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Many orthopedic mattresses are available on the market, making it overwhelming to know which one is right for you. Some mattresses are made from memory foam, while others feature pocketed coils or natural latex. You can also opt for added features like cooling technology or even adjustable firmness levels.
Each type of mattress offers different levels of support and comfort, making it essential to understand the options available before making a purchase. By taking the time to explore the variety of orthopedic mattresses on the market, you can make an informed decision and invest in a bed that will provide you with the rest you deserve.
- Nectar – Editor's Pick
- Saatva Original – Best Orthopedic Mattress for Back Pain
- Helix Midnight – Best Hybrid Orthopedic Mattress
- Nolah Original – Best Orthopedic Mattress for Side Sleepers
- Titan Plus – Best Orthopedic Mattress for Heavyweight Sleepers
- Bear Original – Best Orthopedic Mattress for Athletes
- WinkBed – Best Orthopedic Mattress for Couples
- Signature Hybrid – Best Orthopedic Mattress for Hot Sleepers
- Birch Natural – Best Eco-Friendly Orthopedic Mattress
- Puffy Lux Hybrid – Best Orthopedic Mattress for Pressure Relief
Editor’s Pick
Nectar Original
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Gel Memory Foam
- 365-Night Sleep Trial
- Lifetime Warranty
- CertiPUR-US® Certified
- Free Shipping and Returns
The Nectar mattress is a high-quality purchase that is designed with advanced features to provide the ultimate sleeping experience. Its single-action cooling system helps you remain comfortable throughout the night, regulating your body temperature and preventing overheating. The 2-inch therapeutic gel memory foam layer promotes excellent pressure relief, contouring your body and fostering proper spinal alignment.
Further, the 7-inch base layer provides stability and prevents the mattress from sagging, ensuring that you have a comfortable and supportive sleep surface for years to come.
Why did we pick it?
- We love the Nectar for its 3-inch transition layer that minimizes motion transfer, ensuring that you don't feel your partner's movements during the night. This is great for couples who have different sleeping patterns or are easily disturbed.
- We also like the cooling technology infused into the design of the bed, helping hot sleepers get better, more comfortable rest.
To learn more about the Nectar, check out our Nectar mattress review
Best Orthopedic Mattress for Back Pain
Saatva Classic
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Lumbar Zone® Technology
- Dual Coil Units
- Plush Euro Pillow Top
- Free White Glove Delivery
The Saatva Classic is a great choice for sleepers who need a comfortable and supportive mattress to alleviate pressure points and provide healthy spinal alignment. Plus, with three firmness levels to choose from, you can find the perfect balance of support and comfort to suit your individual needs.
One of the standout features of the Saatva Classic is its durability. Thanks to a responsive dual-coil design made of recycled carbon steel that's tempered three times, this mattress is engineered to provide superb durability and resist sagging over time. The breathable organic cotton cover and dual-coil design also help to regulate your body temperature, helping to provide a cooler, more comfortable night's sleep.
Why did we pick it?
- We like the fact that Saatva offers patented Lumbar Zone® Technology to foster better support and spinal alignment. Further, it’s been awarded a seal of approval from chiropractors, making it a strong choice for those with orthopedic needs.
To learn more about the Saatva, check out our Saatva Classic mattress review
Best Hybrid Orthopedic Mattress
Helix Midnight
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Medium-Firm Feel
- Premium Cooling Covers
- CertiPUR-US® Certified
- 100-Night Trial
- 10-Year Warranty
The Helix Midnight stands out for its ability to provide support from its innerspring coils and pressure relief from its foam. The bed rates well for sleepers who may be struggling with back, hip, and shoulder pain. The breathable cover further helps to keep the surface of the mattress cool to the touch, and most sleepers seem to feel comfortable without overheating thanks to the hybrid construction that includes an 8-inch layer of coils for added airflow.
We feel the Helix Midnight could be a great pick due to its medium-firm feel and ability to evenly distribute a sleeper’s weight. Additionally, we found the Helix Midnight to be an exceptional option for couples as it offers minimal motion transfer, which means restless sleepers and partners with different sleep schedules shouldn’t bother the other person.
Why should you consider it?
- We like that the Helix Midnight offers a more medium-firm feel with quality weight distribution, making it a great hybrid option.
