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Best Mattress for People with a Herniated Disc (2024), Medically Reviewed

Disclaimer – Nothing on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment… Read More Here.

A herniated disc can cause pain that’s both chronic and debilitating. The severity of the condition and the intensity of its symptoms can vary, often depending on the type of herniation and where it’s located. The majority of the time, the herniation is in the lower back, though some people experience one in their middle back, upper back, or neck.

Although a herniated disc can be serious, many patients heal from this condition on their own without medical intervention or surgery.1 However, as you might imagine, sleeping on the wrong mattress can prevent your body from healing properly and create a vicious cycle of pain and sleepless nights.

The right mattress could help you rest more easily. In this article, we’ll share our top mattress picks for people with a herniated disc, as well as what you should know when you’re shopping for a mattress and struggling with this condition.

The Saatva Rx tops this list because it was built with two coil layers to minimize back pain. It’s also a supremely versatile mattress that pleases a wider variety of sleepers than many competitors.

Best Mattresses for Herniated Discs

  • Saatva Rx – Editor’s Pick
  • Helix Midnight – Best Hybrid Mattress for a Herniated Disc
  • Nectar – Best Mattress for Side Sleepers with a Herniated Disc
  • WinkBed – Best Mattress for Low Back Pain from a Herniated Disc
  • Nolah Signature – Best Mattress for Pressure Relief with a Herniated Disc
  • Bear Elite Hybrid – Best Mattress for Back Sleepers with Herniated Disc
  • Plank Firm Luxe – Best Firm Mattress for a Herniated Disc
  • Birch NaturalBest Organic Mattress for a Herniated Disc

Best Mattresses for Herniated Discs Video Review

Compare The Best Mattresses for Herniated Discs

Saatva Rx Mattress Helix Midnight Mattress Nectar Mattress WinkBed Mattress Nolah Signature 12 Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Luxe Mattress Birch Natural Mattress
Saatva Rx Mattress Helix Midnight Mattress Nectar Mattress WinkBed Mattress Nolah Signature 12″ Mattress Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Luxe Mattress Birch Natural Mattress
Rating
4.8
4.5
4.7
4.6
4.8
4.5
4.7
4.8
Firmness Medium-firm: 6/10 Medium-firm: 6/10 Firm: 7.5/10 Multiple firmness options Medium-firm: 6/10 Medium-firm: 6/10 Multiple firmness options Medium-firm: 6/10
Material Hybrid Hybrid Foam Hybrid Foam Hybrid 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 minus HI and AK Free shipping
Trial Period 365 nights 100 nights 365 nights 120 nights 120 nights 120 nights 120 Nights 100 nights
Best For Back Pain, Hip Pain, Stomach Sleepers, Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Seniors Couples, Back Sleepers, Side Sleepers Back Sleepers, Back Pain, Stomach Sleepers, Side Sleepers, Couples Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Hot Sleepers, Side Sleepers, Hip Pain, Seniors Side Sleepers, Back Pain Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Hip Pain, Seniors Hot Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Side Sleepers, Couples Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Seniors

Sleep Advisor’s Testing Methodology

At Sleep Advisor, our mattress reviews are based on findings from in-person tests that allow us to have a genuine understanding of how the mattress feels and performs. We look at features that are valuable to consumers, such as temperature control, bounce, edge support, and motion isolation.

For this roundup, we prioritized features that are especially important for herniated discs. We paid special attention to components such as mattress thickness, support elements, weight capacity, and cooling. We also consulted Dr. Raj Dasgupta, a quadruple board-certified physician to get his medical insights.

Learn more about our product review process here.

Loren Bullock of Sleep Advisor testing the Saatva RX
Former product tester, Loren Bullock, testing the Saatva RX, our top pick for the best mattress for herniated discs.

What We Look for in a Mattress for Herniated Discs

Firmness Level

Medium-firm to firm mattresses should provide those with herniated discs with support for good spinal alignment and some cushioning. Using our mattress firmness scale, we rate mattresses from 1-10, with one being marshmallow soft. All the beds on this list rate between 5 and 8. 

Considering that firmness is how soft or hard a bed feels, and this is subjective, we’ve selected beds with slightly varied firmness levels to better accommodate different body types and sleep positions. 

Mattress Materials

We also consider the materials each bed on this list is made from, as these lend to comfort and durability. 

When it comes to all-foam beds, we will look at their density. Density is measured in pounds per cubic foot (PCF), and we like to see beds no lower than 4 PCF, with 6 PCF being a good middle point. 

For hybrids, we like to see thicker coils with a lower gauge since these are typically more sturdy and supportive. Coil count is also indicative of how supportive a mattress is, and for this, we like to see beds with nothing less than a 400 coil count for a Queen size, but higher is usually better. 

When it comes to latex, if it is a hybrid latex mattress, those with herniated discs will likely be best served by Talalay latex, as it is lighter and more airy and should provide some softness against the firmer support from the coils. However, those opting for an all-latex mattress will likely want a support unit with Dunlop latex, which is more dense for enhanced support. 

Support and Spine Alignment

Considering that this is a guide for those with herniated discs, how supportive a bed is and how well it supports spinal alignment are critical characteristics. We use hands-on testing to see how well our testers feel supported with good spine alignment in different sleeping positions. They then use that information to give the mattress a support score of 1-5, with 5 being the best. 

For this list, we selected beds that scored at least 4 out of 5 in this category. By sticking to beds that earned high support scores, we think these will be most helpful for this type of back issue.

Best Beds for a Herniated Disc

Saatva Rx – Editor’s Pick

Editor’s Pick
Sleep Advisor Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.4
Saatva
Saatva Rx Mattress
Pressure Relief
Built to Last
Luxury
Hybrid
365 nights
Free white glove delivery
Celebrating America Sale
15% off purchase of $1,000+ See Details
Material
Material
This mattress contains foam layers and coils.
Price
Price
$1,995 – $3,795 (before any discounts)
Firmness
Firmness
Medium. We rated this bed at a 6 out of 10 on our firmness scale.
Size
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, California king, split king
Back Pain
Back Pain
The Saatva Rx was specifically designed for sleepers with chronic back pain concerns.
Financing
Luxury Shoppers
This is a lofty, luxurious bed that should appeal to high-end shoppers.
Combo Sleeper
Most Positions
We found the Saatva Rx’s medium feel accommodated most sleeping positions, and we were able to switch between them easily.
Pros of the Saatva Rx
This bed has multiple coil units (one miniature layer and a standard individually wrapped layer) for double the bounce
The Rx’s zoned foam and foam-topped coils provides a support system that should coax your spine into its proper alignment
This bed is built to last with a sturdy, supportive construction
Cons of the Saatva Rx
As a luxury mattress, this bed starts out at nearly $2,000 for a twin; not exactly the best budget option
We thought the motion absorption on this bed was just okay, which may be a drawback for couples
Shipping
Shipping
Free white glove delivery
Trial Period
Trial
365 nights
Warranty
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Return
Returns
Flat return fee ($99)

The Advisor Says: The Saatva Rx was built for folks with chronic pain concerns. We think its support and pressure relief should provide soothing comfort. It should work for just about anyone who’s been let down by their mattress and wants to upgrade to a luxurious, sturdy bed with a well-balanced feel.

Poor
Average
Excellent

1
2
3
4
5
5
Pressure Relief
5
Support
3
Motion Isolation
4
Cooling
5
Bounce
4
Edge Support
4
Couples

Why the Saatva Rx Earned Best Mattress for a Herniated Disc Overall

This bed earned perfect scores in the categories of spinal alignment, pressure relief, and responsiveness from me, the average-weight tester, as well as my light-weight and heavyweight counterparts, making it a natural choice for sleepers with a herniated disc. 

