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Best Mattress for Arthritis and Joint Pain
Sleep Foundation
Why Trust Us
Our mission to create a healthier, more well-rested world demands that our product reviews be best-in-class. You won’t find more expertise on mattresses and sleep products anywhere else.
The Sleep Foundation product testing team uses an industry-leading evaluation process paired with real world consumer feedback to come up with objective recommendations so that you can feel confident in your product decisions.
The right mattress can help ease arthritis pain, while the wrong mattress may worsen these symptoms. Our team has personally tested hundreds of mattresses for performance areas that can affect people with arthritis, such as durability, support, pressure relief, and ease of movement. We’ve also consulted with medical professionals to ensure our recommendations are accurate and beneficial to the people who need them most. The picks listed below reflect our latest findings.
Looking for more information as you explore mattress options? Our picks for the best mattresses have earned solid ratings across different performance categories. You can also check out our best mattresses for back pain and other guides focused on helping you sleep comfortably.
Winkbed
The WinkBed is our top choice for alleviating arthritis symptoms, thanks to a quilted Euro-top that cushions your joints. Four firmness options makes this bed a great choice for nearly all body types and sleep positions.
The Best Mattresses for Arthritis and Joint Pain
- Best Mattress Overall – WinkBed
- Best Value Mattress – DreamCloud Premier
- Best Mattress for Side Sleepers – Helix Midnight
- Best Luxury Mattress – Saatva Rx
- Best Mattress for Pressure Relief – Leesa Oasis Chill Hybrid Mattress
- Best Mattress for Back Pain – Nolah Evolution 15
- Best Mattress for Hip Pain – Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
- Best Mattress for Spinal Alignment – Bear Elite Hybrid
- Best Temperature-Regulating Mattress – Nectar Premier
- Best Organic Mattress – Birch Mattress
Didn’t see one you liked? Try the Mattress Match.
Answer three questions to find mattresses that matches your sleep style. Our recommendation for you is based on over 450 different mattress options.
To learn more about these mattresses, please visit the detailed product profiles below. We’ve awarded each one a unique accolade based on areas where that model performed particularly well. Scroll down further for our buyer’s guide aimed at mattress buyers with arthritis-related considerations. We’ll discuss mattress qualities that can improve – or, in some cases, worsen – arthritis symptoms, price expectations for different mattress types, and mattress qualities you should take into account if you or your partner live with arthritis pain.
In-Depth Reviews
“If you live with arthritis or any other type of chronic pain, the WinkBed’s combo of adaptive cushioning layers and zoned coils can help alleviate your aches and soreness. There are four firmness levels available — most of our field testers are partial to the Luxury Firm — but you can exchange your first choice for a different design free of charge if you aren’t completely satisfied.” – Jeremy Klein, Senior Product Expert
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Pros
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Plush Euro-top provides pressure relief
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Zoned coil system ensures sturdy edge support
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Airflow through coils promotes breathability and temperature control
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Cons
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Coils can transfer more movement when switching positions
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Most versions of the mattress lack contouring and motion isolation
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Mattress Type
Innerspring
Firmness Options
Medium Soft (4), Medium Firm (6), Firm (7), Firm (8)
Price Range
$1,149 – $2,049
Trial Period
120 nights (30 night requirement)
Product Details
Many people with arthritis and joint pain also experience discomfort in the lower back and hips. A mattress that cushions the spine and provides strong overall support is essential to waking up without aches and pains. The WinkBed is designed to keep your body on an even plane while providing a comfortable, well-cushioned surface.
How It Performed
The WinkBed caters to sleepers across all weight ranges and sleep positions, thanks to its four firmness options. We found that side sleepers prefer the cushioned surface of the medium soft (4) and medium firm (6) models while back sleepers gravitate toward the firm (7) and firm (8). Stomach sleepers up to 230 pounds received the most support from the luxury firm and firm, while those over 230 pounds fared well on the firm (8). In general, those who weigh over 230 pounds will probably receive inadequate support from the softer options and may prefer the firm (7) or firm (8).
What It’s Made of
All firmness options of the WinkBed feature a Euro-top quilted with adaptive polyfoam encased in a breathable Tencel fabric cover. Beneath is a layer of proprietary SupportCell polyfoam with a higher-density composition than conventional polyfoam. The medium soft option includes an additional layer of polyfoam to enhance cushioning.
The support core is composed of a pocketed coil system zoned to offer enhanced support in the lumbar region and less support to lighter parts of the body. The coil system is reinforced with thicker coils around the perimeter to bolster edge support.
WinkBeds provides free ground shipping for all customers in the contiguous U.S. Your order includes a sleep trial that allows you to test out the WinkBed for up to 120 nights, along with a lifetime warranty that covers structural defects for as long as you own the mattress.
“If you’re seeking a hybrid that provides deep contouring and cushioning without sacrificing support, the DreamCloud Premier should check all of your boxes. Our team loved how plush and inviting the Euro-top surface felt, but very few of us sank to an excessive degree.” – Jackson Lindeke, Director of Product Experience
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Pros
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Luxury hybrid design with deep foam layers and a strong coil system
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Cooling cashmere-blend cover and steady interior airflow ensure excellent temperature control
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All orders include a year-long sleep trial
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Cons
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Stomach sleepers may find their midsections sink too deeply into the mattress
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Foam layers can emit a slight odor after unboxing
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Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium Firm (6)
Price Range
$699 – $1,798
Trial Period
365 nights (30-night requirement)
Product Details
The DreamCloud Premier offers luxurious construction at an approachable price. A Euro-top with thick foam layers over a pocketed coil system create a balanced feel with even contouring and stable support. The deep cushioning of this mattress is particularly well suited to people who experience arthritis-related pain and other conditions that cause frequent discomfort.
