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Best Mattresses for Arthritis & Joint Pain

Arthritis can dramatically impact your sleep as well as your waking life. The last thing you want is for joint pain, stiffness, and other symptoms to worsen because of your mattress. But just as the wrong bed can exacerbate these issues, the right bed may be able to provide some relief.

The best mattresses for arthritis pain comfortably conform to the curves of your body and reduce pressure on key areas. At the same time, they provide reliable support and responsiveness so you can move around easily.

What’s the Best Mattress for Arthritis?

The Saatva Classic earned our top spot due to its responsive dual-innerspring design, which supports most sleepers and sleeping positions. It balances stable support and cozy pressure relief, the perfect combination for folks with arthritis or joint pain. You should feel comfortably cradled but still able to reposition without much effort.

Best Mattresses for Arthritis

How We Chose the Best Mattresses for Arthritis

Here at Sleep Advisor, we pride ourselves on our in-person testing methods. We evaluate a bed’s performance in plenty of categories, including (but not limited to) pressure relief, support, motion isolation, and more.

Then, we translate our findings into laymans’ terms so you can make an informed decision about which mattress is right for you.

For this roundup, we prioritized features that are especially important for people with arthritis and joint pain. We also consulted a medical professional to help inform these criteria.

Emma mattress bounce test
Testing a mattress’s bounce in our studio

Advice from a Medical Expert

We reached out to Dr. Raj Dasgupta, a quadruple-board-certified physician, to learn which aspects of a mattress matter most when you’re experiencing arthritis symptoms. 

What We Want to See in a Mattress for Arthritis

Lots of Pressure Relief

When you lay down, it’s possible for pressure to build up around the areas that really dig into your mattress. A great bed for arthritis should combat this effect, and reliably relieve pressure for a more comfortable sink.

All of the beds on this list received a score of at least 4 out of 5 from our testers for their pressure-relieving abilities.

Even Support

Sinking too far into cushiony layers can also be a problem—you want your weight to remain evenly distributed on the mattress surface, and your spine feel to aligned (that is, relatively neutral and straight).

Without proper support, parts of your body may dip into the best unevenly, upping the chance of discomfort and aggravation of arthritis pain.

Therefore, we made sure that every mattress on this list earned at least a 4.5 out of 5 in this category.

The Right Height

If a mattres is very tall, it can be harder to climb into at night and get out of in the morning. If arthritis or joint pain is affecting your mobility, you don’t want to strain just to reach the surface of your bed.

At the same time, if a mattress is too close to the ground, you may be “plopping” into it with too much force.

The best mattresses for arthritis will be around a foot high to make the transition into bedtime an easy one. No bed on this list exceeds 13.5 inches in height, and the vast majority are 12 inches thick or less.

Compare the Best Beds for Arthritis

Saatva Mattress Helix Midnight Mattress Bear Original Mattress DreamCloud Original Mattress WinkBed Mattress Nolah Signature 12 Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress Birch Natural Mattress
Saatva Mattress Helix Midnight Mattress Bear Original Mattress DreamCloud Original Mattress WinkBed Mattress Nolah Signature 12″ Mattress Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress Birch Natural Mattress
Rating
4.8
4.5
4.7
4.6
4.6
4.8
4.7
4.8
Firmness Multiple firmness options Medium-firm: 6/10 Firm: 7/10 Medium-firm: 6.5/10 Multiple firmness options Medium-firm: 6/10 Multiple firmness options Medium-firm: 6/10
Material Innerspring Hybrid Foam Hybrid Hybrid Foam Hybrid Hybrid
Cooling
Warranty Lifetime warranty 10-year warranty Lifetime warranty Lifetime warranty Lifetime warranty Lifetime warranty 10-year warranty 25-year warranty
Shipping Free white glove delivery Free shipping Free shipping Free shipping Free shipping Free shipping Free shipping Free shipping
Trial Period 365 nights 100 nights 120 nights 365 nights 120 nights 120 nights 120 nights 100 nights
Best For Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Hot Sleepers, Seniors Couples, Back Sleepers, Side Sleepers Hot Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Side Sleepers, Hip Pain Back Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Seniors Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Hot Sleepers, Side Sleepers, Hip Pain, Seniors Side Sleepers, Back Pain Couples, Back Sleepers, Hip Pain Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Seniors

The Top Mattresses for Arthritis Symptoms, Reviewed

Saatva Classic – Editor’s Pick

Dual Coil Units and Awesome Edges

Saatva Mattress

Saatva Classic Mattress in Sleep Advisor

Coil-on-coil structure gives this elevated innerspring bed a luxurious feel and versatility.

Score 4.2/5
Read Saatva Mattress Review
CHECK PRICE
SA Brand Icon MattressMaterial

Material

Innerspring

SA Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod

Trial Period

365 nights

SA Brand Icon PropertyShipping

Shipping Method

Free white glove delivery

SA Brand Icon PropertyFirmness

Firmness

Multiple firmness options

SA Brand Icon MattressWarranty

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

SA Brand Icon PropertyPrice

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

SA sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
SA sleeper type seniors
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
SA sleeper type back pain
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
SA sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
SA sleeper type stomach sleepers
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review
Dual Coil Units and Awesome Edges

Saatva Mattress

Saatva Classic Mattress in Sleep Advisor

Coil-on-coil structure gives this elevated innerspring bed a luxurious feel and versatility.

Score 4.2/5
Read Saatva Mattress Review
SA Brand Icon MattressMaterial

Material

Innerspring

SA Brand Icon MattressWarranty

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

SA Brand Icon PropertyFirmness

Firmness

Multiple firmness options

SA Brand Icon PropertyShipping

Shipping Method

Free white glove delivery

SA Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod

Trial Period

365 nights

SA Brand Icon PropertyPrice

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

SA sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
SA sleeper type seniors
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
SA sleeper type back pain
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
SA sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
SA sleeper type stomach sleepers
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review
Saatva Classic Mattress in Sleep Advisor
Dual Coil Units and Awesome Edges

Saatva Mattress

Coil-on-coil structure gives this elevated innerspring bed a luxurious feel and versatility.

