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Sciatica causes radiating pain in the lower back, hips, and legs, making restful sleep a challenge. While a mattress won’t treat this condition, the right one can provide essential support for better comfort. In this guide, we explain how firmness and cushioning tailored to your body and sleep position can help you sleep more easily despite having sciatica.

At a Glance
  • The Luxury Firm WinkBed took home our top award by demonstrating the kind of lumbar support and cushioning that can enhance spinal alignment and help counteract nerve pain.
  • Optimal spinal support isn’t cut-and-dried — it’s personal. That’s why our guide explains how your weight, sleep style, & preferences all influence which mattress is best for you.
  • Short on time? Jump straight to our 1-minute videos that review the best mattresses for sciatica.

Best Mattress Overall

9.5 /10 Test Lab Score

Luxury Firm WinkBed

High end hybrid bed providing ample support, cushion, and cool sleep.

Get $300 off all mattresses at Winkbeds Shop At WinkBeds
Price: $2,570
Mattress Type: Innerspring
Firmness Options: Medium Firm (6)
Trial Period: 120 nights (30 night requirement)
Key Details
  • Who it’s best for: Side sleepers across all weight groups, back sleepers up to 230 pounds, and stomach sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds.
  • Feel: Medium firm (6) design with gentle contouring and targeted support for the midsection.
  • What it’s made of: Adaptive polyfoam comfort layers over zoned pocketed coils with perimeter reinforcement.
  • What we don’t like: Couples may notice motion transfer when movement occurs.
Scoring & Reviews

The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

9.5/10

130-230 lbs

10/10

Above 230 lbs

9.5/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

8.5/10

130-230 lbs

8/10

Above 230 lbs

7/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

8.5/10

130-230 lbs

7.5/10

Above 230 lbs

6.5/10

In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.

SELECT AN ICON TO VIEW DETAILS:

Motion Isolation

6.5 /10
6.5 /10

The Luxury Firm WinkBed offers above-average motion isolation compared to other hybrids we’ve tested. The polyfoam layers significantly absorb vibrations, preventing motion from traveling across the surface. Although the coil core gives the mattress some bounce, the foam layers are substantial enough to dampen motion transfer.

Motion Isolation

Pressure Relief

8 /10
8 /10

Like with many hybrid models, the Luxury WinkBed’s strong contouring can help relieve painful pressure points. Using pressure-mapping sensors, we found the mattress generously cradles your body and ease pressure off sensitive joints, thanks largely to the multiple foam layers.

Pressure Relief

Temperature Control

9 /10
9 /10

The Luxury WinkBed’s Tencel cover wicks heat and moisture away from the sleeper’s body. Polyfoam infused with cooling gel also helps to minimize heat retention annd the coil core promotes significant air circulation. All of these components make the Luxury WinkBed one of the best cooling mattresses on the market.

Temperature Control

Edge Support

9.5 /10
9.5 /10

While many hybrid models have sturdy edges, the Luxury WinkBed’s perimeter is exceptionally strong. Thanks to extra reinforcement along the edges, our testers noticed minimal compression when sitting along the edge. Most sleepers should feel secure enough to sleep or sit on the full surface of the mattress without worrying about rolling off.

Edge Support

Ease of Movement

7.5 /10
7.5 /10

The Luxury WinkBed Mattress features polyfoam comfort layers. Polyfoam is more responsive than memory foam, so the mattress won’t hug your body as closely as hybrid mattresses made with memory foam. The result is strong ease of movement across the surface.

Ease of Movement

Durability

8 /10
8 /10
Full Breakdown

The WinkBed is a well-rounded hybrid mattress available in an array of firmness levels, but the Luxury Firm WinkBed stands out for its balanced feel that caters to sleepers with back pain. The foam layers contour to the body to relieve pressure buildup, while zoned pocketed coils offer ample pushback to the midsection.

How It Performs

Our testing found the mid-range feel and supportive construction benefit back sleepers and stomach sleepers who weigh up to 230 pounds. These sleepers should feel a good amount of cushioning without sinking too deeply into the mattress. Side sleepers who weigh between 130 and 230 pounds should also appreciate the cradling from the foam layers.

If you tend to run hot during sleep, the coil system enables plenty of air circulation to help keep the bed cool. We also recommend the mattress for couples, who should be able to move across the mattress easily and lay near the edges without sinking. The coils also provide responsiveness that many couples prefer for sex.

Construction Breakdown

With a medium firm (6) feel, the Luxury Firm WinkBed has a Euro-top quilted with gel-infused polyfoam. Beneath is a transitional layer of SupportCell polyfoam that promotes contouring but has a higher-density composition to make it feel a bit firmer. This layer also serves as a buffer between the comfort system and the support core. The core is composed of pocketed coils that provide substantial support, with a zoned design that delivers extra support to the lumbar region and extra coil reinforcement around the edges. A breathable and moisture-wicking Tencel cover encases the mattress.

Trial, Shipping, and Warranty

WinkBed backs this mattress with a 120-night sleep trial and lifetime warranty. Shipping is free to the contiguous U.S.

Read Our Full Luxury Firm WinkBed Review

Best Value Mattress

8.5 /10 Test Lab Score

Nectar Adjustable Bundle

An all-inclusive sleep bundle at a terrific price.

Save up to 50% on mattresses + 15% off regular prices Shop At Nectar
Price: $1,398
Mattress Type: Adjustable Bed
Firmness Options:
Trial Period: 50 nights
Key Details
  • Who it’s best for: Shoppers looking to re-furnish their entire sleep surface without breaking the bank.
  • Firmness depends on which Nectar mattress you select, but all options fall between plush medium (5) and supportive firm (7).
  • What it’s made of: Nectar mattresses fall into two categories: all-foam and hybrid designs. The former contain memory foam over high-density base foam, while the latter feature memory foam comfort layers and pocketed coil support cores.
  • What we don’t like: All models emit strong initial off-gassing for the first few nights after unboxing.
Scoring & Reviews

The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

7.5/10

130-230 lbs

9/10

Above 230 lbs

7.5/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

7/10

130-230 lbs

8.5/10

Above 230 lbs

7/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

5.5/10

130-230 lbs

7/10

Above 230 lbs

5.5/10

In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.

SELECT AN ICON TO VIEW DETAILS:

Motion Isolation

8.5 /10
8.5 /10

Nectar mattresses – like many foam and foam hybrid models we’ve tested – provide excellent motion isolation. Their thick memory foam layers absorb movement and prevent motion from transferring to the other side of the mattress. As a result, Nectar models have proven very popular with couples and co-sleepers. You may notice slightly more transfer on the hybrids due to their coil layers, but even then the potential for sleep disturbances is low.

Pressure Relief

8.5 /10
8.5 /10

Pressure relief is a defining strength of each Nectar foam and hybrid model. Each contains a thick memory foam layer that hugs the body closely to promote even alignment, support the spine, and prevent pressure buildup in the shoulders, lower back, and hips. If you weigh more than 230 pounds, a firmer mattress is recommended to ensure proper support.

Temperature Control

5.5 /10
5.5 /10

Like a lot of memory foam mattresses on the market, Nectar models may trap heat in their top memory foam layers. Some models use cooling materials to offset heat retention, but some warmth is to be expected. The Nectar hybrids sleep somewhat cooler due to more airflow in their coil systems. Cooling sheets can also make a noticeable difference.