How It Performed
The side and back sleepers on our team awarded favorable ratings to the DreamCloud Premier during our hands-on tests. Those who weigh up to 230 pounds were particularly impressed with the mattress. The foam layers contour closely enough to improve spinal alignment and alleviate pressure for side sleepers, while the coils provide the support needed for back sleepers to lie comfortably without sinking too much around the midsection.
Temperature regulation is another major strength of the Premier. The cashmere-blend cover helps the mattress maintain a comfortable surface even on hot or humid nights, and the coil layer promotes steady airflow to keep the interior cool. We also found that the mattress isolates motion very well compared to other hybrid models. This can be attributed to the thick comfort system and pocketed coils that generate little to no transfer.
What It’s Made of
The Premier begins with a layer of adaptive polyfoam quilted into the Euro-top surface, followed by a memory foam comfort layer and a polyfoam transitional layer. These layers conform to your body without sinking or buckling beneath your weight, creating a luxuriously plush feel as you settle into the surface. The support core contains a pocketed coil system over a base layer of high-density polyfoam.
The entire mattress is encased in a cover woven with cashmere, a material that has natural cooling and moisture-wicking properties. Measuring 14 inches thick, the Premier is considered a high-profile mattress. Its feel is medium firm (6).
In addition to its affordable price-point, the DreamCloud Premier qualifies for free ground shipping anywhere in the contiguous U.S. DreamCloud’s 365-night sleep trial is among the longest in the online mattress industry. Those who keep their mattress also receive a lifetime warranty, which covers structural defects for as long as you retain original ownership of the mattress.
“Side sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds may have been Helix’s target demographic when they created the Midnight, but our tests show this mattress is balanced enough to accommodate most people regardless of how much they weigh or which position they use. Bonus points for the sturdy edge support, above-average motion isolation, and approachable pricing.” – Tom Ryan, Director of Product Testing
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Pros
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Plush foam layers adapt to the body to relieve pressure
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Breathable cover and steady internal airflow ensure excellent temperature regulation
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Reinforced coils prevent excessive sinkage along the edges
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Cons
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Sleepers who weigh more than 230 pounds may need a firmer model
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Couples may prefer a more responsive model for sex
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Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium Firm (6)
Price Range
$749 – $1,399
Trial Period
100 nights (30-night requirement)
Product Details
Helix offers a wide selection of hybrid mattresses to suit different types of sleepers. The Midnight is one of the most comfortable and balanced mattresses in this collection thanks to a medium firm (6) feel.
How It Performed
Side sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds on our team enjoyed the Midnight’s plush foam layers, which closely contoured to their shoulders and hips to reduce pressure. Back and stomach sleepers weighing less than 130 pounds should feel supported by the coil system, but those in higher weight categories may prefer a firmer mattress.
The Midnight has a plush surface that doesn’t interfere with its overall firmer feel. Extra coil support along the perimeter also reduces sinkage when weight is applied, so most people weighing up to 230 pounds will feel secure lying near the edges or getting in and out of bed. Air circulates freely through the coil system and the entire mattress is encased in a breathable Tencel cover, so people who run hot in bed should remain fairly cool throughout the night.
What It’s Made of
The Midnight begins with an adaptive memory foam layer that cushions the body without sinking or squeezing too tightly. Underneath is transitional polyfoam that ensures your weight is evenly distributed while preventing your body from sinking too deeply into the coils. The pocketed coil support core creates added stability for the lower back and hips – two areas where people with arthritis tend to feel sharp pains. Thicker coils are zoned along the perimeter of the mattress to help its edges bear your weight. A breathable polyester cover encases the mattress.
Despite the premium construction, the Midnight has a price-point that is lower than average for a hybrid model. Helix provides free ground shipping to all 50 states. The company’s sleep trial spans 100 nights in length, and the mattress is backed by a 10-year manufacturer’s warranty.
“The Saatva Rx combines adaptive foam layers with solid coil support, and the result is a hybrid that deeply cushions your sore spots while keeping your body on an even plane. This mattress was specifically designed to alleviate discomfort from arthritis and other types of chronic pain, and our testers agree it works as intended.” – Colin Simpson, Research Manager
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Pros
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Exceptionally soft surface contours closely to align the spine and alleviate pain
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Memory foam pad provides targeted lower back support
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All orders qualify for free White Glove delivery
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Cons
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May sink excessively for back and stomach sleepers weighing 130 pounds or more
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Thick profile requires a fitted sheet with deep pockets
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Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium Soft (4)
Price Range
$1,995 – $4,390
Trial Period
365 Nights ($99 Return Fee)
Product Details
The Rx is one of the newest entries to Saatva’s mattress lineup, and the only model specifically designed to reduce chronic pain. Ultra-plush foam layers over a coil-on-coil support system create a medium soft (4) feel, making the Rx much more adaptive than the average hybrid model. Foam-tipped pocketed coils also cut down on motion transfer, making the mattress a solid option for couples.