The Saatva Rx is a hybrid bed with a few unique bells and whistles. As its name implies, it was designed specifically to address aches and pains. Its medium firmness and specialty coil systems (yes, there’s more than one) meld support and softness into a memorably soothing package. 

What’s the Saatva Rx Made Of?

The Saatva RX has six layers.

Inside the Saatva Rx

The Saatva Rx begins with an organic cotton cover that’s been treated to resist germs. The quilting is firmer in the middle third of the cover, right where your lower back should go. Underneath is a half-inch “crown” of memory foam, likewise located directly under the lumbar region.

Next up is a comfort sandwich of sorts: two layers of 2.75-inch high-density foam, with a 1-inch layer of micro-coils in between. The foams cradle sensitive pressure points while the micro-coils easily compress to support the natural curvature of your body.

The spring unit underneath also combines foam with coils in a standout design. Its 8-inch coils are each topped with a 2-inch foam “module,” which relieves pressure and eases you into the springs’ resistance. The foam also features graphite and phase change material to encourage cooling. Along the perimeter of the bed, firmer coils add to the edge support.

Finally, an eco-friendly base layer provides the spring unit with a durable foundation.

My Take: Herniated discs happen when the fibrous tissue between vertebrae of the spine breaks down or gets damaged. When this happens, pain can spread throughout the body. The Saatva Rx was specifically designed for back and joint issues, and the medium-firmness level strikes the right balance of support with softness designed to not make your pain worse.

Customer Reviews of the Saatva Rx

Customers on Saatva’s website have awarded the Saatva Rx 4.8 out of 5 stars on average. Multiple testimonies praise the bed for helping with chronic back and neck pain, with only a few mentioning drawbacks such as lackluster edges.

Curious about this mattress? Check out our in-depth Saatva Rx review, or peruse our list of the best mattresses for 2024.

Helix Midnight – Best Hybrid Mattress for a Herniated Disc

Best Hybrid Mattress for a Herniated Disc
Sleep Advisor Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.1
Helix
Helix Midnight Mattress
Well-Balanced Hybrid
Affordably Priced
Isolates Motion
Hybrid
100 nights
Free shipping minus AK and HI
Fall Into Bed Sale
20% off sitewide with code FALLSALE20 See Details
Material
Material
This mattress contains foam layers and coils.
Price
Price
$936.30 – $1,748.80 (before any discounts)
Firmness
Firmness
A cushioned medium-firm. On our firmness scale, it’s a 6 out of 10.
Size
Size
Twin, twin XL, queen, king, California king, short queen, RV king
Side Sleeper
Side Sleepers
With pressure-relieving foams up top to cradle the hips and shoulders, this bed was designed for side sleepers.
Hot Sleeper
Hot Sleepers
This bed barely got warmer after multiple minutes of our testers lying on top of it.
Back Pain
Those with Back Pain
A medium-firm feel with lots of support means that this mattress may help with back pain.
Pros of the Helix Midnight
It has a lovely balance of pressure relief to support, earning a 5 out of 5 from our testers in both categories
Surprisingly, it isolates motion so well that we gave it a perfect score in this category, too
We found that it stays quite cool over time
Cons of the Helix Midnight
Stomach sleepers, especially heavyweight ones, probably need more support than this bed can offer
People who spread out when they sleep may not appreciate the Midnight’s poor edge support, which pales in comparison to the Saatva Classic‘s
Shipping
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
Warranty
10-year warranty
Return
Returns
Free returns

The Advisor Says: The Midnight has one of the most impressive score spreads of all the mattresses we’ve reviewed. The best word to describe it is “balanced”: it’s got pressure relief, support, and cooling power in spades, plus a versatile medium-firm feel that tends to satisfy lots of sleepers.

Poor
Average
Excellent

1
2
3
4
5
5
Pressure Relief
5
Support
5
Motion Isolation
3
Cooling
3.5
Bounce
2
Edge Support
3
Couples

Why the Helix Midnight Earned Best Hybrid Mattress for a Herniated Disc

When you have a herniated disc, it can be difficult to settle into a sleeping position that doesn’t exacerbate your pain. Some people find it most comfortable to be on their side in a fetal pose. Others find the most relief on their back, often with a pillow placed under their knees.

Fortunately, the Helix Midnight’s hybrid construction can accommodate both of these positions. Although it’s often marketed to side sleepers, our tester also loved how it felt on her back. The Helix Midnight provides ample support and lift in both of these positions. Additionally, the quick reaction from the micro coils and foams earns it high marks in responsiveness, making it great for sleepers who switch between their sides and backs. 

What’s the Helix Midnight Made Of?

The Helix Midnight has six layers, including its soft top cover.

Inside the Helix Midnight

Its first comfort layer is made of Memory Plus foam, a proprietary Helix material that cradles the body and eases the strain on pressure points. The next two layers are sheets of Helix Responsive Foam, both of which also contour to the body but also provide a degree of supportive pushback.

Next is the Midnight’s spring unit. It contains up to 1,000 coils and has thicker springs on its longer sides to keep the edges from dipping too much.

At the base of the bed is a stabilizing layer of DuraDense foam.

Our Take: We love how well-rounded this hybrid is. Its versatile firmness level, combined with great support for side and back sleepers and top-notch bounce and pressure relief, checks the boxes for many with herniated discs.  

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 night’s sleep and some pain relief.

Interested in this bed? Check out our full Helix Midnight mattress review, or browse more of the best hybrid mattresses.

Nectar – Best Mattress for Side Sleepers with a Herniated Disc

Best Mattress for Side Sleepers with a Herniated Disc
Sleep Advisor Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.3
Nectar
Nectar Mattress
Memory Foam
Affordable Mattress
Foam
365 nights
Free shipping minus AK and HI
Prime Time Sale
Save up to 50% + an EXTRA $100 when you spend $1000 See Details
Material
Material
This mattress is made of memory foam and other poly foam layers.
Price
Price
$934 – $2,121 (before any discounts)
Firmness
Firmness
Firm. We rated the Nectar a 7.5 out of 10.
Size
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
Back Sleeper
Back Sleepers
The Nectar provides a blend of comfortable pressure relief and firm support that should suit most back sleepers.
Couples
Couples
Thanks to the Nectar’s ability to absorb motion, you should be able to sleep through your partner’s movements.
Dark
Firm Mattress Fans
At 7.5 out of 10, this bed is on the firmer side, even though it has memory foam on top.
Pros of the Nectar Mattress
This bed offers pressure relief alongside its support
We were impressed by how well the perimeter of the Nectar held up, making it good for spreading out or sitting on the edges
Memory foam tends to trap heat, but the bed’s cooling cover counteracts this
Cons of the Nectar Mattress
The foams on the Nectar aren’t very bouncy, so consider looking at the best hybrid mattresses if responsiveness is important to you
It’s on the firmer side, so if you need a softer bed, you might want to consider Nectar’s most luxurious model, the Nectar Luxe
Shipping
Shipping
Free shipping, except for Alaska and Hawaii ($99)
Trial Period
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Return
Returns
Full refund within trial period

The Advisor Says: We believe that Nectar offers a quality bed backed up by generous policies, and for under $1,000 for a queen (after discounts). If you’re looking for a firmer foam mattress on a budget, the Nectar Classic has you covered.

