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If you live with back pain, choosing the right mattress is crucial for getting a good night’s sleep.

Sleep is imperative for recovery, and a mattress that lacks proper support for sleep posture and spinal alignment can worsen existing aches and pains. Our testing has shown that the best mattresses help alleviate pain and enable deeper, more restorative sleep by supporting the spine.

Our team has evaluated hundreds of mattresses using a comprehensive methodology that incorporates several performance categories. For these picks, our testers focused on the categories specifically related to back pain like pressure relief, support, and ease of movement.

Spoiler Alert – Here’s Our Pick for Best Mattress for Back Pain

For back pain, we recommend beds that carefully balance support and pressure relief. Our testers found the WinkBed performed well in these categories thanks to its combination of adaptive foam and sturdy coils.

Jump to:  Best Mattresses for Back Pain  |  Full Reviews  |  How We Test  |  How to Shop

Watch Video: We Tested the Best Mattresses for Back Pain — Here Are Our Favorites

Real Testing by Real Experts
We’ve compiled our top-rated mattresses based on findings in our testing lab. Our team has tested more than 1,300 mattresses to determine how each model performs in various contexts. We’ve conducted extensive research into the causes and effects of back pain, working with medical experts and everyday people to pinpoint what makes a mattress a good match for those living with back pain. For more information about how we test mattresses, check out our methodology section below.

We’ve also included an informative buyer’s guide that covers common causes of back pain in bed, the best types of mattresses to alleviate it, and how to choose the right mattress based on construction and materials.

Our Recommendations

Best Overall Mattress for Back Pain

WinkBed

4.9

Price Range:

$1,149 – $2,049

Mattress Type:

Innerspring

Firmness Option:

Medium Soft (4), Medium Firm (6), Firm (7), Firm (8)

Pros

  1. Four firmness options cater to a wide array of sleepers
  2. Zoned pocketed coils in support core
  3. Foam Euro-top promotes cushioning and pressure relief

Cons

  1. Foam may produce some initial off-gassing
  2. Some may find coils too bouncy
Bottom Line — Why It Makes the Cut

“One of the standout features of the WinkBed is its truly balanced feel, from light contouring in the quilted foam surface to firm pushback from the zoned coil system. Three of our field testers have been sleeping on WinkBeds for 2 years and they all report excellent support and reduced back pain.”

– Daniel Noyed, Senior Editor, Product

Product Details

If you carry extra weight around the midsection, a mattress with zoned layers might be a solid investment. The WinkBed is a luxury hybrid available in four firmness options, so most people should find at least one design that feels comfortable and supportive. The company’s generous return policy also allows you to exchange your initial selection if you aren’t satisfied with how soft or firm it feels.

How It Performed

Our team tested each version of the WinkBed. Those weighing less than 130 pounds found the medium soft (4) feel most comfortable, particularly the side sleepers on our team. The medium firm (6) feel received favorable ratings from testers weighing 130 to 230 pounds across all three position groups. Our back and stomach sleepers weighing 130 pounds or more also found the firm (7) design comfortable, and those weighing more than 230 pounds were impressed by the robust support of the WinkBed Plus (8).

Thanks to the zoned coils, the WinkBed performed well during our tests for edge support and ease of movement. Most of our testers were able to move across the surface of the mattress with little resistance, and the perimeter felt stable as we mimicked movements associated with getting in and out of bed, tying our shoes, and changing positions near the edges. Temperature control was another strength of the WinkBed during our tests. This can be attributed to steady airflow throughout the coil system and the breathable, moisture-wicking Tencel cover.

What It’s Made of

The medium soft, medium firm, and firm WinkBed models feature adaptive polyfoam quilted into the surface, followed by a layer of denser foam for added cushioning and reinforcement for your body. WinkBed Plus models swap out the second foam layer for zoned latex, which feels highly responsive and shouldn’t buckle too much beneath your body — even if you weigh more than 230 pounds.

All WinkBeds feature zoned pocketed coils in their support cores. Thicker coils line the perimeter to protect the edges from deep sinkage, and also rest beneath your chest and hips to push back against the extra weight of these areas. A cover made of eucalyptus-derived Tencel fabric encases the entire mattress.

Customers in the contiguous U.S. receive free ground shipping with their WinkBed purchase, and each mattress comes with a 120-night trial period. As part of WinkBeds’ return policy, you may exchange your initial mattress for a softer or firmer model if you aren’t satisfied with how it feels. The replacement mattress comes with its own 60-night trial. All WinkBed mattresses are additionally backed by lifetime warranties.

Best Value Mattress for Back Pain

DreamCloud Mattress

4.7

Price Range:

$499 – $999

Mattress Type:

Hybrid

Firmness Option:

Medium Firm (6)

Pros

  1. Medium firm feel with a balance of contouring and support
  2. Breathable cashmere blend cover
  3. Lifetime warranty and 365-night sleep trial

Cons

  1. Foam layers can emit strong initial off-gassing
  2. Stomach sleepers over 230 pounds may prefer a firmer mattress
Bottom Line — Why It Makes the Cut

“After a year of sleeping on the DreamCloud, our product field tester reported a significant improvement in back pain and less tossing and turning. The plush foam layers ease pressure off sensitive joints while the robust coil system keeps your lower back plenty supported.”