Score 4.2/5
Read Saatva Mattress Review
SA Brand Icon MattressMaterial

Material

Innerspring

SA Brand Icon PropertyFirmness

Firmness

Multiple firmness options

SA Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod

Trial Period

365 nights

SA Brand Icon MattressWarranty

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

SA Brand Icon PropertyShipping

Shipping Method

Free white glove delivery

SA Brand Icon PropertyPrice

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

SA sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
SA sleeper type seniors
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
SA sleeper type back pain
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
SA sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
SA sleeper type stomach sleepers
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review
Pressure Relief – 4

Note: We tested the Luxury Firm version of this bed, but it’s also available in Plush Soft and Firm. 

Why It’s Good for Arthritis Symptoms

Because it has two spring units for remarkable all-around support, the Saatva Classic’s cushioning ability often gets overlooked.

But its pillow top should feel very cozy to people with arthritis or general joint pain—especially if you opt for the Luxury Firm or Plush Soft models. 

And, well, its support really is something else. It kept my spine straight in every sleeping position during testing.

The inside of the Saatva Classic Mattress
A peek inside the Saatva Classic

I could really feel all of the lumbar-specific elements at play, including firmer stitching on the center of the cover and a strip of foam positioned right under the lower back. 

Our Favorite Feature

The edges of this mattress are encased in a dense foam, making the perimeter unlikely to buckle under your weight. In fact, this bed is one of very few that’s earned a 5 out of 5 from me for its edge support. If your arthritis makes it difficult to get in and out of bed fluidly, these foam rails should help. 

Testing Studio Soundbite 

“My pressure points feel supported, there’s decent cushion across my body, and my spine feels very lifted.”

Julia Forbes, Sleep Advisor Mattress Tester 
Pros
Free white glove delivery – A team of professionals will carry your new mattress straight into your bedroom (and take away your old one, if needed).
Customizable – It’s available in three firmness levels and two heights.
Cons
Motion travels – I gave this bed a 2 out of 5 for its motion isolation; I could clearly feel my fellow tester’s movements from across the bed.
Slight dip while back sleeping – Although I was still aligned, my hips sank furthest into the bed while I was on my back.

Customer Reviews of the Saatva Classic

The Saatva Classic rates 4.8 stars out of 5 on Saatva’s website. One negative aspect customers found with the Saatva Classic mattress is that it may feel too firm for some users, while a notable advantage is its high-quality materials, providing durability and support.

Need more info? Read our full Saatva Classic review or explore our picks for the best mattresses of 2024.

Helix Midnight – Best Mattress for Arthritis in the Shoulders

Springy Pressure Relief

Helix Midnight Mattress

Helix Midnight Mattress

Part of Helix’s core line of mattresses, the Midnight has a hybrid construction that’s particularly suited to back and side sleepers.

Score 4.1/5
Read Helix Midnight Mattress Review
CHECK PRICE
SA Brand Icon MattressMaterial

Material

Hybrid

SA Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod

Trial Period

100 nights

SA Brand Icon PropertyShipping

Shipping Method

Free shipping

SA Brand Icon PropertyFirmness

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6/10

SA Brand Icon MattressWarranty

Warranty

10-year warranty

SA Brand Icon PropertyPrice

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

SA sleeper type couples
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
SA sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
SA sleeper type side sleepers
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.5/5
Watch Our Video Review
Springy Pressure Relief

Helix Midnight Mattress

Helix Midnight Mattress

Part of Helix’s core line of mattresses, the Midnight has a hybrid construction that’s particularly suited to back and side sleepers.

Score 4.1/5
Read Helix Midnight Mattress Review
SA Brand Icon MattressMaterial

Material

Hybrid

SA Brand Icon MattressWarranty

Warranty

10-year warranty

SA Brand Icon PropertyFirmness

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6/10

SA Brand Icon PropertyShipping

Shipping Method

Free shipping

SA Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod

Trial Period

100 nights

SA Brand Icon PropertyPrice

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

SA sleeper type couples
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
SA sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
SA sleeper type side sleepers
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.5/5
Watch Our Video Review
Helix Midnight Mattress
Springy Pressure Relief

Helix Midnight Mattress

Part of Helix’s core line of mattresses, the Midnight has a hybrid construction that’s particularly suited to back and side sleepers.

Score 4.1/5
Read Helix Midnight Mattress Review
SA Brand Icon MattressMaterial

Material

Hybrid

SA Brand Icon PropertyFirmness

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6/10

SA Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod

Trial Period

100 nights

SA Brand Icon MattressWarranty

Warranty

10-year warranty

SA Brand Icon PropertyShipping

Shipping Method

Free shipping

SA Brand Icon PropertyPrice

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

SA sleeper type couples
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
SA sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
SA sleeper type side sleepers
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.5/5
Watch Our Video Review
Pressure Relief – 5

Why It’s Good for Arthritis in the Shoulders

When testing beds for how well they relieve pressure, we rely on color-coded maps that show us where pressure tends to build up on a sleeper’s body. 

The Helix Midnight had largely blue and green maps—exactly what you’d want to see, if you have arthritis—but the area around the shoulders was especially blue and pressure-free when we tried the bed on our sides.

Practically, this means that people with arthritis in their shoulders should feel very cushioned and cradled on this bed. 

Our Favorite Feature

The first layer of foam in this hybrid is called Memory Plus Foam, and it’s a material that’s exclusive to the Helix brand. It’s the bed’s first line of defense against pressure buildup, as it contours well to “sharp” joints like the shoulders. 

Helix Midnight Pressure Map
Pressure maps for the Helix Midnight; note the lack of pressure buildup around the shoulders

Testing Studio Soundbite 

“It has a memory foam feel. You feel hugged and cradled by the top layer of foam, but the coils keep you from sinking too far.”

Loren Bullock, Former Lead Product Tester
Pros
For back sleepers, too – Side sleepers and back sleepers can both benefit from this hybrid’s superb balance of pressure relief and support.
Awesome motion isolation – Hybrids usually perform poorly in this category, but the Helix Midnight surprised us and earned a 5 out of 5.
Cons
Weak edges – I felt like I was sinking a lot when lying and sitting on the sides of this bed.
Little cooling – At a 3 out of 5, this bed feels moderately cool, but it isn’t regulating temperature in a big way.

