper, and Phase Change Material. This mattress is a great option for back sleepers who love all-foam beds.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress.
Best Mattress for Back Sleepers with Back Pain
Nectar Premier Copper Mattress
Read Full Review
Material
Foam
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-soft: 5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Best Mattress for Back Sleepers with Back Pain
Nectar Premier Copper Mattress
Read Full Review
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-soft: 5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Best Mattress for Back Sleepers with Back Pain
Nectar Premier Copper Mattress
Read Full Review
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-soft: 5/10
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
The Nectar Premier Copper is a medium-firm, luxury foam mattress made with special cooling materials like gel, copper and phase change material. This bed performs best for back sleepers who experience back pain and need the proper lumbar support to have a restful night’s sleep.
When you lie on this mattress, your back will keep its natural “S” curve alignment, which is optimal for preventing aches and pains. The copper makes the difference in this bed’s performance by not only being cooling, but also relieving pressure from the lower back and keeping stress off of your joints. Our pressure map test shows the best results for light to average weight back sleepers.
The Nectar Premier Copper comes with a 365-night sleep trial, as well as a lifetime warranty, and free shipping to the contiguous United States! If you order from Alaska or Hawaii, you will be charged an added shipping fee.
Read our full Nectar Premier Copper Mattress Review to learn more! Looking for more options? Check out our Guide to Best Mattresses for Back Pain.
Best Mattress for Stomach Sleepers with Back Pain: DreamCloud
The DreamCloud is a luxury hybrid bed that features a cashmere cover and gel-infused foam. It rates highly in motion isolation, temperature regulation, responsiveness, and every other category we rated it on.
The DreamCloud is a luxury hybrid bed that features a cashmere cover and gel-infused foam. It rates highly in motion isolation, temperature regulation, responsiveness, and every other category we rated it on.
The DreamCloud is a luxury hybrid bed that features a cashmere cover and gel-infused foam. It rates highly in motion isolation, temperature regulation, responsiveness, and every other category we rated it on.
Best Mattress for Stomach Sleepers with Back Pain
DreamCloud Mattress
Read Full Review
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Best Mattress for Stomach Sleepers with Back Pain
DreamCloud Mattress
Read Full Review
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Best Mattress for Stomach Sleepers with Back Pain
DreamCloud Mattress
Read Full Review
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
The DreamCloud mattress is a great option for stomach sleepers who experience lower back pain because of its firm, yet supportive feel, which will keep your hips lifted in alignment with your shoulders. This mattress is a hybrid option that offers five layers including the soft-to-the-touch cover, three comfort foam layers, and a supportive coil layer.
Stomach sleepers are the most susceptible to chronic pains because of their contorted body position. When the stomach is facing down onto the mattress, it causes the spine to hyper-extend into a strained position— increasing the likelihood of lower back pain. With the DreamCloud, stomach sleepers who experience this issue will find comfort in the foam layers, while simultaneously receiving that crucial lifting support for their hips and lower back.
The DreamCloud Original comes with a 365-night sleep trial, a lifetime warranty, and free shipping within the contiguous United States. If you are ordering from Alaska or Hawaii, there is a $150 shipping fee. You can also choose to opt into DreamCloud’s white glove delivery service for an additional $149, which means a delivery team will set up your new mattress for you and remove your old one.
Read our full DreamCloud Original Mattress Review to learn more! For more, see our ranking of the Best Mattresses for Stomach Sleepers.
Best Cooling Mattress for Back Pain: WinkBed
The WinkBed is available in four different firmness options. We particularly love it for hot sleepers because of its great temperature regulation, and it’s great for combination sleepers because of its responsiveness.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The WinkBed is available in four different firmness options. We particularly love it for hot sleepers because of its great temperature regulation, and it’s great for combination sleepers because of its responsiveness.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The WinkBed is available in four different firmness options. We particularly love it for hot sleepers because of its great temperature regulation, and it’s great for combination sleepers because of its responsiveness.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress.
