10 Best Mattresses for Back Pain in 2026: Doctor Recommendations

We deeply researched, tested, and reviewed to find the best mattress for back pain in 2026. Our top recommendation is the Nectar Premier Hybrid.

Jun 15, 2026

Expert Reviewed

Product Resources

Jill WaldbieserNCOA Senior WriterWritten by:
Donya CurrieNCOA Associate Director, CommunicationsEdited by:
Samantha CapacilloFormer Program Specialist, NCOA Center for Healthy AgingReviewed by:

The Best Mattress for Back Pain Overall is the Nectar Premier Hybrid. We like its ability to relieve pressure on your back and keep your spine aligned, and that it is suitable for all sleeping positions.
Other top picks include Helix Midnight Luxe (Best for Lower Back Pain), Nectar Premier (Best for Side Sleepers), WinkBed Plus (Best for Back Sleepers), and Titan Plus (Best for Higher-Weight People).
The mattresses on this list were chosen for strong pressure relief, pain relief, and support, with a focus on medium-firm models that can help keep the spine aligned and make it easier to get in and out of bed.
The best mattresses for back pain range in cost for a queen from $1,249–$2,375, and most brands offer frequent discounts.

Our mission at NCOA is to support 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.

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

These ten mattresses passed our rigorous testing with flying colors—they all have specific design features to ease back pain and scored highly in our pressure and pain relief tests. We prioritized mattresses that not only help soothe back pain but are also easy to get in and out of, with a medium-firm feel. Medium-firm mattresses have the best firmness for easing pain and promoting comfort, according to research.³ Keep reading to see our picks of the top mattresses for back pain.

Best Overall

Nectar Premier Hybrid

9.1 out of /10

Supports hips and shoulders for better alignment and offers excellent pressure relief

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Best for Lower Back Pain

Helix Midnight Luxe

9 out of /10

Reinforced back support helps release tension in all sleeping positions

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Best for Side Sleepers

Nectar Premier Memory Foam

9.2 out of /10

Memory foam supports and contours to ease pressure on hips and shoulders

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Best mattresses for back pain in 2026

Nectar Premier Hybrid: Best Overall
Helix Midnight Luxe with ErgoAlign: Best for Lower Back Pain
Nectar Premier Memory Foam: Best for Side Sleepers with Back Pain
Leesa Sapira Chill: Best Hybrid Mattress for Back Pain
The WinkBed Plus: Best for Back Sleepers with Back Pain
Saatva Classic: Best for Pressure Relief and Back Pain
Bear Elite Hybrid: Best for Cooling and Back Pain
Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe: Best for Combination Sleepers with Back Pain
Plank Firm Luxe: Best Firm Mattress for Back Pain
Birch Natural: Most Accessible for Back Pain

Current Fourth of July discounts on the best mattresses for back pain

Nectar: Save up to 50% on mattresses and 66% on bundles
Helix: Save up to 30%
Leesa: Save up to 30% on mattresses and more
WinkBeds: Save 30% on mattresses
Saatva: Save up to $625

Need help picking out the right mattress?

Answer 3 simple questions to find a mattress that meets your needs.

Comparing the best mattresses for back pain in 2026

Comparison Features	Nectar Premier Hybrid Visit Sitefor Nectar Premier Hybrid	Helix Midnight Luxe Visit Sitefor Helix Midnight Luxe	Nectar Premier Memory Foam Visit Sitefor Nectar Premier Memory Foam	Leesa Sapira Chill Visit Sitefor Leesa Sapira Chill	The WinkBed Plus Visit Sitefor The WinkBed Plus	Saatva Classic Visit Sitefor Saatva Classic	Bear Elite Hybrid Visit Sitefor Bear Elite Hybrid	Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Visit Sitefor Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe	Plank Firm Luxe Visit Sitefor Plank Firm Luxe	Birch Natural Visit Sitefor Birch Natural
Score (out of 10)*	9.1	9	9.2	9.8	8.4	9.4	7.9	9.5	9.2	9.2
Type	Hybrid	Hybrid	Memory foam	Hybrid	Hybrid	Spring	Hybrid	Hybrid	Hybrid	Hybrid
Firmness	Medium-firm	Medium-firm	Medium-firm	Medium-firm	Medium-firm	Medium-firm	Medium	Medium	Firm	Medium-firm
Pain relief score (out of 5)	4.17	4.21	4.20	4.78	4.78	4.87	3.53	4.43	3.76	4.55
Accessibility score (out of 5)	3.91	4.06	4.06	4.58	4.51	4.55	3.54	4.48	4.24	4.51

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

Understanding accessibility and pain relief scores

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

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

Video: Best Mattresses for Back Pain

In the video below, Ava Burkart, PT, DPT, provides a brief overview of what sleepers with back pain should keep in mind when shopping for a new mattress. Our team of testers and medical experts spent countless hours reviewing and researching the best mattresses for back pain, and in this video, Ava provides a quick look at our top picks.

Please note that details like pricing can change over time, and our team is continually testing new mattresses. What you see in this article may be slightly different from what we've reviewed on video.

Top features of the best mattresses for back pain

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

Nectar Premier Hybrid: Best Overall

The Nectar Premier Hybrid is our pick for the Best Mattress for Back Pain, as it combines a thick layer of memory foam with individually wrapped coils for support and stability. In testing, we found the mattress provided targeted support while contouring to areas prone to pain.

Our Top Pick

Nectar Premier Hybrid

Best Overall

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Nectar Mattress Review
Responsive support foam moves with your body

Great bounce for ease of movement
2-inch thick pressure relief layer offers excellent cushioning for aches and pains

Our pain relief score: 4.17/5
Accessibility score: 3.91/5
Mattress type: Hybrid
Brand’s firmness rating: 6.5/10

Pros

Relieves pressure in all positions (especially back and side)
Cradles joints to soothe pain
Promotes spinal alignment
Responsive design for easier position changes

Cons

Not recommended for higher-weight stomach sleepers
White-glove delivery costs extra

Why we chose the Nectar Premier Hybrid as the Best Overall

The Nectar Premier Hybrid earned the title of Best Overall for Back Pain due to its top scores in the areas that matter most for those sleeping with pain. It received high scores for pressure relief in our objective pressure map tests (4/5) and in our subjective tests with older adult testers (4.33/5). These results confirmed that the Nectar Premier’s 2 inches of adaptive memory foam may provide the necessary cushioning to reduce nighttime pains.