Customer Reviews of the Helix Midnight

The Helix Midnight rates 4.5 stars out of 5 on Helix’s website. The main negative is that reviewers tend to find it too soft for their liking and feel as though they’re sinking. But overall, users say they’re getting a great nights’ sleep and some pain relief.

Need more info? Read our full Helix Midnight mattress review or check out our list of the best mattresses for shoulder pain.

Bear Original – Best Mattress for Back Pain and Arthritis

Affordable Support

Bear Original Mattress

Bear Original mattress

This flagship model was thoughtfully crafted and assembled to be an attractive all-foam option for athletes who need better rest.

Score 3.9/5
Read Bear Original Mattress Review
CHECK PRICE
SA Brand Icon MattressMaterial

Material

Foam

SA Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod

Trial Period

120 nights

SA Brand Icon PropertyShipping

Shipping Method

Free shipping

SA Brand Icon PropertyFirmness

Firmness

Firm: 7/10

SA Brand Icon MattressWarranty

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

SA Brand Icon PropertyPrice

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

SA sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
SA sleeper type hip pain
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
SA sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
SA sleeper type side sleepers
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.7/5
Watch Our Video Review
Affordable Support

Bear Original Mattress

Bear Original mattress

This flagship model was thoughtfully crafted and assembled to be an attractive all-foam option for athletes who need better rest.

Score 3.9/5
Read Bear Original Mattress Review
SA Brand Icon MattressMaterial

Material

Foam

SA Brand Icon MattressWarranty

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

SA Brand Icon PropertyFirmness

Firmness

Firm: 7/10

SA Brand Icon PropertyShipping

Shipping Method

Free shipping

SA Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod

Trial Period

120 nights

SA Brand Icon PropertyPrice

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

SA sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
SA sleeper type hip pain
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
SA sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
SA sleeper type side sleepers
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.7/5
Watch Our Video Review
Bear Original mattress
Affordable Support

Bear Original Mattress

This flagship model was thoughtfully crafted and assembled to be an attractive all-foam option for athletes who need better rest.

Score 3.9/5
Read Bear Original Mattress Review
SA Brand Icon MattressMaterial

Material

Foam

SA Brand Icon PropertyFirmness

Firmness

Firm: 7/10

SA Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod

Trial Period

120 nights

SA Brand Icon MattressWarranty

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

SA Brand Icon PropertyShipping

Shipping Method

Free shipping

SA Brand Icon PropertyPrice

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

SA sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
SA sleeper type hip pain
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
SA sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
SA sleeper type side sleepers
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.7/5
Watch Our Video Review
Pressure Relief – 4.5

Why It’s Good for Arthritis and Back Pain

Arthritis patients who also experience back pain should look for a mattress that emphasizes support, but not rigidity (which can tax your joints).

Thankfully, the Bear Original is one of very few all-foam beds that manages to be both spine-aligning and pressure-relieving. 

Lying on top of it, you hardly feel any sink. We ranked it at a 7 out of 10 on our firmness scale, which means it’s definitively firm.

At the same time, though, its foams were able to take pressure off of sensitive spots while we rested on our backs and stomachs. 

Bear Original Back Sleeper Testing
Lying on my back on the Bear Original

Our Favorite Feature

The bed’s initial layers of Memory Foam and Dynamic Foam contour to your body’s shape without becoming overly squishy. Loren, our lightweight sleeper, commented that she doesn’t often feel foams that fill in the curve beneath her lower back like these did. 

Testing Studio Soundbite 

“It has great support and alignment for a foam bed without any zoned materials.”

Julia Forbes, Sleep Advisor Mattress Tester
Pros
Firmer foams – The firmer foams give the Bear Original a sturdy feel that especially suits back and stomach sleepers.
Inexpensive – This is the most affordable mattress on this list. With sales, you can buy a queen for much less than $1,000.
Cons
Thin profile – The Bear Original is only 10 inches thick, which is on the thinner end compared to other mattresses on this list.
Tough for lightweight side sleepers – The firm foams might feel a bit uncomfortable to side sleepers who are more petite.

Customer Reviews of the Bear Mattress

According to Bear’s website, the Bear Original scores about 4.5 out of 5 stars. Customers appreciate the Bear Original mattress for its excellent pressure relief but have reported that its edge support may be lacking, which could affect those who use the full mattress surface.

Looking for more info? See our Bear Original mattress review or check out the best mattresses for back pain.

DreamCloud – Best Mattress for Back Sleepers with Arthritis

Major Lift, Modest Price

DreamCloud Original Mattress

DreamCloud Original Mattress

Luxurious hybrid at a great price with a lifetime warranty.

Score 4.0/5
Read DreamCloud Original Mattress Review
CHECK PRICE
SA Brand Icon MattressMaterial

Material

Hybrid

SA Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod

Trial Period

365 nights

SA Brand Icon PropertyShipping

Shipping Method

Free shipping

SA Brand Icon PropertyFirmness

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6.5/10

SA Brand Icon MattressWarranty

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

SA Brand Icon PropertyPrice

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

SA sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
SA sleeper type seniors
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
SA sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.6/5
Watch Our Video Review
Major Lift, Modest Price

DreamCloud Original Mattress

DreamCloud Original Mattress

Luxurious hybrid at a great price with a lifetime warranty.

Score 4.0/5
Read DreamCloud Original Mattress Review
SA Brand Icon MattressMaterial

Material

Hybrid

SA Brand Icon MattressWarranty

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

SA Brand Icon PropertyFirmness

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6.5/10

SA Brand Icon PropertyShipping

Shipping Method

Free shipping

SA Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod

Trial Period

365 nights

SA Brand Icon PropertyPrice

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

SA sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
SA sleeper type seniors
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
SA sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.6/5
Watch Our Video Review
DreamCloud Original Mattress
Major Lift, Modest Price

DreamCloud Original Mattress

Luxurious hybrid at a great price with a lifetime warranty.