– Lauren Fountain, Senior Editor

Product Details

The DreamCloud Mattress is a hybrid that combines adaptive comfort layers with a strong support system. A medium firm (6) feel ensures cushioning for the shoulders, lower back, and hips, but our testers found the thick pocketed coils maintained an even surface for their bodies and minimized uncomfortable sinkage around the midsection — a common source of aches and pains. Approachable pricing and a generous sleep trial sweeten the deal even further if you’re shopping on a budget.

How It Performed

While the DreamCloud’s strongest ratings came from our side sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds, the mattress was well received by testers across a wide range of body types and sleep positions. Ample cushioning prevented our side sleepers from feeling sharp pressure points in their shoulders and hips, which often occur for people who use this position. The back sleepers on our team didn’t sink too much despite the thick, adaptive foam layers.

Temperature control was another performance area where the DreamCloud excelled during our tests. We’ve attributed the mattress’ above-average cooling to a moisture-wicking cashmere-blend cover and steady air circulation through the coil system. Thanks to the thick foam layers, the mattress also performed better than many competing hybrids in categories like motion isolation and pressure relief.

What It’s Made of

The DreamCloud begins with polyfoam quilted into the cover, followed by a soft memory foam layer and additional layer of polyfoam. These materials give the mattress an invitingly plush feel when you get into bed, but each layer is progressively denser and you shouldn’t sink too deeply as your body settles into the surface. The support core contains pocketed coils over a high-density foam base. The cover is composed of a breathable, moisture-wicking cashmere-blend fabric.

Shipping is free for customers within the contiguous U.S. Each order comes with a sleep trial that spans an entire year, giving you plenty of time to test the mattress and decide whether it’s right for you. Should you decide to keep the bed, you’ll also receive a lifetime warranty against structural defects.

Best Mattress for Lumbar Support

Saatva Classic

4.7

Up to $600 off

Price Range:

$995 – $2,710

Mattress Type:

Innerspring

Firmness Option:

Soft (3), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)

Pros

  1. Choice of two height profiles and three firmness levels
  2. Coil-on-Coil construction with extra pillow-top support
  3. Free White Glove delivery

Cons

  1. Coils may feel too bouncy for some sleepers
  2. $99 restocking fee on all mattress returns
Bottom Line — Why It Makes the Cut

“The Saatva Classic has a unique coil-on-coil design that provides exceptional responsiveness, with a zoned design that really boosts support under the heavier parts of my body. The thing I appreciate most is the memory foam pad under the lumbar region. This gave me extra cushioning to help with my lower back pain.”

– Mark Horiuchi, Lead Product Tester

Product Details

Saatva’s mattress line has greatly expanded over the past decade, but the luxurious Saatva Classic is still among the company’s most popular models. One of the first major innersprings to incorporate a coil-on-coil design, the Classic is available in three firmness levels and two profiles to accommodate a wide swath of sleepers.

How It Performed

Our testers found each of the Saatva Classic’s firmness levels distinct from the other two. The soft (3) design provides deep contouring, and was popular among our side sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds. Back and stomach sleepers on our team who weigh less than 130 pounds also found this design comfortable. At the other end of the spectrum, the firm (8) feel cushions very little and feels exceptionally supportive. Our back and stomach sleepers weighing at least 130 pounds preferred this model. Those seeking a balance of conforming and stability should consider the medium firm (6), which earned favorable ratings from our testers across different weight and position groups.

All three Saatva Classic models performed well during our edge support and ease of movement tests. The dual-coil construction ensures a responsive surface that shouldn’t sink or make you feel stuck when getting in and out of bed, and perimeter reinforcement pushes back against your weight when sitting or sleeping along the edges. Both coil layers promote steady air circulation, so the mattress also scored well when we tested it for temperature control.

What It’s Made of

The Saatva Classic features a Euro-top cover cushioned with foam and plush fibers. A memory foam pad located beneath the lower back is intended to support the lumbar region and minimize pain in this area of the body, while transitional minicoils offer extra reinforcement without generating too much motion transfer.

The support core contains sturdy, low-gauge hourglass coils made of recycled steel. You can opt for an 11.5-inch mattress with 4-inch support coils, or a 14.5-inch model with 7-inch coils. We recommend the latter if you need exceptional support to sleep comfortably. A cover made of breathable, GOTS-certified organic cotton encases the entire mattress.

The Classic’s sticker price is reasonable compared to other high-end innersprings and hybrids. Saatva is one of the only online mattress brands to offer free White Glove delivery to all customers in the contiguous U.S. This service includes full setup in a room of your choice, and removal of your old mattress and box spring upon request. All purchases are backed by year-long sleep trials and lifetime warranties.

Most Comfortable Mattress for Back Pain

A picture of the Nolah Evolution 15 in Sleep Foundation's testing lab

Nolah Evolution 15

4.7

Extra $30 off with code: SFEVO30

Price Range:

$1,049 – $2,239

Mattress Type:

Hybrid

Firmness Option:

Medium (5), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)

Pros

  1. Three firmness levels suit sleepers across weight and sleeping position groups
  2. Polyfoam-quilted Euro-top contours to the body to alleviate pressure buildup in the joints
  3. Zoned pocketed coils provide targeted support to the midsection and the mattress perimeter

Cons

  1. Foam layers retain some heat
  2. Coils produce some motion transfer
Bottom Line — Why It Makes the Cut

“The Nolah Evolution 15 has a plush Euro-top that conforms closely to your body, with coils that are zoned to offer extra support where your body really needs it. My neck and spine felt perfectly aligned when I tested this mattress in the lab.”