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

Doctor recommendation:

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

Our testing experience with the Nectar Premier Hybrid

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

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

A man lays on his back on the Nectar Premier Hybrid mattress — Chris, who has spinal stenosis, felt the Nectar Premier Hybrid was the best mattress he tested.

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

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

A man presses his hand down into the top of Nectar Premier Hybrid mattress — Our testers were surprised to find the Nectar Premier Hybrid mattress was both plush and responsive, making it comfortable and easy to move around on.

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

Who is the Nectar Premier Hybrid right for?

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

I may love it if I:
Sleep with a partner	Yes
Have chronic pain	Yes
Feel hot at night	Yes
Have mobility concerns	Yes
Sleep in the following positions	Side, back, stomach

The Nectar Premier customer experience

Trial period: 365 nights
Shipping: Free
In-home setup and mattress removal: $199
Warranty: Lifetime

Customer service

You can contact Nectar customer service by calling 888-863-2827, emailing support@nectarsleep.com, or through the website's live chat feature.

Learn more in our Nectar review.

Helix Midnight Luxe with ErgoAlign: Best Mattress for Lower Back Pain

The Helix Midnight Luxe with ErgoAlign is our Best Mattress for Lower Back Pain for its exceptional performance in our testing. It provided excellent pressure relief on our testers’ backs, regardless of position. Its combination of support and comfort may help soothe your pain. We especially love the optional ErgoAlign layer ($249) that provides extra, targeted support to your lower back.

Helix Midnight Luxe with ErgoAlign

Best for Lower Back Pain

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Helix Mattress Review
Excellent back pressure relief

Reinforced, targeted back support
Great support helps ease pain

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

Pros

Relieves pressure in all sleeping positions (especially back)
Promotes spinal alignment
ErgoAlign layer offers extra lower-back support
Optional cooling cover

Cons

Not the best edge support
Shorter trial period (100 days)
Higher cost

Why we chose the Helix Midnight Luxe with ErgoAlign as the Best for Lower Back Pain

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

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

Our testing experience with the Helix Midnight Luxe with ErgoAlign

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

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

Grid image with the outline of a person’s body lying on their back in a pressure map — The results of our pressure relief test for the Helix Midnight Luxe. Note the amount of blue in the image—that reflects the Midnight Luxe’s high score for back pressure relief.

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

Woman lies on her back on a black pad on top of a white mattress — Our tester tries out the Helix Midnight Luxe’s ability to relieve pressure on her back. It passed with flying colors.

Besides lying on your back, testers thought this mattress could be a good fit no matter your sleep position, earning it an overall pressure relief score of 4/5. “My body feels well supported all over in every sleeping position,” one tester said. While lying on their stomach, they said, “My lower back feels aligned and not curved. My spine feels pretty good, and I don’t feel any extra pressure.”

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

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

Who is the Helix Midnight Luxe with ErgoAlign right for?

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

For combination sleepers who frequently move around at night and sleep with a partner, the Helix Midnight Luxe may not be the best option. That’s because the Midnight Luxe scored only slightly above average in motion isolation (3/5). Motion isolation refers to how easily you feel movement in the bed while you’re lying down.

I may love it if I:
Sleep with a partner	No
Have chronic pain	Yes
Feel hot at night	Yes
Have mobility concerns	Yes
Sleep in the following positions	Side, back, stomach

The Helix Midnight Luxe customer experience

Trial period: 120 nights
Shipping: Free shipping
In-home setup and mattress removal: $159
Warranty: Limited lifetime

Customer service

You can contact Helix Sleep customer service by calling 831-777-5976, emailing help@helixsleep.com, submitting a contact form, or via the chat icon on the website.

Learn more in our Helix mattress review.

Nectar Premier Memory Foam: Best for Side Sleepers with Back Pain

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

Nectar Premier Memory Foam

Best for Side Sleepers

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4th of July: Early access discount

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Nectar Review
Eases pressure on hips

Suitable for all sleeping positions (especially side)
Contouring and supportive memory foam

Our pain relief score: 4.20/5
Accessibility score: 4.06/5
Mattress type: Memory foam
Brand’s firmness rating: 6.5/10

Pros

Eases pressure in all sleeping positions (especially side)
Extra comfortable
Memory foam hugs and supports body
Long trial period (one year)

Cons

May be too soft for some
May trap heat
Slightly unstable edges

Why we chose the Nectar Premier as the Best for Side Sleepers with Back Pain

The Nectar Premier Memory Foam does an exceptional job of easing pressure and pain not only on the back but also on your side. Testers thought the memory foam excelled at supporting their bodies and soothing pressure points while providing a comforting contour around their spines. No other mattress we tested relieved as much pressure on our sides as the Nectar Premier Memory Foam, earning it an objective score of 5/5. Our testers agreed and gave it almost-perfect scores for pressure relief in all positions (especially the side) for an overall 4.17/5.

Our testing experience with the Nectar Premier Memory Foam

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

And they were right. When we used a pressure mat to test pressure buildup for side sleeping, the Nectar Premier Memory Foam got the highest score (see image below), a 5/5. Areas of yellow, orange, and green indicate slight pressure buildup. Hips and shoulders are the most common areas of pressure buildup for side sleepers. Memory foam can help ease pressure for side sleepers, as it contours to the body while supporting key contact points, such as the shoulders and hips.

Grid image with the outline of a person’s body lying on their side in a pressure map — The results of our pressure relief test for the Nectar Premier Memory Foam. Note how we only see slight yellow and orange at the hips and shoulders—that reflects the Nectar Premier’s exceptional ability to ease pressure for side sleepers.

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

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

Doctor recommendation:

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

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

The Nectar Premier Memory Foam is slightly softer than every other mattress on this list—it’s a medium firm, rating 6.5/10 in firmness. Most of our other recommendations are medium-firm or firmer. That’s why the Nectar Premier wouldn’t be our first choice for stomach sleepers. The softer mattresses are, generally the less support they offer stomach sleepers. A soft surface lets hips sink into the mattress when you’re lying on your stomach, which can curve your spine, especially if you’re a higher weight sleeper.