How It Performed
As a softer-than-average hybrid, the Rx performed differently than many of the other coil mattresses our team has tested. Side sleepers across all weight groups gave the Rx favorable ratings due to its close contouring and ample cushioning for the shoulders and hips. Back and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds also found the mattress comfortable, whereas heavier testers who use these positions noticed sinkage beneath their midsections — to an excessive degree, in some cases.
We were impressed with the Rx’s performance when testing the mattress for pressure relief and motion isolation, two areas where hybrids often struggle. Strong ratings in both categories can be attributed to the deep comfort system. At the same time, some of us felt “stuck” when moving across the surface and noticed deep compression when lying or sitting along the edges.
What It’s Made of
The Rx’s comfort system begins with a strip of dense memory foam located beneath the lower back, which is intended to alleviate pain and pressure in your lumbar region. A cooling gel infusion helps the foam resist heat buildup. Microcoils encased in dense polyfoam provide additional cushioning while creating a buffer between your body and the support core.
Pocketed coils stabilize the mattress and reinforce the sleep surface, but each coil is topped with a foam tip to minimize motion transfer when you and your partner change sleep positions or get up during the night. A breathable organic cotton cover treated with Guardin antimicrobial agent encases the mattress. At 15 inches thick, the Rx is a high-profile model and requires a deep-pocket fitted sheet.
Although the Rx is on the expensive side, Saatva sweetens the deal with free White Glove delivery anywhere in the contiguous U.S. This service includes full setup in your room of choice and removal of your old mattress and box spring upon request. Additional perks include a generous sleep trial spanning 365 nights and a lifetime warranty for those who decide to keep the mattress after the trial ends.
Best Mattress for Pressure Relief
Leesa Oasis Chill Hybrid Mattress
20% off mattresses + free pillows at Leesa
$1,343 at Leesa
“If you enjoy beds that hug your body, the Leesa Oasis Chill Hybrid might be right up your alley. The bed comes in two firmness options, and both have thick foam comfort systems that conform closely to relieve pressure buildup.” — Jackson Lindeke, Director of Product Experience
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Pros
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Plush surface excels at pressure relief
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Two firmness options available
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Foam layers help reduce motion transfer
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Cons
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Stomach sleepers over 130 pounds may need a firmer mattress for support
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Some sleepers might prefer a bed with sturdier edges
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Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium Soft (4), Medium (5)
Price Range
$1,259 – $2,039
Trial Period
100 nights (30 night requirement)
Product Details
The Leesa Oasis Chill Hybrid is available in two firmness levels, and we found that both offer excellent cushioning for sleepers with sensitive or arthritic joints. The foam layers create a plusher surface compared to many competing hybrids we’ve tested in our lab.
How It Performed
One of the standout qualities of this mattress is the excellent pressure relief, which we attribute to the triple foam layers in the comfort system. The mixed-foam design deeply cradles your body while the sturdy coils generate enough pushback to keep your lower back from sinking too much. Another highlight that we attribute to the foam layers is strong motion isolation. Foam absorbs a lot of motion and noise, so you’ll barely feel movement if a sleep partner moves at night.
What It’s Made of
The Leesa Oasis Chill Hybrid is available in a medium soft (4) or medium (5) design, and both feature three foam layers over a thick coil system. The top polyfoam layer is quilted into the cover and is infused with a cooling gel. This is followed by memory foam with a copper infusion intended to reduce heat retention. Beneath is another memory foam layer that cushions your body but is responsive enough to prevent deep sinkage. The coil system is zoned to deliver extra support and pressure relief where they’re most needed on your body.
The Leesa Oasis Chill Hybrid comes with a 100-night sleep trial, and the bed is further backed by a 10-year warranty. Leesa offers free shipping to all 50 states.
Best Mattress for Back Pain
Nolah Evolution 15
35% off mattresses + 2 free pillows at Nolah
$1,624 at Nolah Sleep
“The Nolah Evolution 15 is a solid choice for combination sleepers. Adaptive foam over zoned coils is a promising combo for any position, and the foam layers are dense enough to minimize sinkage when you switch between your side, back, and stomach.” – Jackson Lindeke, Director of Product Experience
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Pros
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Balanced hybrid design pairs a plush Euro-top with a robust coil system
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Three firmness options
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Breathable foams and steady internal airflow allow the mattress to sleep very cool
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Cons
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Returns will incur a $99 transportation fee
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Responsive surface may transfer more movement at night
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Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium (5), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)
Price Range
$1,004 – $2,143
Trial Period
120 nights (30-night requirement)
Product Details
The Nolah Evolution is a Euro-top hybrid available in three firmness levels: medium (5), medium firm (6), and firm (8). This selection, which ranges from deep contouring to sturdy support, should accommodate most people with arthritis regardless of their weight or which sleep position they primarily use.
How It Performed
Each firmness level offers distinct benefits for sleepers. The medium feel conformed very closely during tests, cushioning the body and improving spinal alignment. This option best suited side-sleeping testers who weigh up to 230 pounds and back sleepers under 130 pounds. Firm models are quite supportive and barely contour at all, so back and stomach sleepers over 230 pounds will probably prefer these models. If you fall in the middle of these weight ranges, you should consider the medium firm Evolution 15, the most balanced of the three.
Breathable foams, a cooling cover, and excellent air circulation allowed the mattress to excel at temperature control during tests. The foams used in the comfort system are more responsive than memory foam, and the coils generate a fair amount of bounce, so the surface was also fairly easy to move across for our testers. This was especially true of firm models.