Score 4.0/5
Read DreamCloud Original Mattress Review
SA Brand Icon MattressMaterial

Material

Hybrid

SA Brand Icon PropertyFirmness

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6.5/10

SA Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod

Trial Period

365 nights

SA Brand Icon MattressWarranty

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

SA Brand Icon PropertyShipping

Shipping Method

Free shipping

SA Brand Icon PropertyPrice

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

SA sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
SA sleeper type seniors
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
SA sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.6/5
Watch Our Video Review
Pressure Relief – 4

Why It’s Good for Back Sleepers with Arthritis

The DreamCloud is a bed that’s all about balance. Even though it starts with four layers of foams, it retains a springy, hybrid feel that kept me lifted across sleeping positions. 

Its medium firmness makes it a great choice for back sleepers, who need that level of baseline support. Meanwhile, the multiple comfort foams we mentioned should help to offset arthritis symptoms. 

Our Favorite Feature

There are two quilted foams beneath the sikly cashmere cover: a contouring one, and a supportive one. This mix represents the DreamCloud’s balance on a miniature scale, and I really liked how both foams harmonized to keep me buoyed and cushioned on my back. 

Testing Studio Soundbite 

“I really liked how boosted atop the mattress I was.”

Julia Forbes, Sleep Advisor Mattress Tester
Pros
Lots of lift – Even with all the foams on top, this bed lifted my midsection well when I was on my back and stomach.
Isolates motion – It contained movement better than we thought it would, earning a 4.25 out of 5 in this category.
Cons
Not very contouring – The DreamCloud has several layers of foam on top of its coil unit, but it still won’t “hug” you.
Lacking edge support – The perimeter sagged a fair amount when I sat on it.

Customer Reviews of the DreamCloud mattress

The DreamCloud Original scores a solid 4.7 out of 5 stars among customers on its site. One potential downside of the DreamCloud Original mattress is its weight, making it challenging to move or rotate, but it offers excellent support and comfort for those who prefer a medium-firm feel.

Want more information? Read our in-depth DreamCloud mattress review or check out the best mattresses for back sleepers for more options.

WinkBed – Best Mattress for Seniors with Arthritis

Sturdy, Durable, and Customizable

WinkBed Mattress

WinkBeds Mattress

WinkBed is a luxury hybrid bed with a variety of comfort features that should make it a versatile pick for most sleeping positions.

Score 4.3/5
Read WinkBed Mattress Review
CHECK PRICE
SA Brand Icon MattressMaterial

Material

Hybrid

SA Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod

Trial Period

120 nights

SA Brand Icon PropertyShipping

Shipping Method

Free shipping

SA Brand Icon PropertyFirmness

Firmness

Multiple firmness options

SA Brand Icon MattressWarranty

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

SA Brand Icon PropertyPrice

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

SA sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
SA sleeper type seniors
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
SA sleeper type hip pain
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
SA sleeper type back pain
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
SA sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
SA sleeper type side sleepers
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
SA sleeper type stomach sleepers
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.6/5
Watch Our Video Review
Sturdy, Durable, and Customizable

WinkBed Mattress

WinkBeds Mattress

WinkBed is a luxury hybrid bed with a variety of comfort features that should make it a versatile pick for most sleeping positions.

Score 4.3/5
Read WinkBed Mattress Review
SA Brand Icon MattressMaterial

Material

Hybrid

SA Brand Icon MattressWarranty

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

SA Brand Icon PropertyFirmness

Firmness

Multiple firmness options

SA Brand Icon PropertyShipping

Shipping Method

Free shipping

SA Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod

Trial Period

120 nights

SA Brand Icon PropertyPrice

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

SA sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
SA sleeper type seniors
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
SA sleeper type hip pain
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
SA sleeper type back pain
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
SA sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
SA sleeper type side sleepers
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
SA sleeper type stomach sleepers
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.6/5
Watch Our Video Review
WinkBeds Mattress
Sturdy, Durable, and Customizable

WinkBed Mattress

WinkBed is a luxury hybrid bed with a variety of comfort features that should make it a versatile pick for most sleeping positions.

Score 4.3/5
Read WinkBed Mattress Review
SA Brand Icon MattressMaterial

Material

Hybrid

SA Brand Icon PropertyFirmness

Firmness

Multiple firmness options

SA Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod

Trial Period

120 nights

SA Brand Icon MattressWarranty

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

SA Brand Icon PropertyShipping

Shipping Method

Free shipping

SA Brand Icon PropertyPrice

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

SA sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
SA sleeper type seniors
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
SA sleeper type hip pain
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
SA sleeper type back pain
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
SA sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
SA sleeper type side sleepers
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
SA sleeper type stomach sleepers
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.6/5
Watch Our Video Review
Pressure Relief – 4

Note: We tested the Luxury Firm version of this bed, but it’s also available in Softer, Firmer, and Plus variants. 

Why It’s Good for Seniors with Arthritis

Seniors with arthritis are going to need a bed with dependable edges and lots of responsiveness, both of which can help with mobility issues. 

Enter the WinkBed: not only does this bed come in four different firmnesses, but it impressed our testers with its bouncy feel and extra-strong sides. 

We gave it a 4.5 out of 5 in edge support and felt like it was very easy to get in and out of the bed. Its responsive surface also had us switching between sleeping positions with no trouble at all. 

WinkBed mattress side view
The WinkBed in our studio

Our Favorite Feature

The WinkBed may not have the traditional memory foam “hug,” but it has a Euro pillow top that certainly cushioned our joints during testing. It’s quilted with “Hypersoft” foam that can nevertheless feel more supportive if you opt for a firmer model.

Testing Studio Soundbite 

“It’s bouncy, supportive, and cushy from the pillow top. It feels like a luxury hotel bed.”

Loren Bullock, Former Lead Product Tester
Pros
Something for everyone – With four different models to choose from, it’s almost guaranteed that there’s a WinkBed for your needs.
Strong edges – Edges that won’t dip too much translate to a lower risk of slipping and falling.
Cons
Not super soft – You’ll be sacrificing some of the distinctive cradling of all-foam models.
Motion carries – The motion transfer isn’t egregious, but it could wake up sensitive sleepers.