Also, the Nectar Premier’s memory foam may make you feel hot. Memory foam tends to trap heat because it has less airflow and can be thick. When we tested the Nectar Premier’s ability to dispel heat, it scored just average, 3/5. But our testers didn’t seem worried. One tester noted, “Lying down the mattress is contoured around me, which feels like it’ll make me sweat. But I’m surprised that it doesn’t heat me up too bad. I’m pleasantly surprised.”

A woman measures the width of a mattress using a tape measure — Our testers measure edge sinkage in the Nectar Premier Memory Foam. Edge support was just average, at three out of five.

Memory foam can also have weak edges. Although the material has excellent contouring abilities, it can also be less stable. Our testers rated the Nectar Premier’s edge support as average (3/5), noting that while they felt secure, they would have liked it to feel even more secure. “The edges sink, but not too much. I don’t feel like I’m sliding off, but it doesn’t feel secure,” one tester said. “I feel fine sitting, but because the edges are a little soft, it doesn’t help me stand up.”

Who is the Nectar Premier right for?

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

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

I may love it if I:
Sleep with a partner	Yes
Have chronic pain	Yes
Feel hot at night	No
Have mobility concerns	Yes
Sleep in the following positions	Side, back, stomach

The Nectar Premier customer experience

Trial period: 365 nights
Shipping: Free
In-home setup and mattress removal: $199
Warranty: Lifetime

Customer service

You can contact Nectar customer service by calling 888-863-2827, emailing support@nectarsleep.com, or through the website's live chat feature.

Learn more in our Nectar review.

Leesa Sapira Chill: Best Hybrid Mattress for Back Pain

The Leesa Sapira Chill is our pick for the Best Hybrid Mattress for Back Pain because it has excellent back support and comfort. With its mix of firm support and contoured cushioning, this hybrid mattress earned some of the highest scores in our testing for back pressure relief and high marks across every other category.

Leesa Sapira Chill

Best Hybrid

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Great pressure relief in all positions
Zoned support helps keep pressure off the lower back

Made in the United States

Our pain relief score: 4.78/5
Accessibility score: 4.58/5
Mattress type: Hybrid
Brand’s firmness rating 5-7/10

Pros

Perfect scores for back support
Can customize your firmness level
Uses cooling foam and fibers to prevent heat buildup

Cons

14-inch height may require deep sheets
May feel too firm for some sleepers
In-home setup costs extra

Why we chose the Leesa Sapira Chill as the Best Hybrid Mattress for Back Pain

We chose the Leesa Sapira Chill as the Best Hybrid Mattress for Back Pain because it earned high scores in every area we tested. Cooling, edge support, motion isolation: Nothing rated less than a 4/5. This medium-firm mattress provides responsive support where it is needed most, and has extra built-in pressure relief for the low back, hips, and spine.

In our tests, the Leesa Sapira Chill earned perfect scores for back pressure relief and edge support, which can help with preventing falls and giving more support to those with pain or mobility issues. The way this mattress assists when you move makes switching positions easier, and the springs and foam contour to support you in any position. But the more than 1,000 individually wrapped steel coils prevent motion from transferring from one side of the bed to the other, a benefit for couples who sleep together.

We also like that Leesa makes its mattresses in the United States using certified-safe materials, and offers a lifetime limited warranty and 120-night trial. You will have to pay extra if you want an in-room mattress setup or have an old mattress to get rid of. But in general, the Leesa Sapira Chill offers comfort and good value for people who are seeking back pain relief.

Our testing experience with the Leesa Sapira Chill

Our testers were impressed with how well this mattress performed in general, and especially for low back support. They gave it a near-perfect rating (4.5/5) for back support, a score backed by our pressure map tests. Readings from the pressure map indicate next to no areas of pressure buildup under the back when lying on the Leesa Sapira Chill, leading to one of our only perfect 5/5 scores.

“It feels very good on my back,” said Sheila, a 70-year-old combination sleeper. “I think this one feels the best out of all the ones I have tested. The pressure is the most even and the comfort is top notch. It feels luxurious, soft, and supportive.” This balance of softness and firmness helped reduce pressure on the back in every sleeping position, making this a good choice for combination sleepers, too.

A tester lies on her back on the Leesa Sapira Chill hybrid mattress — One of our testers felt her back was the most supported by the Leesa Sapira Chill, which has built-in zoned support beneath the low back and hips to help keep the spine straight when lying down.

Testers also appreciated the high-quality materials, including the plush quilted pillow top. Leesa uses special cooling fibers to keep the topper from trapping heat. So it stayed cool to the touch. Our testers rated it a 4/5 for its ability to prevent heat buildup. A cool mattress can sometimes feel soothing to a sore achy back.

The plush layers were also very comfortable. “It feels heavenly,” Sheila said. “There is that supportive layer underneath that helps me feel well aligned, but the plush topper feels luxurious.” This mix of plush comfort and firm support helped keep the spine properly supported, which is important for easing back pain. And, unlike many memory foam mattresses, the cushioning didn’t interfere with movement. “You can turn very easily and it feels good changing positions,” Sheila said. “I’m not sinking in too much and I am able to shift quickly.”

Testers were also satisfied with the stability of this mattress. “There is great edge support in both the seated and lying down positions,” Sheila said. “I don’t feel my body tilting at all.” This may not seem like an important detail, but it can help prevent falls and make it easier for people with chronic pain or mobility issues to get in and out of bed.

Our testers had very few complaints about the Leesa Sapira Chill. “I honestly love this mattress,” Sheila said. “It is so comfortable and supportive and it’s a treat to lay down on at the end of the day.”

Who is the Leesa Sapira Chill right for?

This hybrid mattress is a strong fit for people with back pain who need steady back support and pressure relief. It works well for back, side, or stomach sleepers and for people who share a bed. It’s also a good pick for anyone who sleeps hot, needs strong edges for mobility, or wants a mattress that helps reduce back pain in every position.