Poor
Average
Excellent

1
2
3
4
5
4.5
Pressure Relief
4
Support
5
Motion Isolation
2.5
Cooling
4
Bounce
4
Edge Support
4
Performance for Couples

Why the Nectar Mattress Earned Best Mattress for Side Sleepers with a Herniated Disc

The Nectar is an all-foam bed that should be familiar to anyone who’s browsed the online mattress market. Its sturdy core strives to preserve spinal alignment even as you enjoy its pressure-relieving foam layers, and its competitive price also makes it an excellent option for value-seekers.

We believe this combination should work exceedingly well for side sleepers with a herniated disc, as it leaves sleepers feeling both cushioned and supportive.

What’s the Nectar Mattress Made Of?

The Nectar is 12 inches tall and has three foam layers, plus a top and bottom cover. 

Inside the Nectar

The Nectar’s breathable top cover has fibers that should help absorb heat.

The first 2-inch memory foam layer has gel inside it that keeps it relatively cool, as well as soothing, pressure-relieving powers.  Firmer than the foam above, the following 3-inch layer of bouncy response foam gives your spine enough resistance to encourage healthy alignment.

Seven inches of sturdy foundation foam beneath the comfort layers give the bed stability and should last a long time. Finally, the lower cover holds the mattress’s layers together.

My Take: Side sleepers with herniated discs should enjoy how the support, pressure relief, and spinal alignment can ease some of their nightly discomfort.

Customer Reviews

With a staggering 52,000 reviews on Nectar’s website, the Nectar mattress has an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars. One common customer complaint about the Nectar mattress is its longer-than-average break-in period, while many customers praise its excellent value and comfort once fully settled.

Intrigued? Read our full Nectar mattress review, or browse our picks for the best mattresses for side sleepers.

WinkBed – Best Mattress for Low Back Pain from a Herniated Disc

Best Mattress for Low Back Pain from a Herniated Disc
Sleep Advisor Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.3
WinkBeds
WinkBed Mattress
Extremely Responsive
Zoned Support
Multiple Firmnesses
Hybrid
120 nights
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Fall Sale
Get $300 off all our award winning mattresses See Details
Material
Material
This mattress contains foam layers and coils.
Price
Price
$1,149 – $2,049 (before any discounts)
Firmness
Firmness
Multiple firmness options (Softer, Luxury Firm, Firmer, and Plus). We tested the Luxury Firm and placed it at a 6 out of 10 on our scale, which is comfortably medium-firm.
Size
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
Combo Sleeper
Combination Sleepers
Its springiness makes it easy to change your sleeping position, and it adapts well to each one.
Hot Sleeper
Hot Sleepers
Gel-infused foams, airflow around the coils, and a breathable cover earned the WinkBed a high cooling score.
Pain Relief
Spine Alignment
Its zoned coils and “LumbarLayer™” of foam help to keep the lower back supported and aligned with the rest of the spine.
WinkBed Pros
There are four firmness options available for this bed, including one designed specifically for plus-size sleepers
It’s so springy that it feels like it’s helping you to move around on top of it
The zoned support was really noticeable during testing, and helped to keep our lumbar regions lifted
WinkBed Cons
Its motion isolation isn’t the greatest, so if you’re a restless sleeper who shares a bed, look elsewhere
It has a classic hybrid feel that keeps you on top of the mattress, rather than sinking in; if you want more of a hug from your bed, browse the best soft mattresses
Shipping
Shipping
Free within the contiguous United States
Trial Period
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Return
Returns
Free returns

The Advisor Says: Our testers often compare the WinkBed to a luxury hotel mattress, which is no surprise given its handcrafted touches and elegant hybrid design. It’s also one of the most customizable beds out there, with a firmness level for every body type.

Poor
Average
Excellent

1
2
3
4
5
4
Pressure Relief
5
Support
3
Motion Isolation
4
Cooling
5
Bounce
4.5
Edge Support
4
Couples

Why the WinkBed Earned Best Mattress for Low Back Pain from a Herniated Disc

The WinkBed is a hybrid mattress with handmade details and a cozier, plusher feel above its substantial support system. If you have low back pain from a herniated disc, you’ll need both aspects—a pillowy feel paired with strong lumbar support.

The tester for this bed, Loren, deemed the WinkBed a strong choice for this demographic. “I score the WinkBed high in pain relief,” she said. “The pressure-relieving foams and zoned support work to keep your body weight evenly distributed, and the built-in lumbar support helps to prevent back pain.”

What’s the WinkBed Made Of?

The WinkBed stands 13.5 inches high and comes in four different firmness levels: Softer, Luxury Firm, Firmer, and Plus. The Plus option is specifically meant for heavier folks and incorporates latex as well as poly foam.

Inside the WinkBed

At the top of every WinkBed is a Tencel© cover. Its breathable, cool fabric is derived from wood pulp that comes from Eucalyptus trees.

Underneath is a Euro-style pillow top made with gel-infused foam. This layer provides marked cushioning for sensitive joints while aiming to stay temperature-neutral.

An additional layer of gel foam helps to dampen motion, and a proprietary LumbarLayer™ increases the pushback around the middle portion of your body (where your lower back rests).

Next, you’ll find the WinkBed’s coil unit. It’s zoned so that different areas lend different amounts of pushback, depending on the body part they’re supporting. The coils around the edges of the mattress are also reinforced.

Our Take: The WinkBed’s combination of support and cushioning propels it to the top of the list of beds that help ease lower back pain.

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? Check out our Winkbed mattress review, or read our roundup of the best mattresses for sleepers with back pain.

Nolah Signature – Best Mattress for Pressure Relief with a Herniated Disc

Best Mattress for Pressure Relief with a Herniated Disc
Sleep Advisor Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.0
Nolah
Nolah Signature 12″ Mattress
Pressure Relief
Memory Foam
Cooling Foam
Foam
120 nights
Free shipping minus AK and HI
Fall Sale
35% off + 2 free pillows with mattress purchase See Details
Material
Material
This mattress is made up of multiple foam layers.
Price
Price
$1,299 – $2,798 (before discounts)
Firmness
Firmness
Medium. More specifically, we gave this bed a 5 out of 10, which is on the medium-to-soft side.
Size
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, king, California king, split king
Side Sleeper
Side Sleepers
The Nolah Signature’s blend of pressure relief and support should work well for side sleepers.
Couples
Restless Couples
This bed also excels in motion isolation, meaning you shouldn’t feel your partner’s movements from the other side of the bed.
Hot Sleeper
Hot Sleepers
Hot sleepers should appreciate Nolah’s breathable cotton cover and cooling AirFoam™.
Pros of the Nolah Signature
A perfect pressure relief score means this bed will be great for sleepers with pain concerns
Foam beds usually hold onto heat, but the Nolah Signature uses cooler and more breathable foams
Motion should be relatively stifled on this bed’s cushy surface
Cons of the Nolah Signature
This bed isn’t very bouncy, but the Nolah Evolution earned a perfect score for its bounce
The Nolah Signature is a bit too soft for stomach sleepers
Shipping
Shipping
Free shipping (only in contiguous United States)
Trial Period
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Return
Returns
Flat return fee ($99)

The Advisor Says: We recommend the Nolah Signature for sleepers looking for a foam bed that has a soft but accommodating firmness. It also runs cooler than most foam beds, and has enough pressure relief to cradle sensitive joints.

Poor
Average
Excellent

1
2
3
4
5
5
Pressure Relief
5
Support
3.5
Motion Transfer
3
Cooling
2.5
Bounce
4.5
Edge Support
3
Couples

Why the Nolah Signature Earned Best Mattress for Pressure Relief with a Herniated Disc

For some people with herniated discs, a plush mattress will provide the most immediate sense of comfort. The Nolah Signature is plush indeed—we rated it a 4 on our firmness scale, making it the softest mattress in this roundup by far.

