4 Best Mattresses for Shoulder Pain
Shoulder pain can lose you countless hours of sleep. These recommendations for the best mattresses for shoulder pain may help.
- The best mattress for shoulder pain is the Saatva Rx, which offers excellent pressure and pain relief, while maintaining the right amount of support.
- The mattresses in this review ranged from $1,799–$3,295 for a queen-sized mattress.
- Medium to firm mattresses are most effective in easing shoulder pain, according to our experts.
- All of our top picks for shoulder pain are hybrid mattresses that balance pressure relief, spinal support, and enough bounce to make changing positions easier.
- Shoulder pain can worsen at night, and a mattress that provides both support and pressure relief may improve comfort and sleep quality.
NCOA supports everyone’s right to age well. So we take the time to research, test, and recommend products that can help you live a healthier life. We’ve spent more than 2,500 hours researching and testing mattresses to give you the most accurate product reviews. To find the best mattresses, we:
- Consulted with sleep specialists like doctors, occupational therapists, and physical therapists for guidance on choosing the best mattress
- Put more than 130 models through a series of 19 different tests at our in-house lab
- Mystery-shopped more than 40 brands
- Surveyed more than 2,000 older adults on their sleep quality
- Interviewed experts on the importance of good sleep for older adults
- Worked with older adult testers to evaluate mattresses and get their opinion
- Read thousands of verified customer reviews
We’re constantly testing new mattresses and sleep products to give you the most accurate and up-to-date recommendations. Read more about our mattress review methodology.
Is chronic pain in your shoulder disrupting your sleep? Your shoulder is made up of several different joints you use repeatedly throughout the day.1 When it comes to the best mattresses for shoulder pain, the goal is to find a sleeping position that supports your body while easing discomfort, explains Christynne Helfrich, a doctor of physical therapy at Hinge Health in Lake Bluff, Illinois.
Helfrich said shoulder pain can feel worse at night. Movement during the day keeps the blood flowing to the area, which can prevent inflammation. “But at night when you’re lying still, that inflammation can build up, especially if you’re dealing with conditions like bursitis, a rotator cuff injury, or a frozen shoulder.”
The risk of shoulder pain increases after age 50, according to research.2 Having a mattress that offers plenty of pressure relief and support can make a difference in your pain and sleep quality. We looked at mattresses that offered both of these features in order to choose the best mattress for shoulder pain.
- Exceptional pain relief
- Relieves pressure on shoulders
- Cradles joints
- Excellent at relieving back and shoulder pressure
- Promotes spinal alignment
- Great for all sleeping positions
- Excellent pressure relief for side sleepers
- Soft pillow top for added comfort
- Supports back and shoulders
Best mattresses for shoulder pain in 2026
- Saatva Rx: Best Overall
- Helix Midnight Luxe: Best for Back and Shoulder Pain
- Nectar Premier Hybrid: Best Hybrid Mattress for Shoulder Pain
- The WinkBed Plus: Best for Arthritis and Shoulder Pain
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Comparing the best mattresses for shoulder pain
| Comparison Features | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Score | 9.5 |
9 |
9.1 |
8.4 |
| Best for | Best overall |
Back and shoulder pain |
Hybrid comfort |
Arthritis and shoulder pain |
| Type | Hybrid |
Hybrid |
Hybrid |
Hybrid |
| Firmness | 6.5 |
6 |
6.5 |
8.5 |
| Free trial period length (nights) | 365 |
100 |
365 |
120 |
Understanding our scoring
Our mattress recommendations are based on our thorough research and testing. We created two scores:
- Accessibility score: A combined score reflecting factors that make it easier for older adults to move around and get in and out of bed.
- Pain relief score: A combined score reflecting factors that help relieve pain while in bed.
Top features of the best mattresses for shoulder pain
We looked for the following features when choosing the best mattresses for older adults who have shoulder pain:
Saatva Rx: Best Overall Mattress for Shoulder Pain
The Saatva Rx meets all the criteria for the Best Overall Mattress for Shoulder Pain. It showed exceptional pressure relief on the shoulders and earned one of the highest pain relief scores of any mattress we tested. That means the Saatva Rx has the right mix of pressure relief, support, and more to help ease many types of pain—including shoulder pain.
