Getting a good night’s sleep shouldn’t feel like a luxury. But for many of us, arthritis can turn restful nights into restless ones. This common joint condition often brings along swelling, stiffness, and persistent discomfort that can make it harder to fall asleep or stay asleep through the night.

“Arthritis can lead to difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep due to the discomfort felt at bedtime,” said Stella Bard, MD, a rheumatologist in McKinney, Texas. “The pain and stiffness can worsen sleep quality and can cause frequent awakenings during the night.”

Fortunately, small changes—starting with the right mattress—can make a big difference. The best mattress for arthritis is one that cushions tender joints, supports spinal alignment, and minimizes pressure on key areas like the shoulders, hips, and knees. Keep reading to see which mattresses made our list after months of testing.

Best Overall

Helix Midnight Luxe

9 out of /10

High pain relief scores in all positions and exceptional spinal alignment scores

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Best for Side Sleepers

Nectar Premier

9.2 out of /10

Relieves pressure while supporting joints and allows for easier movement

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Best for Back Pain

WinkBed Plus

8.4 out of /10

Excellent balance for firmness and support and exceptional pain relief

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Best mattresses for arthritis in 2026

• Helix Midnight Luxe: Best Overall
• Nectar Premier: Best for Side Sleepers with Arthritis
• WinkBed Plus: Best for Back Pain and Arthritis
• Saatva Rx: Best for Overall Pain Relief and Arthritis
• Bear Elite Hybrid: Best Cooling Mattress for Arthritis 
• Titan Plus Luxe: Best for Higher Weight People with Arthritis

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Comparing the best mattresses for arthritis

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

Video: Best Mattresses for Arthritis

Finding the right mattress can make a real difference when you’re managing arthritis pain. The video below walks through our top-tested picks that offer impressive pressure relief, support, and comfort for different sleep needs—whether you deal with back pain, sleep on your side, or need extra durability. Watch to see how each mattress performs.

Top features of the best mattresses for arthritis

We looked for the following features when choosing the best mattresses for arthritis in older adults:

Many people with arthritis experience uncomfortable tossing and turning all night or light sleep that leads to fatigue or drowsiness the following day.” 

—Norman B. Gaylis, MD, a rheumatologist and internist in Miami, Florida

Helix Midnight Luxe: Best Overall for Arthritis

We selected the Midnight Helix Luxe as our Best Overall for Arthritis because it relieved joint pressure better than almost every mattress we tested. Testers found this hybrid mattress both supportive and comfortable, earning it the top spot on our list of the best mattresses. 

Our Top Pick

Helix Midnight Luxe

Best Overall

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• Helix Mattress Review
• Targeted pressure relief to reduce joint pain

• Scored high for pain relief
• Contouring layers keep the spine neutral

Helix Midnight Luxe features

• Our pain relief score: 4.21/5
• Accessibility score: 4.06/5
• Mattress type: Hybrid
• Brand’s firmness rating: 6/10

Pros and cons

Pros

• High scores for pressure relief across all positions
• Mix of comfort and support helps ease pain
• Contours to keep spine straight
• Less challenging to change positions

Cons

• Edges could be stronger
• Couples may be disturbed by a partner’s movements
• White-glove delivery costs extra

Nectar Premier: Best for Side Sleepers with Arthritis

We chose the Nectar Premier as the Best Mattress for Side Sleepers with Arthritis because of its great pressure-relief performance for the shoulders and hips (common pressure points for side sleepers). We found the Nectar Premier hybrid and memory foam tested equally well, with the memory foam doing slightly better for overall support and pain relief, and the hybrid winning out for cooling. 

Nectar Premier

Best for Side Sleepers

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• Nectar Mattress Review
• Relieves pressure on shoulder and hip joints

• Great firmness level for side sleepers
• Good bounce helps with difficulty moving

Nectar features

• Our pain relief score: 4.2/5 (memory foam), 3.91/5 (hybrid)
• Accessibility score: 4.06/5 (memory foam), 3.8/5 (hybrid)
• Mattress type: Memory foam/Hybrid
• Brand’s firmness rating: 6.5 (both)

Pros and cons

Pros

• Supportive mattresses for side sleepers
• Great at relieving pain and pressure on joints
• Memory foam model provides great support and pain relief
• Hybrid model provides great support and stays cooler
• Long 365-night trial period
• Lifetime warranty

Cons

• Could be too soft for some 
• Dense memory foam could make it harder to change positions
• White-glove delivery (in-room set up) costs extra

The WinkBed Plus: Best for Back Pain and Arthritis

We selected the WinkBed Plus as Best for Back Pain and Arthritis for its excellent support and stability, and for its ability to cradle joints while reducing pressure buildup. The combination of strong support for hip, shoulder, and neck joints and cushioning can benefit people with arthritis, back, or other joint pain.