Best Cooling Mattress for Back Pain
WinkBed Mattress
Read Full Review
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Best Cooling Mattress for Back Pain
WinkBed Mattress
Read Full Review
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Best Cooling Mattress for Back Pain
WinkBed Mattress
Read Full Review
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
The WinkBeds Original Mattress is an excellent choice for stomach sleepers with back pain. This mattress is available in four firmness levels; softer, luxury firm, firmer, and plus. We recommend the firm option for stomach sleepers with back pain, so the hips will not sink too much. The mattress is complete with a proprietary lumbar layer; this mattress is engineered to keep the spine aligned in every sleeping position, the WinkBed will ease all your aches and pains. What’s more, the WinkBed mattress includes a Triple Layer Heat Disperse technology system that includes a cooling Tencel cover and breathable coils.
The mattress is also equipped with a 3-step back relief system, meaning it has zoned support throughout the length of the mattress. It will fill in areas of the back that need more support and give comfort to the areas which need more cushioning.
See our full WinkBeds Mattress Review to learn more.
Best Mattress for Upper Back Pain: Brooklyn Bedding Signature
The Signature Hybrid mattress comes in three firmness options and is made with a slew of proprietary materials. Brooklyn Bedding know their mattresses.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Signature Hybrid mattress comes in three firmness options and is made with a slew of proprietary materials. Brooklyn Bedding know their mattresses.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Signature Hybrid mattress comes in three firmness options and is made with a slew of proprietary materials. Brooklyn Bedding know their mattresses.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress.
Best Mattress for Upper Back Pain
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Mattress
Read Full Review
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Best Mattress for Upper Back Pain
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Mattress
Read Full Review
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Best Mattress for Upper Back Pain
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Mattress
Read Full Review
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
You’ve probably read it elsewhere on the site…I like Brooklyn products a lot. They also offer quality goods thanks to their rigorous quality assurance process.
Brooklyn offers its Signature in soft, medium, and firm options. While they’re not the only brand to do this, it’s still somewhat rare. The beauty of this is that if you like the mattress materials, but it’s not quite the right feel, you can opt for a different firmness that fits your body type. This is a fantastic option if you’re looking to relieve some pressure.
Combine the power of choice with Brooklyn’s 1024 premium wrapped coils and you have one supportive mattress. Enjoy!
See our full Brooklyn Signature Mattress Review!
Best Mattress for Couples with Back Pain: GhostBed Flex
Featuring seven layers of support and comfort, the GhostBed Flex mattress is a great hybrid option, with advanced motion isolation for couples. The responsive coils provide support and cooling, while the foam layers cradle and cushion your pressure points.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. Featuring seven layers of support and comfort, the GhostBed Flex mattress is a great hybrid option, with advanced motion isolation for couples. The responsive coils provide support and cooling, while the foam layers cradle and cushion your pressure points.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. Featuring seven layers of support and comfort, the GhostBed Flex mattress is a great hybrid option, with advanced motion isolation for couples. The responsive coils provide support and cooling, while the foam layers cradle and cushion your pressure points.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress.
Best Mattress for Couples with Back Pain
GhostBed Flex Mattress
Read Full Review
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
101 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
25-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.
Financing Options
Best Mattress for Couples with Back Pain
GhostBed Flex Mattress
Read Full Review
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
25-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Trial Period
101 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.
Financing Options
Best Mattress for Couples with Back Pain
GhostBed Flex Mattress
Read Full Review
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
101 nights
Warranty
25-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.
Financing Options
The GhostBed Flex comes with advanced motion isolation, which is the top feature for couples that experience back pain. This hybrid model comes with seven layers of support and comfort, including responsive coils and cushioning foam. The memory foam buffers any small movements that could be made by your partner throughout the night, while the individually wrapped coils help prevent the bed from transferring motion.
The Flex combats pain by using the comfort layers to contour to your body and cushion those persistent pressure points like the shoulders, hips and lower back, while the coils also keep the spine lifted and aligned. That sounds like a perfect recipe for pain relief!
The GhostBed Flex comes with a 101-night sleep trial, a 35-year warranty, and free shipping to the contiguous United States. If you are ordering from Alaska or Hawaii, you will be charged a $600 shipping fee. GhostBed offers white glove delivery services and old mattress removal for $199.
Read our full GhostBed Flex Mattress Review to learn more! For more options, check out our Best Mattresses for Couples.