– Logan Foley, Managing Editor, Health & Product

Product Details

A mattress that promotes spinal alignment can be helpful for anyone who wakes up with pains or sore spots in their shoulders, back, and hips. The Nolah Evolution 15 contains four foam layers to cushion and contour to the body, evenly distributing your weight to improve your alignment, while a zoned coil system pushes back against extra weight from your midsection and significantly reduces sinkage.

How It Performed

We tested all three of the Evolution 15’s firmness levels. The medium (5) design conforms closely, and we found it best suited to side sleepers — especially those weighing up to 230 pounds. Our back and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds felt comfortable on this design, but also gave favorable ratings to the medium firm (6) feel. For the firm (8) model, our testers weighing more than 230 pounds received adequate support and didn’t sink too much.

The Evolution 15 utilizes open-cell foam layers engineered to promote circulation and breathability. As a result, our temperature control tests showed very little heat buildup. The zoned coils also allowed the mattress to perform well during our tests for edge support and ease of movement. The two firmest models were particularly strong in these categories.

What It’s Made of

Four foam layers make up the Evolution 15’s comfort system, the topmost of which is encased in a Euro-top cover. These layers are progressively denser from top to bottom, so you’ll feel plush cushioning when you get into bed while the underlying foams keep your body on an even plane.

The zoned support core features thicker coils along the perimeter and beneath your chest and hips. This facilitates movement across the surface, and also helps ensure you’ll feel extra pushback around heavier areas of the body. The entire mattress is encased in a cover made of proprietary ArcticTex fabric that feels cool to the touch.

The mattress comes in seven sizes, including a split king. Nolah offers free ground shipping within the contiguous U.S. Each Evolution 15 purchase includes a 120-night sleep trial, but you can opt out of the trial period and reduce your up-front costs by as much as $150. A lifetime warranty against structural defects backs each mattress. For additional coverage, you can purchase an accident protection plan that covers stains and other types of physical damage not included in the standard warranty.

Best Mattress for Spinal Alignment

A picture of the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid in Sleep Foundation's test lab.

Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid

4.6

Price Range:

$665 – $1,599

Mattress Type:

Hybrid

Firmness Option:

Medium Soft (4), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)

Pros

  1. Three firmness options
  2. Optional cooling cover
  3. Foam layers excel at pressure relief

Cons

  1. Hot sleepers may overheat without the cooling cover
  2. $99 fee for all returns
Bottom Line — Why It Makes the Cut

“The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid offers the best of both worlds when it comes to support and contouring. I enjoyed the gentle cradling from the polyfoam layers, but the coils kept my body more ‘on top’ of the bed than ‘in’ the bed.”

– Tom Ryan, Head of Product Testing

Product Details

The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid combines adaptive foam and supportive coils for an overall balanced feel. With three firmness options to choose from, you can pick the model that best suits your sleep position and personal sleep preferences.

How It Performed

The mattress is available in medium soft (4), medium firm (6), and firm (8) options. Our testers found the foam comfort layers offered very good pressure relief, regardless of the firmness level. The medium soft option was an excellent fit for side sleepers up to 230 pounds and back sleepers up to 130 pounds, since these individuals need deep cushioning for the shoulders, hips, and spine. Back and side sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds gave favorable ratings to the medium firm option, while the firm model felt most comfortable to stomach sleepers weighing at least 130 pounds and back sleepers over 230 pounds.

The coils give the Signature Hybrid a responsive feel, especially in the firmer models. This is ideal for sleepers who prefer beds that are easy to move around on. Meanwhile the softer models outperformed the firm model in our motion isolation tests, which may benefit anyone who shares the bed with a restless sleeper.

What It’s Made of

All three firmness options begin with a quilted surface for a plush feel, followed by two polyfoam layers to enhance cushioning. Layers vary in thickness and firmness depending on the model you choose. The support core is composed of pocketed coils that generate sturdy support, with strong coils around the perimeter to boost edge support. Airflow through the coils helps keep the bed cool, but for an additional fee you can also add a pillow-top made with a specialized GlacioTex cooling fiber.

Brooklyn Bedding offers a 120-night sleep trial and 10-year warranty. Shipping is free to addresses in the contiguous U.S.

Best Mattress for Side Sleepers with Back Pain

Proprietary photo of the Layla Hybrid in the SleepFoundation testing lab

Layla Hybrid

4.6

$220 off + 2 free pillows with code: Sleepy20

Price Range:

$1,299 – $1,899

Mattress Type:

Hybrid

Firmness Option:

Reversible: Medium Soft (4), Firm (7)

Pros

  1. Flippable design offers two different firmness options
  2. Balance of pressure-relieving memory foam and supportive pocketed coils
  3. Airflow through the coils promotes cooling

Cons

  1. Stomach sleepers over 230 pounds may prefer a firmer mattress
  2. Foam likely to off-gas upon unboxing
Bottom Line — Why It Makes the Cut

“I’ve slept on the Layla Hybrid for 3 years and love how the plush, contouring foam layers cradle my shoulders and hips, since I’m a side sleeper. Thanks to the coil core, the mattress is still plenty supportive.”