What It’s Made of
The Evolution 15’s Euro-top is cushioned with a layer of open-cell polyfoam. A border gusset around this layer is intended to capture and dissipate body heat near the surface. Three additional foam layers make up the comfort system, including a comfort layer of proprietary AirFoamICE designed to promote additional cooling. The support core contains pocketed coils divided into three zones, resulting in more reinforcement for the midsection and softer cradling for the head, shoulders, and legs. The dense base layer is composed of plant-based material, and the entire mattress is encased in a cooling ArcticTex fabric cover.
Six standard sizes are available, as well as a split king size for adjustable beds. Nolah offers free ground shipping throughout the contiguous U.S. All Evolution 15 purchases are backed by a 120-night sleep trial, but customers may opt out of the trial period and reduce their up-front costs. The mattress is also protected with a lifetime warranty against structural defects.
Best Mattress for Hip Pain
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
Save 25% sitewide at Brooklyn Bedding
$999 at Brooklyn Bedding
“Brooklyn Bedding’s Signature Hybrid is well-made, affordable, and effective at cushioning and soothing sore spots. As a back sleeper, the medium firm design felt most comfortable to me, but we found each design caters nicely to different types of sleepers.” – Danny Noyed, Senior Product Editor
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Pros
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Adaptive foam layers contour evenly without the “hug” of memory foam
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Three firmness levels to accommodate different sleep positions and body types
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Optional pillow-top with cooling cover softens the surface and dissipates heat
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Cons
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Side sleepers under 130 pounds may find all three designs too firm
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Firmness exchanges not available during the trial period
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Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium Soft (4), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)
Price Range
$499 – $1,199
Trial Period
120 nights (30-night requirement)
Product Details
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid earns points for a simple yet thoughtful design and approachable sticker price. Adaptive foam layers over sturdy coils help ensure a good balance of cushioning and support, and you can choose from three firmness levels to further optimize your personal comfort. Our testing team also appreciated the feel of the Signature Hybrid’s foam layers, which contour closely but shouldn’t hug too tightly — a common complaint about memory foam.
How It Performed
Our team tested all three of the Signature Hybrid’s firmness levels. Side sleepers up to 230 pounds and back sleepers under 130 pounds awarded the medium soft (4) design its highest ratings. You should opt for this model if you enjoy deep cushioning from your sleep surface. Conversely, those who need maximum support — such as back and stomach sleepers over 230 pounds — may want to consider the firm (8) design. The medium firm (6) model was most popular, making it a solid “Goldilocks” option if you enjoy moderate contouring and solid reinforcement without too much pushback.
The softest mattress performed well during our pressure relief and motion isolation tests, while we awarded favorable ratings to the two firmer models in categories like edge support and ease of movement. All three earned high marks for temperature control, but the optional pillow-top encased in phase change material provides an extra cooling boost for exceptionally hot sleepers.
What It’s Made of
The Signature Hybrid’s three firmness levels slightly differ in terms of material composition, but all share the same core design beginning with TitanFlex polyfoam comfort layers and VariFlex polyfoam transitional layers. Both of these proprietary materials cushion the body and contour evenly, but also feel somewhat responsive. The result is a surface that melds the moldability of memory foam and the bounce of latex.
Pocketed coils over base foam make up the Signature Hybrid’s support core. A cotton cover encases the mattress. For an extra fee, you can add a pillow-top layer consisting of plush polyfoam and a heat-dissipating phase change cover. This component makes the mattress noticeably softer and cooler. The Signature Hybrid is sold in 14 sizes, including a few RV-friendly options.
In addition to a below-average sticker price, the Signature Hybrid qualifies for free ground delivery throughout the contiguous U.S. Brooklyn Bedding offers a 120-night sleep trial for all orders. Firmness exchanges are not permitted during this time frame. If you decide to keep the mattress after the trial concludes, it’s further backed by a 10-year manufacturer’s warranty.
Best Mattress for Spinal Alignment
Bear Elite Hybrid
35% off + 2 free pillows at Bear. Code: SF35
$1,499 at Bear
“We’re confident people living with back pain will find relief with the Bear Elite Hybrid — it just comes down to choosing the right firmness level. Side sleepers on our team prefer the plusher medium feel, whereas back and stomach sleepers receive the support they need from the medium firm and firm models.” – Tom Ryan, Director of Product Testing
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Pros
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Foam layers cushion sensitive pressure points
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Supportive coil system prevents excessive sinkage
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Cooling fabric maintains temperature neutrality
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Cons
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Coil system may generate motion transfer that causes disturbances for some couples
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Foam layers can produce off-gassing odor
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Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium (5), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)
Price Range
$1,231 – $2,548
Trial Period
120 nights (30-night break-in period)
The Bear Elite Hybrid is an excellent match for sleepers who seek relief from painful pressure points at night. The foam layers and responsive coils cradle joints where pressure tends to build up while also delivering enough support to ensure healthy sleep posture.
How It Performed
The mattress is available in three firmness levels — medium (5), medium firm (6), and firm (8). This versatility makes the Bear Elite Hybrid a good fit for most types of sleepers. Side and back sleepers up to 130 pounds found the medium option most comfortable, thanks to the ample cushioning for the shoulders, neck, and spine. The medium firm model was comfortable for most back and side sleepers up to 230 pounds. The balance of cushioning and support in this model is perfect for these sleepers, who need the best of both worlds to keep the head, neck, and spine in healthy alignment. The firm model earned the highest marks from back and stomach sleepers over 130 pounds.