Edge Support

7 /10
7 /10

Perimeter support depends on which model you choose for your bundle, but our team has found that Nectar mattresses tend to offer a stronger edge than many competing all-foam and foam hybrid models. A thick base layer of high-density polyfoam helps secure each Nectar mattress when you lie close to the edges or get in and out of bed. People who weigh more than 230 pounds may notice more compression, but even then Nectar beds are relatively sturdy.

Ease of Movement

5.5 /10
5.5 /10

Nectar mattresses can be difficult to move on – especially softer models with thick top layers. Memory foam has a tendency to sink when compressed, and this can create a hugging effect akin to feeling “trapped” by your mattress. Combination sleepers and people who frequently get up during the night may struggle with these mattresses.

Durability

6.5 /10
6.5 /10
Full Breakdown

The Nectar Adjustable Bundle is a good option for anyone with sciatica who enjoys the even conforming of memory foam and sleeping with their head or legs elevated. In addition to a mattress and adjustable bed, your bundle also includes pillows, sheets, and a mattress protector — all at a reasonable price.

How It Performs

You can choose from Nectar’s six mattresses for your bundle. The three all-foam models — Classic, Premier, and Luxe — excelled at motion isolation and pressure relief during our tests. If you’re looking for a bit more support and bounce, the Classic Hybrid, Premier Hybrid, and Luxe Hybrid may be a better match for your needs. These models were especially popular among our back and stomach sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds.

The base also impressed us with its versatility, as it allows you to elevate your head and legs with a wide range of motion for position angles. Dual-zone head and foot massage soothe your sore spots after a long day. Other features include USB ports for charing your electronics overnight and adjustable legs if you want more or less under-bed clearance.

Construction Breakdown

The three Nectar foam mattresses are fairly similar in terms of design, varying slightly in height and construction while all offering the same general features. Each is composed of a memory foam comfort layer, polyfoam transitional layer, and high-density foam base, and all three are considered medium firm (6).

Likewise, the three Nectar hybrids consist of memory foam comfort layers, polyfoam transitional layers, and support cores with pocketed coils and base foam layers. All three are firm (7), but you’ll still notice some contouring on the surface.

Trial, Shipping, and Warranty

The sticker price for this mattress is quite approachable and Nectar offers free ground shipping anywhere in the contiguous U.S. Each purchase includes a sleep trial that allows you to test out the mattress for up to 365 nights, as well as a lifetime warranty for those who keep the mattress after the return period expires.

Best Mattress for Back Pain

9.7 /10 Test Lab Score

Helix Dusk Luxe

Responsive design, zoned support to keep your body aligned.

25% off sitewide Shop At Helix
Price: $1,899
Mattress Type: Hybrid
Firmness Options: Medium Firm (6)
Trial Period: 120 nights (30-night requirement)
Key Details
  • Who it’s best for: Side and back sleepers across different weight groups, but especially those between 130 and 230 pounds.
  • Feel: A medium firm (6) feel with a plush, contouring surface and extra pushback beneath the torso and hips.
  • What it’s made of: Memory foam and polyfoam comfort layers, followed by multi-zone pocketed coils with perimeter reinforcement and dense base foam.
  • What we don’t like: Most stomach sleepers find the mattress too soft and prone to deep sinkage.
Scoring & Reviews

The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

9.5/10

130-230 lbs

10/10

Above 230 lbs

9.5/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

8.5/10

130-230 lbs

8/10

Above 230 lbs

7/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

8.5/10

130-230 lbs

7.5/10

Above 230 lbs

6.5/10

In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.

SELECT AN ICON TO VIEW DETAILS:

Motion Isolation

8.5 /10
8.5 /10

As a medium firm mattress with thick foam comfort layers, it’s no surprise that the Dusk Luxe tested very well for motion isolation. Our testers could barely feel any movement across the surface of the mattress when fellow testers rolled around on it.

Pressure Relief

9.5 /10
9.5 /10

All of the Helix Luxe models have thick foam comfort layers and conform fairly close to the body. Consequently, they’ve all performed well in our pressure mapping tests, with notably less pressure in the hips and shoulders than many hybrids. With it’s 6 out of 10 firmness, The Dusk Luxe in particular performs average among other Helix Luxe beds.

Temperature Control

8 /10
8 /10

The Helix mattresses perform about average for hybrids when it comes to sleeping cool. Memory foam is well-known for its tendency to sleep hot, as it often traps and retains heat through the night, but the coil cores of these beds promote airflow to help balance out heat retention.

Edge Support

9.5 /10
9.5 /10

All Helix mattresses feature a reinforced perimeter, meaning the coils on the edges are thicker than the coils in the middle of the bed. When putting this to the test, we found significantly less sinkage on the edge than the middle while applying weight.

Ease of Movement

7.5 /10
7.5 /10

Helix Luxe mattresses tend to be somewhat responsive and bouncy, and all tested pretty well for ease of movement. The Dusk Luxe in particular had a middle-of-the-road performance in our tests, as the medium firm surface conforms a bit to the body, but doesn’t fully provide that ‘stuck’ feeling and inhibit motion.

Durability

8.5 /10
8.5 /10

The Helix Dusk Luxe is a premium-level hybrid mattress. It scores well for durability but is limited by its medium feel (since firmer mattresses tend to last longer). However, it makes up for that with its robust construction that includes a high-density, adaptive foam and an additional two layers of responsive foam. Along with pocketed coils that offer a reinforced perimeter, this mattress should last nine or more years.

Full Breakdown

The Helix Dusk Luxe is a hybrid model that balances strong support with cushioning layers. We found the medium firm (6) feel and well-rounded design appealed to a wide variety of testers in our lab. This mattress may be attractive to co-sleepers looking for a happy medium to accommodate different body types and sleep preferences.

How It Performs

The memory foam and polyfoam layers delivered strong pressure relief during our tests while protecting against excessive sinkage. The Dusk Luxe was a good fit for our testers who enjoy a little bit of body hug from foam, but not too much. While the coils gave the bed a moderately bouncy feel, the thick foam comfort system absorbed a lot of motion. This may appeal to couples who need a bed that prevents motion from easily transferring across the surface.

The bed was well suited for most side sleepers on our team, but back and stomach sleepers up to 230 pounds also found the bed fairly comfortable.

Construction Breakdown

One of this mattress’ standout features during testing was the Euro-top cover, which creates an instantly plush surface to cradle your body. This sits atop a layer of higher density polyfoam, followed by a thicker layer of memory foam that contours to your body. A transitional polyfoam layer further promotes contouring but is also a bit firmer to keep your body from sinking too deep. The bed’s strongest support comes from the core of pocketed coils, which are specially zoned to enhance lumbar support and help ensure your spine is properly aligned.

Trial, Shipping, and Warranty

Helix offers a 120-night sleep trial and a lifetime warranty if you decide to keep the bed. Shipping is free throughout the contiguous U.S.

Read Our Full Helix Dusk Luxe Review

Most Comfortable Mattress

9.0 /10 Test Lab Score

Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid

A foam hybrid that cushions your body without trapping heat.

