What Mattress Is Best for Back Pain?

Back pain is one of the most common complaints among adults, affecting millions worldwide. While its causes can vary – ranging from poor posture to underlying medical conditions – one often-overlooked factor is the role your mattress plays. The right mattress can be a game-changer, not only relieving existing back pain but potentially preventing it altogether. 

Wondering what to look for in a mattress to alleviate back pain? We’ve got your back, literally. Read on for our tips on finding the best mattress for back pain. 

A mattress’s primary role is to support your body while you rest, helping to maintain proper spinal alignment. When your mattress fails to provide adequate support or comfort, it can exacerbate back pain or create new discomforts. Key areas to consider include:

• Spinal Alignment: A mattress should keep your spine in a neutral position, meaning it’s straight and well-supported, whether you sleep on your back, side or stomach.
• Pressure Relief: Areas like your shoulders, hips and lower back require cushioning to relieve tension and avoid strain.
• Overall Support: A mattress that sags over time can lose its supportive qualities, leading to or worsening back pain.
• Your Sleep Position: Side sleepers benefit from a plusher mattress, while back and stomach sleepers benefit from firmer options.

When chosen carefully, your mattress can transform your sleep quality and play a pivotal role in alleviating back pain.

When selecting the best mattress for back pain, you should consider the following features to ensure proper spinal alignment and lasting comfort.

No two sleepers are alike, and finding your personal best level of firmness is crucial for addressing back pain. While some people benefit from a firmer mattress, others need a medium or plush surface to feel comfortable. Additionally, your needs may change over time as you age. Choosing a mattress with adjustable firmness (on both sides of the bed if you have a sleep partner!) allows your mattress to meet your individual needs.

A mattress with zoned support targets different areas of your body with varying levels of firmness, ensuring that heavier regions like your hips get the support they need while lighter areas like your shoulders receive cushioning. Choosing a mattress made with individually encased coils is one way to guarantee zoned support, as the mattress can freely adjust to your body’s unique contours. Naturally contouring materials like latex also help!

Mother Nature knows best. Conventional mattresses often contain synthetic materials that break down and lose their supportive qualities faster than natural materials. Organic options, like those made with GOTS-certified cotton and GOTS-approved latex, offer exceptional durability, maintaining their structure and support for years to come. (Remember: a saggy mattress is your back pain’s worst enemy!)

Back pain can worsen if you’re tossing and turning due to overheating. Mattresses made with breathable materials like organic cotton and wool – as opposed to the notoriously heat-trapping memory foam – can help regulate your body temperature for a more restful night’s sleep.

The Naturepedic EOS Classic Organic Mattress is a standout choice for back pain sufferers. Our customizable EOS mattresses – EOS standing for Ergonomic Organic Sleep – feature a modular, layered design that lets you tailor your mattress firmness independently on either side of the bed, and adjust that firmness over time if your preferences change. 

The EOS Classic features layers of organic cotton, latex and wool overtop individually encased coils, and comes in five unique firmness levels: Extra Firm, Firm, Cushion-Firm, Medium and Plush. Better materials, better design – it’s a mattress made just for you. 

Not sure what firmness is right for you? Mattress shopping can be tough, especially when back pain is a concern. A mattress might feel comfortable, but not offer the proper support you need in the long run. That’s why we offer risk-free 100-night mattress trials. 

During your trial period, if the firmness doesn’t feel right, our layer swap program allows you to swap out your mattress layers to try a different firmness level – we’ll ship them right to your door! And, if your firmness needs change over time, you can purchase new layers after your trial period to change your bed’s feel without having to invest in a new mattress. We know it might sound too good to be true, but the EOS just might be the last mattress you ever need to buy.

If you’ve been shopping for a mattress, you’ve likely come across options like memory foam or hybrid models. Here’s how the EOS Classic outshines its competitors:

While memory foam can contour to your body, it traps heat and usually is treated with chemical flame retardants, which can be carcinogens, respiratory irritants and endocrine disruptors. GOTS-approved latex, as found in the EOS Classic, offers similar contouring benefits without the downsides of overheating or chemical exposure. 

Many hybrid mattresses combine coils and foam for support, but not all hybrids are created equal. The EOS Classic’s use of glueless encased coils and organic materials offers superior support and sustainability compared to conventional hybrid models.

While a supportive mattress like the Naturepedic EOS Classic can make a significant difference, here are some additional strategies for managing back pain:

• Practice Good Sleep Posture: Use pillows strategically to support your spine, especially if you sleep on your side or back.
• Stay Active: Regular exercise can strengthen the muscles that support your back, reducing strain and discomfort.
• Stretch Daily: Incorporating gentle stretches into your routine can improve flexibility and relieve tension in your back.
• Consult a Professional: If your back pain persists, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider for a tailored treatment plan.

Looking to alleviate your back pain but not ready to invest in a new mattress? Our guide for the best mattress toppers for back pain can help!