Hot sleepers will appreciate the cooling properties of the Celliant fabric and phase change material in the cover, as well as the ample air circulating through the coils. We found the bed also excels in responsiveness. If you prefer mattresses that are easy to move around on, the Bear Elite Hybrid is a good choice.
What It’s Made of
The bed starts with a quilted cover followed by a memory foam layer that closely contours to the body. A transitional polyfoam layer enhances the contouring but has a firmer feel than the memory foam. This helps support the body and prevents it from sinking into the bed. The support core is composed of pocketed coils that excel in support but also have a responsive feel. The coils are zoned to boost support to the lumbar area.
Bear offers a 120-night sleep trial with the Elite Hybrid. If you keep the bed, you also receive a lifetime warranty. The mattress ships free to the contiguous U.S.
Best Temperature-Regulating Mattress
Nectar Premier
Up to 40% off mattresses at Nectar
$949 at Nectar
“As beneficial as all-foam mattresses can be for people with arthritis, these models catch a bad rap for sleeping hot. The Nectar Premier solves this issue with a layer of phase change material infused into the top surface. Our temperature control tests reveal heat buildup levels that fall well below average.” – Logan Foley, Managing Editor
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Pros
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All-foam composition deeply contours to the body to relieve pressure buildup
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Phase change material in the comfort system is intended to regulate surface temperature
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365-night sleep trial
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Cons
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Back and stomach sleepers weighing at least 130 pounds may experience uncomfortable sinkage
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Foam layers may emit off-gassing odor
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Mattress Type
Foam
Firmness Options
Medium Firm (6)
Price Range
$699 – $1,598
Trial Period
365 nights
Product Details
Sleepers with arthritis often appreciate mattresses made with adaptive foam comfort systems, which typically offer excellent pressure relief for the joints. However, these mattress types can often trap more heat. The Nectar Premier is a notable exception, using phase change material and proprietary cooling technology to prevent heat buildup.
How It Performed
The Premier has a medium firm (6) feel that performed best among our side-sleeping testers who weigh at least 130 pounds. These sleepers often experience pressure buildup in their hips and shoulders, and our testers noted the adaptive foam layers helped reduce this discomfort. For this reason, we also recommend the Premier for sleepers with persistent joint pain. Back sleepers weighing less than 130 pounds also found it comfortable and received cushioning for their lumbar area without sinking excessively.
Cooling was a standout feature for the Premier, but it performed well in other categories as well. We highly recommend this pick for couples who value motion isolation. The mattress’ foam construction absorbed nearly all movement and noise during our tests. You should notice little to no sleep disturbances when your partner switches positions or gets up at night.
What It’s Made of
Gel-infused memory foam in the top layer adapts to your body to relieve pressure buildup. The gel in this layer is designed to absorb and dissipate heat, and this layer features phase change material (PCM) for enhanced cooling. PCM reacts to your body heat and regulates the surface temperature throughout the night. A dense polyfoam transitional layer ensures your weight is evenly distributed across the mattress surface.
The support core features high-density polyfoam that prevents your midsection from sinking too deeply into the mattress, promoting healthy sleep posture. A cover made from a polyester/nylon blend encases the mattress.
Along with the competitive price-point, Nectar ships free to customers in the contiguous U.S. The Premier is backed by a 365-night sleep trial, one of the longest in the industry. During the trial, you can test the mattress and return it for a full refund. The mattress is backed by a lifetime warranty against structural defects.
“As someone who doesn’t care much for memory foam, I love how responsive and bouncy the Birch feels. Gentle cushioning from the latex and robust coil support prevents pressure from building up in my shoulders and hips, which can be an issue for a side sleeper like me.” – Lauren Fountain, Senior Editor
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Pros
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Composed of sustainably sourced latex and organic cover materials
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Hybrid construction with reinforced perimeter coils ensures excellent edge support
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Free shipping to all 50 states and a lifetime warranty
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Cons
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Above-average pricing and fees for returns
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Side sleepers who weigh less than 130 pounds may prefer a mattress with more surface cushioning
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Mattress Type
Latex Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium Firm (6)
Price Range
$1,099 – $1,799
Trial Period
100 nights (30-night requirement)
Product Details
For many sleepers with arthritis, a combination of body contouring and even support is key to managing nightly aches and pains. The Birch Mattress is a medium firm (6) latex hybrid that delivers a balanced feel. The mattress’ components are also quite breathable and the coils distribute air evenly throughout the interior, so it should sleep cool for most people regardless of where they live.
How It Performed
Our testers found that the mid-range firmness and moderate contouring was particularly well suited to people in the range of 130 to 230 pounds, regardless of which sleep position they prefer. The surface was just cushioned enough to cradle sensitive joints such as the hips and shoulders, but the coils delivered plenty of support to keep your body from sagging. Since the Birch Mattress is a latex hybrid, you can expect more responsiveness on the surface.
What It’s Made of
The mattress begins with a comfort layer of Talalay latex that conforms to the body without hugging too tightly while pocketed coils stabilize the entire mattress. A base layer of wool and rayon acts as a fire barrier while providing reinforcement for the coils. Extra-strength outer coils create strong perimeter support. This ensures added stability when you sleep near the edges of your mattress or get in and out of bed.
Eco-conscious shoppers should be drawn to this model due to its environmentally friendly composition. The latex has earned certification from the Rainforest Alliance, indicating the rubber trees that produce the latex have been sustainably grown. The cotton cover is certified as organic by the Global Organic Textile Standard, while the fire barrier is made of natural wool.