To learn more about the Helix Midnight, check out our Helix Midnight mattress review
Best Orthopedic Mattress for Side Sleepers
Nolah Signature
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Proprietary Nolah AirFoam™
- Eco-Friendly Materials
- 120-Night Sleep Trial
- Lifetime Warranty
The Nolah Signature mattress is an excellent choice for people with orthopedic needs, particularly side sleepers. It features an all-foam construction that offers exceptional pressure relief, cradling the body and reducing stress on the hips, shoulders, and other sensitive areas.
In addition to its pressure-relieving properties, the Nolah Signature also offers excellent motion isolation. This feature ensures that any movement on one side of the bed does not disturb the other side, making it an excellent choice for couples. The mattress' breathable and cooling cover also helps regulate temperature and keeps sleepers cool and comfortable throughout the night.
What stands out about it?
- We like that this mattress is designed with Nolah's patented AirFoam™, which Nolah claims is scientifically proven to provide four times more pressure relief than traditional memory foam.
- We also love that it’s made with eco-friendly materials, making it a guilt-free choice.
To learn more about the Nolah Signature, visit our Nolah Signature mattress review.
Best Orthopedic Mattress for Heavyweight Sleepers
Titan Plus
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Extra-Strong Support System
- Gel Memory Foam
- 120-Night Sleep Trial
- 10-Year Warranty
- CertiPUR-US® Certified
The Titan Plus is an innovative mattress engineered specifically for heavyweight sleepers. It features a combination of high-density foam and individually-wrapped coils that provide exceptional support and durability. The mattress is designed to distribute weight evenly and relieve pressure points, especially around the hips, shoulders, and back.
The Titan Plus consists of foams and coils that work together to provide deep compression support while also minimizing motion transfer, which is ideal for couples with different sleep schedules. The Titan Plus also features a breathable cover that promotes airflow and helps regulate temperature, which is essential for people who tend to sleep hot.
Why do we love this product?
- We love that the Titan Plus offers robust edge support, which is a plus for sleepers who need a stable surface to sit on and for getting in and out of bed.
To learn more about the Titan Plus, check out our Titan Plus mattress review
Best Orthopedic Mattress for Athletes
Bear Original
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Responsive Foam Layers
- 120-Night Sleep Trial
- Lifetime Warranty
- Free Shipping
The Bear Original is designed to provide exceptional support to athletes and people with orthopedic needs. This mattress is constructed using premium foam layers that work together to create a responsive and supportive sleep surface.
The top layer of the mattress is made of Celliant®, a performance fabric that is designed to convert body heat into infrared energy. Celliant® is reportedly able to promote circulation and enhance muscle recovery. Additionally, the mattress features a layer of high-density foam that works to evenly distribute weight and relieve pressure points, making it a great choice for people with orthopedic needs.
Why did it make the list?
- Along with muscle recovery, the Celliant® top layer helps regulate body temperature by offering a breathable surface. Bear also infuses graphite gel in its memory foam layer to further promote a cooler sleep space, which could help hot sleepers rest easier.
To learn more about the Bear Original, check out our Bear mattress review
Best Orthopedic Mattress for Couples
WinkBed
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Euro Pillow Top
- Extra-Edge™ Support
- 120-Night Sleep Trial
- Lifetime Warranty
- Handcrafted in the USA
The WinkBed mattress is an excellent choice for people with orthopedic needs, particularly couples. It’s designed with a blend of pressure-relieving foam layers and individually wrapped coils to provide the right level of support and comfort for each sleeper.
The WinkBed’s coils are strategically placed to provide optimal support to the spine and prevent back pain. The mattress is also constructed with a lumbar layer that reinforces the center third of the bed, providing additional support for the lower back. This is especially beneficial for individuals who experience discomfort in their lower back or have a history of back pain.
Why should you consider it?
- We love that the WinkBed is available in three different firmness levels, allowing couples to choose the level of firmness that best suits their needs. The different models include Soft, Luxury Firm, and Firm. There’s also a WinkBed Plus option that could be good for plus-size couples.