Best Luxury Mattress: Tempur-ProAdapt
The TEMPUR-ProAdapt lives up to its name: It adapts to every sleeping position (side, back and stomach sleepers), offers three firmness levels (soft, medium and firm) and works for all weight groups (light, average-weight and heavyweight sleepers).
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The TEMPUR-ProAdapt lives up to its name: It adapts to every sleeping position (side, back and stomach sleepers), offers three firmness levels (soft, medium and firm) and works for all weight groups (light, average-weight and heavyweight sleepers).
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The TEMPUR-ProAdapt lives up to its name: It adapts to every sleeping position (side, back and stomach sleepers), offers three firmness levels (soft, medium and firm) and works for all weight groups (light, average-weight and heavyweight sleepers).
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress.
Best Luxury Mattress
TEMPUR-ProAdapt Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
90 nights
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
10-year limited warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Best Luxury Mattress
TEMPUR-ProAdapt Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year limited warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Trial Period
90 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Best Luxury Mattress
TEMPUR-ProAdapt Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
90 nights
Warranty
10-year limited warranty
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Price Range
$$$$$
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
The ProAdapt is Tempur-Pedic’s most popular mattress for good reason. The quality materials, support and motion isolation make this bed an excellent choice for people looking to invest in a luxury option that provides excellent pressure relief and spinal support. With this model, you get that traditional sinking memory foam feel and thick comfort layers that hug your entire body.
The ProAdapt comes in a soft, medium and firm option and it measures 12” thick, which means you can pick the most comfortable option for you. Temper-Pedic also offers this model in a hybrid option with a medium firmness level. Given how customizable this bed is, it is perfect for all sleeping positions, body sizes and types, as well as those who have chronic back pain. Bottom line— you can’t go wrong with this mattress if you’re looking for best in class custom comfort.
This bed comes with a 90-night sleep trial, a 10-year limited warranty, and free white glove delivery.
Read our full Tempur-Pedic Tempur-ProAdapt Review to learn more! Wanting more luxury options? Check out our Best Luxury Mattress Review.
Best Mattress for a Conforming Foam Feel: Puffy
The Original Puffy is a three-layer foam mattress made with cooling gel-infused memory foam and motion isolating base foams. It has a medium-firm feel that blends contouring support with cushioning comfort.
The Original Puffy is a three-layer foam mattress made with cooling gel-infused memory foam and motion isolating base foams. It has a medium-firm feel that blends contouring support with cushioning comfort.
The Original Puffy is a three-layer foam mattress made with cooling gel-infused memory foam and motion isolating base foams. It has a medium-firm feel that blends contouring support with cushioning comfort.
Best Mattress for a Conforming Foam Feel
Puffy Mattress
Read Full Review
Material
Foam
Trial Period
101 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Best Mattress for a Conforming Foam Feel
Puffy Mattress
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Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
101 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Best Mattress for a Conforming Foam Feel
Puffy Mattress
Read Full Review
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Trial Period
101 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
The Puffy is a medium-firm, three-layer foam mattress made with cooling, gel-infused, and motion isolating foams. When you lie on this bed, you’ll feel the foams layers working to balance you on the surface while still giving you that responsive memory foam touch. The top comfort layer cradles your body and gives you a “cloud-like” feel, which is why we named it our pick for best conforming foam mattress.
We recommend this mattress specifically for back, side, and combination sleepers, as well as couples. The Puffy is firm enough to be supportive for a back sleeper, but also contouring and soft enough to be beneficial for side sleepers who don’t want to aggravate pressure points in their shoulders and hips. Since the foam layer provides a balanced sleeping surface, it’s also a great option for combination sleepers and couples who tend to move around throughout the night and need the motion isolation features that this bed provides.
The Puffy Mattress comes with a 101-night sleep trial, a lifetime warranty, and free shipping to the contiguous United States. If you are ordering from Alaska or Hawaii, you will be charged an additional shipping fee.
Read our full Puffy Mattress Review to learn more! Interested in learning more about Puffy’s options? Check out our Puffy Mattress Comparison.