The all-foam Nolah Signature adapts to your body’s curves and contours remarkably well. It wraps you in a deep hug that helps relieve pressure and ease pain quickly. 

What’s the Nolah Signature Made Of?

The Nolah Signature has five layers and stands 12 inches tall.

Inside the Nolah Signature

It begins with an organic, unbleached cotton cover. Underneath is a 2.5-inch plush layer of Nolah’s proprietary AirFoam™, an alternative to memory foam that, according to the brand, runs cooler and lasts longer. It’s also more responsive, so you shouldn’t sink so deeply into the bed that you feel stuck.

Next is a 1.5-inch layer of Active Response Foam. This foam contributes to the bed’s bounce, but it also allows for notable airflow.

Beneath it is yet another layer of AirFoam™, although this one is 1 inch thick and firmer than the one at the top of the mattress. It offers bolstering support and segues into the 7-inch high-density foam foundation of the bed.

Our Take: Falling into the mattress is like being hugged by your grandma on Christmas morning. It makes everything else just melt away.

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.

Want to know more? Consult our Nolah Signature mattress review, or look at our list of the best soft mattresses.

Bear Elite Hybrid – Best Mattress for Back Sleepers with a Herniated Disc

Best Mattress for Back Sleepers with a Herniated Disc
Sleep Advisor Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.3
Bear
Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress
Phase Change Material
Zoned Support
Multiple Firmnesses
Hybrid
120 nights
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Fall Sale
30% off + 2 free pillows with mattress purchase using code FALL30 See Details
Material
Material
This mattress contains foam layers and coils.
Price
Price
$1,893 – $3,920 (before any discounts)
Firmness
Firmness
Multiple firmness options (Soft, Medium, or Firm). We tested the Medium version and placed it at a 6 out of 10 on our scale, which means it’s medium-firm with some cushion.
Size
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
Back Sleeper
Back Sleepers
The lumbar support on this bed felt fantastic under our lower backs.
Spring
Bounce Fans
This is an extraordinarily responsive bed with a 5 out of 5 testing score in the bounce category.
Couples
Couples
Strong edge support, above-average cooling, and decent motion isolation make it a good pick for couples.
Bear Elite Hybrid Pros
You’ll have three firmness options to choose from
We got some real air while jumping on this bed, and never felt restricted by or stuck in its upper foam layers when moving around
The zoned coils gave our lower backs noticeable support and kept our spines aligned
Bear Elite Hybrid Cons
There was some pressure buildup around the shoulders while resting on our sides; the best mattresses for pressure relief list will have better recommendations for people with shoulder pain.
The motion isolation is pretty good for a hybrid, but it’s still not amazing
Shipping
Shipping
Free inside the contiguous United States
Trial Period
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Return
Returns
Free returns

The Advisor Says: This is a memorably bouncy and supportive hybrid with state-of-the-art cooling elements. It had a delightful balance of cushion and lift for back and stomach sleeping in particular.

Poor
Average
Excellent

1
2
3
4
5
4
Pressure Relief
5
Support
3.5
Motion Isolation
4.5
Cooling
5
Bounce
4
Edge Support
4
Couples

Why the Bear Elite Hybrid Earned Best Mattress for Back Sleepers with a Herniated Disc

The Bear Elite Hybrid is Bear’s most luxurious mattress model, featuring high-tech textiles that work to cool the body and may even help you recover after an active day. But these are bonus touches on top of the true selling point: a strong, zoned spring system that’s great for back sleepers.

Back sleeping is one position that often provides relief from the pain of a herniated disc, and this hybrid has the chops to support it. “Sleepers with back, hip, or shoulder pain will love the zoned coil system,” said our tester, Stuart. “It’s built to relieve pressure in the areas you sleep on and support the areas that need a little extra boost, specifically the lumbar area.”

What’s the Bear Elite Hybrid Made Of?

The Bear Elite Hybrid has five layers in total if you include its cover. That cover is a highlight of the bed because it boasts two advanced materials within its fabric: Celliant® and PCM, or Phase Change Material.

Inside the Bear Elite Hybrid

According to preliminary studies, Celliant® boosts blood flow to the areas of the body it touches and may help your body’s tissues to recover after a workout.

PCM, meanwhile, helps to keep the cover cool via thermoregulation—it absorbs excess heat as the molecules within it shift from solid to liquid.

The next layer is a sheet of copper-infused memory foam.

The copper within the foam also helps with cooling, and the memory foam conforms to your body’s curves and relieves bothersome pressure. Underneath is a firmer layer of transition foam that deepens the contouring properties of the bed and provides support.

The bed’s coil system follows. It’s zoned so that the coils beneath your lumbar spine are thicker and stronger, and the springs around its edges are also reinforced. The coils rest on top of a base of high-density foam that stabilizes the whole bed.

These layers all add up to a 14-inch profile. You can also customize the firmness of your Bear Elite Hybrid, as it’s available in Firm, Medium, or Soft versions.

My Take: I love this bed for back sleepers. It is buoyant and cloudlike. 

Pros
State-of-the-art materials – The PCM and Celliant® inside this bed’s cover make the Bear Elite Hybrid a cutting-edge mattress.
Exceptional cooling – If you heat up during the night, you’ll appreciate Bear’s attention to cooling properties in its Elite Hybrid.
Recommended for couples – The Bear Elite shines in categories that are often important to couples, including bounce, cooling, and edge support.
Cons
Not the best for side sleepers – Some side sleepers may feel pressure build-up due to the firmness of the Bear Elite Hybrid not contouring to their curves.
Too bouncy for some – If you like a languid sink into your bed, the bounce and responsiveness from the coils may not be a winner for you.

Customer Reviews of the Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress

According to Bear’s website, the Bear Elite scores about 4.5 out of 5 stars. Some customers find the Bear Elite Hybrid mattress too firm for their liking, but it receives praise in its reviews for its advanced cooling technology and pressure relief.

Want more details? Read our full Bear Elite Hybrid mattress review, or see our list of the best mattresses for back sleepers.

Plank Firm Luxe – Best Firm Mattress for a Herniated Disc

Best Firm Mattress for a Herniated Disc
Sleep Advisor Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.0
Brooklyn Bedding
Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Luxe Mattress
Flippable Construction
Firm
Luxury
Hybrid
120 nights
Free shipping minus AK and HI
Fall Sale
25% off sitewide with code FALL25 See Details
Material
Material
This mattress contains foam layers and coils.
Price
Price
$924 – $1,932 (before any discounts)
Firmness
Firmness
Flippable firmness. We rated both sides as pretty firm: one is 8-8.5 out of 10, and the other was an extra-firm 9 out of 10.
Size
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, short king, short queen, Olympic queen, California king, split king, split California king, RV king
Heavier Sleeper
Heavyweight Sleepers
The firmer feel of the Plank Firm Luxe should provide enough support to keep heavier folks from sinking too far into the mattress.
Stomach Sleeper
Stomach Sleepers
Likewise, stomach sleepers’ hips should remain lifted on the bed’s unyielding surface.
Hot Sleeper
Hot Sleepers
Air should keep flowing through the mattress, keeping you comfortably cool throughout the night.
Pros of the Plank Firm Luxe
This bed absorbs motion pretty well for a hybrid, making it a good option for restless couples
Supportive foams and coils should provide good spinal alignment to sleepers who need it
If you’ve been let down by other mattresses that claim to be “firm,” don’t expect that to be the case with the Plank Firm Luxe
Cons of the Plank Firm Luxe
Though we think this bed is cool enough on its own, if you’re an especially hot sleeper, you’ll have to pay extra for a cooling cover
We mean it when we say this bed is very, very firm; it doesn’t offer much in the ways of pressure relief, either
Shipping
Shipping
Free shipping in contiguous United States ($125 for Alaska and Hawaii, $250 for Canada)
Trial Period
Trial
120 nights
Warranty
Warranty
10-year warranty
Return
Returns
Flat return fee ($99)

The Advisor Says: Brooklyn Bedding brought us the Plank Firm, one of the firmest beds in the online mattress market—and now they’re giving it an upgrade. As the name Plank Firm Luxe implies, this super-firm hybrid mattress should bring more to the table than its predecessor. We’re talking specialized foams, a supportive coil unit, and that same flippability—just even firmer, if you can believe it!