The WinkBed Plus

Best for Back Pain

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• WinkBed Mattress Review
• Relieves pressure in the back and joints

• One of our top scoring mattresses for pain relief
• Firm support with a soft feel

WinkBed Plus features

• Our pain relief score: 4.2/5
• Accessibility score: 3.99/5
• Mattress type: Hybrid
• Brand’s firmness rating: 6.5/10

Pros and cons

Pros

• Spreads weight evenly to keep stress off joints
• Contours to support joints in side and back sleepers 
• Great stability makes motion easier for stiff joints
• Breathable gel-infused memory foam stays cool

Cons

• No white glove delivery option
• Not great for partnered sleeping due to poor motion isolation
• May be too firm for some

Saatva Rx: Best Mattress for Overall Pain Relief and Arthritis

The Saatva Rx is our top pick for Overall Pain Relief and Arthritis because it keeps your spine aligned and supported no matter what position you sleep in. Our testers were pleasantly surprised to feel no pressure as they switched positions. They even felt aligned and tension-free while stomach sleeping.

Saatva Rx

Best for Overall Pain Relief

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• Saatva Mattress Review
• Soothes chronic back and joint pain 
• Supports and cradles joints to ease pain

• Excellent pressure relief in all positions
• Targeted support keeps the spine aligned

Saatva Rx features

• Our pain relief score: 4.32/5
• Accessibility score: 4.04/5
• Mattress type: Hybrid
• Brand’s firmness rating: 6.5

Pros and cons

Pros

• Relieves pressure and cushions joints
• Adjusts as you move to support any position
• Extra lower-back support 
• Promotes spinal alignment
• Free in-room delivery and setup
• Free one-year trial

Cons

• Most expensive mattress on this list
• Edges could be stronger
• Couples may be disturbed by partner’s movements

Bear Elite Hybrid: Best for Cooling and Arthritis

We chose the Bear Elite Hybrid as our Best Cooling Mattress for Arthritis because it prevented heat buildup better than any other mattress we tested. Our testers also scored the Bear Elite Hybrid highly for pain and pressure relief.

Bear Elite Hybrid

Best Cooling

NCOA exclusive discount

40% off sitewide with code: NCOA40

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NCOA exclusive discount

40% off sitewide with code: NCOA40

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• Bear Mattress Review
• Exceptional at keeping cool

• Stable and supportive for easier movement
• Relieves pressure on neck, shoulder, and hip joints

Bear Elite Hybrid features

• Our pain relief score: 3.53/5
• Accessibility score: 3.54/5
• Mattress type: Hybrid
• Brand’s firmness rating: 6/10

Pros and cons

Pros

• Limits heat buildup and stays cool
• Helps relieve joint pressure in any position
• Good contouring promotes spinal alignment

Cons

• Movement may wake light sleepers
• Slightly weaker edges

Titan Plus Luxe: Best Mattress for Higher Weight People with Arthritis

We chose Titan Plus Luxe as the Best Mattress for Higher-Weight People with Arthritis for its exceptional support and high weight capacity. This mattress distributes pressure evenly so higher-weight sleepers are well-supported, particularly at key pressure points. 

Titan Plus Luxe

Best for Higher Weight People

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• Titan Mattress Review
• Designed for higher-weight people
• Among the most supportive mattresses we tested

• Good firmness level for people with arthritis
• High weight limit (1,000 pounds)

Titan Plus Luxe features

• Our pain relief score: 4.62/5
• Accessibility score: 4.3/5
• Mattress type: Hybrid
• Brand’s firmness rating: 6/10

Pros and cons

Pros

• Lots of back support
• Great pressure relief
• Durable construction
• High weight limit

Cons

• May feel too firm
• May trap heat
• Motion may wake up partner
• No white glove delivery

Our process testing the best mattresses for arthritis

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, rheumatology, physical therapy, and occupational therapy, so we know what features are most important when searching for a mattress to ease arthritis and joint pain. 