Best Mattress for Value Shoppers with Back Pain: Cocoon Chill
The Cocoon Chill by Sealy is a great choice for anyone looking for a cooling mattress at a reasonable price point. Created by Sealy, one of the most trusted brands in the industry, the Cocoon gives customers a cooling all-foam option delivered right to their door.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Cocoon Chill by Sealy is a great choice for anyone looking for a cooling mattress at a reasonable price point. Created by Sealy, one of the most trusted brands in the industry, the Cocoon gives customers a cooling all-foam option delivered right to their door.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Cocoon Chill by Sealy is a great choice for anyone looking for a cooling mattress at a reasonable price point. Created by Sealy, one of the most trusted brands in the industry, the Cocoon gives customers a cooling all-foam option delivered right to their door.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress.
Best Mattress for Value Shoppers with Back Pain
Cocoon Chill Mattress
Read Full Review
Material
Foam
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-soft: 5/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Best Mattress for Value Shoppers with Back Pain
Cocoon Chill Mattress
Read Full Review
Material
Foam
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-soft: 5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Best Mattress for Value Shoppers with Back Pain
Cocoon Chill Mattress
Read Full Review
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-soft: 5/10
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
The Cocoon Chill by Sealy is an amazing option for those of you looking for a quality bed, that will help alleviate back pain, that also won’t break the bank! This 10” thick, full memory foam mattress offers cooling features like “phase-change” material for the cover which absorbs heat when you’re too hot and releases it back when you’re too cold. Score for you hot sleepers! As for the memory foam, the Cocoon Chill has two types: the perfect fit memory foam and the responsive comfort foam. These layers help adapt and contour to your body shape so that you feel supported and lifted, which is crucial for spinal alignment and back pain relief.
Now with this model, the quality is as impressive as the price. You can snag a queen bed for $1,000 after discounts! For that price, you will keep your wallet happy, without having to sacrifice your sleep. And if you need extra convincing— the Cocoon Chill works for all sleeping positions as well.
The Cocoon Chill is a bed-in-a-box mattress that comes with a 100-night sleep trial, a 10-year warranty, and ships for free, right to your door, throughout the United States.
Read our full Cocoon Chill Mattress Review to learn more! Interested in checking out more budget-friendly options? Head over to our guide for Best Budget Mattresses.
Back Pain and Sleep
If you have any experience with back pain, then you likely know the struggle of trying to fall asleep with that sort of discomfort. The smallest movement can cause a jolt of pain that yanks you right out of a deep rest.
Unfortunately, we cannot claim that a better mattress will fix your back pain. If possible, we recommend you visit a doctor who can provide a treatment tailored to your specific situation. That said, your mattress may be one of many factors contributing to your condition, and replacing it may not just make falling asleep easier, but may also lead to less pain throughout your days.
We’ll start off by briefly discussing different kinds of back pain before going into ways in which changing your mattress and your sleep preferences can lead to better health and better sleep.
Can a Mattress Cause Back Pain?
While it can be difficult to determine the primary cause of your back pain, your mattress should definitely be considered a culprit. This doesn’t mean that we recommend kicking your mattress to the curb if you suffer from back aches, but some investigation might be in order.
First, how old is your current mattress? The older they get, the less support they provide. If your mattress does not offer that magical blend of comfort and support, then it can cause your spine to go out of alignment as you rest, which can certainly lead to morning back pain.
It’s also important to ensure that the firmness of your mattress is ideal for your body type, sleeping position, and personal preference. If, for example, you’re a lightweight side sleeper, you probably shouldn’t be sleeping on a very firm mattress. Doing so can not only cause lower back pain, but also hip and shoulder pain. Take a look at our mattress firmness guide for a more detailed breakdown on this subject.
Types of Back Pain
It’s important to note that back pain comes in different forms. Once you are able to better classify your back pain, it may become easier to find a solution for it.
Chronic vs. Acute Back Pain
If you have noticed a recent onset of back pain that immediately followed a determinable event, such as lifting something heavy, overexerting yourself playing sports, or falling down, then it is likely acute back pain. Acute pain, as the name would suggest, is quite sharp and may not last as long as chronic pain, if properly treated.