I may love it if I:
Sleep with a partner	Yes
Have chronic pain	Yes
Feel hot at night	Yes
Have mobility concerns	Yes
Sleep in the following positions	Side, stomach, back

The Leesa customer experience

Trial period: 120 nights
Shipping: Free
Warranty: Limited lifetime

Customer service

Phone: Call 844-335-3372, available Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET, and Saturday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET
Text: Text 877-548-5145, available Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET, and Saturday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET
Chat: Automated chat via the bottom left corner of the website, available 24/7. Live chat with a representative available Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET, and Saturday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET
Email: support@leesa.com

Saatva Classic: Best Pressure Relief for Back Pain

We chose the Saatva Classic as our Best Pressure Relief for Back Pain because it effectively relieved pressure in every sleeping position—no other mattress did so across all positions. The Saatva Classic’s construction makes it especially good at easing pressure and back pain, no matter what position you’re in.

Saatva Classic

Best Pressure Relief

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Fourth of July discount

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Saatva Mattress Review
Excellent pressure relief in every sleeping position

Mix of support and comfort helps ease pain
Easier to get in and out of

Our pain relief score: 4.87/5
Accessibility score: 4.55/5
Mattress type: Hybrid
Brand’s firmness rating: 6/10

Pros

Relieves pressure in all sleeping positions
Mix of comfort and support helps ease pain
Strong edges and easy to get in and out of
Free in-room delivery and setup
One-year trial

Cons

More expensive than average
May trap heat

Why we chose the Saatva Classic as the Best Pressure Relief for Back Pain

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

Our testing experience with the Saatva Classic

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

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

A woman lies on her stomach on a bed facing away from the camera — A tester evaluates the Saatva Classic’s ability to relieve pressure for stomach sleepers.

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

No mattress we tested scored as well in pressure relief for every position as the Saatva Classic, which earned a 4.67/5. But a few came close: The Saatva Rx and WinkBed Plus both earned 4.5 in each position.

Woman lies on her side on a mattress while smiling — One of our testers evaluates the ability of the Saatva Classic to relieve pressure for side sleepers.

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

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

We measured how much the Saatva Classic’s edges sank under weight and found it sank only 2 inches—one of the best scores we recorded. The less an edge dips under pressure, the more stable you’ll feel sitting on the edge.

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

Who is the Saatva Classic right for?

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

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

I may love it if I:
Sleep with a partner	No
Have chronic pain	Yes
Feel hot at night	No
Have mobility concerns	Yes
Sleep in the following positions	Side, back, stomach

Saatva Classic customer experience

Trial period: 365 nights
Shipping: Free
In-home setup and mattress removal: Free
Warranty: One-year limited

Customer service

You can contact Saatva customer service by calling 860-452-3977, emailing info@saatvamattress.com, or through the chat feature on the website.

Learn more about the brand in our Saatva review.

The WinkBed Plus: Best for Back Sleepers with Back Pain

We chose the WinkBed Plus as the Best for Back Sleepers with Back Pain because testers said it did an exceptional job limiting pressure when lying on their back. It has a good balance of support and contouring to cradle your body, keep your spine aligned while lying on your back, and ease back pain.

The WinkBed Plus

Best for Back Sleepers

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WinkBed Mattress Review
Eases pressure on your back

Supports and cradles body to ease pain
Strong, stable edges

Our pain relief score: 4.78/5
Accessibility score: 4.51/5
Mattress type: Hybrid
Brand’s firmness rating: 8.5/10

Pros

Eases pressure when lying on your back
Soothes back pain with a mix of firmness and pressure relief
Stable edges
Designed for higher-weight sleepers

Cons

Movement may wake lighter sleepers
Higher price
May not be suitable for lower-weight sleepers
Shorter trial period (120 days)

Why we chose the WinkBed Plus as the Best for Back Sleepers with Back Pain

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

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

The WinkBed Plus is specifically designed for higher-weight people in mind—each side can support up to 450 pounds, with a maximum weight of 900 pounds. Because it’s made for heavier people, it offers a little extra firmness, which is why the brand rates it medium-firm, but its firmness scores an 8.5/10.

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

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

Doctor recommendation:

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

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

The results from our pressure mat test reflect the same—a cradling mix of support and comfort. The WinkBed Plus earned some of the highest scores for relieving pressure on the back, a 5/5, ranking as high as extra-supportive mattresses like the Helix Midnight Luxe and the Saatva Rx.

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

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

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

And while the WinkBed Plus scored just average in motion isolation (2.5/5), it was one of the lowest scores in that category of any mattress we tested. “I feel like the motion isolation is just average. I can definitely feel a ripple when another person gets in bed,” one tester said. “I felt like a ripple went through the bed, but it did die down. I think normal motion would wake me up in this bed.”

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

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

Who is the WinkBed Plus right for?

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

I may love it if I:
Sleep with a partner	No
Have chronic pain	Yes
Feel hot at night	Yes
Have mobility concerns	Yes
Sleep in the following positions	Side, back, stomach

WinkBed customer experience

Trial period: 120 nights
Shipping: Free
In-home setup and mattress removal: No
Warranty: Limited lifetime

Customer service

You can contact WinkBed customer service by calling 855-946-5233, emailing info@winkbeds.com, or through the chat icon on the website.

Want to know more? Check out our WinkBed review.

Bear Elite Hybrid: Best Cooling Mattress for Back Pain

We chose the Bear Elite Hybrid as the Best Cooling Mattress for Back Pain because it stayed cooler than any mattress we tested. Its ability to regulate heat plus relieve pressure for all sleeping positions makes it a great option among the best beds for back pain.

Bear Elite Hybrid

Best Cooling Mattress

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Bear Mattress Review
Exceptional at limiting heat buildup

Innersprings promote airflow
Relieves pressure for all sleeping positions

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

Pros

Copper-infused fibers help regulate temperature
Wicks away heat and moisture
Good pressure relief
Suitable for all sleeping positions

Cons

Softer (medium firmness) than most others on this list
Weaker edges

Why we chose the Bear Elite Hybrid as Best Cooling Mattress for Back Pain

The Bear Elite Hybrid is the obvious choice for Best Cooling Mattress for Back Pain because it stayed colder than every mattress we tested. The ability to remove heat is important for all sleepers, but especially for older adults. People generally get their best sleep between 60–67 degrees Fahrenheit. When temperatures increase to 77–86 degrees, one study found your sleep quality goes down by 5–10%.⁴

Older adults’ bodies also tend to be less efficient at regulating temperature than younger people.⁵ So if you tend to sleep hot, a mattress like the Bear Elite Hybrid could help you regulate your body temperature better at night, leading to more restful sleep.