Customer Reviews of the WinkBed Mattress

On the WinkBeds site, the WinkBed earns a 4.8 out of 5 stars. One drawback of the WinkBed mattress is that it might be too expensive for budget-conscious shoppers, but overall it offers excellent durability and customizable firmness options.

Looking for more info? See our WinkBed mattress review or explore our top picks for the best bed for seniors with mobility issues.

Nolah Signature – Best Mattress for Pressure Relief and Arthritis

A Side Sleeper’s Dream

Nolah Signature 12″ Mattress

nolah signature mattress

Shoppers interested in a hybrid feel should find this Signature bed a perfect choice for their needs.

Score 4.0/5
Read Nolah Signature 12″ Mattress Review
CHECK PRICE
SA Brand Icon MattressMaterial

Material

Foam

SA Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod

Trial Period

120 nights

SA Brand Icon PropertyShipping

Shipping Method

Free shipping

SA Brand Icon PropertyFirmness

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6/10

SA Brand Icon MattressWarranty

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

SA Brand Icon PropertyPrice

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

SA sleeper type back pain
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
SA sleeper type side sleepers
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review
A Side Sleeper’s Dream

Nolah Signature 12″ Mattress

nolah signature mattress

Shoppers interested in a hybrid feel should find this Signature bed a perfect choice for their needs.

Score 4.0/5
Read Nolah Signature 12″ Mattress Review
SA Brand Icon MattressMaterial

Material

Foam

SA Brand Icon MattressWarranty

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

SA Brand Icon PropertyFirmness

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6/10

SA Brand Icon PropertyShipping

Shipping Method

Free shipping

SA Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod

Trial Period

120 nights

SA Brand Icon PropertyPrice

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

SA sleeper type back pain
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
SA sleeper type side sleepers
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review
nolah signature mattress
A Side Sleeper’s Dream

Nolah Signature 12″ Mattress

Shoppers interested in a hybrid feel should find this Signature bed a perfect choice for their needs.

Score 4.0/5
Read Nolah Signature 12″ Mattress Review
SA Brand Icon MattressMaterial

Material

Foam

SA Brand Icon PropertyFirmness

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6/10

SA Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod

Trial Period

120 nights

SA Brand Icon MattressWarranty

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

SA Brand Icon PropertyShipping

Shipping Method

Free shipping

SA Brand Icon PropertyPrice

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

SA sleeper type back pain
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
SA sleeper type side sleepers
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review
Pressure Relief – 5

Why It’s Good for Pressure Relief and Arthritis

Memory foam is known as one of the best materials for pressure relief, but the all-foam Nolah Signature is on a mission to one-up this material.

It features the brand’s proprietary AirFoam™, which allegedly relieves more pressure, lasts longer, and runs cooler than classic memory foams. 

Spoiler alert, we did indeed give this bed a perfect 5 out of 5 for its pressure relief. It gave us each a full-body hug—and I’m talking a deep, enveloping embrace—while still preserving our spinal alignment. 

Nolah Signature All-Foam Hybrid construction
The foams inside the Nolah Signature

Our Favorite Feature

It has to be the AirFoam™. Even though this material molded to my body, I never felt like I was sinking in too much. My back in particular continued to feel supported even as the foam contoured to all of my curves.

Testing Studio Soundbite 

“I’m feeling absolutely no pressure build-up as it hugs to the body. And when I say “hug,” I mean it. This thing is coming at you like your grandma walking in through the front door to embrace you at Christmas.”

Loren Bullock, Former Lead Product Tester
Pros
Side and back sleepers are all set – There’s enough support beneath the softness for both positions.
Impressive edges – With a score of 4.5 out of 5 in edge support, this mattress surprised us.
Cons
Motion isolation is just average – I expected a little more motion isolation from an all-foam bed.
Too soft for some sleepers – Heavier folks and those who sleep on their stomachs will need a firmer bed.

Customer Reviews of the Nolah Signature

The Nolah Signature gets a 4.8 out of 5 stars on Nolah’s website. One potential drawback of the Nolah Signature mattress is its limited firmness options, but it excels in providing exceptional pressure relief and a cooling sleep experience.

Interested in more details? Check out our full Nolah Signature mattress review or check out our best mattresses for pressure relief.

Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid – Best Mattress for Arthritis in the Hips

Simple but Sweet

Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress

Brooklyn Bedding Signature Side View

The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid is priced similarly to other bed-in-the-box options, it represents a fantastic value in the hybrid market.

Score 4.0/5
Read Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress Review
CHECK PRICE
SA Brand Icon MattressMaterial

Material

Hybrid

SA Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod

Trial Period

120 nights

SA Brand Icon PropertyShipping

Shipping Method

Free shipping

SA Brand Icon PropertyFirmness

Firmness

Multiple firmness options

SA Brand Icon MattressWarranty

Warranty

10-year warranty

SA Brand Icon PropertyPrice

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

SA sleeper type couples
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
SA sleeper type hip pain
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
SA sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.7/5
Watch Our Video Review
Simple but Sweet

Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress

Brooklyn Bedding Signature Side View

The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid is priced similarly to other bed-in-the-box options, it represents a fantastic value in the hybrid market.

Score 4.0/5
Read Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress Review
SA Brand Icon MattressMaterial

Material

Hybrid

SA Brand Icon MattressWarranty

Warranty

10-year warranty

SA Brand Icon PropertyFirmness

Firmness

Multiple firmness options

SA Brand Icon PropertyShipping

Shipping Method

Free shipping

SA Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod

Trial Period

120 nights

SA Brand Icon PropertyPrice

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

SA sleeper type couples
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
SA sleeper type hip pain
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
SA sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.7/5
Watch Our Video Review
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Side View
Simple but Sweet

Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress

The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid is priced similarly to other bed-in-the-box options, it represents a fantastic value in the hybrid market.