Birch is one of the only online mattress brands to offer free ground shipping to customers in all 50 states. Each purchase is backed by a sleep trial that runs 100 nights in length, as well as a manufacturer’s warranty covering structural defects in the mattress for up to 25 years after you purchase it.
Data-Driven Results You Can Trust
We’ve tested hundreds of mattresses firsthand. Drawing on our expertise, we’ve picked the models that can help prevent the kind of aches and pressure points that exacerbate arthritis. Our team includes testers with different body types and position preferences, ensuring our ratings are inclusive of all sleepers.
How Our Testing Process Works
Our mattress evaluations focused on pressure buildup, ease of movement, durability, and motion isolation, all of which can affect how comfortable people with arthritis feel in bed. We also use thermal imaging technology to determine how well a mattress regulates temperature and measure sinkage when testers sit or lie along the edges of the mattress.
To learn more about our testing process, check out our product research methodology below:
motion isolation
We use this criteria to evaluate how well a bed absorbs movement. Couples and co-sleepers may prefer a bed with strong motion isolation to avoid waking each other up at night.
temperature control
Design and materials can affect how cool a mattress feels on the surface. Beds typically regulate temperature well if they contain latex layers, coils, phase change material, or proprietary cooling fabrics and foams.
pressure relief
Sleepers who experience arthritis and joint pain usually prefer beds with strong pressure relief. These mattresses offer deep contouring to cradle sensitive areas that are prone to painful pressure buildup.
off gassing
Most beds release off-gassing odor after they are unboxed. While the smell is unpleasant, it typically dissipates within 2 to 3 days – though some beds produce odor that lingers longer.
ease of movement
This criteria measures how a mattress facilitates movement across the surface. Beds with a responsive or bouncy feel usually provide greater ease of movement.
edge support
If you struggle to get in and out of bed, strong edge support may be an important feature to have in a mattress. When testing edge support, we evaluate the amount of sagging that occurs when sleepers sit or sleep near the bed’s perimeter.
sex
Ideal beds for sex are a matter of personal preference, but many people may prefer beds with a responsive or bouncy feel. This enables easier movement across the surface.
body weight
Body weight plays a big role in firmness preference. People with arthritis and joint pain will want a mattress with adequate firmness and support for their particular weight category.
Dive Deeper – In-Depth Mattress Guides
If you need further help choosing a mattress that checks all of your boxes, you can read through our detailed guides broken down by mattresses for your particular requirements.
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How to Choose a Mattress for Arthritis and Joint Pain
Choosing a mattress is a big decision for anyone, but it can be particularly impactful for people living from joint pain. This section will highlight some of the most important things to consider when selecting a new mattress.
What to Look for in a Mattress
While comfort preferences may vary between individuals, some factors tend to come into play in determining a mattress’s overall performance. It may help to consider these categories when selecting the best mattress for you.
- Price: A mattress can cost anywhere between a few hundred and a few thousand dollars. A cheap mattress may be easy on the pocketbook, but some higher-priced models are also good values for their durability and advanced features. When budgeting for their mattress purchase, those with joint pain might want to leave room in case they purchase additional accessories for added comfort. Adjustable bed frames, pillows, and mattress toppers may be helpful tools to customize the sleep surface to better meet an individual’s needs and preferences.
- Contouring: Contouring is how a mattress adjusts to a sleeper’s body shape. A mattress that contours well allows a sleeper’s wider, heavier body parts to sink in, which can help support better spinal alignment. Better spinal alignment may help reduce some of the aches and pains often associated with sleeping.
- Quality Materials: High-quality materials are often more expensive, but they may also contribute to superior performance and durability. Since higher-quality materials often resist sagging and indentations, they could help ensure that a comfortable mattress remains comfortable longer.
- Firmness Level: While firmness preferences are subjective, they tend to be closely linked to an individual’s weight. Lighter individuals usually prefer a softer mattress that allows them to sink in enough to enjoy contouring, while heavier individuals tend to prefer a firmer model for more support. A mattress that is too soft may lead to spinal strain, and a mattress that is too firm could contribute to pressure buildup, so people with arthritis and joint pain may benefit from selecting their firmness level carefully.
- Pressure Relief: Pressure relief may be one of the most important factors for people with joint pain to consider when selecting a mattress. Body parts that are wider or heavier apply more force to a mattress. If the mattress does not have strong pressure relief, pressure could build up in these areas. Pressure relief is usually directly linked to contouring because mattresses that contour to the sleeper’s body help redistribute their weight more evenly across the surface.
- Edge Support: Edge support refers to how sturdy the perimeter of the bed feels. A strong perimeter may make it easier for people with arthritis-related mobility issues to sit on the edge of the bed, which may, in turn, facilitate getting into or out of bed. Individuals who frequently sleep near the perimeter of the bed may also feel more secure on a bed with good edge support.
- Temperature Regulation: Depending on their materials and construction, mattresses may retain heat or allow it to dissipate away from the sleep surface. Individuals who tend to sleep hot usually prefer a breathable sleep surface. Latex, hybrid, and innerspring models tend to have the strongest temperature regulation, but some all-foam models also have features to support cooling airflow through the mattress.