Our testing experience with the Bear Elite Hybrid

The Bear Elite Hybrid is a spring hybrid mattress with a layer of individually wrapped coils below a copper-infused top layer of foam. Copper has excellent heat transfer qualities,⁶ meaning it’s very efficient at transferring heat away from an object. And although more research is needed to understand temperature regulation in copper-infused mattresses, its reputation as a metal that efficiently transfers heat implies it can help slow heat buildup in your mattress.

We tested the temperature regulation of the Bear Elite Hybrid by first taking its normal resting temperature. Then we heated the surface to 90 degrees Fahrenheit (the average temperature of human skin is 90–94 degrees Fahrenheit).⁷ Next, we let the mattress cool for five minutes, then took another temperature reading. The mattresses that showed the least amount of heat buildup earned higher scores. The Bear Elite Hybrid showed an increase of only 3.5 degrees (from a starting temperature of 64.9 to an ending temperature of 68.4).

Heat gun in the foreground with 68.4 on the screen — We measured the heat buildup in the Bear Elite Hybrid. It showed the best temperature regulation, increasing by only 3.5 degrees Fahrenheit after five minutes.

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

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

But even a slight temperature increase from 77–86 degrees Fahrenheit is enough to influence your cognitive performance, next-day activity levels, and feelings of stress, according to research.⁴ The same research found that increasing the temperature only nine degrees was similar to the sleep effects of:

Drinking alcohol at night
Consuming nicotine at night
Experiencing chronic pain

The Bear Elite Hybrid proved above-average in relieving pressure for every sleeping position, earning it an objective pressure relief score of 4/5. When lying on their back, one tester said, “My body feels equally supported. My entire body sinks into the mattress but not too much in one area. I’m not feeling pressure buildup in any specific area.”

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

Testers still found the mattress to be stable, but cautioned that it might not be true for everybody. “I don’t feel like I’m going to slide off. The edge feels stable and solid,” one tester said while sitting on the mattress’s edge. “But when I sit down I feel a little off-balance for a split second. Then the top supports both sides of my body. For someone with balance issues, this could be a problem.”

Who is the Bear Elite Hybrid right for?

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

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

I may love it if I:
Sleep with a partner	No
Have chronic pain	Yes
Feel hot at night	Yes
Have mobility concerns	Yes
Sleep in the following positions	Side, back, stomach

Bear Mattress customer experience

Trial period: 120 nights
Shipping: Free
In-home setup and mattress removal: $100–$200
Warranty: Limited lifetime

Customer service

You can contact Bear customer service by calling 844-311-0035, emailing support@bearmattress.com, or using the live chat feature on the website.

You can learn more in our Bear mattress review.

Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe: Best for Combination Sleepers with Back Pain

We chose the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe as our Best Mattress for Combination Sleepers with Back Pain because it gives great support when you shift between sleeping positions. It keeps your spine aligned, eases pressure, and feels steady no matter how often you move.

Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe

Best for Combination Sleepers

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Brooklyn Bedding Mattress Review
You can choose from three firmness levels

Zoned support for the low back and hips
Made in the United States

Our pain relief score: 4.43/5
Accessibility score: 4.48/5
Mattress type: Hybrid
Brand’s firmness rating: 5/10

Pros

Comfortable and supportive for back and combination sleepers
Has good cooling properties
Strong edge support

Cons

Mattress height is thicker than average (13.25 inches)
Motion isolation is only average
White-glove delivery (set-up of your new mattress) is not an option

Why we chose the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe as the Best Mattress for Combination Sleepers with Back Pain

We chose the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe as our Best Mattress for Combination Sleepers with Back Pain because it earned strong scores for back and side pressure relief (4/5). This is helpful for people who switch between these positions at night and need a mattress that supports both. The zoned support built into this mattress adds extra pressure relief beneath the low back and hips, which is great for both side and back sleepers.

We also like the edge support on this mattress, which can be important for people who have mobility issues related to back pain. Strong edges can make moving on a mattress easier and reduce the risk of falls. The Aurora Luxe earned a 4/5 for seated edge support and a perfect 5/5 for lying edge support. And Brooklyn Bedding offers a choice of firmness levels and a 120-day trial period on all its mattresses, so you can make sure it is supportive and comfortable enough for you.

Our testing experience with the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe

Our testers felt well-supported on their backs and sides on the Aurora Luxe. They rated the mattress as much firmer (8/10) than the brand’s rating (5/10) because of how much support it gave them, particularly when lying on their back. Chris, 66, a tester with a higher body weight and chronic back pain, found that the Aurora Luxe relieved pressure under his back and made switching positions easy. Our average weight testers agreed. “This mattress has great support overall,” said Sheila, a 70-year-old combination sleeper. “As an average weight sleeper, I feel very comfortable on this mattress. I feel really good on my back.”

Side sleeping was also highly rated. When Sheila switched to her side, she noticed “a slight pressure on my hip, but nothing major to complain about. Overall, this is a very firm mattress.” The Aurora Luxe has zoned support, so it makes sense that the extra support would keep pressure off the lower back and hips and help people feel comfortable in either position.

A woman lying on her side on a pressure mat on the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe mattress — Testers said the firm pressure of this mattress supported the natural curve of their spine while lying on their side, and out pressure map testing confirmed that.

The Aurora Luxe is a hybrid mattress with a good amount of bounce, which can be helpful for people who experience back pain or have trouble moving because of it. One of our testers, Patti, 70, who usually prefers to sleep on her stomach, found that bounce helped when getting in and out of bed. “The mattress has a bouncy quality to it that makes you feel lifted when standing up,” she said. She also praised the strong edges, noting that when sitting on the side, there is very little bulging. One thing testers did point out is that the cooling cover of this mattress is silky and can feel slippery. But using a fitted sheet (like one from our list of the best sheets) can help.