25% off sitewide Shop At Leesa
Price: $1,698
Mattress Type: Hybrid
Firmness Options: Medium (5), Medium Firm (6), Firm (7)
Trial Period: 120 nights (30-night requirement)
Key Details
  • Who it’s best for: Hot sleepers, couples, and people who feel sharp pains or pressure points while they sleep.
  • Feel: Medium (5), medium firm (6), and firm (7) designs are available.
  • What it’s made of: Comfort layers of gel-infused polyfoam, memory foam, and adaptive polyfoam over transitional foam, multi-zone pocketed coils with perimeter reinforcement, and high-density base foam.
  • What we don’t like: Unpleasant off-gassing odor for up to 72 hours after the mattress is unboxed, and the high profile requires a deep-pocket fitted sheet.
Scoring & Reviews

The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

9/10

130-230 lbs

9.5/10

Above 230 lbs

9/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

8/10

130-230 lbs

7.5/10

Above 230 lbs

6.5/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

8/10

130-230 lbs

7/10

Above 230 lbs

6/10

In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.

SELECT AN ICON TO VIEW DETAILS:

Motion Isolation

7.5 /10
7.5 /10

In our tests, the Sapira Chill Hybrid’s foam-heavy comfort system absorbed most motion with ease. Even when one tester shifted positions or got up, the other hardly noticed — especially on the medium and medium firm models. For couples, this mattress is a standout in motion isolation for a hybrid.

Pressure Relief

8.5 /10
8.5 /10

Pressure relief was a top-scoring category across the board. Our side sleepers noted significant cushioning in the hips and shoulders, and even our back sleepers experienced a nice balance of support and contouring. The plush top layers adapted closely without making us feel stuck.

Temperature Control

7.5 /10
7.5 /10

Though it contains multiple foam layers, the Sapira Chill didn’t trap as much heat as we expected. The open-cell construction and airflow from the coil core helped maintain a neutral sleep temperature for most of our testers — particularly on the firmer options where we didn’t sink in as deeply.

Edge Support

7 /10
7 /10

We were impressed with how well the Sapira Chill held up around the edges. The reinforced perimeter coils gave us a stable feel when sitting or lying near the sides of the bed, which is especially helpful for co-sleepers or anyone who likes to spread out.

Ease of Movement

8 /10
8 /10

Movement on the Sapira Chill felt smooth, especially for a hybrid with four foam layers. While the softer model had a bit of a “sink-in” feel, the underlying coil support and responsive transition foam made it easy to shift positions or get in and out of bed on all three firmness levels.

Durability

8 /10
8 /10

The Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid earns high marks for durability. As a hybrid mattress that uses four distinct foam layers, two of which are high-density polyfoam, sleepers can rely on cradling support without sinkage. Add to that the pocketed coil layer with individually wrapped springs, and the mattress should provide at least eight years of comfort.

Full Breakdown

Anyone with sciatica knows how evasive a comfortable night’s sleep can be – but with the right mattress, you may be able to find some relief. The Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid is a thoughtfully crafted foam-over-coil model that eases pressure points, sleeps cool, feels secure along the perimeter, and isolates motion for couples. As an added bonus, you can choose from three firmness levels based on your body type and primary sleep position.

How It Performs

During hands-on tests, our team evaluated all three of the Sapira Chill Hybrid’s available firmness options. The medium (5) contours closely to the body, and fared best among our side and back sleepers under 130 pounds. Back and stomach sleepers over 230 pounds preferred the firm (7) design, which conforms very little and feels quite robust. If you’re seeking a balance of cushioning and support, we recommend the medium firm (6) model – this one earned its highest ratings from testers between 130 and 230 pounds across all three sleep positions.

Temperature control was a standout strength we noticed. The top layer is infused with cooling gel and the coils promote steady airflow throughout the interior, so we detected minimal heat retention. We also found that the Sapira Chill Hybrid performed well for motion isolation and pressure relief, setting it apart from many competing coil mattresses.

Construction Breakdown

The Sapira Hybrid’s comfort system consists of four individual layers. Up top, 2 inches of gel-infused polyfoam give the surface an invitingly plush feel. Additional memory foam and polyfoam layers provide deep cushioning, while a 1-inch transitional foam layer prevents you from sinking too deeply into the mattress.

The support core contains pocketed coils over a thin layer of high-density base foam. Thicker coils located beneath your midsection provide zoned reinforcement for your lower back and hips, allowing your body to remain on an even plane. The edges are also lined with stronger springs to help you get in and out of bed without too much compression.

Trial, Shipping, and Warranty

Free ground shipping is available to customers in all 50 states and certain locations in Canada. Leesa backs each order with a 120-night sleep trial, allowing you to test out the Sapira Chill Hybrid in your own bedroom for more than 3 months. If you decide to keep the mattress after the return window ends, your purchase is also covered under a lifetime warranty against structural and material defects.

Read Our Full Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid Review

Best Mattress for Side Sleepers

9.2 /10 Test Lab Score

Nolah Evolution 15

A cloud-like experience with a plush euro-top in multiple firmnes options.

35% off sitewide + extra $100 off with code: SF100 Shop At Nolah Sleep
Price: $1,624
Mattress Type: Hybrid
Firmness Options: Medium (5), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)
Trial Period: 120 nights (30-night requirement), $99 return pickup fee
Key Details
  • Who it’s best for: Side and back sleepers across different weight groups, as well as stomach sleepers up to 230 pounds – but selecting the right firmness is important.
  • Options include plush medium (5), balanced medium firm (6), and supportive firm (8) designs.
  • What it’s made of: Four comfort layers of adaptive, open-cell polyfoam over zoned pocketed coils with a reinforced perimeter.
  • What we don’t like: Since the mattress is fairly tall, you’ll need to use a deep-pocket fitted sheet.
Scoring & Reviews

The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

9/10

130-230 lbs

9.5/10

Above 230 lbs

9/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

8/10

130-230 lbs

7.5/10

Above 230 lbs

6.5/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

8/10

130-230 lbs

7/10

Above 230 lbs

6/10

In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.

SELECT AN ICON TO VIEW DETAILS:

Motion Isolation

8 /10
8 /10

Thanks to its thick polyfoam layers, the Nolah Evolution 15 Hybrid absorbs enough movement to prevent most sleep disruptions. However, there is still some motion transfer because of the bounciness of the coils. You can expect the most motion transfer on the firm (8) model and the least on the plush (5) option. Across the board, though, our testers noticed only light motion transfer across all three firmness levels.

Motion Isolation

Pressure Relief

9 /10
9 /10

The combination of zoned coils and multiple polyfoam layers, including zoned AirFoam, enable the Nolah Evolution Hybrid to cushion pain points and provide above-average pressure relief. Choosing the right firmness option can optimize pressure relief. While individual preferences vary, a plush (5) or luxury firm (6) model works best for most side sleepers under 230 pounds, while the luxury firm (6) or firm (8) are better suited to the majority of back and stomach sleepers.