- Ease of Movement: Ease of movement can affect how easy it is to change positions on a mattress. Mattresses with materials that conform closely and/or are slow to respond to changes in pressure are usually the most difficult to move on. Softer, high-density memory foam comfort layers are sometimes associated with a “trapped in the bed” feel, while latex, coils, and more responsive foams are generally easier to move on. Those with joint pain who have mobility issues may prefer a more responsive mattress.
- Mattress Type: The type of mattress may influence its potential benefits and drawbacks. Hybrid, innerspring, latex, airbed, and foam are the most common types of mattresses, and any of these may be a good choice for some sleepers with arthritis. We’ll discuss these mattress types in greater depth below.
How Does Sleeping Position Affect Joint Pain?
As with any condition that causes pain or discomfort, arthritis could make it harder to get restful, quality sleep. Aches and pains may make it harder to fall asleep or could lead to tossing and turning during the night. The position someone uses could either reduce or contribute to pain. Depending on an individual’s pains, they may prefer any sleep position. However, most experts usually recommend back or side sleeping. If you continue to experience arthritis and/or joint pain that interrupts your sleep, we recommend talking to your doctor.
“Sleep and pain have a bidirectional relationship, and the current data suggest that the effects of sleep on pain are likely stronger than the effects of pain on sleep. Focusing on improving your sleep quality may help with your overall pain level. Common changes to sleep quality could include difficulty falling and/or staying asleep, more sleep fragmentation (i.e., more awakenings during the night), early morning awakenings, and unrefreshing/non-restorative sleep.”
– Sarah Silverman, Psy.D., a licensed psychologist and holistic sleep wellness consultant who treats patients in New York and Florida.
Back Sleepers
Back sleeping can have both pros and cons for people with chronic pain pain. Neck pain could be aggravated by sleeping face up. However, some people find sleeping on their backs alleviates their lower-back pain. Others may experience more back pain in this position, but the Cleveland Clinic suggests that placing a pillow under the knees could help.
The right mattress can help support a back sleeper’s natural spinal alignment. If the mattress sags excessively near the midsection, the sleeper could experience strain in their lower backs. If the mattress is too firm, they might have some pressure buildup around their hips. Since sagging tends to be the most common problem for back sleepers, many people who prefer this sleep position select a firmer-than-average mattress to get the support they need.
Side Sleepers
People tend to be wider near their shoulders and hips, so these body parts usually put more force on the mattress when a person sleeps on their side. This can contribute to pressure points.
Without the right mattress, a side sleeper’s spinal alignment could also become uneven. Too soft of a mattress may allow the shoulders and hips to sink in excessively, while too firm of a mattress may not allow them to sink in enough. Either of these options could put a strain on a side sleeper’s lower back.
Side sleepers could also experience knee and hip pain from their legs resting on each other. Some side sleepers place a pillow between their knees for added relief for their hips and knees.
Stomach Sleepers
Most experts do not recommend stomach sleeping, but some people prefer it.
People tend to carry extra weight near their midsections, which could pull their hips too far into the mattress and put a strain on their lower backs. Since stomach sleepers often turn their heads to the side, they may also strain the neck. Some stomach sleepers prefer to use a thin pillow or no pillow to keep their neck in a more neutral position. Thicker pillows may force the neck to extend backward, contributing to additional strain.
If you want to transition away from sleeping on your stomach, using a body pillow may help.
Combination Sleepers
Combination sleeping can bring together the potential benefits and drawbacks of multiple sleep positions. Switching positions during the night can shift the location of strain and/or pressure. Depending on which sleep positions the person prefers, they may still experience pressure buildup in their hips and shoulders, lower back strain, and/or neck strain. However, switching positions may make these aches and pains less pronounced.
What Type of Mattress is Best for Arthritis and Joint Pain
Hybrid, innerspring, latex, airbed, and foam mattresses are the major types of mattresses currently sold. Each mattress model may have some variations from other mattresses that use similar constructions due to differences in materials, quality, and construction techniques. However, there are some common similarities between mattresses in each category.
Hybrid
Definition: Hybrid models pair comfort layers of memory foam, polyfoam, latex, wool, microcoils, and/or other materials with a coil support system. This combination usually gives some of the benefits of innerspring and foam or latex mattresses with fewer drawbacks.
Highlight: Balanced Support and Contouring. People with joint pain may enjoy cushioning, contouring, and pressure relief from a hybrid mattress’s comfort system. The coil core tends to give more even support, which could be beneficial for spinal alignment.
Innerspring
Definition: Innerspring models are generally seen as the most traditional type of mattress. They consist primarily of springs. While they may have a comfort layer for cushioning, this layer is usually thin.
Highlight: Stable Support. High-quality innerspring mattresses do not permit much sinkage and usually have a relatively even plane. People with joint pain who want support without a lot of contouring may like innerspring models.
Latex
Definition: Natural latex is made from the sap of the rubber tree. Latex mattresses may include natural latex, synthetic latex, or a blend. Dunlop latex is generally denser, while Talalay latex has a bouncier feel.
Highlight: Pressure Relief Without Hug. Latex has low point elasticity, which means that rather than compressing exclusively directly under the sleeper’s weight, it spreads the compression over a wider area. This lends to pressure relief without the hug often associated with memory foam, so those with joint pain who have mobility issues may find a latex mattress easier to move on.
Airbed
Definition: The support system of an airbed consists of fillable air chambers. These chambers can usually be filled or emptied using either a crank, a remote control, or an app. Airbeds may also contain comfort layers for added cushioning, though these comfort layers are usually relatively thin.