- Saatva Review
- High pain relief score
- Cradles joints
- Relieves pressure on shoulders
- Our pain relief score: 4.32/5
- Accessibility score: 4.04/5
- Mattress type: Hybrid
- Brand’s firmness rating: 6.5/10
Pros
- Excellent pressure relief for shoulder
- May relieve pressure in all positions
- Helps maintain healthy spinal alignment
- 365-night trial period and free white glove delivery
Cons
- Edge support isn’t as sturdy as other mattresses in this review
- $99 return fee
- Most expensive mattress we reviewed
Helix Midnight Luxe: Best for Back and Shoulder Pain
We chose the Helix Midnight Luxe as our Best for Back and Shoulder Pain because it did an exceptional job easing pressure on both testers’ backs and shoulders. No matter what position testers tried, they found the same high level of pressure relief and comfort. Its combination of support and comfort may help soothe your shoulder pain.
- Helix Review
- Excellent at relieving back and shoulder pressure
- Great for all sleeping positions
- Promotes spinal alignment
- Our pain relief score: 4.21/5
- Accessibility score: 4.06/5
- Mattress type: Hybrid
- Brand’s firmness rating: 6/10
Pros
- Relieves pressure on shoulders and back
- Above-average support in all sleeping positions
- Promotes spinal alignment
- Extra, targeted support for lower back
Cons
- Edges could be stronger
- Couples might feel each other move
- No handles, so could make it harder to move
Nectar Premier Hybrid: Best Hybrid Mattress for Shoulder Pain
We chose the Nectar Premier Hybrid as Best Hybrid Mattress for Shoulder Pain because of its high pressure relief scores for side sleeping. Testers said it provided a great mix of comfort and support without them feeling like they were “sinking” into the mattress.
- Nectar Review
- Excellent pressure relief for side sleepers
- Supports back and shoulders
- Soft pillow top for added comfort
- Our pain relief score: 3.91/5
- Accessibility score: 3.8/5
- Mattress type: Hybrid
- Brand’s firmness rating: 6.5/10
Pros
- Relieves pressure on shoulders
- Excellent support for back-sleeping
- Great balance of pressure relief and firmness
- Free one-year trial period
Cons
- Not the best for stomach sleepers
- Seated edge support not as sturdy
The WinkBed Plus: Best for Arthritis and Shoulder Pain
We chose The WinkBed Plus as our Best for Arthritis and Shoulder Pain because it eased pressure across the body (including the shoulders) in every sleeping position better than almost any mattress we tested. Testers said it kept their spines straight, which helps relieve pain from arthritis.
- WinkBed Review
- Cradles joints to ease shoulder pain and arthritis pain/stiffness
- Good bounce to help change positions
- Great pressure relief in all sleeping positions
- Our pain relief score: 4.78/5
- Accessibility score: 4.51/5
- Mattress type: Hybrid
- Brand’s firmness rating: 8.5/10
Pros
- Cradles joints to ease shoulder pain and arthritis pain/stiffness
- Great pressure relief in all sleeping positions
- Good bounce to change positions easier
- Promotes spinal alignment
- Less expensive than other mattresses we reviewed
Cons
- Might be too firm for lighter-weight sleepers
- No white-glove service
- Not suitable for stomach sleepers
- Couples may be disturbed by partner’s movements
Our process testing the best mattresses for shoulder 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 for back pain.
For this review, we personally tested 30 mattresses identified through our research to offer shoulder 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.
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 have to reduce shoulder 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
Pressure relief
To test pressure relief, we placed a pressure map on top of each mattress, then had our testers lie on top of the mats on their sides, backs, and stomachs. We recorded the average pressure rating for each sleep position and referred to pressure map test images to identify any areas of the body that had high or low pressure. We also used our testers’ feedback about any areas where they felt little or excessive pressure.
Spinal support
We tested for spinal support by having our testers lie on each mattress on their side, back, and stomach. We asked them for feedback about how well-aligned they felt, and we also looked for indications of poor alignment, such as if their hips were falling lower than their shoulders. We chose mattresses that helped support the spine to keep it in a neutral position, but still were able to relieve pressure and cushion joints, especially the shoulder while lying on the side.