– Tom Ryan, Head of Product Testing

Product Details

The Layla Hybrid pairs copper-infused memory foam and high-density polyfoam with a support core of pocketed coils. The mattress is flippable, with different firmness levels on each side. We found this design excelled at pressure relief and motion isolation, while also sleeping cool and providing adequate support for a wide variety of sleepers.

How It Performed

The dual-sided construction offers two different mattress firmnesses, so the Layla Hybrid was a great option for most of the testers on our team. We noticed the medium soft (4) side was best suited to sleepers who weigh less than 130 pounds while the firm (7) side was a better option for sleepers who weigh at least 130 pounds. The coil springs reinforced the edges and made it relatively easy for our testers to move around on the firm side of the mattress. Although memory foam tends to trap heat, air flows through the coils to help the mattress sleep cool.

What It’s Made of

The medium soft side has a 2.5-inch comfort layer of copper-infused memory foam. The memory foam contours to the body to a moderate extent to provide strong pressure relief, while the copper infusion is meant to combat heat retention. This layer rests on 2 inches of zoned transitional polyfoam that provides varying amounts of support to different areas of the body. In contrast, the firm side has a thinner layer of memory foam over 1.5 inches of zoned polyfoam. The mattress is encased in a breathable cover made of polyester, viscose, and spandex with vinyl handles on the sides for easier flippability. The support core consists of 6-inch pocketed coils between the foam layers. A cover made from a stretchy polyester, rayon, viscose, and poly-lycra blend encases the mattress.

The Layla Hybrid comes with a 120-night sleep trial and is backed by a 10-year warranty. Shipping is free to the contiguous U.S.

Best Mattress for Couples with Back Pain

A picture of the Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress in Sleep Foundation's test lab.

Bear Elite Hybrid

4.6

35% off with code: SF35

Price Range:

$1,893 – $3,920

Mattress Type:

Hybrid

Firmness Option:

Medium (5), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)

Pros

  1. Three firmness options
  2. Cooling fabric and steady airflow through the coils help maintain temperature neutrality
  3. Memory foam provides strong pressure relief

Cons

  1. Softer models may inhibit some movement across surface
  2. Foam may produce initial off-gassing
Bottom Line — Why It Makes the Cut

“The Bear Elite Hybrid combines memory foam and polyfoam layers to produce gentle contouring, so I recommend it for sleepers who need some cradling but also require a sturdy base. The reinforced edges are a welcome touch, especially for co-sleepers who use every inch of their bed surface.”

– Brad Nehring, Product Expert

Product Details

Most of our testers found the Bear Elite Hybrid comfortable thanks to adaptive foam layers that reduce pressure, a supportive coil system, and cooling components that minimize heat buildup. The mattress is also available in three firmness options — and if you choose a split king size, Bear allows you to choose a different firmness for each side of the bed.

How It Performed

The medium (5) Elite Hybrid design was most popular among our side and back sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds. This model features foam layers that contour closely to the body for optimal weight distribution, even alignment, and fewer pressure points along the spine. Those seeking a slightly more supportive build should consider the medium firm (6), which earned rave reviews from our side sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds, and our back sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds. The firm (8) feel provides light cushioning and robust support, making it most comfortable for our side sleepers over 230 pounds, back sleepers of at least 130 pounds, and stomach sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds.

The Elite Hybrid’s zoned transitional layer proved effective at maintaining an even surface for our bodies, especially around the chest, stomach, and hips. This was particularly true for the medium firm and firm designs. Our thermal sensors also detected minimal heat buildup during temperature control tests, and we noticed a good deal of pushback along the perimeter when testing the mattress for edge support. Another strength of the Elite Hybrid was motion isolation. The medium model performed especially well for us in this category.

What It’s Made of

All versions of the Elite Hybrid begin with a memory foam comfort layer, followed by a transitional layer of polyfoam. The memory foam is infused with copper, which is meant to help with temperature control. The coils also generate steady circulation throughout the interior, and a cover made of Celliant-blend fabric is intended to keep the surface cool.

The coils are zoned to be thicker and sturdier along the edges, allowing you to sleep along the perimeter and get in and out of bed without sinking too much. A high-density foam base layer rounds out the hybrid design.

All customers in the contiguous U.S. receive free ground shipping with their Elite Hybrid purchase. The mattress is backed by a 120-night sleep trial and a lifetime warranty against structural defects. You may purchase additional protection that covers stains and other types of physical damage for up to 10 years.

Best Pressure Relieving Mattress for Back Pain

Brand image of Casper Snow

Casper Snow

4.5

Up to 60% off

Price Range:

$1,495 – $2,395

Mattress Type:

Hybrid

Firmness Option:

Medium (5)

Pros

  1. Excellent temperature control thanks to cooling features embedded in the comfort system
  2. Zoned transitional layer pushes back against extra weight in the midsection
  3. Above-average motion isolation and pressure relief for a hybrid

Cons

  1. Too soft for most stomach sleepers
  2. Foam layers are likely to emit strong off-gassing odor after the mattress is unboxed
Bottom Line — Why It Makes the Cut

“Finding a mattress that alleviates back pain without trapping heat can be tricky, but the Casper Snow pulls it off thanks to a slew of cooling features. The mattress gave me a deep hug and there was virtually no pressure buildup, but I never felt too warm.”