Who is the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe right for?

This mattress is great for combination sleepers with back pain who want strong back and side pressure relief and excellent edge support. It’s also a good fit for people who want a cool-sleeping mattress. It’s less ideal for stomach sleepers and couples who need top-tier motion isolation, but an excellent choice for most combo sleepers who want support and comfort.

I may love it if I:
Sleep with a partner	No
Have chronic pain	Yes
Feel hot at night	Yes
Have mobility concerns	Yes
Sleep in the following positions	Side, stomach, back

The Brooklyn Bedding customer experience

Trial period: 120 nights
Shipping: Free
Warranty: Limited lifetime

Customer service

While mystery shopping, our team found Brooklyn Bedding to be inconsistent with its support hours. You can reach customer service by calling 623-624-1222, emailing support@brooklynbedding.com, submitting a contact form, or using the live chat feature on the website.

You can read more in our Brooklyn Bedding mattress review.

Plank Firm Luxe: Best Firm Mattress for Back Pain

We chose the Plank Firm Luxe as our Best Firm Mattress for Back Pain because it earned high scores for back pressure relief in our testing, and is one of the firmest mattresses you can buy. Its solid support helps keep your spine in line, which can ease low back pain.

Plank Firm Luxe

Best Firm Mattress

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Plank Mattress Review
Truly firm mattress with strong edge support

Has the highest motion isolation score of any hybrid mattress we tested
Supportive for high weights

Our pain relief score: 3.76/5
Accessibility score: 4.24/5
Mattress type: Hybrid
Brand’s firmness rating: 8-10/10

Pros

Minimizes motion, so ideal for couples
Strong edges
Responsive support for all positions

Cons

May be too firm for some people
$99 fee for returned mattresses, even within the trial period
No in-room mattress setup or old mattress removal options

Why we chose the Plank Firm Luxe as the Best Firm Mattress for Back Pain

We chose the Plank Firm Luxe as our Best Firm Mattress for Back Pain because it offers outstanding firmness and support. It’s rated an 8/10 for firmness, on the firm side, which is the one our testers tried. Yet our testers said it felt more like a 9/10. A firm mattress helps keep the spine in alignment, and misalignment is a common cause of back pain. This mattress kept our testers on top of it without too much sinkage (it sank only 3 inches in our testing, below average). When a mattress is too soft, it can allow the spine to twist, causing pain. But the Plank Firm Luxe distributes weight evenly, so your spine stays straight and your muscles don't have to work as hard.

The Plank Firm Luxe was one of the only hybrid mattresses we tested to earn a perfect 5/5 score for motion isolation. Our testers could not feel a partner moving on the other side of the mattress. Such high scores are usually only seen with memory foam mattresses, which lack the bounce of the Plank Firm Luxe. Bounce can help with movement, which is helpful when you have back pain that may make switching positions difficult. This mattress also excelled at edge support, with a 4.5/5 rating. Overall, this is an extremely durable, stable mattress and a strong choice for people who need extra support and like a firm mattress.

Our testing experience with the Plank Firm Luxe

Our testers’ first impression of the Plank Firm Luxe was just how firm it feels. For side sleeping, one tester felt more pressure than support, saying, “I feel like there is pressure on my hip and pelvis. This mattress might be a little too firm for me. My lower back feels pretty good overall. I think specifically on my side I would get pressure building up in both my shoulder and hip area.” Back sleeping showed the same firm lift, with another tester explaining, “I feel like I am more on top of the mattress with my thoracic area and hips being on top of the surface and my lower back having a gap. I think because it’s too firm I am not enough weight to sink down and allow for that good alignment.”

older woman lying on top of a mattress — Our average-weight testers said the Plank Firm Luxe was supportive all the way to the edge. But some may find the bed too firm.

Even with this firmness, testers said the mattress was very easy to move around on. One noted, “I feel like this mattress allows you to move freely and change positions with no issues. The mattress is responsive and has good bounce to it.” But testers lighter-weight testers did feel like the bed was simply too firm for them: “I feel like I am too lightweight for this mattress overall. It is pretty firm and ideally would be better for a heavier sleeper. If I had a partner that needed a more firm mattress I could make it work but I am very much on top of the mattress.”

Edge support was a standout part of the experience. As one tester put it, “The mattress has great edge support and I don’t need assistance getting in and out of bed. I don’t have to use my hands and the mattress has immediate responsiveness.” When lying near the mattress edge, she said, “I am tilting a little bit on the edge of the mattress. I don’t feel like I am going to roll out but there is a bit of lean to my body. The edge is very supportive, though.”

A woman sits on the edge of the Plank Firm Luxe mattress while a tester lies on the other side — Our testers were wowed by how little motion they could feel from this hybrid mattress.

Motion isolation was another strong feature. One tester shared, “I hardly feel any movement at all. There was barely any bouncing or pulling of the cover. I think the motion isolation on this bed is ideal for partners that are light sleepers.”

Who is the Plank Firm Luxe right for?

The Plank Firm Luxe is best for people who want a very firm mattress with strong back support. It’s also a great pick for those with a higher weight who need more pressure relief and durability. Light sleepers who share a bed may also appreciate its excellent motion isolation.

I may love it if I:
Sleep with a partner	Yes
Have chronic pain	Yes
Feel hot at night	No
Have mobility concerns	Yes
Sleep in the following positions	Back, side

The Plank customer experience

Trial period: 120 nights
Shipping: Free
Warranty: Limited lifetime

Customer service

Plank is a Brooklyn Bedding company, and its hours tend to be inconsistent, according to our mystery shopping. You can reach customer service by calling 623-624-1222, emailing support@brooklynbedding.com, submitting a contact form, or using the live chat feature on the website.

You can read more in our Plank Mattress review.

Birch Natural: Most Accessible for Back Pain

We chose the Birch Natural as our Most Accessible for Back Pain because it was the easiest mattress to get in and out of. Testers said the edges were strong and stable, which helped make it easier for them to move from a lying position to sitting and standing.