Score 4.0/5
Read Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress Review
SA Brand Icon MattressMaterial

Material

Hybrid

SA Brand Icon PropertyFirmness

Firmness

Multiple firmness options

SA Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod

Trial Period

120 nights

SA Brand Icon MattressWarranty

Warranty

10-year warranty

SA Brand Icon PropertyShipping

Shipping Method

Free shipping

SA Brand Icon PropertyPrice

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

SA sleeper type couples
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
SA sleeper type hip pain
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
SA sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.7/5
Watch Our Video Review
Pressure Relief – 5

Note: We tested the Medium version of this bed, but it’s also available in Soft and Firm. 

Why It’s Good for Arthritis in the Hips

I expected a very supportive feeling from a bed called the “Signature Hybrid,” so I was delighted and surprised when this mattress welcomed my hips with lots of cushion.

The hip is one of the sharper joints and it’s very prone to pressure buildup, but I think this bed is plush enough on the surface to provide the necessary cradling. 

Even though we tested the Medium, it was quite soft—a 5 out of 10 on our scale—but it still kept me lifted and aligned on my back and side.  

Our Favorite Feature

The first comfort layer is called Supreme Response Comfort Foam, and I can confirm that the name is accurate. Even though it feels pillowy, it’s also springy. Alongside the coils in the mattress’s base, this foam helped it earn a 5 out of 5 for bounce. 

Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid side sleeper testing
Side sleeping on the Signature Hybrid

Testing Studio Soundbite 

“The pillowy surface is putting in the work, because as soon as you lie down it responds to hug around you softly.”

Julia Forbes, Sleep Advisor Mattress Tester
Pros
Choose your firmness – There are three firmness options to choose from; just be aware the bed skews soft.
Cooling – This mattress earned a pretty high cooling score, likely due to the airflow around its coils.
Cons
Motion travels – It’s very bouncy, so you feel movements on the other side.
Edges aren’t the best – I didn’t feel fully secure sitting on the edge, though lying was better.

Customer Reviews of the Signature Hybrid

On Brooklyn Bedding’s website, the Brooklyn Signature has 4.7 out of 5 stars. The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid mattress receives praise from customers for its versatility with different firmness options, but some have mentioned that it may produce slight noise when bearing weight.

Need more details? Read our Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid mattress review, or peruse the best mattresses for hip pain.

Birch Natural – Best Cooling Mattress for Arthritis

Natural, Organic, and Hypoallergenic

Birch Natural Mattress

Birch Natural mattress in the Sleep Advisor studio

An eco-friendly bed that pairs latex and individually wrapped coils for a versatile hybrid sleep experience.

Score 4.2/5
Read Birch Natural Mattress Review
CHECK PRICE
SA Brand Icon MattressMaterial

Material

Hybrid

SA Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod

Trial Period

100 nights

SA Brand Icon PropertyShipping

Shipping Method

Free shipping

SA Brand Icon PropertyFirmness

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6/10

SA Brand Icon MattressWarranty

Warranty

25-year warranty

SA Brand Icon PropertyPrice

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

SA sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
SA sleeper type seniors
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
SA sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.
SA sleeper type stomach sleepers
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review
Natural, Organic, and Hypoallergenic

Birch Natural Mattress

Birch Natural mattress in the Sleep Advisor studio

An eco-friendly bed that pairs latex and individually wrapped coils for a versatile hybrid sleep experience.

Score 4.2/5
Read Birch Natural Mattress Review
SA Brand Icon MattressMaterial

Material

Hybrid

SA Brand Icon MattressWarranty

Warranty

25-year warranty

SA Brand Icon PropertyFirmness

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6/10

SA Brand Icon PropertyShipping

Shipping Method

Free shipping

SA Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod

Trial Period

100 nights

SA Brand Icon PropertyPrice

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

SA sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
SA sleeper type seniors
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
SA sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.
SA sleeper type stomach sleepers
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review
Birch Natural mattress in the Sleep Advisor studio
Natural, Organic, and Hypoallergenic

Birch Natural Mattress

An eco-friendly bed that pairs latex and individually wrapped coils for a versatile hybrid sleep experience.

Score 4.2/5
Read Birch Natural Mattress Review
SA Brand Icon MattressMaterial

Material

Hybrid

SA Brand Icon PropertyFirmness

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6/10

SA Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod

Trial Period

100 nights

SA Brand Icon MattressWarranty

Warranty

25-year warranty

SA Brand Icon PropertyShipping

Shipping Method

Free shipping

SA Brand Icon PropertyPrice

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

SA sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
SA sleeper type seniors
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
SA sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.
SA sleeper type stomach sleepers
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review
Pressure Relief – 4

Why It’s Good for Cooling and Arthritis

The Birch Natural is a latex mattress, with latex foam sandwiched between its organic cotton cover and its spring unit.

Latex is a naturally cooling material, and our testing proved its power: the temperature of the bed hardly rose at all between 5 and 10 minutes of someone lying on top of it. 

Latex is also great for pressure relief, so if you sleep hot and want to nurse your tender joints, this bed may be the one for you. 

Our Favorite Feature

The Talalay latex foam in this bed is hypoallergenic, springy, cooling, and pressure-relieving—quite the combination of features.

testing the cooling of the Birch Natural mattress
Temperature testing the Birch Natural

It has a more bouncy feel than traditional synthetic foams, so it’s responsive and cradling all at once. 

Testing Studio Soundbite 

“The support was impressive and the responsiveness even more so. The bed is super bouncy—we never felt stuck.”

Julia Forbes, Sleep Advisor Mattress Tester
Pros
Natural materials – You’ll find a wealth of eco-friendly, organic, and non-toxic materials inside this bed.
Very responsive – Latex foam and springs beneath create lots of bounce for easy movement.
Cons
Won’t cancel out motion – You will probably feel a partner’s fidgeting from across the bed.
Pricey – Latex beds tend to skew expensive, and this one is no exception.

Customer Reviews of the Birch Natural

According to Birch’s website, the Birch Natural scores a 4.6 out of 5 stars. While some users consider the Birch Natural mattress to be on the pricier side, it gains customer appreciation for its organic materials and sustainable, eco-friendly construction.

Considering this bed? Consult our full Birch Natural mattress review or check out our best cooling mattress picks.

How Can a Mattress Help with Arthritis?