To learn more about the WinkBed, check out our WinkBed mattress review
Best Orthopedic Mattress for Hot Sleepers
Signature Hybrid
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Multiple Cooling Features
- 120-Night Sleep Trial
- Lifetime Warranty
- CertiPUR-US® Certified
The Signature Hybrid mattress from Brooklyn Bedding features a multi-layered construction. The top two layers are proprietary foams from Brooklyn Bedding. This is followed by a unit of individually-wrapped coils, designed to deliver excellent support for proper spinal alignment. Finally, the base layer is made from high-density foam, which adds durability and support to the mattress for robust spinal alignment.
For cooling, the Signature Hybrid infuses TitaniumGel™ in the TitanFlex™ foam to minimize heat retention. The coil layer also increases airflow, which helps keep the bed temperature neutral. Additionally, Brooklyn Bedding provides the option to add the GlacioTex™ cooling cover for extra-hot sleepers.
Why do we love it?
- The Signature Hybrid is available in three different firmness levels, allowing customers to choose the level of support that best meets their needs. This is particularly important for people with orthopedic needs, who may require a firmer or softer mattress to properly support their spine and alleviate pressure points.
To learn more about the Signature Hybrid, check out our Signature Hybrid mattress review
Best Eco-Friendly Orthopedic Mattress
Birch Natural
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Natural and Organic Materials
- GREENGUARD Gold Certified
- 100-Night Sleep Trial
- 25-Year Warranty
- Handcrafted in the USA
The Birch Natural is a great choice for eco-conscious shoppers who also have orthopedic needs due to its unique construction and materials. This latex hybrid features a combination of sustainable and durable materials, including organic wool, organic cotton, natural latex, and durable innerspring coils. While the latex helps alleviate pressure points, the layer of individually-wrapped coils delivers targeted support to different areas of the body for a healthy spinal alignment, which can help with pain and discomfort.
Another reason the Birch Natural is an excellent choice for people with orthopedic needs is that it has a medium-firm feel. We rated this bed at a 6.5 out of 10 for firmness, which means it should deliver an optimal balance of comfort and support.
Why did we pick it?
- The Birch Natural is also excellent for temperature regulation. All the eco-friendly layers in this bed naturally help provide a more breathable and temperature-neutral space.
To learn more about the Birch Natural, check out our Birch Natural mattress review
Best Orthopedic Mattress for Pressure Relief
Puffy Lux Hybrid
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Cooling Cloud™ and ClimateComfort™ Foams
- Stain-Resistant and Removable Cover
- 101-Night Sleep Trial
- Lifetime Warranty
- CertiPUR-US® Certified
The Puffy Lux Hybrid features a multi-layer construction aimed at providing quality support and pressure relief. The top layer is made from a proprietary Cooling Cloud™ Foam, followed by a layer of Dual Cloud Foam. These layers conform to the shape of the body, catering to those needing more pressure relief.
The Puffy Lux Hybrid is unique in that it provides much softer support compared to many other beds, providing a more gentle surface for those who struggle with aches and pains. The Puffy Lux Hybrid bed is even endorsed by the American Chiropractic Association for its exceptional back and spinal support.
Why did it make the list?
- We love the Puffy Lux Hybrid for those who prioritize pressure relief in a mattress. This bed’s softer feel and top foam comfort layers should provide the necessary cushioning to relieve any aches and pains.
To learn more about the Puffy Lux Hybrid, check out our Puffy Lux Hybrid mattress review
What Is an Orthopedic Mattress?
Orthopedic mattresses are designed to provide optimized support and comfort to your body’s spine and joints. These mattresses typically feature a more supportive structure, crafted from high-density foam, firmer latex, or innerspring coils.
This sturdy construction helps promote better spinal alignment by keeping the sleeper’s body lifted while top comfort layers help reduce pressure points for a more comfortable night's sleep. By providing a surface that encourages a more natural curvature of the spine during the night, orthopedic mattresses could help you wake up feeling refreshed.
Benefits of Using an Orthopedic Mattress
- Enhanced support: Orthopedic mattresses can provide enhanced support to the body's natural curves, reducing the risk of back pain.
- Alleviate pressure points: These mattresses help to alleviate pressure points, reducing the likelihood of developing painful conditions such as joint pain or arthritis.
- Better sleep quality: Orthopedic mattresses may improve sleep quality by minimizing pain and discomfort, making it easier to sleep soundly.