Pressure Relief

Temperature Control

7.5 /10
7.5 /10

Like many hybrids, the Nolah Evolution 15 excels at temperature regulation. Cooling fibers in the cover are engineered to draw heat away from the body, and the aerated polyfoam layers help reduce heat retention. The coil layer also promotes steady ventilation.In our testing, all three models resisted heat retention. That said, compared to the firm (8) model, the plush (5) and luxury firm (6) permit more sink and allow slightly less cooling airflow around the skin.

Temperature Control

Edge Support

9 /10
9 /10

The sturdy 8-inch coils gives the Nolah Evolution Hybrid a reliable level of edge support. While there can be some sink from the foam layers, resilient polyfoam prevents instability around the perimeter of the bed.Edge support does vary based on the firmness level. Our team noticed a reduction in edge support between the firm (8) and the luxury firm (6) and plush (5) models. Even on the softer models, though, you get solid edge support from this mattress.

Edge Support

Ease of Movement

7 /10
7 /10

The Nolah Evolution 15’s foam layers don’t sink or hug excessively, and the bounce of the coils facilitates movement on the surface. This makes this mattress a solid fit for combination sleepers or anyone who hates feeling stuck in place when lying in bed. With its softer surface, the plush (5) model restricts movement a bit more than the other two. The firm (8) model provided standout ease of movement to all of our sleepers.

Ease of Movement

Durability

8 /10
8 /10

With a stunning 15-inch profile, seven inches of which are polyfoam found in the comfort layer, the Nolah Evolution 15 is a highly durable mattress. Beneath that are 8-inch coils to give the bed more support. If longevity is your main concern, going with the firmer of the three options may extend the life a bit more. Otherwise, you can generally expect around eight or nine years of comfort.

Full Breakdown

The Nolah Evolution 15 is a quintessential hybrid because it contours to the body and alleviates pressure for side sleepers without sacrificing the support of a coil system. This construction also facilitates airflow and creates a supportive perimeter for those who have trouble getting in and out of bed.

How It Performs

The mattress is available in three firmness levels – medium (5), medium firm (6), and firm (8) – so virtually anyone can choose a feel that suits their body type, sleep position, and pressure relief needs. Edge support is particularly robust for the two firmer models. The coils promote consistent air circulation throughout the interior and the cover is quilted using proprietary ArcticTex fibers, so overheating won’t be an issue for most people.

Construction Breakdown

A Euro-top cover padded with soft foam creates a plush surface, while two additional foam layers provide additional cushioning for sensitive areas along the spine. The support core is divided into zones based on gauge, or coil thickness. This provides extra reinforcement for the lower back and hips – two areas of the body greatly affected by sciatica pain. Sturdier coils also line the perimeter to prevent deep sinkage when you get in and out of bed.

Trial, Shipping, and Warranty

Six standard sizes are available, as well as a split king size for adjustable beds. Nolah offers free ground delivery to anyone in the contiguous U.S. The company’s sleep trial runs 120 nights in length, but you can opt out of the trial to knock some money off of the asking price. All Evolution 15 mattresses are covered by lifetime warranties against structural defects.

Read Our Full Nolah Evolution 15 Review

Best Mattress for Spinal Alignment

8.5 /10 Test Lab Score

Bear Elite Hybrid

A close-conforming memory foam hybrid offering great pressure relief.

40% sitewide with code: SF40 Shop At Bear
Price: $1,499
Mattress Type: Hybrid
Firmness Options: Medium (5), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)
Trial Period: 120 nights (30-night break-in period)
Key Details
  • Who it’s best for: Side and back sleepers across different weight groups who live with shoulder, back, or hip pain.
  • Feel: Available in medium (5), medium firm (6), and firm (8) designs – all feel plush and adaptive on the surface with targeted midsection support.
  • strong>What it’s made of: Copper-infused memory foam and zoned transitional polyfoam over seven-zone pocketed coils with extra perimeter support.
  • What we don’t like: Some couples report motion transfer.
Scoring & Reviews

The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

8.5/10

130-230 lbs

9/10

Above 230 lbs

8.5/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

7.5/10

130-230 lbs

7/10

Above 230 lbs

6/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

7.5/10

130-230 lbs

6.5/10

Above 230 lbs

5.5/10

In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.

SELECT AN ICON TO VIEW DETAILS:

Motion Isolation

7 /10
7 /10

The Bear Elite Hybrid shows considerable ability to prevent vibrations from traveling across the surface of the mattress. Its memory foam layer only reacts where weight is directly applied, which helps keep movement from causing ripple effects that spread to the other side of the bed.However, the bounce of the coils can cause some motion transfer, especially on the firm model that has a reduced amount of contouring.

Pressure Relief

8 /10
8 /10

The Bear Elite Hybrid offers excellent pressure relief that stems from its comfort system and the zoned, pocketed coils in its support core. In our testing, it was side and back sleepers who tended to get the best pressure relief and support. That said, stomach sleepers liked the firm (8) model that maintained a flat, stable surface with just enough cushioning for the midsection.

Temperature Control

7 /10
7 /10

This mattress doesn’t feel overwhelmingly hot, but it also probably shouldn’t be the top choice for hot sleepers. The copper-infused foam makes it slightly cooler than some other memory foam mattresses, but heat can still collect in and around the foam. The risk of overheating is highest on the Luxury Plush model because it has the closest contouring around the skin, which may make it harder for heat around the body to dissipate during the night.

Edge Support

7.5 /10
7.5 /10

Reinforced edges in the support core help give this mattress a solid rating for edge support. While you’ll notice foam compression around the perimeter, it’s not so significant that you’ll feel like the mattress is giving out beneath you.Of the three different firmness options, edge support is clearly strongest in the firm (8) model and weakest in the one with a firmness level of medium (5).

Ease of Movement

6.5 /10
6.5 /10

When you need to switch your sleeping position or adjust your body’s alignment on the mattress, you generally won’t encounter much resistance. Sleepers over 230 pounds may find that there’s less ease of movement, especially on the softer models. But in most cases, the springiness from the thick layer of pocketed coils enables relatively easy movement on the surface of the Bear Elite Hybrid.

Durability

7.5 /10
7.5 /10

The Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress scores above average for durability thanks to its pocketed coils, reinforced perimeter, and memory foam and polyfoam layers. The mattress comes in three firmness levels, and going firmer will typically extend the life of the mattress a bit more. Overall, you should expect around seven to eight years of use.

Full Breakdown

Bear offers a lineup of mattresses that cater to different budgets and needs. The Bear Elite Hybrid is a luxury option with a thick comfort system and supportive coils, creating a well-rounded design that makes this bed an optimal choice if you have persistent hip pain.

How It Performs

We tested all three of the Elite Hybrid’s firmness levels. Our side and back sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds felt most comfortable on the medium design. These models contoured closely to cradle our spines and alleviate pressure in our hips, lower back, and other areas affected by sciatica pain. The medium firm feel earned favorable ratings across the board, though the highest marks came from our side sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds and back sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds. Lastly, we recommend the firm feel to side sleepers over 230 pounds, back sleepers of at least 130 pounds, and stomach sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds. Our testers who fall into these groups received adequate support and light, even conforming from the firm design.