Birch Natural

Most Accessible Mattress

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Birch Mattress Review
Easiest mattress to get in and out of

Natural and organic construction materials
Strong, stable edges

Our pain relief score: 4.55/5
Accessibility score: 4.51/5
Mattress type: Hybrid
Brand’s firmness rating: 6.5/10

Pros

Easy to get in and out of
Strong, stable edges make it easier to stand up
Relieves pressure buildup in back
Made with natural and organic materials

Cons

Motion may wake lighter sleepers
May trap heat
Not suitable for stomach sleepers
Shorter trial period (100 days)

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

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

Our testing experience with Birch Natural

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

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

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

A woman sits on the edge of a mattress facing away from the camera while a woman in the foreground uses a tape measure to measure how far the edge sinks under weight — Our testers measure edge support on the Birch Natural. Testers rated edge support a perfect five out of five, and the edge only sank two inches under the weight of our average-weight tester.

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

Testers also rated the Birch Natural highly (4/5) for its ability to relieve pressure on the back. When lying on their backs, testers found the bed comfortable and supportive. “I feel really aligned. My butt’s in line with my shoulders,” the tester said. “I feel maybe a tiny bit of pressure on my lower back, but nothing on my hips at all. My body feels equally supported all over.”

Another benefit of the Birch Natural: It’s the only mattress on this list made with certified natural and organic materials. Mattresses made from natural materials, like cotton and natural latex, have been shown to improve sleep quality and potentially prevent some health issues, according to research.⁹ The research notes that “latex foam can be an excellent natural replacement for polyurethane foam,” since it supports the body and allows even distribution of mass on the surface. In turn, this helps promote blood circulation, “helping to reduce muscle and joint stiffness and helping the body to relax completely.” The Birch Natural is made with natural latex, not polyurethane foam.

Doctor recommendation:

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

Organic cotton is an eco-friendly bedding option. The Birch Natural is made with 100% organic cotton, which the company says is breathable and naturally wicks away moisture.

While the Birch Natural gets high marks in accessibility and natural construction materials, it scored below-average (2/5) in motion isolation. That means movement on this mattress is more likely to disturb you if you’re sleeping.

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

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

Seismograph reading of red on a black background showing the motion of somebody getting up from the Birch Natural — When we tested motion isolation on the Birch Natural using a seismograph, the mattress didn’t perform well. The more peaks you see, the worse the mattress is at reducing motion.

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

Who is Birch Natural right for?

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

I may love it if I:
Sleep with a partner	No
Have chronic pain	Yes
Feel hot at night	Yes
Have mobility concerns	Yes
Sleep in the following positions	Side, back

Birch customer experience

Trial period: 120 nights
Shipping: Free
In-home setup and mattress removal: $100–$400
Warranty: Limited lifetime

Customer service

You can contact Birch customer service by calling 917-540-5525, emailing info@birchliving.com, submitting a contact form, or using the live chat feature on the website.

You can learn more in our Birch mattress review.

How we tested the best beds for back pain

Our team has spent thousands of hours researching and testing mattresses so you can feel confident in our reviews. We work with experts in sleep, physical therapy, and occupational therapy, so we know what features are most important when searching for a mattress to ease back pain.

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

How we tested for 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 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

A standing woman presses her hands down onto the surface of a mattress — Our tester evaluating mattress firmness

How we tested for accessibility

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

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

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

How we tested pressure relief

Our pressure relief score reflects our testers’ experiences on the mattress and the results shown on our pressure map. The pressure map uses sensors to show how much pressure the body feels when lying on the mattress. Blue and green are great pressure relief; yellow, orange, and red show places where pressure builds up.

How we tested spinal support

A mattress offering strong spinal support contours to the body while offering enough resistance to press back into the curves of the lower spine. We specifically seek this support during our testing, and we confirm it using our pressure map results. If a mattress lacks support in the lower spine, it shows white on the pressure map, indicating no contact or support in the area.

Group of older women smile while looking into the camera and giving a thumbs up — A group of our older adult testers after a day of testing mattresses.

What to consider when buying a bed for back pain

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

A gauge showing 70% of people reported improvement in sleep quality with a new mattress — In our March 2025 Pain and Position Sleep Survey, 70% of our respondents stated they experienced better quality sleep after getting a new mattress.

Mattress firmness

According to research, a medium to medium-firm mattress is most suitable for relieving back pain.³ But that can vary from person to person based on factors like body weight or sleeping position. A lighter-weight stomach sleeper will perceive a mattress’s firmness differently than a higher-weight back sleeper.

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

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

Two women testing a mattress by sitting on it and feeling its texture — NCOA writers Samantha Colaianni and Jill Waldbieser testing mattress firmness and edge support.

Pressure relief

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

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

Spinal support

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

The mattress you sleep on influences the curve of your spine. And a curved or misaligned spine can lead to serious musculoskeletal problems.¹⁰ This research found that a medium mattress is best for keeping your spine supported and aligned when lying on your back, which can help soothe back pain and pressure. You can find more mattresses offering great spinal support in our roundup of the best orthopedic mattresses.

Pressure points based on sleeping position

Sleeping position

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

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

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

—Carleara Weiss, sleep scientist

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

—Dr. Emma Lin, sleep medicine specialist

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

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

Man lying on his back with a pillow under his knees — Chris, one of our testers, shows how he typically relieves pressure from his lower back by placing a pillow under his knees.

Combination sleepers: Use pillows to give you extra support in any position. As you switch between the different positions above, use the pillow between your knees, under your hips, or under your knees.

What mattress type is best for back pain?

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

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

Innerspring mattress

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

Memory foam mattress

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

Doctor recommendation:

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

Hybrid mattress

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

Latex mattress

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

Survey says: The most common mattress type

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

Memory foam: 52%
Hybrid: 22%
Spring: 15%
Other: 11%

Best mattress types for back pain

Mattress type	Pressure relief	Spinal alignment	Ease of movement	Good for back pain?
Innerspring	Limited	Very good	Easy	Sometimes, look for a pillow top for better pressure relief
Memory foam	Excellent	Good	Moderate, look for a medium-firm or firm memory foam for easier movement	Yes
Hybrid	Very good	Excellent	Easy	Yes
Latex	Very good	Excellent	Easy	Yes

Sleeping with pain?