– Colin Simpson, Product Research Manager

Product Details

Many people prone to back pain and pressure buildup get the relief they need from mattresses with soft, adaptive comfort layers — but this hugging effect can also lead to uncomfortable heat retention. With the Casper Snow, you get the best of both worlds. The comfort layers contour deeply to distribute your weight and properly align your spine, while gel-infused foam, phase change material, and proprietary “HeatBand” technology work together to keep you cool throughout the night.

How It Performed

As a medium (5) mattress, the Casper Snow is noticeably softer than many of the other hybrids we’ve tested. The most favorable ratings came from our side and back sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds, who appreciated the Snow’s close conforming and cradling. Some of the stomach sleepers on our team weighing under 130 pounds felt adequately supported, but most testers who use this position found the mattress too soft.

Many of the softer foam hybrids we’ve evaluated underperform in the temperature control category, but the Snow lived up to its name during this stage of our tests. Thermal mapping detected very little heat buildup, and most of our testers felt reasonably cool while lying on the mattress. Other strong performance areas included motion isolation and pressure relief.

What It’s Made of

The Snow begins with a top layer of AirScape polyfoam, an open-cell material engineered to resist body heat buildup and promote airflow. HeatDelete bands embedded beneath the polyfoam dissipate heat for additional cooling. The memory foam transitional layer is zoned to push back against extra weight in your midsection while cradling lighter areas of your body.

The support core contains pocketed coils encased in high-density foam. These coils stabilize the mattress and the foam border provides some perimeter support, but you may still notice some sinkage when lying close to the edges of the mattress or getting in and out of bed. The cover is composed of CoolTouch phase change material.

The Snow is on par with the average hybrid model in terms of cost, and Casper offers free ground shipping throughout the contiguous U.S. and provincial Canada. Your order includes a 100-night sleep trial. Should you decide to keep the mattress, it’s further covered under a 10-year manufacturer’s warranty.

Best Firm Mattress for Back Pain

A picture of the Plank Firm Mattress in Sleep Foundation's test lab.

Plank Firm Luxe

4.5

Price Range:

$924 – $1,732

Mattress Type:

Hybrid

Firmness Option:

Firm (7), Extra Firm (9)

Pros

  1. Flippable design features firm and extra-firm surfaces
  2. Optional phase change panel provides exceptional cooling
  3. Excellent edge support

Cons

  1. Side sleepers with painful pressure points may need a softer bed
  2. Some may find the coils too bouncy
Bottom Line — Why It Makes the Cut

“The Plank Firm Luxe provides an incredible amount of support on both surfaces of the flippable design, with a strong coil system in the middle. If the firm side isn’t supportive enough, you can flip it over to the extra firm side and really kick it up a notch. If you’re over 230 pounds or just in the market for exceptional firmness, this bed is worth a look.”

– Jackson Lindeke, Director, Product Experience

Product Details

Many mattress brands advertise their beds as “soft” or “plush,” but the fact is some people benefit from less cushioning and a firmer feel from their sleep surface. These individuals are great candidates for the reversible Plank Firm Luxe, which features a firm (7) feel on one side and an extra firm (9) feel on the other. The latter is one of the firmest surfaces we’ve tested in our lab, and should be suitable for anyone who has found other foam hybrids too soft.

How It Performed

Due to the Plank Firm Luxe’s exceptionally firm design, the mattress earned its most favorable ratings from back and stomach sleepers weighing 130 to 230 pounds. The majority of our testers preferred the firm side, but some of our back and stomach sleepers found the extra firm surface provided better overall support.

As is often the case with firmer mattresses, the Plank Firm Luxe performed exceptionally well during our edge support and ease of movement tests. The mattress also sleeps quite cool thanks to consistent airflow through the coil layer. You can opt for a phase change panel on each side if you tend to overheat in bed or sweat in your sleep.

What It’s Made of

The Plank Firm Luxe’s firm side features a layer of quilting material, followed by latex-like TitanFlex foam and high-density polyfoam. These materials provide a small measure of cushioning without sacrificing firmness or support. The extra firm side does not contain any TitanFlex and the polyfoam layer is thinner, creating a surface that cushions very little. A shared support core of pocketed coils rests between the comfort systems.

In addition to the standard model, you can order phase change panels to be sewn into both sleep surfaces of the mattress. Phase change material is engineered to dissipate body heat on contact and maintain a cool, comfortable surface at all times. Note that adding these panels will increase the sticker price by up to $200.

The Plank Firm Luxe is reasonably priced compared to other hybrid models and ground shipping is free within the contiguous U.S. The mattress is available in 12 different sizes. These include standard mattress dimensions, as well as a split California king for couples with adjustable beds and several RV-friendly options. You’ll receive a 120-night sleep trial with your purchase, and a 10-year warranty against structural defects should you decide to keep the mattress.

Best Mattress for Back and Stomach Sleepers with Back Pain

Level Sleep Mattress

4.4

20% off with code: SF20

Price Range:

$799 – $1,399

Mattress Type:

Foam

Firmness Option:

Soft (3), Medium (5), Firm (7)

Pros

  1. Zoned transitional layer provides targeted support
  2. Great motion isolation for couples
  3. 365-night sleep trial

Cons

  1. Stomach sleepers over 230 pounds may prefer a firmer mattress
  2. Foam layers trap some heat
Bottom Line — Why It Makes the Cut

“The Level Sleep Mattress is strategically designed with different firmness levels across the bed’s surface, so I noticed extra cushioning for areas where pressure tends to build up. The generous sleep trial lets you try out the mattress to see if it helps with painful pressure points.”