Firmness
We tested how supportive each mattress is by having our testers lie in multiple positions on each mattress. We collected subjective data based on testers’ feedback on how supported they felt while sitting and lying on the mattresses. We also tested how difficult it was for testers to switch sleeping positions.
Studies show that a medium-firm mattress may be the best fit for many people who have chronic pain, since a firmer mattress can make pain worse.5 But that doesn’t mean a softer mattress is the wrong choice for you. If you sleep on your side, have joint or muscle pain, or are a lighter-weight sleeper, you may prefer a mattress on the softer side. Check out our best firm mattress guide to learn more.
Survey says: How common is shoulder pain?
In our survey of older adults who experience pain and bought a mattress in the last five years:6
- More than 25% of respondents reported they have shoulder pain
- Out of all respondents, 75% report their pain affects their ability to sleep well at night
Understanding shoulder pain and sleep
The connection between shoulder pain and sleep quality
Shoulder pain can lead to significant sleep disruptions, which can lead to waking up more often, waking up earlier than usual, and having difficulty falling or staying asleep.
“People sometimes have pain at night for various reasons. They can frequently have fewer distractions at night, which makes them focus on the area of pain. Sometimes lying on a painful shoulder can make the pain worse,” said Bogowith, the physical therapist in Illinois. When you’re sleeping, you might not be aware of the position you’re in that may be uncomfortable for your shoulder. What’s more, a lack of sleep can worsen pain and inflammation, according to a 2019 study.7
Common causes of shoulder pain
There are several conditions that can cause shoulder pain. These include:
- Arthritis: Arthritis is a general term referring to when joints, like the shoulder, become inflamed. Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are two common forms.8 Osteoarthritis happens when the cartilage in joints wears away, which can cause pain. Rheumatoid arthritis is when the immune system attacks joints, leading to swelling, pain, and stiffness. It’s common to have pain at night, and it can make it more difficult to sleep.
- Rotator cuff injuries: The rotator cuff is a group of tendons and muscles that cover your shoulder and keep it in the socket. A rotator cuff injury can cause an achy pain that gets worse at night. One study found those who sleep on their side have a higher risk of a rotator cuff injury.9 These injuries are also higher in people over age 50.
- Bursitis and tendonitis: Bursitis is when the small fluid sacs in the shoulder get inflamed and irritated.10 Tendonitis is when the tendons in the shoulder that connect muscle to bone become painful. Both of these conditions are similar, and the symptoms can be worse at night.
- Frozen shoulder: This condition causes the connective tissue in the shoulder joint to thicken, which can cause pain, stiffness, and limited movement, according to Helfrich. At night, you might experience a deep constant ache in the shoulder that can get worse when you lie on it. Stiffness in the joint might also make it harder to find a comfortable position. “Some people also notice that small movements during sleep, like rolling over or reaching out, can trigger sharp pain,” added Helfrich.
Consistent pain at night that’s waking you up is worth seeing your physical therapist or physician about, since it can be indicative of a more serious problem.”
—Kelly Bogowith, physical therapist in Alton, Illinois
How the wrong mattress can worsen shoulder pain
Mattresses that are too firm can create pressure points on the shoulders. But a mattress that’s too soft can cause your lower back to dip down into the mattress, which puts stress on your spine.
Helfrich recommends sticking to a firmer mattress rather than one that’s on the softer side. “You can always make it more comfortable and soft with a mattress topper, but it’s hard to make a soft mattress more firm. By having a more supportive mattress, your body can still remain in a neutral position, but not sink so far down that your body is bending in uncomfortable ways.”