We were impressed by the Elite Hybrid’s cooling abilities during our temperature control tests. Our thermal sensors detected minimal heat buildup, and our testers felt comfortable lying on the mattress. We attributed this to the breathable cover and coils, which generate airflow throughout the interior and help the mattress sleep comfortably any time of year – even on hot and humid nights. The thick foam layers also allowed the Elite Hybrid to excel when we tested it for motion isolation, as our testers didn’t notice any movement on their side of the mattress. We also found the Elite Hybrid easy to move across and didn’t sink excessively along the edges.

Construction Breakdown

The Elite Hybrid is available in three firmness levels: medium (5), medium firm (6), and firm (8). All three designs begin with a memory foam comfort layer infused with copper, a material with natural cooling properties. The polyfoam transitional layer is divided into five firmness zones to reinforce the midsection while gently cushioning the head, shoulders, and legs.

Pocketed coils and dense base foam make up the support core. Thicker coils line the perimeter to push back against your weight and prevent deep sinkage when you lie close to the edges or get in and out of bed. The cover is a blended fabric containing Celliant, an innovative material that absorbs and releases heat to maintain a cool surface at all times.

Trial, Shipping, and Warranty

Bear offers free ground shipping throughout the contiguous U.S. You can receive two free pillows with your Elite Hybrid purchase or upgrade to a sleep accessories bundle that includes two pillows, a sheet set, and a mattress protector at a discounted price. The mattress comes with a 120-night sleep trial and is further backed by a lifetime warranty if you decide to keep it.

Read Our Full Bear Elite Hybrid Review

Best Mattress for Pressure Relief

8.4 /10 Test Lab Score

Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid

A high-quality, affordable hybrid with multiple firmness options.

Price: $999
Mattress Type: Hybrid
Firmness Options: Medium Soft (4), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)
Trial Period: 120 nights (30-night requirement)
Key Details
  • Who it’s best for: Side, back, and stomach sleepers across different weight groups who are shopping with a limited budget.
  • Feel: Sold in medium soft (4), medium firm (6), and firm (8) designs, all of which offer light contouring and responsive support.
  • What it’s made of: Two layers of adaptive polyfoam over pocketed coils.
  • What we don’t like: Buyers pay a $99 fee for returning the mattress.
Scoring & Reviews

The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

8.5/10

130-230 lbs

9/10

Above 230 lbs

8.5/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

7.5/10

130-230 lbs

7/10

Above 230 lbs

6/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

7.5/10

130-230 lbs

6.5/10

Above 230 lbs

5.5/10

In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.

SELECT AN ICON TO VIEW DETAILS:

Motion Isolation

6.5 /10
6.5 /10

The Signature isolates motion fairly well. Many hybrid models feel more responsive on the surface, and this can generate more motion transfer when someone changes positions or gets in and out of bed.The Signature’s thick foam layers absorb movement to eliminate a great deal of transfer. You may still notice some ripples of transfer across the surface on the medium soft and medium firm models. For the firm Signature, the transfer will be more noticeable.

Motion Isolation

Pressure Relief

7 /10
7 /10

All three of the Signature’s firmness levels offer great pressure relief. The most comfortable option for you depends on your sleep position and body type.The medium soft model reduces pressure for side sleepers with extra cushioning the shoulders and hips. The medium firm feel is more supportive for back sleepers up to 230 pounds. You won’t sink too much, but the foam still conforms and relieves pressure. Those over 230 pounds and stomach sleepers should consider the firm model.

Pressure Relief

Temperature Control

7.5 /10
7.5 /10

The Signature’s coil system promotes airflow to maintain a comfortable temperature. The TitanFlex foam is also quite breathable compared to foams found in other hybrids.The firm model provides the best temperature control because it sinks very little and you’ll feel more surface airflow. The medium soft and medium firm models conform more closely. Hot sleepers may feel a bit too warm on these models – but for most, the mattress should sleep cool regardless of selected firmness.

Temperature Control

Edge Support

7.5 /10
7.5 /10

Hybrids generally excel at edge support, and the Signature is no exception. Coil support cores reinforce the perimeter better than latex or foam. This means less sinkage when you get on and off the mattress, and more stability if you like sleeping near the edges.The medium soft and medium firm models sink more than the firm because the foam conforms more closely, but they still maintain good overall stability if you weigh 230 pounds or less.

Ease of Movement

6.5 /10
6.5 /10

Polyfoam can be a responsive material, but the Signature’s latex-like TitanFlex foam is exceptionally bouncy. This allows you to move across the mattress rather easily. You won’t sink into the bed as you might on a mattress with memory foam.That said, the medium soft Signature can hinder movement on the surface. This model conforms the closest, so you’ll feel more sinkage when moving between the bed’s edges and interior. The medium firm and firm models provide more bounce-back.

Ease of Movement

Durability

7 /10
7 /10

The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid has an estimated lifespan of six to seven years. As with other hybrids, the pocketed coils provide a solid base that evenly distributes pressure to prevent excessive strain on any one area. The most vulnerable part of the mattress is the comfort system, particularly the quilted top. The softer foams used in the mattress’ top layers may eventually develop imprints that affect the cushioning, something that’s more prominent in the softer model.

Full Breakdown

The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid has a balanced design that delivers strong pressure relief without falling short on support. Available in three firmness options, the bed earned high ratings across many performance categories when we tested it in our sleep lab.

How It Performs

During testing, the medium soft model earned the highest marks from side sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds and back sleepers under 130 pounds. The medium firm model felt most comfortable to side and back sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds, while the firm option performed well with back and stomach sleepers over 130 pounds.

The foam comfort system adapts to your body and helps prevent uncomfortable pressure buildup. That said, we never found the surface excessively soft, due in large part to the coils and the responsive feel of the polyfoam. Our testers also reported minimal heat retention, since air circulates through the coils. If overheating is a concern, you may purchase a GlacioTex Cooling Cover to help keep the surface cool.

Construction Breakdown

The mattress is designed in three firmness levels: medium soft (4), medium firm (6), and firm (8). All models feature a cover quilted with polyfoam, followed by a layer of Supreme Response Comfort Foam that cushions your body gently and has a moderately responsive feel. Beneath is a VariFlex polyfoam layer that conforms to the body but is dense enough to prevent sinkage.

All firmness options feature the same sequence of foam layers, but the thickness of the layers differs in the firm model. Each mattress contains a support core made of pocketed coils with a reinforced perimeter for strong edge support.

Trial, Shipping, and Warranty

Brooklyn Bedding offers a 120-night sleep trial to try the mattress at home, and the bed is backed by a lifetime warranty. Shipping is free to addresses in the contiguous U.S.

Read Our Full Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Review

Best Luxury Mattress

8.5 /10 Test Lab Score

Saatva Rx

The Saatva RX is a luxury model specifically designed for individuals with chronic pain conditions

$300 off orders of $1,000 or more Shop At Saatva
Price: $2,801
Mattress Type: Hybrid
Firmness Options: Medium Soft (4)
Trial Period: 365 Nights ($99 Return Fee)
Key Details
  • Who it’s best for: Side and back sleepers under 130 pounds.
  • Feel: Medium soft (4) feel with deep contouring and minimal pushback.
  • What it’s made of: Polyfoam and a memory foam lumbar pad, followed by pocketed coils topped with foam caps to reduce motion transfer.
  • What we don’t like: Too soft for most people over 230 pounds.
Scoring & Reviews

The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

9/10

130-230 lbs

7.5/10

Above 230 lbs

6.5/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

7.5/10

130-230 lbs

7/10

Above 230 lbs

6.5/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

7.5/10

130-230 lbs

7/10

Above 230 lbs

6.5/10

In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.