According to the Arthritis Foundation, a majority of people with arthritis have trouble sleeping.1 The reason for this is obvious: arthritis pain makes it difficult to fall and stay asleep. This pain can also manifest more severely at night, when you’re not moving your joints.2

What’s even more worrisome is that sleep deprivation can actually make your arthritis pain worse. That’s because the effects of sleep loss can encourage joint pain to become “centralized,” upping your sensitivity to it.1

Thankfully, though, the opposite is also true: spending enough time in restorative deep sleep may help to reduce arthritis pain.3

Here’s where your mattress comes in. If your bed feels comfortable, keeps your spine aligned, and relieves pressure around your joints, you’ll be all the more likely to get the sustained sleep your brain and body needs. 

The right mattress will therefore soothe your sore joints in both the short- and long term. It should take the pressure off as soon as you lie down, and promote consistent, quality sleep night after night. 

What Type of Mattress is Best for Arthritis?

all types of mattresses illustration

Hybrid, foam, and latex beds are all both good bets for sleepers with arthritis, as long as they provide the pressure relief and support your joints need. I wouldn’t recommend a traditional innerspring bed, because they often lack cushioning layers on top. 

The right kind of bed for you may also depend on your body type. For example, people who weigh more than 230 pounds tend to do better on firmer, more supportive beds that have springs at the base. If you’re a plus-size person with osteoarthritis, a hybrid bed will probably be the best choice for you. 

Petite sleepers, on the other hand, will want a bed on the softer side, and may gravitate towards foams that really “hug” them. 

Read more about each type of mattress below.

Hybrid Mattresses

A hybrid mattress features an innerspring unit as well as several upper comfort layers made of foam.

This marriage of different elements means that hybrids are both supportive and pressure-relieving. They’re an excellent choice for many sleepers with arthritis—in fact, most of the beds on our list above are hybrids.

Foam Mattresses

Foam mattresses are some of the most pressure-relieving beds, so they can feel very comfortable for people with arthritis. They’re also the most affordable mattress type.

However, they lack the strength of support that a spring unit provides, and often aren’t as durable or as cool (temperature-wise) as hybrids.

Latex Mattresses

Latex foam is a durable and buoyant material that runs quite cool. It has superb contouring capabilities, but its springiness prevents the sinking feeling that characterizes memory foam.

If you move a lot during the night because of arthritis discomfort, you may find that a latex mattress makes it easier to reposition. However, latex is a pricey material, so these beds tend to be expensive.

Innerspring Mattresses

An innerspring mattress has metal coils as its primary support layer, topped by a thin comfort layer above. They’re typically firmer and more bouncy than other types.

While they’re great for support, they don’t offer much pressure relief, which could be a drawback for those with achy joints.

What Sleeping Position Is Best for Arthritis?

Our testers test each sleeping position to make sure each mattress fits the right sleeper

Back and side sleeping seem to be the safest bets, as stomach sleeping carries the highest risk of spine misalignment, but your individual experience of arthritis will determine what feels most comfortable to you.

Combination sleeping—also known as shifting between different positions—may also be helpful, so that you don’t concentrate pressure around the same area for the entire night.

Overall, the best sleeping position for combating arthritis pain is the one that keeps your spine aligned and takes pressure off of your affected joints.

No matter which position you choose, try not to lie directly on top of the joints experiencing the most pain. (So, if you have arthritis in one shoulder and you’re a side sleeper, rest on the opposite side.)

A final tip: place your pillows strategically. If you have hip or knee arthritis and like to sleep on your side, you may benefit from a pillow between your knees. Alternatively, if you have shoulder arthritis, you may be most comfortable putting a pillow beneath the affected arm and sleeping on the opposite side.4

What’s the Right Mattress for Your Sleeping Position?

Side Sleeping

Side sleepers tend to experience more pressure on their shoulders and hips, so they’ll need a mattress that cradles these areas. Softer surfaces are usually preferable. However, if you go too soft, you may end up sagging into the bed unevenly and create new problems.

Back Sleeping

If you’re a back sleeper, your mattress needs to provide the necessary support to ensure spinal alignment. Back sleepers typically do best with medium-firm beds that balance strong base layers with cushiony upper ones.

Stomach Sleeping

Stomach sleepers benefit from firmer beds that can keep their hips lifted for better spinal alignment. Otherwise, your hips and lower back may dip too low into the bed and put strain on this area.

Combination Sleeping

Combination sleeping means you’re moving between two or more sleep positions throughout the night. It makes sense that you might shift positions if you have arthritis, as it can be hard to get comfortable.

When looking for a mattress to accommodate a variety of positions, it’s best to go for a medium-firm model, as this feel is the most versatile. You should also prioritize responsiveness. This means you won’t feel “stuck” in the mattress, and its springy surface will help you move around easily.

Tell Us About Your Experience with Arthritis

Best Mattress for Arthritis
Have you been diagnosed with a form of arthritis by a medical professional?
Do you have arthritis?
Does arthritis impact your sleep quality?
Have you tried any of the following to reduce arthritis symptoms/pain at night? (check all that apply)
Have you considered any of the following to reduce arthritis pain at night? (check all that apply)

What Should You Look For in a Mattress When You Have Arthritis? 

Pressure Relief

When you’re experiencing the pain and stiffness that can come with arthritis, the last thing you want is increased pressure around your sensitive joints. 

The best mattresses for pressure relief will cradle these areas and absorb pressure that might otherwise build up around them due to their contact with the bed. 

How We Test It 

We can tell whether a mattress will relieve lots of pressure by using pressure maps. They’re color-coded maps that display where pressure is the highest across a reclining person’s body.

Orange and red mean lots of pressure, whereas cooler colors like blue and green signify very little pressure. 

Testing the Birch Natural's pressure relief
Testing pressure relief on the Birch Natural

Support

Support refers to the bed’s ability to hold your spine in a straight, neutral alignment, without any dipping or sagging. A mattress without consistent support may exacerbate joint and back pain. 

How We Test It

We have testers of different body types lie down on each mattress and report how supported and aligned they feel. We also look at the testers and gauge how straight their backs look. 