– Jeremy Klein, Senior Product Expert

Product Details

Many mattresses provide back pain relief, but the Level Sleep Mattress is one of the only available models that is specifically created with this purpose in mind. A three-zone design provides enhanced support for the torso and lumbar region while gently cradling the head and reinforcing the hips. The result is a mattress that maintains an even sleep surface from head to toe, reducing aches and pains in the process.

How It Performed

The mattress’ “Tri-Support” construction features a soft (3) feel for the head and shoulders, a firm (7) feel for the midsection, and a medium (5) feel for the hips and legs. As such, Level Sleep earned favorable ratings from our side and back sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds. Stomach sleepers under 130 pounds also felt comfortable during our tests. We detected very little buildup when testing the mattress for pressure relief, as well.

Other strong performance areas for Level Sleep include motion isolation for couples, consistent cooling, and above-average edge support. The all-polyfoam design creates more responsiveness compared to beds with memory foam layers, so our testers encountered minimal resistance when moving across the surface.

What It’s Made of

The Level Sleep Mattress consists of three polyfoam layers. The topmost layer is fairly adaptive, while the underlying layers are denser and more supportive. Since the transitional layer is divided into three firmness zones, your upper and lower back shouldn’t sink too deeply into the mattress. A breathable poly-rayon cover encases the foam layers.

The Level Sleep Mattress is competitively priced and customers in the contiguous U.S. enjoy complimentary ground shipping. Your order includes a generous sleep trial that runs for an entire year, and the mattress is backed by a lifetime warranty for added peace of mind.

Data-Driven Results You Can Trust

At Sleep Foundation, we’ve personally tested hundreds of mattress models to bring you the top picks listed above. Our expert team includes product testers that represent a wide range of body types, sleep positions, and comfort preferences. After thorough hands-on testing, we consider these selections to be the best of the bunch.

To evaluate mattresses for back pain relief, we ask our testers to lie down on each mattress. Ideally, a mattress should contour to the body while maintaining even support, so we measure how deeply the mattress sinks beneath the tester’s weight. We also use body-mapping sensors to pinpoint locations where painful pressure points are likely to occur. Although we relied on feedback from all of our testers, we focused on those who have a history of upper and/or lower back pain.

Sleep Foundation lab testers utlizing lab equipment Sleep Foundation lab testers adjusting test dummy on mattressSleep Foundation sleep testers analyzing mattress pressure Sleep Foundation sleep testers examining products

To learn more about our mattress evaluation process, check out our product research methodology below:

motion isolation

This criteria alludes to the amount of motion a mattress absorbs when a sleeper moves on the surface. We use two testers lying side by side to evaluate motion isolation, who each feel for transfer while the other person moves on the mattress.

temperature control

To determine how well a mattress regulates temperature, we perform temperature tests and look closely at its materials and construction. Many mattresses are designed with cooling components meant to reduce heat retention.

pressure relief

A bed with strong pressure relief excels at preventing pressure from building up in areas like the shoulders and hips. Beds with even contouring and weight distribution are top performers when it comes to pressure relief.

Off-Gassing

A mattress in a box may release unpleasant off-gassing odors for a short period after you’ve unboxed it. The initial smell may be strong but typically fades within 2 or 3 days.

ease of movement

This criteria reflects how easily a sleeper can move across a bed’s surface. Responsive surfaces made of latex typically perform better than foam surfaces, which can inhibit movement.

edge support

We perform sit tests along a bed’s perimeter to measure how well the edges push back against weight. Mattresses with strong edge support have minimal sagging when sleepers sit on or lie close to the perimeter.

sex

For this criteria, we evaluate the suitability of a mattress for sex. While this is a matter of personal preference, responsive surfaces are typically more conducive to sexual activity than mattresses that inhibit movement.

body weight

Individual body weight is a factor in every mattress evaluation our testers perform. We routinely assess how comfortable a given mattress will feel for many different body types.

Dive Deeper — In-Depth Mattress Guides

For more help deciding which mattress is right for your specific needs, check out the guides below.

Types of Back Pain and Your Mattress

A mattress plays an important role in how the body is positioned throughout the night. Most people know that posture is important but only think about it in the context of standing and sitting. This can cause them to overlook the importance of having a mattress that is the proper fit based on their body shape, weight, and sleeping position.

  • Mattresses and Lower Back Pain

    Lower back pain is by far the most common type of back pain. It affects the lumbar region, which includes the lowest five vertebrae (L1-L5) of the spine.

    The lower back has more curvature and range of motion than other parts of the back, and this makes it more susceptible to injury related to movement and posture, including positioning during sleep. If a mattress offers insufficient support, the lower back may twist or bend in an unnatural way. We’ve found that if the bed is too soft or is worn out, the hips, which carry more weight, may sink deeply into the mattress and out of alignment with the lumbar area. When that or any other misaligned position is held for an extended period during the night, it can be a direct contributor to back pain.
  • Mattresses and Mid-Back Pain

    Middle back pain is much less common than lower back pain. The middle back is generally identified as above the lumbar spine but below the rib cage.

    Stiffness and aching in the mid-back can arise because of poor posture and lack of spinal support. Because of the amount of time spent in the lying position during sleep, these alignment issues can often be connected to a mattress that does not adequately support the body and cushion a person’s pressure points.
  • Mattresses and Upper Back Pain

    Upper back pain is less common than lower back pain but occurs more frequently than middle back pain. It affects the thoracic region, which runs from the bottom of the rib cage up to the lower neck and involves the 12 vertebrae that connect to the ribs.