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

5 tips for managing back pain at home

Back pain affects more than just your sleep. It can impact your whole life. If you’re experiencing severe, consistent back pain, it’s important to see a health care provider who can help you find the underlying cause of your pain and offer potential solutions. Here are 5 more ways to manage back pain at home:

Focus on your posture: Improving your posture helps keep your spine aligned and strengthens supporting muscles. Avoid slouching, and aim to keep your shoulders back when standing and sitting.
Move regularly: Regular movement can reduce pressure on your spine that builds up from sitting for too long. Aim to stand, stretch, and move your body every 30 minutes.

Nighttime stretches to ease back pain

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

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

—Emma Lin, MD, pulmonologist and sleep medicine specialist

3. Manage stress: Your body can react to stress through physical tension in the back. Using techniques like deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation can reduce your stress mentally and physically.

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

From our focus group: Try deep breathing before bed

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Comparing mattress costs

Comparison Features	Nectar Premier Hybrid	Helix Midnight Luxe	Nectar Premier Memory Foam	Leesa Sapira Chill	Saatva Classic	The WinkBed Plus	Bear Elite Hybrid	Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe	Plank Firm Luxe	Birch Natural
Cost for a queen*	$2,413	$2,398	$2,382	$2,264	$2,139	$2,856	$2,427	$2,265	$1,598	$1,874
Delivery fees	Free shipping	Free shipping	Free shipping	Free shipping	Free white glove delivery	Free shipping	Free shipping	Free shipping	Free shipping	Free shipping
Warranty	Limited lifetime	Limited lifetime	Limited lifetime	Limited lifetime	Limited lifetime	Limited lifetime	Limited lifetime	Limited lifetime	Limited lifetime	Limited lifetime
Trial period	365 nights	120 nights	365 nights	120 nights	365 nights	120 nights	120 nights	120 nights	120 nights	120 nights

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

How to save money on a mattress

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

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

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

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

Experts featured in this review:

Suzanne Manzi, MD, FAAPMR, CLCP™, pain specialist and partner at Performance Pain & Sports Medicine
Gbolahan Okubadejo, MD, FAAOS, board-certified spinal surgeon and head of The Institute for Comprehensive Spine Care
Carleara Weiss, PhD, a sleep scientist, adult-geriatric nurse specialist, and assistant professor at the University at Buffalo Nursing School.
Emma Lin, MD, pulmonologist and sleep medicine specialist

Frequently asked questions

What is the best mattress for seniors with back pain?

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

Can a mattress cause back pain?

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

Is a soft or firm mattress better for back pain?

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

Is a hybrid or memory foam mattress better for lower back pain?

Hybrid mattresses are usually a better choice for lower back pain because they combine pressure-relieving foam with coils to help keep the spine aligned. We especially like hybrid mattresses with zoned coils for improved back support, as well as beds that provide extra support for the lower back and hips, such as the Helix Midnight Luxe ErgoAlign layer. But people often experience lower back pain in different ways. So we advise you to speak with a health care professional to make sure your mattress addresses your specific concerns.

Memory foam mattresses can also work well, but they may feel too soft or sink too much for some people with lower back pain.

Questions? Email us at reviewsteam@ncoa.org.

Sources

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

Disclosure

In This Review

Nectar Premier Hybrid

Helix Midnight Luxe

Nectar Premier Memory Foam

Best mattresses for back pain in 2026

Current Fourth of July discounts on the best mattresses for back pain

Need help picking out the right mattress?

Comparing the best mattresses for back pain in 2026

Understanding accessibility and pain relief scores

Video: Best Mattresses for Back Pain

Top features of the best mattresses for back pain

Nectar Premier Hybrid: Best Overall

Pros

Cons

Why we chose the Nectar Premier Hybrid as the Best Overall

Doctor recommendation:

Our testing experience with the Nectar Premier Hybrid

Who is the Nectar Premier Hybrid right for?

The Nectar Premier customer experience

Customer service

Helix Midnight Luxe with ErgoAlign: Best Mattress for Lower Back Pain

Pros

Cons

Why we chose the Helix Midnight Luxe with ErgoAlign as the Best for Lower Back Pain

Our testing experience with the Helix Midnight Luxe with ErgoAlign

Who is the Helix Midnight Luxe with ErgoAlign right for?

The Helix Midnight Luxe customer experience

Customer service

Nectar Premier Memory Foam: Best for Side Sleepers with Back Pain

Pros

Cons

Why we chose the Nectar Premier as the Best for Side Sleepers with Back Pain

Our testing experience with the Nectar Premier Memory Foam

Doctor recommendation:

Who is the Nectar Premier right for?

The Nectar Premier customer experience

Customer service

Leesa Sapira Chill: Best Hybrid Mattress for Back Pain

Pros

Cons

Why we chose the Leesa Sapira Chill as the Best Hybrid Mattress for Back Pain

Our testing experience with the Leesa Sapira Chill

Who is the Leesa Sapira Chill right for?

The Leesa customer experience

Customer service

Saatva Classic: Best Pressure Relief for Back Pain

Pros

Cons

Why we chose the Saatva Classic as the Best Pressure Relief for Back Pain

Our testing experience with the Saatva Classic

Who is the Saatva Classic right for?

Saatva Classic customer experience

Customer service

The WinkBed Plus: Best for Back Sleepers with Back Pain

Pros

Cons

Why we chose the WinkBed Plus as the Best for Back Sleepers with Back Pain

Doctor recommendation:

Who is the WinkBed Plus right for?

WinkBed customer experience

Customer service

Bear Elite Hybrid: Best Cooling Mattress for Back Pain

Pros

Cons

Why we chose the Bear Elite Hybrid as Best Cooling Mattress for Back Pain

Our testing experience with the Bear Elite Hybrid

Who is the Bear Elite Hybrid right for?

Bear Mattress customer experience

Customer service

Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe: Best for Combination Sleepers with Back Pain

Pros

Cons

Why we chose the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe as the Best Mattress for Combination Sleepers with Back Pain

Our testing experience with the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe

Who is the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe right for?

The Brooklyn Bedding customer experience

Customer service

Plank Firm Luxe: Best Firm Mattress for Back Pain

Pros