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

To find the best mattresses for arthritis, we tested mattresses using pressure-sensing devices and other equipment such as heat measurement guns. We also recruited older adults to test the mattresses and report on their experiences, ranking firmness, edge support, pressure relief, and other factors. 

Pressure relief 

Our pressure relief score combines real tester feedback with data from our pressure mapping system. This tool uses sensors to measure how much pressure different parts of the body experience while lying on the mattress. Cool colors like blue and green indicate excellent pressure relief, while warmer tones—yellow, orange, and red—highlight areas where pressure tends to build up. We paid close attention to pressure around the hips, a common pain point for people with arthritis, and chose mattresses that kept those areas well-supported and pressure-free.

Spinal support

Correct spinal positioning is especially important for people with arthritis or joint problems, as it can help take pressure off painful joints and support them. We looked for mattresses that are supportive in areas where joints make contact with the mattress, including the neck, shoulder, hips, and lower back. We also asked testers to note how their spine and joints felt while lying on the mattress in different positions, and how comfortable and supported they felt.

Firmness

Studies show a medium-firm to firm mattress is a good choice for older adults, including those with arthritis.⁴ This level of firmness, around a 6.5–7+ on the firmness scale, can help add support for the spine and joints and provide a balance of support and comfort. Of course, a mattress can feel more or less firm depending on factors including body weight, materials used, and personal preference. Our testers frequently rated mattresses as firmer or less firm than the brand’s claim. So it’s best to choose a mattress based on your preference. If you prefer a softer mattress, memory foam may be a good choice. If you prefer a firmer option, an innerspring or hybrid mattress may suit you. Check out our best firm mattress guide for more insight.

Pain relief

To calculate pain relief, we used a unique formula measuring how likely a mattress is to ease a sleeper’s pain. The formula takes into account a mattress’s test scores for pressure relief, firmness, edge support, and bounce, weighting them by importance, and taking the total as a sign of how well a mattress will ease pain. 

Cortisol levels drop so you can fall asleep, and cortisol blocks people from feeling pain. When cortisol levels drop at bedtime, they feel the pain the most.”
—Stella Bard, MD, rheumatologist in McKinney, Texas

What to consider when buying a mattress to ease arthritis and joint pain

Even the best mattress for arthritis is no substitute for medical treatment. “There are more than 100 different kinds of arthritis,” said Norman B. Gaylis, MD, a rheumatologist and internist who practices in Miami. Treatment depends on the type of arthritis you have and other factors. If you find symptoms like pain, stiffness, or swelling of the joints disrupting your sleep, changing your mattress may be one of many lifestyle changes that could help. 

Dr. Gaylis said to look for a mattress that is relatively stable, doesn't collapse in the middle, and is decently firm but not too hard. Some other things to consider based on our firsthand testing and research:

Pressure relief

“Good pressure relief can ease pain by decreasing stress on the hips, shoulders, and knees,” said Dr. Bard. She recommends memory foam and latex mattresses because they contour to the body and distribute weight evenly to decrease pressure on individual joints.

Spinal support

Keeping the spine in proper alignment also helps reduce stress on joints. A mattress can help by offering targeted support in places like the shoulders and hips. Often, mattresses with zoned support or different levels of firmness for different areas, do this well, said Dr. Bard.

Materials

The materials used in a mattress’s construction are important for choosing the right bed for arthritis pain because they can play a key role in how well the bed cushions joints or maintains spinal alignment. High-quality foams or latex can contour the body to reduce pressure buildup and extend the mattress’s lifespan. 

Mattress firmness

“A medium-firm mattress provides a balance of support and comfort,” said Dr. Bard. While research specifically on people with arthritis is lacking, research suggests that a medium-firm mattress may help with spinal alignment, which takes stress off joints.⁵

Temperature control

Overheating at night can disrupt sleep, and may aggravate arthritis or joint pain. Mattresses made with cooling or breathable materials, such as gel-infused memory foam or latex, may help you stay cooler and more comfortable.