Poor
Average
Excellent

1
2
3
4
5
2
Pressure Relief
5
Support
4.5
Motion Isolation
4.5
Cooling
2.5
Bounce
5
Edge Support
4
Couples

Why the Plank Firm Luxe Earned Best Firm Mattress for a Herniated Disc

As we’ve suggested, a neutral spine is important for someone with a herniated disc—so if you’re treating one, you’ll need an especially solid bed. If you prefer a firm bed or sleep on your stomach or back, it can be difficult to find a bed that delivers on that promise while remaining comfortable.

Luckily, the Plank Firm Luxe is such a bed. It’s marketed based on its above-average firmness and flippable design, which allows you to choose between a Firm and an Extra-Firm feel. You should feel excellent support and alignment in this bed.”

What’s the Plank Firm Luxe Made Of?

The Plank Firm Luxe has six layers and stands approximately 13.25 inches tall. Its design is flippable, with a Firm feel on one side and an Extra-Firm feel on the other.

Inside the Plank Firm Luxe

The Firm side has a 1.5-inch quilted top layer, followed by an inch of TitanFlex™ foam. This foam molds to the body like memory foam, but it also has a highly responsive structure, so it won’t allow you to sink in too deeply. Rather, it should make your body feel comfortably buoyed. Next is a 2-inch layer of high-density support foam.

On the Extra-Firm side, the quilted top layer isn’t as lofty. It’s 0.75 inches tall, and there’s no TitanFlex™ foam underneath. Instead, it segues straight into 2 inches of high-density foam.

Sandwiched between the two sides is the mattress’s 6-inch coil unit. Its springs add to the bed’s overall responsiveness while permitting cooling airflow.

For additional cooling, you can pay extra to have a GlacioTex™ Cooling Cover sewn onto both sides.

My Take: The Plank Firm Luxe holds you aloft, allowing your hips to stay in alignment with the upper back and shoulders. 

Customer Reviews of the Plank Firm Luxe Mattress

On Plank’s website, the Plank Firm gets 4.8 out of 5 stars. The Plank Firm Luxe mattress, favored by some customers for its ultra-firm support, may not be suitable for those seeking a softer sleep surface, as per customer feedback.

Interested? Read our in-depth Plank Firm Luxe mattress review, or browse our picks for the best firm mattresses.

Birch Natural – Best Organic Mattress for a Herniated Disc

Best Organic Mattress for a Herniated Disc
Sleep Advisor Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.2
Birch
Birch Natural Mattress
Latex
Luxury
Medium-Firm
Latex Hybrid
100 nights
Free shipping
Fall Into Bed Sale
20% off + 2 free pillows with mattress purchase using code FALLSALE20 See Details
Material
Material
This mattress contains latex foam, additional comfort layers, and a coil unit.
Price
Price
$1,373 – $2,248 (before any discounts)
Firmness
Firmness
Medium-firm. We rated this mattress as a 6 out of 10, which is a middle-of-the-road firmness.
Size
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
Hot Sleeper
Hot Sleepers
Latex and wool regulate the temperature of this mattress to keep it from overheating at the surface.
Organic
Eco Shoppers
Birch is one of the top names in the organic mattress game, so eco-conscious shoppers should be more than satisfied with their claims and certifications.
Stomach Sleeper
Stomach Sleepers
This mattress is on the firmer side of medium-firm, so it should support those who sleep on their stomach.
Pros of the Birch Natural
The combination of wool and latex creates a lifted feel that should have you sleeping “on top” of your mattress rather than “in” it
Laying near or sitting on the edges of the bed, we felt secure
This bed has plenty of bounce that should satisfy combination sleepers and sexually active folks
Cons of the Birch Natural
The Birch Natural may be too firm for some folks, who may want to consider a softer mattress
Latex isn’t the best for absorbing motion, so you may want to consider a bed that scored better for couples or a memory foam mattress
Shipping
Shipping
Free shipping in the contiguous United States ($250 for Alaska, Hawaii, and Canada)
Trial Period
Trial
100 nights
Warranty
Warranty
25-year warranty
Return
Returns
Flat return fee ($99)

The Advisor Says: Dare we say the Birch Natural is the bed that comes to mind when we think latex? As the name implies, this bed combines natural components with quality construction, yielding a supportive, luxurious, and eco-friendly mattress.

Poor
Average
Excellent

1
2
3
4
5
4
Pressure Relief
5
Support
3.5
Motion Isolation
4.5
Cooling
5
Bounce
4
Edge Support
4
Couples

Why the Birch Natural Earned Best Organic Mattress for a Herniated Disc

If you’re looking for a mattress that has enough support to help you sleep with a herniated disc, and you’re also an eco-conscious shopper, the Birch Natural should be a good match. This hybrid mattress showcases organic and natural materials, from a cotton cover to a pressure-relieving layer made of latex foam.

The bed’s medium-firm feel should deliver plenty of lift to help level out your spine and mitigate pain.2 It initially provides a soft, Jell-O-like feeling, but the coils quickly lift you up. Overall, the Birch Natural has a balanced approach to comfort and support. 

What’s the Birch Natural Made Of?

The Birch Natural has six total layers including its cover, and stands 11 inches tall.

Inside the Birch Natural

The cover is made of organic cotton that holds a certification from the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS)—in fact, the entire mattress is GOTS-certified.

Beneath the cover are two layers of organic wool. They serve as both a fire-safety measure and comfortable padding, replacing synthetic fire retardants and foams.

Next is a layer of natural Talalay latex, which is made from the sustainably harvested sap of rubber trees. Latex foam is more springy than memory foam, but it also has pressure-relieving qualities, so it’s a fitting compromise for sleepers who want a mattress with both softness and bounce.

Under the latex is a support layer of pocketed springs. They’re reinforced on the long sides to provide palpable edge support, and they sit on top of a final base layer of organic wool.

My Take: The Birch Natural gets an A+ for spinal alignment, which could help ease herniated disc discomfort. 

Customer Reviews of the Birch Natural Mattress

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.

Want to know more? Visit our full-length Birch Natural review, or see our recommendations for the best organic mattresses.

Compare Scores for Our Best Mattresses for Herniated Discs

MattressPrice (Queen Size)Pressure ReliefSupportMotion TransferCoolingBounceEdge SupportCouples
Saatva Rx$3,2955534544
Helix Midnight$1,19955533.523
Nectar$1,0994.5452.5444
WinkBed$1,799453454.54
Nolah Signature$1,599553.532.54.53
Bear Elite Hybrid$2,305453.54.5544
Plank Firm Luxe$1,149254.54.52.554
Birch Natural$1,799453.54.5544
Average Score$1,6954.34.53.93.94.03.93.9

Other Mattresses We Tested for Herniated Disc Support

While these mattresses didn’t make our list, each of these beds are great fits for shoppers needing extra pressure relief and support for their herniated disc. Check out our featured recommendations below.