Chronic pain can occur when acute back pain is not properly managed. Though the symptoms are similar, chronic back pain can cause persistent discomfort in addition to the unexpected jolts of pain that are associated with acute back pain. Though it is not necessarily time dependent, if you have been experiencing back pain for several months then it has likely developed from acute pain into chronic pain.
If you’d like to learn more, head over to our full article on chronic vs. acute back pain.
Location of Back Pain
Lower Back Pain
Lower back pain, the most common type of back pain reported in the U.S., can be caused by a variety of factors and can range greatly in severity. This affects the region of the back that naturally curves in, also known as the “lumbar region.” This condition is made most manageable by a mattress or pillow that fills in the lower back and allows it to be aligned with the rest of the spine.
For more on this, take a look at our article on sleeping with lower back pain.
Middle Back Pain
Middle back pain is caused by many of the same triggers for lower and upper back pain, it just manifests itself differently depending largely on a person’s body weight and lifestyle. People with this condition often have more feelings of “overall” back pain, and can benefit from using techniques for both lower and upper back pain together.
Upper Back Pain
Upper back pain is the second most common type of back pain. Upper back pain can be caused by several things, such as poor posture, muscle overuse, injury, herniated discs, and much more. This type of pain can also impact the shoulders, and cause overall pain in the top parts of the body. If you are sleeping with this condition, make sure your neck and spine are aligned, and that your body is properly supported.
Proper Spinal Alignment
It cannot be stressed enough how important proper spinal support is in keeping your back pain-free. A mattress that excels in this will contour to your body in such a way that keeps your spine resting in its naturally curved position. If your spine gets thrown out of whack as you sleep, then you will likely wake up with aches as a result.
Vivian Eisenstadt, CPT, explains, “…many times low back pain originates in the tight muscles of the low back, so full spinal support is imperative to a good night sleep where all the muscles in your back can rest and rejuvenate and heal you for the day ahead.”
There are a number of reasons why your spine might not be properly aligned as you sleep, it isn’t just a result of the quality of your mattress. Rather, your sleeping position, preferred mattress material, and your body type should all be taken into consideration when looking for the perfect mattress to keep your spine healthy.
For more information, check out our article on spine alignment and sleep.
Mattress Firmness
Mattress firmness should always be at top of mind when you are shopping for a new bed, regardless of whether or not you have back pain. How firmness works is, companies will grade each of their mattresses on a scale of 1 to 10, with 1 being extremely soft and 10 being extremely firm.
No firmness is inherently better than another one, but your personal preference as well as your particular situation will play a part in which firmness is most compatible with you. You might prefer a firm mattress or a medium-firm mattress. You may want a combination of both. Perhaps a firm, supportive mattress with an added top comfort layer would be the perfect solution for you. For back pain, there isn’t one ideal firmness level. However, there are firmness levels that work better with different sleeping positions.
Read our mattress firmness guide for more information.
Sleeping Positions
While it is not the end-all-be-all, sleeping position can absolutely have an effect on your back pain. The good news is that there are ways in which each sleeping position can improve your sleep, and hopefully help your back pain.
Side Sleeping
Side sleepers put a lot of pressure on their shoulders and hips when they lie down, as these are the heaviest areas of their body that make contact with the bed. If you sleep on your side, you should look for a mattress that is on the softer end of medium-firm.
At this firmness level, your shoulders and hips will sink just far enough into the mattress, but not so far that your spine gets thrown out of alignment. Not only can this help prevent or reduce back soreness, it can also help with shoulder pain. Take a look at our best mattresses for side sleepers article for more great options.
Back Sleeping
Back sleepers need something a bit firmer than side sleepers. Somewhere between 5 and 7 on the firmness scale tends to be right for them. It allows their shoulders to remain supported and their lower back to sink just far enough to maintain the natural curve of the spine. Also, it is still soft enough to help relieve pressure.
If you sleep on your back, a tip from Vivian Eisenstadt, CPT, is, “For Low back pain, you can sleep supine with a pillow half way under your buttocks to tilt your pelvis so your low back is more in connection with the mattress.”
Related: Best Mattresses for Back Sleepers
Stomach Sleeping
Stomach sleepers tend to need a mattress with a very firm feel, around the 7.5 or 8 range. That is because sinking into the mattress even slightly too much can lead to improper spinal support.