Mattress types and shoulder pain relief
| Mattress type | Spine and shoulder alignment | Pressure relief | Can it help or worsen shoulder pain | Best for |
| Memory foam | Very good | Very good | Excellent contouring eases pressure on shoulders and joints; softer foams prevent shoulder “jamming” | Side sleepers, those with chronic joint pain |
| Hybrid (foam and innerspring) | Very good | Good | Balanced feel, cushioning top layers reduce pressure while coils maintain alignment. Zoned hybrids are more shoulder-friendly | Combination sleepers, people seeking pain relief, and enough bounce for easier movement |
| Latex | Good | Fair | Responsive, provides light pressure relief and firm support. May be too firm for those with shoulder pain unless it has a soft topper | Back sleepers, hot sleepers, and those seeking an eco-friendly mattress |
| Traditional innerspring | Fair | Poor | Lacks cushioning unless it has a soft topper. Can worsen pressure points in the shoulder | Stomach sleepers or people who prefer firm beds |
| Pillowtop | Fair | Good | Adds plushness to cushion shoulders, but if the core under the pillowtop is too firm, it can still cause pressure to build up | Lighter side sleepers or those seeking extra softness |
The best sleeping positions for shoulder pain relief
Our physical therapy and geriatric experts recommend sleeping on the non-painful side with a pillow between the knees to maintain spinal alignment. Try not to sleep on the shoulder that hurts.
You can also sleep on your back if you’re having difficulty getting comfortable. According to Bogowith, use a pillow under your forearm while resting your hand on your stomach. “In this way, the shoulder and arm are supported.” You’ll also want to ensure your mattress is supportive and firm enough to keep your spine aligned.
Experts don’t recommend stomach-sleeping because of the significant strain it places on your neck and shoulders.
My pain is in my right arm and shoulder area. As long as I sleep on my left side or flat, it does not hurt as much.” —A member of our chronic pain and sleep focus group
5 tips to manage shoulder pain at home
Our experts provided five tips on managing shoulder pain at home:
- Regular movement during the day can keep joints like the shoulder moving and getting blood flow. Sitting too long can cause stiffness.
- Gentle stretches and strengthening exercises under the supervision of a physical therapist can help with recovery and reduce pain and stiffness.
- Try icing the area if your shoulder pain is a recent injury.
- Use heat packs on the shoulder for more chronic conditions like arthritis.
- Try a self-massage using your hands, a foam roller, or a massage gun to loosen tight muscles and bring blood flow to the area.
If your pain isn’t getting better, see your health care provider or a physical therapist, because it might be related to a more serious concern.
How much do the best mattresses for shoulder pain cost?
The mattresses we included in our best mattresses for shoulder pain range from $1,799–$3,295 for a queen-size mattress. Learn more in our table below.
Comparing costs of the best mattresses for shoulder pain
| Comparison Features | Saatva Rx |
Helix Midnight Luxe |
Nectar Premier Hybrid |
The WinkBed Plus |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost for a queen* | $3,399 |
$2,398 |
$2,413 |
$2,856 |
| Shipping costs | Free |
Free |
Free |
Free |
| White-glove delivery** | Yes |
Yes, at additional cost |
Yes, at additional cost |
No |
| Warranty length | Limited lifetime |
Limited lifetime |
10 years |
Limited lifetime |
| Return fees | $99 |
Free |
Free |
$49 |
*Most mattress brands run frequent or ongoing promotions. Sale prices are typically lower and may change often.
**Shipping and set up of new mattress and removal of old bed
Frequently asked questions
What type of mattress is best for shoulder pain?
In our testing, we found that the best mattress for shoulder pain is the Saatva Rx. But the best mattress for you is the one you find most comfortable. You want a mattress that will support your body and keep your spine aligned. Hybrid mattresses like the ones in our review can provide pressure relief and support, while also providing enough bounce and responsiveness to be able to move around more easily.
Can shoulder pain be caused by a mattress?
Our experts said there isn’t a lot of research saying your mattress can cause shoulder pain. But sleeping on too firm of a mattress can put too much stress on the shoulder joint. If your mattress is older and you don’t find it comfortable, it could be a factor that contributes to shoulder pain.
How do I stop my shoulders from hurting when I sleep on my side?
Try not to sleep on the side that hurts. Use pillows and hug them with your painful side so that your shoulder is supported and the muscles can relax.
Is a firm or soft bed better for shoulder pain?
It’s usually better to have a mattress on the firmer side for shoulder pain to support your spine. Medium-firm mattresses tend to be the best for their combination of support and pressure relief.
Questions? Email us at reviewsteam@ncoa.org.