SELECT AN ICON TO VIEW DETAILS:

Motion Isolation

8 /10
8 /10

We found that the Saatva Rx excels at isolation movement and preventing motion transfer. The memory foam comfort layer helps absorb surface vibrations, while the microcoil layer is encased in high-density polyfoam to further isolate movement. In addition to wrapping the support core’s individual coils in fabric — a standard feature of most hybrid mattresses — Saatva includes 2-inch foam caps on top of each coil. This helps muffle vibrations when pressure is exerted on the coils.

Pressure Relief

8 /10
8 /10

Designed by Saatva specifically for those who need extra pressure relief, our testers reported that the Rx delivers on their claims. The memory foam lumbar pad promotes spinal alignment, which can reduce lower back strain.We found the medium soft (4) surface relieved the most pressure for side and back sleepers under 230 pounds. The mattress compressed too much for stomach sleepers over 130 pounds, putting pressure on the lower back.

Temperature Control

8 /10
8 /10

The mattress’ temperature control is on par with most quality hybrids on the market, with a breathable cotton cover and wool flame barrier that help regulate surface temperature.The support core also has a number of temperature-regulating features. The Rx Foam Module has an open-cell structure that’s more ventilated than traditional polyfoam. It also contains graphite infusions and thermally conductive fibers designed for cooling.

Edge Support

7 /10
7 /10

Our testers sit and lie near the edges of a mattress to determine how sturdy its perimeter is.The Saatva Rx’s firmer coils along the perimeter keep the mattress from warping at the sides, so couples should be able to sleep comfortably near the edges of the mattress. That said, the mattress is pretty soft and some sinkage along the perimeter is to be expected.

Ease of Movement

7 /10
7 /10

A mattress that facilitates movement is helpful if you have joint or muscle pain. It’s also an advantage for sleepers who toss and turn at night.Our testers could easily move on the Saatva Rx despite its plush surface. Responsive microcoils prevent the comfort system from overly conforming to sleepers. Additionally, the strong pocketed coil core helps the mattress’ surface regain its shape more quickly.

Durability

7.5 /10
7.5 /10

The unique construction of the Saatva Rx makes it slightly more durable than some other hybrid mattress models. Below a half-inch layer of memory foam toward the top, there’s a support core that includes a one-inch layer of flexible microcoils encased in high-density polyfoam, followed by an eight-inch pocketed coil base layer. Even though the mattress’ medium-soft feel can reduce its durability a bit, you can expect it to last around eight years.

Full Breakdown

The Rx is Saatva’s first mattress model created specifically for people with sciatica and other types of back pain. A dense foam pad in the comfort system cushions and reduces pressure in the lumbar region, while two coil layers reinforce your body and help keep you on an even plane. After testing the Rx, our team determined its firmness level is medium soft (4). This makes it much softer and more adaptive than the average hybrid model.

How It Performs

As a softer-than-average hybrid mattress, the Rx performed well in some areas where other hybrids tend to fall short. Despite the coil-on-coil construction, we found the Rx was soft and adaptive enough to significantly isolate motion. The lumbar pad also helps the mattress alleviate pressure well. Another strength of this mattress is temperature control. Both coil layers promote internal airflow, and a breathable organic cotton cover encases the mattress to help the surface stay cool.

During our tests, the Rx was most popular among side sleepers on our team. Those weighing up to 230 pounds were particularly impressed. Although our back and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds enjoyed the Rx, heavier individuals in these position categories found the mattress too soft — and some sank to an excessive degree.

Construction Breakdown

The Rx’s comfort system begins with the “lumbar crown,” a strip of memory foam located directly beneath your lower back. The next layer consists of microcoils encased in dense foam, which help keep your body on an even plane. The coils are somewhat responsive, so they’ll cradle your sore spots without the deep hug people often experience on memory foam.

Unlike traditional pocketed coils, the Rx’s are topped with foam to provide extra cushioning. The foam also muffles noise and reduces motion transfer, making the mattress a decent option for co-sleepers. Thicker coils line the perimeter to push back against your weight when you sleep near the edges or get in and out of bed. At 15 inches, the Rx is exceptionally tall compared to the average mattress.

Trial, Shipping, and Warranty

As is the case with other Saatva models, the Rx is fairly expensive, but your order comes with free White Glove delivery that includes full assembly in a room of your choice and removal of your old mattress and box spring at no extra charge. You’ll also receive a generous 365-night sleep trial. If you choose to keep the mattress, it’s further backed by a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects.

Read Our Full Saatva Rx Review

Best Mattress for Hip Pain

9.3 /10 Test Lab Score

Birch Luxe

Luxury latex hybrid with a medium firm feel.

25% off sitewide Shop At Birch
Price: $2,099
Mattress Type: Latex Hybrid
Firmness Options: Medium Firm (6)
Trial Period: 120 nights (30-night requirement)
Key Details
  • Who it’s best for: Side and back sleepers up to 230 pounds who want an eco-friendly mattress.
  • Feel: Medium firm (6) construction with light contouring and strong response to movement.
  • What it’s made of: Organic wool batting comfort layers, followed by responsive latex and pocketed coils.
  • What we don’t like: Bouncy feel can cause motion transfer and sleep disruptions for couples.
Scoring & Reviews

The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

8/10

130-230 lbs

8.5/10

Above 230 lbs

8/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

9.5/10

130-230 lbs

9/10

Above 230 lbs

8/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

9.5/10

130-230 lbs

8.5/10

Above 230 lbs

7.5/10

In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.

SELECT AN ICON TO VIEW DETAILS:

Motion Isolation

6.5 /10
6.5 /10

Any mattress with springs inevitably transfers some motion, which is why all-foam models typically outperform hybrids in this category. Latex is bouncier than foam, so the Birch Luxe Mattress isn’t as effective at curbing movement when compared to hybrids with foam comfort systems.

Pressure Relief

7 /10
7 /10

The Birch Luxe offers a moderate amount of pressure relief. The latex contours somewhat, but the mattress is firm enough to help evenly distribute body weight and encourage a straighter spine. Side sleepers and those who weigh less than 130 pounds might prefer a softer model with more cushioning. People over 130 pounds of any sleep position should experience notable contouring and adequate support.

Temperature Control

9 /10
9 /10

Hybrids are typically better at regulating temperature than all-foam mattresses, as foam tends to trap heat. The Birch Luxe regulates temperature exceptionally well. The cover and comfort system use naturally breathable materials, including cotton and wool, to help draw heat and moisture away from the body. When compared to memory foam, natural latex has an airier structure that resists heat buildup. Plus, the pocketed spring support core also offers space for air to circulate.

Edge Support

9 /10
9 /10

The Birch Luxe features a hefty coil core that’s designed to minimize sagging throughout the mattress. Heavier gauge coils along the perimeter provide extra reinforcement, delivering above-average edge support.