    Pain in the upper back and shoulders can come from awkward or unsupportive body positioning. If a pillow is not the right height or if a mattress doesn’t properly accommodate the shoulders, it may place undue pressure on the anatomy of the thoracic region, heightening the risk of upper back pain.
  • Mattresses and Neck Pain

    Neck pain can occur due to different reasons. Many people develop strains and sore spots due to less-than-optimal posture, which can be especially problematic for people who sit at a desk for their jobs. The pillow and mattress you choose are important considerations  for people with neck pain. Our product tests reveal time and time again that, in order to reduce aches and pains, a pillow should provide enough support and loft to keep your neck aligned with the spine and hips.

Sleeping Position and Back Pain

Each sleeping position creates a unique set of pressure points and areas that need cushioning, and this is why our testers believe having the right mattress to suit your sleeping position is an important part of preventing and reducing back pain.

Back sleepers tend to have their most serious pressure points around the lumbar area. Our pressure tests on various mattresses have shown that if a mattress is too soft, the weight of the abdomen will cause this region to sink out of alignment with the rest of the back and hips. If the mattress is too hard, it won’t accommodate the natural curvature of the spine in the lumbar area. For this reason, a medium firm to firm mattress usually works best for back sleepers.

Side sleepers have high-impact areas where the body is the widest, notably at the shoulders and hips. A mattress needs to be contouring enough to cushion those pressure points but not so soft as to let them sink too deeply into the bed and out of line with the rest of the body. Most side sleepers on our test team get the best results from a medium to medium firm mattress.

Stomach sleepers have pronounced pressure points in the lumbar area and around the neck. If their pillow is too tall, it can put excess bend in the neck and upper back. If the mattress is soft, the pelvic area can dip too far, putting the body in a U shape that stresses the spine as well as the muscles and ligaments in the lower back. As a result, stomach sleepers on our team tend to have less back pain if they use a thin pillow and have a firm mattress. Stomach sleepers who weigh more than 230 pounds may even benefit from an extra firm mattress.

“Back and stomach sleepers may benefit from a firmer mattress, as extra support can feel more comfortable in these positions. Side sleepers may prefer a mattress that has softness. It’s also important for side sleepers to find an option that ensures the head and neck are in alignment. Whatever is the most comfortable for you to sleep with is worth the investment.”

Sarah Silverman, Psy.D., a licensed psychologist and holistic sleep wellness consultant who treats patients in New York and Florida.

No matter what type of sleeper you are, changing your sleeping position is one way to try to get back pain relief.

If you are a back or stomach sleeper with a soft mattress and you don’t have the budget for a new bed, try switching to a side sleeping position that will give you more support from your existing mattress. Experts generally recommend that stomach sleepers try to adjust to side or back sleeping because it’s easier to get appropriate support in those positions.

Along with sleeping position, body weight is another important factor to consider when choosing your mattress. People who weigh more will sink further into a mattress, exacerbating the risks in all sleeping positions of the heavier parts of the body becoming misaligned. Sleepers of above-average body weight (over 230 pounds) typically need a firmer mattress than someone of average weight who sleeps in the same position.

Similarly, people who weigh under 130 pounds are less prone to sinking into the bed, and can sleep on a softer, more contouring mattress without the same risks of the body sagging out of alignment.

For more on the best mattress for back pain relief for different types of sleeping positions check out the video below.

Which Type of Mattress is Best for Back Pain?

A key step in choosing a mattress is deciding which mattress type is most likely to work for you. Virtually all mattresses on the market today can be broken into five types based on their construction and materials.

Within each category, you can find consistent features; however, we know there can be notable variation from one brand or model to the next. Some types allow for a greater diversity of designs, which leads to a wider variation in the expected feel and performance of any specific mattress.

Hybrid

Definition: Hybrids are constructed with an innerspring support core that is supplemented by a significant comfort system that may include layers of foam, latex, microcoils, cotton or fiber fill, down, and/or wool. The comfort layers on a hybrid are much more robust than on an innerspring mattress.

Highlight: Balanced Features. Hybrids try to capture the best of multiple bed types without suffering from their downsides. For example, we’ve found that hybrids tend to offer moderate to significant contouring that aids in pressure point relief, while their coils permit excellent ventilation, making temperature regulation a plus on most hybrid beds.

Innerspring

Definition: An innerspring mattress is composed almost entirely of metal coils. There may be a thin layer of cotton, polyester, or foam above the coils, but we generally find that this layer does not significantly change the mattress performance. Historically, innersprings were the most common mattresses, but their popularity has declined considerably as foam, latex, and hybrid models have gained steam.

Highlight: Inexpensive and Customizable. A benefit to innersprings is that they are among the most inexpensive options that you can find. One option we recommend is to use the money saved to customize the bed’s feel with a mattress topper.

Latex

Definition: Latex mattresses have an interior construction made completely with latex, which is a type of rubber. Most mattresses use natural latex from trees, but synthetic or blended latex is used occasionally. The comfort layers and support core may employ different types of formulations of latex.

Highlight: Supportive Contouring. We’ve tested numerous latex beds, and most of them have moderate contouring effects. This allows the bed to cushion the body without an excessive amount of sink.