The Right Height

If you have arthritis, your mattress shouldn’t be too tall or too short. Around a foot tall is probably best, as it positions the mattress at a convenient height for getting into and out of bed. 

How We Test It

We’ll consult the manufacturer’s information for how tall the bed is, and if we think the bed looks much shorter or taller, we’ll measure it. 

Comfortable Firmness

Different people have different firmness preferences when it comes to their beds. If you have arthritis, you’ll want a firmness that doesn’t feel too hard or too soft, and that can accommodate movement comfortably. Medium-firm beds are the most versatile in this regard. 

How We Test It 

We rank mattress firmnesses on a scale of 1 to 10 (10 being extremely firm, 1 being extremely soft.) A medium-firm bed has a firmness between 5 and 6.5 on the scale, and firm beds begin at 7. 

Strong Edges

Sturdy edges are helpful for people with arthritis because they make getting in and out of bed easier. They also lower the risk of slipping out of bed while you’re lying on the side. 

How We Test It

We test edge support by both sitting and lying right on the edge of the bed for a full minute each. While sitting, we tie our shoes to produce some movement. 

Nolah Signature All-Foam Hybrid edge support
Testing edge support on the Nolah Signature

Responsiveness

“Responsiveness” is a fancy word to describe how springy or bouncy a bed is. Very responsive beds will have materials that spring back into shape easily, whereas less responsive ones will have foams that sink slowly and take a long time to reform. 

A responsive bed can be beneficial for arthritis pain, because its surface will be easy to move around on. However, some people may prefer the slow, “hugging” sensation of a less responsive mattress—it comes down to personal preference. 

How We Test It

We jump and roll around on the bed, of course! We also bounce a medicine ball and lacrosse ball on the surface to see just how springy those upper materials are. 

Motion Isolation

Motion isolation measures how well a mattress cancels out the feeling of movement. This is especially important for sleepers who share a bed: when the bed isolates motion well, you’re less likely to feel your partner moving at night.

The Arthritis Foundation reports that about 70 percent of those with arthritis contend with “some kind of sleep disturbance,” so limiting anything else that might disrupt your sleep will be helpful.1

How We Test It

We cause movement on one side of the bed and measure its impact with a seismograph app.

The app displays a reading that tells us how well movement was dampened. 

A line with lots of steep waves implies that motion wasn’t isolated very much, whereas a straight line indicates great motion isolation. 

Testing the motion isolation of the Birch Natural
Testing motion isolation on the Birch Natural

Trial Period & Warranty

A mattress’s trial period allows you to test it in your own home for weeks or months (and sometimes up to a year). If you find that it’s not the best fit for your arthritis symptoms, you can return it without much hassle. 

A warranty will cover the cost of repairs or a replacement bed under certain conditions. A longer warranty will provide you with this coverage for more time, increasing the lifespan and decreasing the cost of your next bed. 

Look at both of these factors as you compare beds. Longer trial periods and warranties usually speak to a company’s faith in their product—and they’ll also enable you to feel confident in your final choice. 

Budget

Of course, none of these aspects above matter if you can’t afford your ideal mattress. When you’re shopping on a budget, try to buy a new bed around the holidays to take advantage of big discounts. You can also save by saying no to bonus features or premium models that won’t make much of a difference to your comfort. 

That being said, if you have arthritis, we don’t recommend buying the cheapest mattress available. You’ll have to balance your needs, wants, and wallet while making your decision. Investing in an affordable mattress that still ticks all your comfort boxes will serve you and your joints well in the long term. 

The Best Mattresses for Arthritis: Price Comparison Chart

MattressBest ForPrice (Queen Size)Review
Saatva ClassicOverall$1,995Saatva Classic Mattress Review
Helix MidnightArthritic Shoulders$1,199Helix Midnight Mattress Review
Bear OriginalBack Pain$999Bear Original Mattress Review
DreamCloudBack Sleepers$1,332DreamCloud Mattress Review
WinkBedSeniors$1,799WinkBed Mattress Review
Nolah SignaturePressure Relief$1,599Nolah Signature Mattress Review
Brooklyn Bedding Signature HybridArthritic Hips$1,249Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress Review
Birch NaturalCooling$1,799Birch Natural Mattress Review

Best Mattress for Arthritis FAQs

Is a soft or firm mattress better for arthritis?

A medium-firm mattress with some cushion in the upper layers tends to be the best middle ground for someone experiencing joint pain. You want enough pressure relief up top, but enough support in the base.

Your body type can also dictate which firmness level feels most comfortable to you. Heavier folks need a firmer mattress, and lightweight people tend to prefer softer ones.

What type of mattress is best for seniors with arthritis?

Typically, a hybrid bed will have the best balance of responsiveness, support, and pressure relief for seniors.

Seniors may experience more stiffness and a decrease in their mobility as a result of arthritis. For that reason, we recommend beds with very strong edges and a responsive surface, as these factors help facilitate movement.

Read up on the best mattresses for seniors to learn more.

Is a memory foam bed good for arthritis?

Memory foam is known for its pressure-relieving properties, so it can definitely feel comfortable on arthritic joints.

However, a pressure-relieving foam is only as good as the support layers below it. If you’re trying a mattress with memory foam inside it, make sure that you feel like you spine is aligned at the same time as your joints are cradled.

Julia Forbes

Julia Forbes

Sleep Advisor Mattress Tester

About Author

Julia is a mattress tester at Sleep Advisor, specializing in testing out mattresses and sleep accessories – she’s in the right line of work, because she loves to sleep.

Stomach Sleeper

Education & Credentials

  • Certified Sleep Science Coach

References:

  1. “Osteoarthritis and Sleep”. Arthritis Foundation. Last modified March 15, 2022.  
  2. “Arthritis? Joint Symptoms You Can’t Ignore (and Ones You Can)”. Johns Hopkins Medicine. Webpage accessed June 28, 2024.
  3. Haack, Monika., et al. “Sleep deficiency and chronic pain: potential underlying mechanisms and clinical implications”. National Library of Medicine. 2020.
  4. Position Yourself for a Good Night’s Sleep”. Arthritis Foundation. Last modified March 28, 2022.