Highlight: Adjustable Firmness. The firmness of an airbed can be adjusted by filling or emptying the air chambers. Arthritis and people with joint pain may appreciate the flexibility of being able to change the firmness of their mattress to adjust their current preferences. Additionally, many airbeds have separate air chambers on each side of the bed, allowing partners to select different firmness settings.
Foam
Definition: Foam mattresses are constructed of multiple layers of foam. These may include memory foam, polyfoam, or a combination of both. Most foam mattresses use softer, closer conforming foam in their comfort layers and firm polyfoam in their support cores.
Highlight: Close Conforming. All-foam models often conform more closely than other types of mattresses. People with joint pain looking for a pressure-relieving hug may enjoy this close conforming.
Last Things to Consider with a Mattress for Arthritis and Joint Pain
Purchasing a mattress is a big decision, and you may still have some lingering questions or concerns. We’ll answer some of the top questions customers have when buying a new mattress.
How Can I Get Relief On a Budget?
While there are budget-friendly mattresses on the market that could be good options for people with arthritis, pillows and mattress toppers may also prove effective. A good pillow can help support your natural spinal alignment. Some people with arthritis may also like a wedge pillow to support their knees or upper bodies. If your existing mattress is in good condition but you’re looking for more pressure relief, a quality mattress topper can add plushness and contouring without the expense of replacing the whole mattress.
How Much of an Investment Do I Need to Make?
Budget-friendly mattresses may cost just a few hundred dollars. These models often offer strong pressure relief and good support, but some may be more prone to forming impressions over time. Higher-priced models may seem like a big investment, but quality materials and construction can help the mattress last longer, which may make it a better value in the long run. Direct-to-consumer mattresses sold online are often less expensive, since the manufacturer isn’t paying for showrooms and additional staff. These “mattress in a box” models are comparable to those sold in brick-and-mortar stores in terms of construction and performance.
Mattress Warranty and Other Policies
A company’s policies may play a role in your purchasing decision. The shipping, trial period, and warranty may be particularly important to consider.
Customers with joint pain may find it more challenging to set up their mattresses. If you need assistance, you may want to consider whether the company offers White Glove delivery. Most online mattress companies offer trial periods that give customers a chance to try the mattress at home. Those with arthritis may use this window to determine whether the mattress provides any relief. Finally, the mattress’s warranty can provide customers with additional protection for their purchase.
Why Buy a New Mattress?
Sleepers invest in new beds for different reasons, whether it’s to help alleviate painful pressure buildup or simply to upgrade an old bed. We asked thousands of Sleep Foundation readers why they purchase new mattresses. Below are three of the top reasons from our poll.
Mattresses for Arthritis FAQ
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that causes joint problems such as pain, swelling, and stiffness. RA is most common in the wrists and fingers, but can affect other joints. The condition may also spread to the eyes, mouth, lungs, and other areas of the body.
People with RA usually feel comfortable on mattresses that cradle the spine and cushion other areas of the body. This can take pressure off of the affected joints. At the same time, the mattress should feel firm and supportive enough to keep your body upright without sinking too much beneath heavier areas like the midsection and hips. Memory foam mattresses, latex mattresses, and hybrids often meet this criteria. The adjustable firmness of an airbed may also appeal to people with RA, especially if their ideal firmness level varies with the degree of pain they experience on a given night.
Sleepers with RA who weigh less than 130 pounds may find a soft or medium soft mattress most comfortable. Those who weigh between 130 and 230 pounds will probably prefer a medium to medium firm feel instead, since people with heavier weights generally require the support of firmer beds. People with RA who weigh more than 230 pounds may need a firm or extra firm mattress to feel comfortable while they sleep.
The best mattress firmness for anyone with arthritis comes down to that person’s body type and primary sleep position. A firm mattress – which corresponds to 7 or 8 on the 1-10 firmness scale – offers stronger support than softer models, but also won’t conform as closely to the body. People with arthritis who weigh more than 230 pounds and those who sleep on their backs and/or stomachs will probably feel most comfortable on a firm mattress.
However, everyone has different preferences regardless of their weight or sleep position. We recommend testing out mattresses with different firmness levels to determine which best meets your needs and reduces your arthritis pain.
Memory foam becomes softer when exposed to body heat, allowing it to conform closely around the unique contours of your body. This cradling effect results in even weight distribution, optimal spinal alignment, and – for many people – fewer pressure points in sensitive areas like the shoulders and hips. If you feel less arthritis pain on softer surfaces with more cushioning, then a memory foam mattress may be right for you.
If you prefer less contouring and a more even, supportive surface, then you may want to consider a latex mattress over a memory foam model. Latex conforms to the body without hugging or sinking and keeps the body upright. It also sleeps cooler than foam, so a latex mattress may be a good alternative if you sleep hot.
Still have questions?
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Logan is a Certified Sleep Science Coach with a deep understanding of what it means to struggle with sleep. Her years of experience researching and testing sleep products – including mattresses, natural sleep aids, and bedding – are critical to her role helping lead the editorial team. As a chronic insomniac, she aims to bring her findings to anyone struggling with getting adequate rest. Her expertise is in creating informative, trustworthy, and useful health content. When she’s not testing mattresses or researching CBT-I, she enjoys spending time in the sunshine with her husband and her dogs Pepper and Winston.
Dr. Iyo is a Doctor of Physical Therapy at an orthopedic clinic in Seattle. She specializes in hands-on therapy and tailored exercise programs.