Airbed

Definition: Airbeds feature a support core of inflatable chambers. Sleepers can use a remote or smartphone app to control a pump that can add or remove air from the chambers, adjusting firmness in real time. There may be other materials, including foam, latex, cotton, polyester, or wool, layered as a comfort system above the support core.

Highlight: Adjustable Firmness. Our test team believes the primary benefit of airbeds is their adjustability. Being able to quickly modify the firmness of the bed can be a huge plus for people with back pain because it lets them get “dialed in” depending on the nature of their pain and posture at that exact point in time.

Foam

Definition: Foam is layered to create both the support core and comfort system of an all-foam mattress. Memory foam is a popular material in foam mattresses as is polyurethane foam (polyfoam), which can be manufactured to have a range of distinct characteristics. Latex may be included among the layers, but no coils are used in a foam mattress.

Highlight: Deep Contouring. Memory foam tends to offer the highest degree of hug. This allows these mattresses to deliver proportional cushioning to the areas of the body that need it most. Side sleepers on our test team can attest that foam is especially useful for cushioning sharp impact points like shoulders and hips.

Mattress Features to Look for to Relieve Back Pain

When shopping for a mattress to help relieve back pain, some features are more important than others. With so many products and a bevy of marketing hype, it can be tough to parse out what really matters. Based on our extensive experience testing mattresses, we believe that you’re most likely to get the most satisfaction out of your purchase by focusing on certain key considerations:

  • Mattress Type: The materials and design will play a huge role in the performance of a mattress. The contouring, bounce, firmness, temperature regulation, and motion isolation of a mattress will be different for each mattress type, so it is critical for shoppers to think about their priorities and choose a mattress with components that will best meet their needs.
  • Zoned Support: Weight from the body is not distributed evenly; instead, certain areas tend to require more cushioning. A zoned mattress takes that into account and offers reinforced support in those areas.
  • Quality Materials: We’ve found that a mattress made with excellent materials is much more likely to provide the performance, reliability, and durability that people with back pain need.
  • Firmness Level: Firmness is a key driver of mattress comfort and is largely a matter of personal preference. At the same time, the right firmness level can play a big part in whether a mattress offers sufficient support, and that will depend significantly on a person’s body weight and sleeping position.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of mattress is best for back pain?

We believe that the best bed for someone with back pain is one that is suited to their body type and preferred sleeping position. Back pain-friendly models are available in all mattress types, but most of our testers agree that hybrid mattresses offer the best combination of support and pressure relief.

Pocketed coils tend to allow for better spinal alignment than innerspring or foam support cores, particularly if the coils are ergonomically zoned. Meanwhile, a hybrid’s comfort system — usually made from synthetic foam or latex — provides the pressure relief and contouring required to release tension and avoid pressure points. Individual mattresses, of course, can be better or worse for back pain regardless of their construction type.

Is a firm or soft mattress better for back pain?

Many people believe that a firm mattress is best for back pain, but our testers have found that people with back pain should — like all sleepers — choose a mattress firmness that suits their weight and is neither too soft nor too firm. People who weigh under 130 pounds tend to require medium soft or even soft mattresses, while those who weigh above 230 pounds usually prefer medium firm or firm beds.

Despite the difference in objective firmness, the subjective feel should be quite similar thanks to the way mattresses compress beneath weight. The right mattress will feel firm enough to offer support while soft enough to prevent aches or pains. For people who are accustomed to sleeping on a mattress that is too soft, choosing a mattress with pressure relieving qualities can help them adjust to the correct firmness level.

What is the best sleeping position for lower back pain?

People with lower back pain often find the most relief when sleeping on their side with their knees partially bent. Placing a pillow between your knees can also make this position more comfortable so long as the pillow is the right size to promote correct spinal and hip alignment. Pillows placed beneath the knees or at the small of the back can also help people who prefer to sleep on their back. Stomach sleepers on our team find relief by using a thin pillow for their head and a more supportive pillow beneath their stomach and hips.

You may have to experiment with different pillows before finding what works for you, as the wrong size or shape of pillow can sometimes worsen the situation. For many people, particularly those who sleep on their stomach, switching sleeping positions offers better results than any combination of pillows.

What is the best sleeping position for upper back pain?

If you suffer from upper back pain, it is best to sleep on your side or back since sleeping on your stomach causes significant tension in the shoulders and neck. Side sleepers may also experience upper back and shoulder pain if their mattress has inadequate pressure relief, since the position can cramp these areas and create pressure points and tension where your shoulder presses into the bed.

Regardless of your sleep position, we’ve found that choosing the best pillow is also an essential factor in relieving upper back and shoulder pain.

Can a mattress topper help with back pain?

A major benefit of a topper is that you can take advantage of a new comfort system that fits your needs. This may include a change in the firmness and/or the contouring to cushion your pressure points. For people with back pain, the difference can be notable and serve as a meaningful step toward better sleep.

At the same time, it’s important to remember that any topper comes with potential downsides. Every material has pros and cons, and those will be reflected in a topper. Our sleep lab has tested a fair amount of toppers, and we’ve noticed that most sleepers above 130 pounds need a topper that is at least 2 inches thick, and higher-quality versions can cost a few hundred dollars.

Still have questions?

Our product experts have extensive experience testing just about every sleep product on the market. Send an email to [email protected] or call us at (877) 672-8966 with your questions and we'll help you find exactly what you're looking for.

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