Tempur-pedic ADAPT MattressAwara Mattress
Puffy Lux MattressAvocado Green Mattress
Casper Wave Hybrid Snow MattressPurple RestorePlus Mattress

What to Look for in a Mattress for a Herniated Disc

Herniated discs are painful, and they can make getting a good night’s sleep difficult. According to Dr. Mohamad Bydon with the Mayo Clinic, people with this particular kind of back problem will want to look for a mattress with a medium firmness.3 Medium-firm mattresses should provide the right amount of support to keep your spine aligned and prevent pressure from building up around the affected areas.

Advice from a Medical Expert

We reached out to Dr. Raj Dasgupta, who has over 20 years of experience in the medical field, to see his thoughts on what key qualities people with a herniated disc should look for in a mattress.

“For a herniated disc, aim for a mattress that’s got your back (literally). Look for one that’s medium-firm to firm, so it keeps your spine in line and takes the pressure off your sore spots. Materials like memory foam or latex can give you the nice, comfortable support you need.”

Firmness 

If you do not have a bed with a firmness level that matches your sleep position and body type, then you’re unlikely to get a good night’s sleep. 

As Dr. Raj noted, medium-firm to firm mattresses are the way to go, which would fall between a 5 and 8 on our firmness scale. Firmness is subjective, but beds in this range often have softer upper layers that contour around the natural curves of the body, while the sturdy lower levels keep sleepers lifted and aligned. 

Mattress Materials 

It goes without saying that mattresses made with quality materials are likely to last longer and maintain their comfort level for longer. Fortunately, mattresses made with top-notch materials come in a variety of price points. 

Coils

Traditional innerspring and hybrid beds use coils to provide support and bounce. When considering a mattress with coils, you’ll likely see the terms “coil count” and “coil gauge.” 

Coil count just lets you know how many coils are used in the construction. A good rule to remember is that beds with higher coil counts are generally more supportive, durable, and have a firmer feel. Those with herniated discs typically need beds on the firmer side, so these shoppers will likely appreciate a high coil count. 

Coil gauge refers to how thick the coil is, but this can be a little tricky because the higher the gauge, the thinner the coil. As such, lower gauges indicate thicker coils. Lower gauge coils will likely work best for people with herniated discs as they are generally more supportive and have a firmer feel. 

Foam

Foam beds have become beloved because of their contouring, which is sometimes compared to a hug. While this may be comforting, foam mattresses should also have a strong support system. This is especially true for those with herniated discs. A good indication of how supportive a foam bed is can be found in its density. 

The density is measured in pounds per cubic foot (PCF), and it indicates how tightly packed the foam is. If you’re experiencing back pain, look for memory foam with a density measurement of at least 4 pounds per cubic foot. Mattresses with ratings of 6 or higher have the highest density. They are also firmer and better in quality, which will contribute to their longevity, but they are typically the most expensive. 

Latex

Latex beds are often a great option for those looking for a responsive, organic bed. However, not all latex is the same, and if you’re interested in a latex mattress, you’ll want to become familiar with Talalay latex and Dunlop latex. 

Talalay is lighter and more airy, which means it’s typically cooler and softer. In this case, the Talalay latex should be balanced out by a strong support unit, such as coils. Dunlop latex is heftier, making it durable and supportive. In all-latex beds, Dunlop is often used as the support layer. 

Support and Spine Alignment

People with herniated discs require a sleeping surface that keeps their back in proper alignment, and their entire body should be well-supported. A poor-quality mattress will have areas that sag, further exacerbating back pain.

How do you know if your spine is in proper alignment when you’re in bed? The best way to determine this is to lie on your side and have someone take a picture of you from behind. Your spine should keep a straight line. If you don’t feel comfortable asking someone to take the picture, set a timer on your phone, prop it up on something, and take a picture that way.

Julia forbes back sleeping testing
Julia testing a mattress for spine support.

Type of Mattress

From our mattress studio, images of our tested mattresses in different materials

Memory Foam

Memory foam is a soft, cushiony material that holds its shape even after you put weight on it, hence the term “memory.” When you lie down on a mattress made out of memory foam, it will conform to the shape of your body and keep that shape during the night.

This is typically a great mattress choice for herniated discs as long as it’s high-quality and made by a reputable company. Memory foam in cheap mattresses wears out faster, so it’s important to choose a brand that is known for durability and long-lasting comfort.

Memory Foam mattress interior, tested by Julia Forbes
Julia testing a memory foam bed in the studio

Explore our picks for the best memory foam mattresses.

Hybrid

Hybrid mattresses combine an innerspring (coil) base with a memory foam or latex top layer. This type of bed is another good choice because they tend to provide the ideal blend of pressure relief and support. That being said, hybrids usually come at a higher price point.

Innerspring

Innerspring mattresses can have a harder time delivering on the needs for this issue. First of all, they don’t tend to hold their shape over the years if the bed doesn’t have high-quality construction, so some people can expect uncomfortable sagging.

Second, most coils don’t allow for even weight distribution. Different parts of our bodies have varying density levels.

Taking a look at the Nolah Evolution mattress construction
The inside of an innerspring mattress

If you lie down on a coil mattress that isn’t “zoned” to accommodate your shoulders and torso, you will likely feel it in your back.

Latex

Latex beds can offer nice cushioning like memory foam, but instead of a synthetic production process, natural latex is made from the sap of a rubber tree. There’s also synthetic latex, which is a petroleum-based product. Research shows that this material could be beneficial for healing.4

Latex is also very responsive, which can make it easier for people with herniated discs to reposition on the bed.

Sleeping Position

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

Your sleeping position can play a large role in alleviating the pain from herniated discs. 

Sleeping on your back puts the least amount of pressure on your spine, and this could help alleviate pain from herniated discs.5 So, if you sleep on your back, continue to do so, and look for a supportive mattress with medium firmness as this will help keep your spine aligned.

Stomach and side sleepers should look for a mattress that won’t allow their hips to sag down in the mattress as this will help keep their spine neutral, though side sleepers may want to avoid a mattress that is too firm as this could cause pressure to build up on the hip and shoulder.

Weight/Body Type of Sleepers

Having a heavier body can already cause additional pressure and pain on herniated discs. Therefore, these people will want to find a bed that offers plenty of support. If heavyweight people push through a mattress’s layers too quickly because their bed doesn’t offer enough support, their spine can be put in an awkward position, which may exacerbate the pain from herniated discs.

Browse our picks for the Best Beds for Heavy People.

Lightweight people often benefit from softer mattresses more than their heavier counterparts as this can help keep pressure from building up. However, when it comes to buying a mattress for herniated discs, lighter sleepers will want to make sure that it is supportive enough to keep their spines aligned.

Pressure Relief

When it comes to choosing the right type of bed for pressure relief, we’ve found that memory foam mattresses often perform best. You need something that cradles the heavy parts of your body while also providing ample support. Memory foam is designed to contour all of your curves, making it a great material for pressure relief.

Each of our mattress’s pressure relief technology is put to the test using pressure maps. The pressure maps will pick up if there’s any buildup. Reds and yellows on the map’s reading indicate there’s pressure, whereas blues and greens indicate little to no pressure.

Nolah Signature All-Foam Hybrid back sleeper testing
Testing the Nolah Signature, our Best Mattress for Pressure Relief with a Herniated Disc.