Another problem that stomach sleepers might contend with is that they usually have to twist their head at an awkward angle in order to make comfortable contact with their pillow. Though it is far up on the body, this twisting can still have a negative impact. Vivian Eisenstadt, CPT, suggests, “For stomach sleepers, you can use a body pillow to hug so your neck isn’t rotated too much.”
Related: Best Mattresses for Stomach Sleepers
Different Mattress Types for Back Pain
Hybrid
Memory foam mattresses range in how they feel more than just about any other mattress type. They have a great amount of give, and closely contour to the body in many spots. As long as these mattresses are not too soft, they are usually good options for those with back pain, especially lower back pain since the moldable foam can fill in the lumbar region. Take a look at our best memory foam mattresses page for more info.
Innerspring
Innerspring mattresses are often referred to as “traditional” mattresses. They are made up of a coil base and have a comfort top layer that is thinner than that of a hybrid mattress. These mattresses can be very supportive and provide a lot of back pain relief. See our best innerspring mattress list if you’re interested.
Latex
Latex mattresses have gained popularity for their “all-natural” qualities and their pressure point relief. Latex is naturally breathable and offers very sturdy support, making it good for those with all types of back pain. Head over to our best latex mattresses roundup for a more comprehensive look.
Other Things To Consider When Sleeping With Back Pain
While relief from chronic back pain may be your primary concern, there are other factors you’ll want to consider before you make your final decision. Here are some other components you may want to look for in a mattress when you’re narrowing down your options.
Body Type
Make sure you keep your body type in mind when looking for a mattress to help with your back pain. As mentioned above, the firmness of your bed can affect the quality of your sleep depending on your preferred position. Well, your weight plays a part in how firm a mattress feels to you. What feels soft to a larger person may feel uncomfortably firm to a petite person. Our heavy sleepers guide has more information that may prove useful in your buying journey.
Mattress Durability
As is the case for any mattress shopper, you’ll want to make sure you are investing in a quality product. The higher the quality, the likelier it is that your mattress will have high durability and be able to hold up under your weight for many years. If you get a mattress that begins to sag prematurely, this could contribute to worsened back pain.
Conclusion
Since you will spend a third of your life in bed, your mattress should be a good investment, particularly if you suffer from back pain. The right mattress can provide good support, relieve chronic back pain, and provide the restful sleep you need to be productive and energetic.
Choose a mattress that is specifically designed to treat your type of pain whether it is upper back, lower back, or hip pain. And while that may be the most important factor, it isn’t the only factor. You’ll also want to take into account your preferred sleep position and mattress type.
I’ve recommended mattresses that I feel could help with back problems, but your experience may be different from mine. The good news is that most mattress companies now offer sleep trial periods so you can be sure it’s the best match for you. If you are not ready to buy a new mattress yet, but still want to relieve some stubborn back pain, check out our picks for the best mattress toppers for back pain.
If you want to learn more about how and when to purchase a mattress, check out our Best Mattress Buying Guide.
Recap: Best Rated Mattresses for Back Pain
| Mattress | Award | Nerd Score |
| Helix Midnight Luxe | Best for Side Sleepers | 4.7/5 |
| Saatva | Best for Lower Back Pain | 4.7/5 |
| Nectar Premier Copper | Best for Side Sleepers | 4.3/5 |
| DreamCloud | Best for Lower Back Pain | 4.7/5 |
| WinkBeds | Best Cooling Mattress for Back Pain | 4.7/5 |
| Brooklyn Bedding | Best for Upper Back Pain | 4.7/5 |
| GhostBed Flex | Best Mattress for Couples with Back Pain | 4.7/5 |
| Tempur-ProAdapt | Best Luxury Mattress | 4.8/5 |
| Puffy | Best for a Conforming Foam Feel | 4.1/5 |
| Cocoon Chill | Best for Value Shoppers with Back Pain | 4.8/5 |
Vivian Eisenstadt is part of our panel of medical expert contributors on the subject of sleep health. They provide important perspectives on the topics we discuss to help make our content as accurate and dependable as possible. They do not personally endorse any products, nor are they associated with any brands featured in our review content.