Ease of Movement

9 /10
9 /10

The Birch Luxe’s construction makes it easy for sleepers to move around on its surface. Latex is notable for its responsiveness, which is helpful when changing sleeping positions. The coil support system also makes getting in and out of bed easier. The medium firm (6) feel of the bed doesn’t compress significantly, preventing the feeling of being trapped in the bed.

Durability

8.5 /10
8.5 /10

Thanks to its use of natural, durable materials, the Birch Luxe should perform for at least nine to 10 years, which is considerably longer than the average bed. Unlike foam, latex resists impressions and sagging, and the wool and cotton used throughout the construction should prove sturdy, too. Coils are generally more durable than polyfoam for support and should maintain their performance over time.

Full Breakdown

The Birch Luxe builds on the latex hybrid design of Birch’s flagship mattress with a Euro-top surface, additional padding layers, and a zoned support system. The adaptive, medium firm (6) feel is particularly well suited to people with sciatica and other conditions that cause lower back or hip pain.

How It Performs

Compared to other latex hybrids we’ve tested, the Birch Luxe feels remarkably plush — our testers attributed this quality to the deep batting layers cushioning the Euro-top. At the same time, we noticed extra support from the zoned coil system. Most of our testers experienced minimal sinkage around the lower back and hips. Testers weighing 130 to 230 pounds were particularly impressed with the Luxe, as side, back, and stomach sleepers in this weight range all awarded the mattress stellar ratings.

Temperature control was one of the Luxe’s major highlights during our hands-on tests. The batting layers wicked moisture away to keep us dry, the latex retained little heat, and the coils circulated air throughout the interior. As a result, our thermal sensors didn’t detect much heat build up. We also awarded high marks to the Luxe for edge support and ease of movement, common strengths of latex hybrid models.

Construction Breakdown

The Luxe features a Euro-top containing four individual batting layers. Rayon, organic wool, and organic cashmere create a cloud-like surface with deep cushioning for your body. These materials also excel at breathability and moisture control, allowing you to stay cool and dry while you sleep. A layer of proprietary Pulse latex, which feels both adaptive and gently responsive, rounds out the comfort system.

The Luxe’s support core contains pocketed coils over a wool and rayon batting base layer. Thicker coils rest beneath your lumbar region, ensuring extra reinforcement for the lower back and hips to target sciatica-related aches and pains. The perimeter is also reinforced, providing pushback when you lie near the edges or get in and out of bed. An organic cotton cover encases the mattress. The cotton, wool, and cashmere components have all earned certification from the Global Organic Textile Standard, a leading authority for sustainably sourced materials.

Trial, Shipping, and Warranty

The Luxe’s price-point is reasonable given the high-end design, and shipping is free to customers in all 50 states. You’ll also receive two complimentary pillows with your purchase. Each mattress order is backed by a 120-night trial and a lifetime warranty.

Read Our Full Birch Luxe Review

Video: Best Mattresses for Sciatica

Watch the video below to get a closer look at some of our top mattress picks for sleepers with sciatica.

What Is Sciatica?

“Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve, which runs from your lower back down through your legs, becomes irritated or compressed,” says Dr. Cotliar. “When this happens, you may feel pain that travels from your lower back through your hip and buttock and down your leg. This nerve compression can be caused by several conditions, including a herniated disc, narrowing of the spine (spinal stenosis), or tension in the piriformis muscle located in your buttock area.”

According to Dr. Cotliar, people with sciatica often experience a range of symptoms, including sharp or burning pain, numbness, tingling sensations, or muscle weakness in the affected leg. “These symptoms may get worse when sitting or standing for long periods. While most people find relief through non-surgical treatments like physical therapy and medication, some cases may need additional medical attention.”

What Is the Best Mattress Type for Sciatica?

Materials are the biggest driver of mattress performance. We classify mattresses based on their internal construction and layering. If you experience sciatica, knowing the pros and cons of each mattress type can help you pick the best option for your bedroom.

Foam

Foam mattresses are usually constructed in layers, with softer polyfoam or memory foam on top of a thicker, denser polyfoam base.

Memory foam offers impressive contouring that can help relieve pressure near the sciatic nerve, but some people find this material allows too much sinkage to feel supportive. By contrast, polyfoam tends to have less contouring and sink.

Hybrid

A hybrid mattress consists of materials like foam or latex above a thick support core made with innerspring coils. The performance of a hybrid can vary depending on its top layers, but these mattresses often appeal to people with sciatica because they offer a blend of responsiveness, support, and pressure relief.

“A medium firm hybrid’s combination of supportive coils and contouring comfort layers can offer good stability while cushioning sensitive areas. The coil base helps maintain spinal alignment while the comfort layers can help distribute weight evenly. This balance may help create a more comfortable sleep surface for those managing sciatic symptoms.”
Dustin Cotliar, MD, MPH
Dustin Cotliar, MD, MPH
Physician

Latex

A latex mattress involves one or more layers of either natural or synthetic latex rubber. Latex is known for being bouncy and durable, two important characteristics for a mattress for sciatica. Latex does not contour to the body as closely as other foams, but it provides solid support for many sleepers.

Airbed

An airbed’s support core is made of air chambers that can be inflated or deflated in real time at the touch of a button. Adding or removing air changes the bed’s firmness level. This makes it possible for people with sciatica to zero in on the optimal firmness at any given moment. However, airbeds tend to be more expensive than other mattresses, and their overall performance can vary based on the materials layered on top of the air chambers.

What Does Someone With Sciatica Need From Their Mattress?

If you have sciatica, having a mattress that properly cushions and supports can go a long way towards promoting comfort after a night’s rest. Sleeping with your spine in a healthy position is especially important. Spinal misalignment or prolonged contact with an unyielding surface during multiple hours of sleep can heighten pressure on the sciatic nerve in your back and may trigger or exacerbate pain.

“Sleep disruption and pain can create a challenging cycle for those with sciatica. The relationship between sleep and pain is bidirectional — poor sleep can increase pain sensitivity, while pain can make it harder to get quality sleep. For those with sciatica, this cycle makes it particularly important to create supportive sleep conditions.”
Dustin Cotliar, MD, MPH
Dustin Cotliar, MD, MPH
Physician

When shopping for a mattress, considering factors like pressure relief, responsiveness, edge support, and durability can help identify a mattress that is well-suited for those with sciatic pain.

Pressure Relief

Pressure relief provides cushioning around impact points like your lower back, hips, and shoulders. Having enough cushioning can help take pressure off the sciatic nerve. That said, it’s important to balance pressure relief with support. Maintaining neutral spinal alignment in bed can help stop a pinch point from developing around your sciatic nerve. 

If you have sharp pressure points, you may want a material like memory foam that closely contours to your body, though polyfoam and latex can also provide beneficial pressure relief.

Choosing the Right Firmness for You

For most people with sciatica, a medium to medium firm mattress is often the best option because it can properly cushion and support the area around the sciatic nerve in the lower back. A mattress that is too firm can cause excess impact in the lumbar area, and a mattress that is too plush may cause the body to sink, pulling the spine out of alignment. 

At the same time, firmness is inherently subjective. What feels most comfortable to you may not feel right for someone else. The ideal firmness can also vary based on your weight and preferred sleep position.