Sleeping positions to ease arthritis and joint pain

The position you sleep in can have a big impact on your back and joints because you’re in it for hours at a time. While it is difficult to change your natural sleeping position, there are steps you can take to make yourself more comfortable and potentially ease some of the pain and other symptoms from arthritis.

Side sleepers

Side sleeping is the most common position, and whether you lie on your left or right, it concentrates pressure on your shoulder, hip, and neck joints. That extra pressure can be a problem for anyone with sore or inflamed joints. You can help reduce some of this pressure by placing a pillow or rolled-up blanket between your knees, said Dr. Bard. That will take pressure off the hip joint and may also help keep your spine in the correct position and take tension off the lower back. You can see our guide to the best mattresses for side sleepers for more information.

Back sleepers

This is actually the best position for someone with arthritis or back pain because it allows the spine to remain in the most neutral position, according to Dr. Bard. If you want to relieve the tension in your back even more, placing a pillow under your knees can help elevate the lower body, reinforcing the spine’s natural curve. 

Stomach sleepers

This position is not recommended because it can strain the neck and spine, potentially worsening arthritis pain. If you have to sleep on your stomach, placing a pillow under your pelvis may help relieve pressure on the lower back, according to the Arthritis Foundation.⁶

The best mattress types for arthritis

Choosing a mattress can be complicated, especially when you are trying to find the best mattress for arthritis aches and pains. The type of arthritis you have matters. You may want to focus specifically on the best mattress for rheumatoid arthritis, for instance. There are also key differences between the best mattress for arthritis in the shoulders and the best mattress for hip and back arthritis. It can help to know a little about the materials used in mattresses and how they can help ease painful joints.

Innerspring mattress

These traditional mattresses use metal coils or springs to provide support. While they can be good for airflow and bounce, spring mattresses usually don’t limit motion as well as foam, which may irritate painful joints. You can find individually wrapped coils, sometimes called pocketed coils, that help keep motion transfer to a minimum.   

Memory foam mattress

Memory foam mattresses are known for the way they contour to the body’s curves and support joints while cushioning them. That’s one reason memory foam mattresses are often considered the best mattresses for joint and back pain. Foam is also used in hybrid mattresses to dampen the motion of the coils, so your sleep won’t be disturbed by a partner changing positions. It does tend to trap heat because it is so dense, so it won’t stay as cool as a hybrid or spring mattress.

Hybrid mattress

These mattresses combine the support and responsiveness of springs with layers of memory foam for cushion and comfort. A mattress with some bounce can make moving on the mattress easier, which can be helpful for someone with a painful condition like arthritis. There are many different configurations of hybrid mattresses. Those with zoned support, or extra foam in specific areas, are recommended for anyone with back or joint pain to take pressure off those critical areas.

Latex mattress

Latex is a dense, rubbery material that can be natural, synthetic, or a combination of both. It is often used as a foam in mattresses and is known for its durability and responsiveness. The best latex mattresses contour similar to memory foam, and their breathability and bounce can make them a good choice for anyone with arthritis who may want a mattress that’s easier to move on. Latex mattresses do tend to be heavier and more expensive than other kinds.

Adjustable mattress and base

Adjustable beds have a frame that allows you to change the angle of the mattress by elevating or lowering the head, foot, or both. These can be some of the best types of mattresses for arthritis because they can help take some of the pressure off neck, shoulder, knee, and hip joints. Not every mattress fits in an adjustable base, so you want to make sure whatever you choose is compatible. 

Mattress types and arthritis relief

How to sleep comfortably with arthritis and joint pain      

Up to 80% of people with arthritis have trouble sleeping, according to the Arthritis Foundation.⁷ The risk of developing arthritis increases with age, which means a lot of older adults may have trouble falling or staying asleep due to arthritis, joint pain, or discomfort. And it can work both ways: Lack of quality sleep can make your arthritis pain and other symptoms worse. Here are five ways to sleep more comfortably if you have arthritis or a similar condition:

1. See a medical professional to rule out any other conditions. This should be your first step, because arthritis is not the only reason you may have trouble sleeping. 
2. Follow your doctor’s advice for controlling your arthritis pain. If you should take medication, prescription or over the counter, ensure you are doing so. 
3. Watch your diet. Avoid caffeine, which is a stimulant that can keep you awake. It is found not only in beverages but some foods, including chocolate. Dr. Bard also said foods with anti-inflammatory properties (like fish oil, turmeric and black pepper, and ginger) may help control certain symptoms like joint pain as well.  
4. Practice good sleep hygiene. Having a regular bedtime and avoiding stimulation and screen time beginning at least an hour before you plan to sleep can help relax your brain and body. Make sure your sleep environment is comfortable, dark, and cool to promote better sleep. Also, older adults often have to get up to go to the bathroom at night, so have a clear path to make it easier to get in and out of bed. 
5. Have a supportive mattress and pillows. Selecting the best mattress for arthritis can help sore joints feel better supported and cushioned, so the pain doesn’t wake you during the night. 