- Long-term use: Orthopedic mattresses are typically made from high-quality materials for better durability and longevity.
Disadvantages of an Orthopedic Mattress
- Price: Orthopedic mattresses may be more expensive due to the specialized materials and construction required.
- Break-in period: These mattresses may take some time to break in and become comfortable, especially if they are made from materials such as memory foam.
- Can be harder to differentiate: Not all mattresses advertised as orthopedic beds are truly orthopedic. Plus, each individual’s orthopedic needs can greatly vary, so it’s important to do your research and consult your doctor to help you choose the right bed for your needs.
How to Choose the Right Orthopedic Mattress
As you look for an orthopedic mattress, there are specific details you’ll want to consider to help you find the real deal and a genuinely great product for you and your needs.
Support and Firmness
Support refers to how well your bodyis supported, whereas firmness reflects how soft or hard the bed feels. For great support, you want to check that the bed has a strong support system of either high-density foams or innerspring coils.
Side sleepers tend to prefer softer mattresses that provide more gentle support to the shoulder and hip areas. A firmer mattress can put uncomfortable pressure on these regions for side sleepers, especially if you’re lighter in weight.
Stomach and back sleepers often appreciate a more firm and supportive mattress due to how this helps support spinal alignment in these positions. Additionally, heavier people typically like firmer models since they often have more robust support.
Pressure Relief
Another key component when shopping for an orthopedic bed is pressure relief. Orthopedic beds typically provide pressure relief through top comfort layers maybe from materials like memory foam or latex, which can contour the sleeper’s shape to cradle the joints and mitigate pressure buildup.
Edge Support
Orthopedic mattresses often provide good edge support when they're designed with a strong perimeter, which helps prevent sagging when you sit or sleep near the edge of the bed. Edge support is typically provided by either high-density foams along the perimeter or reinforced coils.
Certifications or Endorsements
Some orthopedic mattresses may include certifications from organizations such as CertiPUR-US® or OEKO-TEX®, which indicate that the materials used in the mattress meet strict standards for safety and environmental responsibility. Additionally, endorsements from medical organizations or groups like the American Chiropractic Association may provide additional reassurance for consumers.
Speak With Your Doctor
Before buying an orthopedic mattress, we suggest discussing your options with your doctor. Everyone’s needs are unique, and they can address any specific medical conditions and talk to you about what might work for your individual needs. Ultimately, you want to ensure that you make an informed decision and invest in a mattress that will promote better sleep and overall health.
Trial and Warranty
The types of warranties that are normally included with an orthopedic mattress vary depending on the manufacturer but typically include a limited warranty ranging from 10-25 years, though some brands offer lifetime deals as well.
Warranties usually cover defects in materials and workmanship. They may also have a prorated period during which the manufacturer will repair or replace the mattress at a reduced cost to the customer. Some warranties may also include specific guarantees related to certain features, such as pressure relief or motion isolation.
Price
Remember that price does not always reflect the quality of the materials and vice versa. A more expensive bed may indicate a higher-quality mattress, but it’s paramount to research the bed and read reviews regardless. One person’s comfort may be another person’s discomfort, depending on each person’s support needs and preferences.
Mattress Type
- Memory Foam – Memory foam is a type of specialized foam that contours the body's shape for top-tier pressure relief.
Learn More: What is Memory Foam?
- Hybrid – A hybrid mattress combines two or more support systems, typically memory foam or latex with innerspring coils, to provide a balance of comfort and support.
- Innerspring – An innerspring mattress uses a support system of steel coils to provide a foundation for the padding on top, offering a bouncy and supportive sleep surface.
- Latex – Latex beds use a support system of latex foam, known for its natural responsiveness, cooler feel, and pressure-relieving capabilities.
Learn More: Dunlop vs. Talalay Latex
How Does Back and Joint Pain Impact Sleep?
Back and joint pain can significantly impact the quality of one's sleep. When individuals experience pain in their back or joints, like with arthritis1, it can be difficult to find a comfortable sleeping position, leading to tossing and turning throughout the night. This can cause disruptions to the normal sleep cycle, resulting in poor sleep quality, heightened stress, and even depression.