How Sleeping Position and Body Weight Play a Role

When you experience sciatica, your sleeping position impacts your pressure points and support needs. 

Sleeping on your side can promote spinal alignment if your mattress can relieve pressure around your hips and shoulders. Since sciatica is usually worse on one side, sleeping on the other side will keep pressure off tender areas. As long as your mattress offers enough support in the lumbar region, sleeping on your back should also feel comfortable. Sleeping on your stomach generally isn’t recommended because it can strain the lower back. 

Another factor that can determine your ideal firmness level is your body weight. If you weigh over 230 pounds, you will sink more deeply into many mattress materials, which means a firmer mattress usually delivers better support. If you weigh under 130 pounds, a softer mattress may be necessary to get sufficient cushioning and contouring.

Responsiveness

A responsive mattress offers bounciness that makes it easier to move on the surface of the bed. If you have sciatica, responsiveness lets you quickly adjust your sleeping position to get comfortable. A bouncier mattress also helps keep you from feeling stuck in any one position. Latex and coils are known for being responsive.

Edge Support

Solid edge support can be especially important if your sciatica makes it difficult to get in and out of bed. A reinforced perimeter also ensures you have the stability and support you need, no matter where you lie down on the mattress surface.

Durability

Durability matters if you have sciatica because a worn-out mattress may develop body impressions or start to sag. A sagging mattress can’t provide proper cushioning or support, and this jeopardizes spinal alignment and raises the risk of placing excess pressure on the lower back and sciatic nerve. 

Shipping and Delivery Services

Because sciatica can make it difficult to lift and maneuver heavy items, it’s worth thinking ahead about shipping and delivery of a new mattress. You may want to spring for White Glove delivery, which includes setup of your new mattress and removal of your old one. A few companies include this service for free, but it usually comes with an extra cost. 

If you can safely lift and move heavy objects, you can opt for free standard shipping that is offered by most online mattress companies. With this option, the mattress is compressed to fit in a box that is delivered to your front door. Once you carry the box to your bedroom and remove the packaging, the mattress gradually decompresses to regain its full size.

Sleep Trials and Warranties

A sleep trial gives you a period of time to try a mattress with the option to return it for a refund. If you have sciatica, this allows you to make sure the mattress provides the comfort and support you need before committing to it long-term. Most online mattresses come with a sleep trial of around 100 days, but some trials last as long as a year. 

A warranty is a type of purchase protection in case your mattress is faulty or defective. If your mattress starts to break down prematurely, it could worsen sciatic pain. If that happens, a robust warranty can help you get your mattress repaired or replaced without the significant expense of buying a new mattress.

Tips for Relieving Sciatica Pain During Sleep

Although dealing with sciatica can be a challenge, we’ve found that taking certain steps can complement the purchase of a good mattress and help provide relief for sciatic pain during sleep.

Talk to Your Doctor

Sciatica has many contributing factors, which makes it essential to work with your doctor to try to find pain relief. While upgrading your mattress may be helpful, it’s not a medical treatment, and only your doctor can provide tailored medical advice to address sciatica and enhance your sleep.

Use Pillows for Extra Support

To find the best sleeping position, it may help to have extra pillows that can support different parts of your body. This could include a pillow between your knees if you sleep on your side, a pillow under your knees when sleeping on your back, or a body pillow that you use to help you stay in a more comfortable position. Some experts suggest that elevating the upper body may help relieve sciatica pain.

Add a Mattress Topper or Pad

A mattress topper or pad can modify the feel of your bed in a way that may provide sciatica relief. 

A mattress pad is thin and normally only adds a touch of extra softness. A heated mattress pad has thin, built-in wires that provide moderate warmth, which some people with sciatica find soothing.

Toppers are several inches thick and can more dramatically change mattress performance, such as by adding contouring pressure relief or bounce. 

While a mattress topper or pad can be useful, remember that these products can’t make up for a mattress that is breaking down or sagging.

Do Stretches Before Bed

Light stretching may relieve tension before getting into bed. Be careful not to push too hard or do any stretches that make your pain worse. You can ask your doctor or a physical therapist for a personalized list of stretches. For sciatica, experts generally recommend stretches to improve spinal flexibility and relax the muscles of the back and core.

How We Test: Your Comfort Is Our Science

Our industry-leading product testing team cares deeply about improving your sleep. Having a holistic understanding of a mattress’s role as part of a sleep system is paramount to our testing process. Since a bed’s comfort and feel depend largely on body weight and sleeping position, our testing team represents a wide range of body types, sleep positions, and comfort preferences.

In our Seattle-based Test Lab, we use an objective, hands-on process to evaluate mattresses across performance categories. The following are the key guidelines that inform our performance ratings. Our ultimate goal is to ensure you have all the information you need to make the best purchase decision for you.

Construction analysis: We begin testing each mattress by analyzing its design and making note firmness, height, individual layer composition, and sticker price. This allows us to evaluate qualities like support, durability, and value.

Product testing: Firsthand testing is crucial to our evaluation and ratings system. We use a wide range of tools and technology to test mattresses in six performance categories: motion isolation, pressure relief, temperature control, ease of movement, edge support, and odor potential.

Field testing: In addition to lab-based tests, we base our ratings on feedback from field testers who use the mattresses in their own homes. They spend several weeks collecting data — this gives us insights into how the mattress performs night after night for an extended period.

User testing: We curate feedback verified owners have provided in surveys, sleep stories, and product reviews. This helps us evaluate our initial findings and, if needed, tweak our ratings to reflect real-world experiences.

How We Determine Our Overall Scores

To determine a mattress’s overall score, we assign weighted percentages to performance categories based on how important they are to the individual sleep experience. For instance, areas like pressure relief and temperature control tend to matter more to people than something like off-gassing, and because more people sleep on their side and back than on their stomach, we weigh those positions more heavily.

Performance Categories

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 chemical 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.

Dive Deeper – Mattress Guides by Pain Type

Frequently Asked Questions

How does sciatica affect sleep?

Sciatica affects sleep because it can cause significant pain and numbness. This discomfort can make it hard to fall asleep or stay asleep through the night. Many people find that sciatica pain flares up at night, further worsening its potential impact on sleep quality.

Can a mattress cause sciatica?

While an uncomfortable mattress doesn’t cause sciatica, it can contribute or make the problem worse. Sciatica happens when the sciatic nerve in the lower back becomes pinched. This can occur from an underlying problem, like a herniated or slipped disc. A mattress might not initially cause sciatica, but it could worsen the pain or contribute to the pressure placed on the sciatic nerve.

Is a soft or firm mattress better for sciatica?

The optimal firmness for sciatica depends on your preferences, sleeping position, and body weight. In many cases, a medium or medium firm mattress is best for sciatica. A firm mattress may be better if you weigh over 230 pounds or sleep on your back or stomach. A softer mattress may be a better choice if you weigh under 130 pounds and sleep on your side.

What is the best sleeping position for sciatica?

There is no single best sleeping position for sciatica, though stomach sleeping isn’t recommended. Sleeping on your back or side typically works well as long as your body gets the right amount of cushioning and support to maintain proper spinal alignment. If your sciatica is worse on one side, you may find it more comfortable to sleep on the other side.

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