Managing arthritis pain before bedtime

“Arthritis can prevent you from having restful sleep, and especially the ‘dreamlike’ deep REM sleep that is needed to recharge our batteries,” said Dr. Gaylis. This can be due to joint or soft tissue pain. Here are some ways experts say you can help ease those pains and rest better.

• Stretch before bed. Some simple stretches can help relax muscles, said Dr. Bard. 
• Try some heat. A warm bath or heating pad may help relax muscles, joints and the spine.
• Establish a relaxing bedtime routine. Drink sleep-inducing beverages such as milk or chamomile tea. 
• Use white noise. Some people report that sound devices with "white noise" or relaxing music helps them fall asleep.
• Prioritize comfort. Make sure the bedroom includes a comfortable mattress, supportive pillows, and a cool, dark, and quiet environment.

Dr. Gaylis added that anyone having difficulty sleeping should avoid caffeine or drinking alcohol at least two hours before bedtime. And he recommends keeping television out of the bedroom. 

How much do the best mattresses for arthritis cost?

The best mattresses for arthritis cost between $949–$3,049 for a queen-size mattress (Medicare may cover some of the cost if you have a doctor's prescription). Along with size, other things that contribute to the cost of a mattress include the materials used in its construction, certifications, and added features such as a cooling layer or pillow top, as well as extras offered by the brand. 

Comparing costs of the best mattresses for arthritis

*Most mattress brands run frequent or ongoing promotions. Sale prices are typically lower and may change often.

How to save money on mattresses

Buying a mattress can have a large upfront cost. If you’re looking for ways to save, consider the following:

• Look for sales, especially around holidays like Labor Day, Memorial Day, and the Fourth of July.
• Many manufacturers offer coupons, sale codes, and discounts on their websites. 
• Lots of mattress manufacturers offer discounts for current or former members of the military, students, teachers, older adults, and other groups. 
• If you have a medical need for a mattress and your health care provider writes a note of medical necessity, you may be able to use FSA or HSA funds to make your purchase. 
• Retail stores often have floor models or returns at a big discount.
• Most mattress manufacturers offer some kind of financing plan, which can be a better bargain than paying for a mattress with a credit card. 

It’s a good idea to research mattresses before you buy, so you can find the best mattress for the best price. Knowing what features you need and which you can live without can save you some money, too. 

Frequently asked questions

What is the best mattress for arthritis?

Based on our testing, we think the WinkBed Plus is the best mattress for arthritis. It's firm but not too hard, supports the neck, shoulders, knees, and hips, and keeps the spine aligned. 

What type of mattress is best for older adults with arthritis?

The best mattress for older adults with arthritis provides joint support and helps ease pain and pressure by keeping the spine straight. Many experts recommend memory foam or latex because of their ability to contour to the body and offer support and comfort. But the best choice for you will depend on many factors and personal preferences.

Is a firm or soft mattress better for arthritis?

A medium-firm mattress is a good place to start. A mattress rated around 6–7 out of 10 in firmness may work well for arthritis because it may provide enough support to keep the spine aligned while still cushioning sore joints.

What should you look for in a mattress if arthritis makes movement harder?

A mattress with good support, pressure relief, and some responsiveness may make it easier to change positions in bed. Delivery and setup options are worth considering, too, especially if arthritis symptoms limit your mobility.

How should I sleep with spinal arthritis?

If you have spinal arthritis, the sleeping position that best supports the spine and keeps pressure off it and your joints is on your back. Sleeping on your back allows the spine to relax in its most natural position, while sleeping on your side or stomach allows pressure to build under your hips, shoulders, knees, and neck.

Questions? Email us at reviewsteam@ncoa.org.