Looking for more relief? Explore our picks for the Best Mattress for Pressure Relief.

Edge Support

Our Testers testing Edge Support for each mattress

When you are sleeping on a bed with good edge support, you can utilize the entire bed without worrying about falling off the edge. This makes it beneficial for couples and those who just prefer to sleep closer to the outside of the bed.

If you have herniated discs, it may be even more important because the jerking motion that can take place when the edge of the bed gives out could make the pain worse. Edge support is usually provided by putting reinforced coils or high-density foam around the outside.

Our team tests this by sitting and lying at the edge for a minute each. If our testers don’t notice much sagging or slipping in their tests, that tells us the bed has sturdy edges.

Seniors looking for a supportive mattress should check out our Best Mattresses for Seniors.

Cooling

Have you ever noticed that when you’re in pain, you tend to feel hotter? If you sleep on a mattress that doesn’t allow for any airflow, your already-heated body is going to feel even more uncomfortable.

Memory foam is not known for being a cool material, mostly because the contouring traps body heat. We recommend looking for a memory foam mattress with either gel or copper infusions, which draw heat away from the body.

Julia Forbes testing how fast a mattress cools down
Julia testing the cooling capabilities of each mattress with a temperature control gun

There are also some brands that offer something called “open cell” construction that have pockets of air that get released when you put weight on them.

Hybrid and innerspring beds get extra airflow from their coil units, and latex beds are good for cooling because latex is a temperature-neutral material.

As part of our cooling testing, we use a heat gun to see how the bed’s temperature regulation works in real-time. We take an initial temperature reading, then we do another reading after lying on the bed for 5 minutes, followed by a third reading after lying on the bed for 10 minutes. If the bed doesn’t heat up by more than 15 degrees, that’s a good cooling bed. 

Find Out More: Best Cooling Mattresses.

Motion Isolation

When you’re in pain because of herniated discs, you don’t want movement from your partner or pet to compound your issues. Therefore, if you sleep with another person or even a dog, you will want a bed that doesn’t transfer the motion that is made from their movement from their side of the bed to theirs. Memory foam mattresses are typically a solid choice for isolating motion, and these beds may be a good choice for those with herniated discs.

We test for motion isolation using a seismograph app, which can pick up if there’s movement transfer across the bed while our tester moves around. If we see a lot of high spikes on the reading, that tells us the bed doesn’t absorb motion well.

Looking to upgrade your mattress? Check out our Best Luxury Mattresses.

Sex

Herniated discs may make sex difficult because the movements involved with intercourse may aggravate your pain. Your doctor and medical professional may recommend that you refrain from sex when you have herniated discs, but if you are cleared by your doctor, you will likely want to find a bed that is responsive and bouncy.

Responsiveness is often associated with latex or latex hybrids. This is because these beds quickly regain their shape. Mattresses for sex have good bounce, allowing you to reposition more easily.

Budget

Considering the amount of time that we spend in bed, and the impact that quality sleep has on our overall health, purchasing a mattress that meets our needs is extremely important. However, considering that they can also be a major expenditure, doing the research beforehand can help ensure that we are getting the best mattress for the money.

This is particularly important if you have a medical condition that could be made worse by a mattress that isn’t providing enough support. In this instance, you will want to try to get the best possible bed that your budget allows.

What Causes Herniated Discs?

Picture your spine. We’re all familiar with the line of vertebrae that goes from our skull to our lower back. There’s a space between each of these vertebrae, and within that space are discs. Their purpose is to provide mobility. They function like ball bearings.

The discs themselves are fibrous with layers of ligaments that protect a center core of gel-like fluid. If you picture the rings of a tree, that’s what a section of a spinal disc looks like. The annulus makes up the exterior part, and the soft center is called the nucleus.1

A herniation occurs when those fibers get damaged or degenerate. The inner fluid begins to push outward, distorting the shape of the disc. The result is the disc either bulges or ruptures, depending on how damaged and degenerated the fibers become.

An illustration of how a herniated disc causes back pain

Types of Herniated Discs and Symptoms

Depending on the type of spinal disc herniation you have, the symptoms vary:

Contained Herniation (Protrusion)

A contained herniation usually happens in the first two stages before the gel-like material leaks into the spinal canal, which typically happens in the third and fourth stages. This means the jelly center is still contained within the outer wall of the lumbar disc. Besides lower back pain, patients may experience symptoms such as arm and leg pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness1.

Non-Contained Herniation (Disc Extrusion)

A non-contained herniation typically causes more severe back pain. What happens in this stage is that the gel-like material breaks through the outer wall of the intervertebral disc. The material leaks into the spinal canal and causes many painful and uncomfortable symptoms. This is why non-contained herniation is often called ruptured discs as well. The symptoms may include tingling, numbness, and pain that can be severe and long-lasting1.

Sequestered Herniation

Sequestered herniations happen if a patient doesn’t treat non-contained herniations. What happens is that the discs beak due to the compressor, which then results in severe pain and even loss of mobility if patients ignore the symptoms long enough. Those who deal with chronic back pain may be more likely to ignore symptoms of sequestered herniation, although consulting a doctor is critical1.

How Can a Mattress Help with a Herniated Disc?

“A mattress can either make a herniated disc feel worse or help ease the pain. If it’s too soft, it might not support your spine enough, putting more pressure on the sore spot. But if it’s firm enough to keep your spine aligned, it can actually relieve some of that discomfort by taking the pressure off the herniated disc.”

Dr. Raj Dasgupta

Although herniated discs can happen in any part of the spine, they typically happen in the lower spine.6 Some people may not even know that they have a herniated disc, but others can experience pain from the buttocks to the foot.

Medical intervention isn’t usually required, but if you are concerned about your symptoms, you should always consult a medical professional. 

Fortunately, these back issues can usually be treated with at-home remedies, including using an appropriate mattress.

  • Memory foam mattresses offer excellent pressure-relieving properties. If you have herniated discs in your upper back, these kinds of mattresses may bring relief to the pain around your neck and shoulders.
  • Responsive mattresses, such as beds made from latex, can make it more comfortable to roll over, and this can ease herniate disc pain that may happen from changing positions.
  • Medium-firm beds are often recommended for those with herniated discs.3 Finding a bed with targeted support and a medium firmness may help with overall comfort.

Why You Need a Great Mattress if You Have Spinal Disc Herniation

We all deserve a great mattress, regardless of the medical issues we may have. However, if you have any spinal problems, sleeping on the right mattress makes a big difference.

You need to keep your spine in proper alignment, and if you have a poor-quality mattress or one that is too soft or too firm, it will push your back out of its natural position.

Conversely, a good-quality mattress will have an ideal blend of pressure-point relief and support. Pressure relief is a mattress’ ability to cradle or cushion the denser parts of your body to keep you comfortable and reduce pressure build-up.

Support, on the other hand, refers to the bed’s ability to keep your body lifted. For example, even though you want to feel a soft surface that relieves pressure when you lie down, you don’t want to sink too deeply into the surface of the bed. That’s where support comes in.

A great mattress will provide the perfect balance of both of these factors. Find the overall best mattresses here.

What Is the Best Sleeping Position for a Herniated Disc?

A slipped disc is a term often used to describe a herniation, though it’s technically a misnomer because the disc isn’t actually slipping. Rather, it’s being pushed out of place due to being misshapen.

Now that we’ve gotten that out of the way, we can discuss the best sleeping position for a herniated disc. The answer to this question lies in where in your vertebral column the herniation has expressed itself: neck, thoracic, or lumbar.