Stress from chronic pain can further exacerbate sleep problems because it also makes it harder to fall asleep2. Additionally, pain can cause individuals to wake up frequently throughout the night, disrupting the restorative process of deep sleep and leaving them feeling unrefreshed in the morning. Furthermore, experts say that not sleeping well could wind up making pain worse the next day, creating a cyclical problem1.
Learn More: The Relationship Between Sleep and Pain
Ways to Sleep Better With Chronic Pain
- Experiment with different sleep positions: Try different sleep positions such as lying on your back with a pillow under your knees or lying on your side with a pillow between your legs. Find a position that is comfortable and reduces pressure on the affected area.
- Invest in a supportive mattress and pillow: An orthopedic mattress and pillow can provide the necessary support to keep your spine aligned and reduce pressure on your joints.
- Incorporate relaxation techniques: Practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or progressive muscle relaxation could help reduce stress and promote relaxation, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.
- Practice good sleep hygiene: Many people can get better sleep by incorporating good sleep hygiene into their daily routine. Good sleep hygiene refers to habits aimed at facilitating better sleep. These can include a regular bedtime and wake-up time, sleeping in a cool, dark, and quiet room, and having a relaxing nightly routine before bed.
Best Orthopedic Mattress FAQs
What is the best orthopedic mattress?
There is no one “best” orthopedic mattress that will work for everyone, as individual preferences and needs can vary greatly. However, some common features to look for in a high-quality orthopedic mattress include specialized materials such as memory foam or latex, zoned support systems, and multi-layer construction. It's also important to choose a mattress that offers proper spinal alignment, reduces pressure points, and promotes even weight distribution for maximum support and comfort.
Should orthopedic mattresses be firm or soft?
The ideal firmness level of an orthopedic mattress will depend on individual preferences and needs, but generally speaking, many orthopedic mattresses have a medium or medium-firm feel that provides a balance of support and pressure relief. However, it’s important to note that firmness is also subjective. For example, one bed may feel firmer to a lightweight person than it would to a heavyweight person.
What orthopedic mattresses do doctors recommend?
Doctors may recommend different types of orthopedic mattresses depending on an individual's specific needs. As such, we advise talking with your primary care doctor, who will have a more thorough understanding of your orthopedic issues, which can help you determine the orthopedic mattress that would be best for you.
What are orthopedic mattresses made from?
Orthopedic mattresses can be made from a variety of materials, but commonly used materials include memory foam, latex, high-density poly foam, and innerspring coils. Many orthopedic beds use a combination of these materials in order to provide better support and overall comfort.
How much does an orthopedic mattress cost?
The cost of an orthopedic mattress can vary depending on factors such as the size of the mattress, the materials used, and the brand. On average, a high-quality orthopedic mattress may be around at least 1,000 dollars for a Queen size. While very low-budget beds might seem appealing at first glance, it’s also important to consider the long-term benefits of investing in a high-quality orthopedic mattress, as improved sleep comfort and reduced orthopedic issues can lead to better overall health and well-being.
Where can I buy an orthopedic mattress?
Orthopedic mattresses can be purchased from a variety of retailers, including mattress stores, department stores, and online retailers. It's important to do your research and read reviews before purchasing an orthopedic mattress, as the quality and effectiveness can vary depending on the brand and materials used. Additionally, be sure to check the retailer's return and warranty policies before making a purchase.
References
- “Sleep and Pain”. Arthritis Foundation. Last modified March 15, 2022.
https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/healthy-living/managing-pain/fatigue-sleep/sleep-and-pain. - “How stress can affect your sleep”. Baylor College of Medicine. Last modified May 9, 2019.
https://www.bcm.edu/news/how-stress-can-affect-your-sleep#:~:text=%E2%80%9CHigh%20levels%20of%20stress%20impair,disrupts%20sleep%2C%E2%80%9D%20Wilson%20explained.
Rachael is a content writer for Sleep Advisor who loves combining her enthusiasm for writing and wellness. She’s had a passion for writing since she was a kid when she wrote awful poetry. She’s honed her craft quite a bit since then and considers herself a lucky duck to get paid to do what she loves.
Embracing the remote work life, she occasionally takes her work on the road and lives out her travel writer pipe dream.
In her free time, she attempts to meditate regularly, rides her bike to Trader Joe’s, and enjoys trying every type of food that she can get her hands on.