Here are general guidelines for each sleeping position:

Back Sleeping

Sleeping on your back is usually the best choice, though there are a couple of caveats. If your disc herniation is in your neck area, you should focus on which pillow you use. Ideally, a cervical pillow with a center opening to let your head sink while supporting your neck is best.

Also, when you sleep on your back and you have a herniated disc, you’ll probably feel most comfortable with a pillow underneath your knees.

Side Sleeping

As long as you have the right mattress, side sleeping can be a fantastic choice, especially if you have a herniated lumbar disc. You can try sleeping with a pillow between your knees to ensure that your spine doesn’t twist during the night.

You can also try a cervical pillow regardless of where your herniation is located. Keeping your cervical spine in place can help to make sure the rest of your back stays in alignment.

Explore our picks for the best mattresses for side sleepers.

Julia Forbes testing a mattress in the side sleeper sleeping position
Julia testing a mattress in the side sleeping position.

Combination Sleeping

Since movement can sometimes aggravate herniated discs, combination sleepers will need to change positions carefully, which is why a more responsive bed is helpful in this case.

Also, if one of your go-to positions is stomach sleeping, you may want to find an alternative. This is because when you sleep on your stomach, your hips can sink into the bed and cause your spine to curve. When you have herniated discs, this can become a painful situation.

Stomach Sleeping

This position is not typically recommended because it can force the hips down and cause your back to arch in an uncomfortable way. If you insist on stomach sleeping, you can place a pillow under your pelvis and at your knees. For your head pillow, choose something very thin or opt for nothing at all.

Tips for Better Sleeping with a Herniated Disc

  • Sleep on your back or side, and avoid sleeping on your stomach when possible.8
  • Back sleepers can put a rolled-up towel under their lower back.8
  • Side sleepers may want to use a wedge pillow below their legs.8
  • Try sleeping in the fetal position to eliminate pressure.9

Mattress for Herniated Disc FAQs

Can a bad mattress cause a herniated disc?

A bad mattress won’t cause a disc to herniate, but it can prolong or prevent the healing process. Sleeping on the wrong mattress can also accelerate the degeneration process, so even though it won’t be responsible for the actual herniation, it can be a contributing factor.

How do you sleep with a herniated disc in your neck?

When you have a herniated disc in this area, the most important thing to keep in mind is neck support. This means sleeping on a pillow that is slightly higher under your neck than your head. Using cervical pillows that dip in the center and have a gentle, rounded ridge at the base of your skull can be very helpful.

Want to see more? Check out our complete guide for the best pillows for neck pain.

What is degenerative disc disease?

Degenerative disc disease (DDD) is not technically a disease.10 Rather, it’s the long-term degeneration that happens to your spine as you age. However, age is not the only thing that causes this, and just because we get older, it doesn’t mean we have to experience DDD.

Factors that can cause discs to start wearing down include injuries, drying out of discs with age, and tears that result from sports and daily activities.11 A nutrient-rich diet, moderate exercise, and avoiding obesity can help support your overall health and may help slow or prevent degenerative disc disease.

Can this condition cause sleep apnea?

While excess soft tissue in the mouth and throat often is the culprit behind obstructive sleep apnea, the less common central sleep apnea (CSA) may originate in spinal trauma or injury, which can include herniated discs, though this is very rare.12 When a spinal disc shifts out of place because of stress or acute injury, it can impinge nearby spinal nerves resulting in a disconnect between the muscles you use to breathe and the brain.

Interested in exploring further? Learn more in our best mattress for sleep apnea guide.

What type of mattress is best for a herniated disc?

Memory foam, hybrid, and latex mattresses should be best for struggling with herniated discs. These beds are good at contouring the body and relieving pressure in the most critical areas, including the lower back. On top of that, some models even have zoned support that further enhances the contouring in the lower back.

How should I sleep with a severely herniated disc?

The best way to sleep if you have a herniated disc is on your back. You can even add a small pillow under your knees if you need more relief. This way, you’re less likely to feel as much pain because the nerves aren’t under so much pressure. Side sleeping is also an option, though we recommend avoiding stomach sleeping if possible.

Is sleeping on a hard surface good for a herniated disc?

Sleeping on a surface that’s too hard, like the floor, may worsen the symptoms as it offers no contouring. This can put too much pressure on the lower back, so sticking to medium and medium-firm surfaces should be better. These beds usually offer a good balance of pressure relief and support, both of which are crucial for those with a herniated disc.

Is a soft or firm mattress better for a herniated disc?

For most people with herniated discs, a medium-firm mattress will likely serve them best.3 This firmness level should provide adequate back support for most sleepers to help keep the spine aligned while still offering pressure relief to the joints.

Although sleeping on a soft bed can be comfortable and cozy, it may cause more harm than good when dealing with herniated discs. A soft mattress may not offer enough support to keep your spine properly aligned, which could put more pressure and strain on your herniated discs.

Compare Prices of Our Top Rated Mattresses for Herniated Discs

MattressBest ForPrice (Queen Size)Review
Saatva RxOverall$3,295Saatva Rx Mattress Review
Helix MidnightHybrid$1,199Helix Midnight Mattress Review
NectarSide Sleepers$1,099Nectar Mattress Review
WinkBedLow Back Pain$1,799Winkbed Mattress Review
Nolah SignaturePressure Relief$1,599Nolah Signature Mattress Review
Bear Elite HybridBack Sleepers$2,305Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress Review
Plank Firm LuxeStomach Sleepers$1,149Plank Firm Luxe Mattress Review
Birch NaturalOrganic$1,799Birch Mattress Review

Medical Disclaimer: If you have or are concerned that you may have a herniated disc, always work closely with your healthcare provider regarding appropriate lifestyle changes, including sleep.

Julia Forbes

Julia Forbes

Sleep Advisor Mattress Tester

About Author

Julia is a product 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. Dydyk, Alexander M., Massa, Ruben Ngnitewe., Mesfin, Fassil B. “Disc Herniation”. National Library of Medicine. 2024.
  2. Caggiari, Gianfilippo., et. al. “What type of mattress should be chosen to avoid back pain and improve sleep quality? Review of the literature”. National Library of Medicine. 2021.
  3. “Herniated Discs FAQs”. Mayo Clinic. Webpage accessed July 6, 2024. 
  4. Guerra, Nayrim Brizuela., et. al. “Biomedical applications of natural rubber latex from the rubber tree Hevea brasiliensis”. National Library of Medicine. 2021.
  5. “Best Sleeping Positions for Pain”. Cleveland Clinic. Webpage accessed July 6, 2024. 
  6. “Herniated Disk”. Mayo Clinic. Webpage accessed July 6, 2024. 
  7. “Herniated Disc Disorders”. Penn Medicine. Webpage accessed July 25, 2024. 
  8. “Sleeping positions that reduce back pain”. Mayo Clinic. Webpage accessed July 25, 2023. 
  9. “How to Get Better Sleep with Sciatica Pain”. Cleveland Clinic. Webpage accessed July 25, 2023. 
  10. Kos, Natasa., Gradisnik, Lidija., Velnar, Tomaz. “A Brief Review of the Degenerative Intervertebral Disc Disease”. National Library of Medicine. 2019.
  11. “Degenerative Disc Disease”. Arthritis Foundation. Webpage accessed May 16, 2024. 
  12. Alexander, Tyler D., et. al. “Sleep apnea and unilateral upper and lower extremity allodynia as a result of a large thoracic disc herniation: a case report”. Sleep Science and Practice. 2021.