1. Quick list
2. Best overall
3. Best budget
4. Best affordable hybrid
5. Best for cooling
6. Best for bigger bodies
7. Best memory foam
8. Best for joint pain
9. Best latex
10. Best premium
11. FAQs
How we rate mattresses
We personally research and test the latest mattresses to provide unbiased recommendations in this guide. We rate each mattress out of 10 and use the review data to inform rankings. Read our mattress methodology for more.
The best mattress for back pain will offer a keen blend of pressure relief and correct spinal alignment — and we should know, our own mattress testers are more than familiar with the unpleasantries of back pain.
Not only can an unsupportive mattress feel uncomfortable, you run the risk of causing further injury as you shift around in a bid to find relief. A common misconception is that the firmer the mattress, the better it is for your back. However, our extensive research tells us that when a mattress is too firm it can put too much pressure on the parts of your body that are sensitive.
So what makes a good mattress for back pain? We put this question to a couple of experts in the field of chiropractic medicine, and, using their guidance alongside our own expertise, have managed to whittle our list of contenders down to nine mattresses that we deem to offer exceptional lumbar support.
Of course, every back pain is different, so finding the best mattress for back pain isn’t a one size fits all solution, especially when a range of factors — including your weight, sleeping position and posture — can influence the performance of a mattress. However, we think the customizable Saatva Classic mattress is the best mattress for back pain for most people. It comes with free white-glove delivery and in-home setup so all you'll have to do is sleep on it.
The right mattress for you will alleviate tension in your neck, shoulders, and lumbar, as well as suiting your budget (you’ll find year-round mattress sales for strong discounts). As such, our guide picks span a range of prices and preferences so you can find exactly what you need for relief. You'll find pricing information with each entry. Keep reading for a look at the best mattresses for back pain, as chosen by our expert reviewers.
The quick list
Type: Innerspring hybrid
Feel: Soft to firm
Price: From $1,095
A supremely comfortable mattress, lumbar zone technology, and a one-year test period make the Saatva Classic our top pick for those with back pain. No need to worry about hauling it, either, as in-room delivery is included.
Type: Memory foam
Feel: Medium firm
Price: From $399 (on sale)
One of the best mattresses under $1,000, the Cocoon Chill is great for side sleepers and those who get hot at night. However, it's not ideal for larger individuals.
Type: Hybrid
Feel: Medium-firm
Price: From $839
While it has only one firmness option, we loved this hybrid's foam and spring support, especially in the lumbar regions. It comes with a one-year trial and a lifetime warranty – all at a mid-range cost.
Type: Hybrid
Feel: Soft to firm
Price: From $999
If you suffer from back pain and get warm at night, the Aurora Luxe is the mattress for you, thanks to its special cooling layer. Plus, you can choose from several firmness options and sizes (including RV beds).
Type: Hybrid
Feel: Soft to 'Plus'
Price: From $1,149
Not only can you choose your ideal firmness, but of all the mattresses we tested, the Winkbed is the only model that includes a Plus option for individuals over 250 pounds. You'll also benefit from its zoned support.
Type: Memory foam
Feel: Relaxed firm or firm
Price: From $1,295
Like the Saatva Classic, the Loom & Leaf has specialized lumbar support, as well as body-contouring foam that works together to relieve pressure in your lower back and keep everything aligned. However, hot sleepers will want to avoid it since it traps heat.
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Type: GelFlex Hybrid
Feel: Medium-firm
Price: From $1,495
This mattress uses GelFlex — a springy, elastic gel that melds to your shape and cradles you comfortably in place — to offer firm, yet cushioned support. It may feel unusual at first but once you settle in, you'll enjoy loads of pressure relief.
Type: Latex hybrid
Feel: Firm
Price: From $1,299
The Awara mattress has 2 inches of all-natural latex foam, which gives you a weightless feel, yet is very durable. There's only one comfort level (firm) and it's a bit bouncy – but it's always on sale and comes with a full year to try it out.
Type: Hybrid
Feel: Medium-firm
Price: From $3,095
The loaded Casper Wave Hybrid Snow mattress has every feature you could want: cooling technology, ergonomic zones, and gel pods, to name a few. But, it has a loaded price to match.
Best mattress for back pain overall
✅ You want to customize your comfort: With three different firmness levels and two depth options, you can tailor the Saatva to your unique sleep needs.
✅ You want to take your time trying it out: A 365-night mattress trial gives you plenty of time to make sure it's the right fit. If it's not, you can swap it for a different firmness option (but you'll have to pay a $99 returns fee).
✅ You want help with setup: White glove delivery is included, as is optional removal of your old mattress. This will help you avoid injuring your back further.
❌ You’re a very light sleeper: Thanks to its ultra-responsive sleep surface, we noticed a small amount of motion transfer when reviewing the Saatva Classic. However, this would only potentially pose a problem for very light sleepers who share a bed.
❌ You want that sink-in feeling: This is a mattress that you'll sleep on top of, rather than sink into. If you want your mattress to 'hug' you, choose an all-foam model like the Saatva Loom & Leaf (#6).
❌ You can't stretch your budget: Though it's competitively priced and always on sale, the Saatva Classic remains in the premium price bracket. The mid-range DreamCloud (#3) offers a similar feel for less.
🔎 The Saatva Classic is an excellent all-rounder that'll sufficiently accommodate most people with back problems. Three firmness levels and two depth options to choose from means you can tailor it to meet your specific needs. A luxe, hotel-quality build and industry-leading amenities make it well worth the investment in your sleep and overall health.
The best mattress for back pain is the Saatva Classic. This mattress stands out for its high level of customization: three firmness levels plus two depth levels, which enables shoppers to design the ideal bed for their sleep preferences and body type. We found it comfortable in all sleeping positions. Nearly 1,000 of Saatva's 5-star customer reviews come from those who claim their backaches have decreased or disappeared. That was our experience when we tested the 11.5-inch medium-firm version in our Saatva Classic Mattress review; the improvement in our back pain was obvious when coming from an older, less supportive mattress.
Saatva has also earned a seal of approval from the Congress of Chiropractic State Associations for its lumbar zone technology. You'll get a full year to test it out, although you'll have to pay $99 for return shipping. Free white glove delivery is standard with all orders so you won't have to worry about setting this over 100lb. mattress on your bed – a huge benefit for anyone with back pain.
Like most brands, Saatva is feeling the effects of inflation, and MSRPs have risen steadily over the past 12 months or so. It's not quite as good value as it once was, but it's still a competitively-priced luxury mattress option – especially if you buy when a deal is on. However, if it's still out of your budget, the DreamCloud (#2) and Brooklyn Bedding Aurora (#3) are cheaper.
- Read more: Saatva Classic mattress review
Best budget mattress for back pain
✅ You sleep warm: The Cocoon Chill boasts impressive temperature regulation for an all-foam mattress. The phase-change material in its top cover does an effective job of wicking away heat and moisture.
✅ You’re on a tight budget: An evergreen 35% off sale drives this mattress down to the lower end of the mid-range price bracket. It also comes with free sheets and pillows.
✅ You share a bed: We found that the Cocoon Chill is very good at absorbing movement so if you or your partner move around a lot at night, you're unlikely to bother one another.
❌ You have severe night sweats: The Chill will be comfortable for most sleepers but its cooling prowess won't be enough for extreme overheating. The Aurora Luxe (#4) and Wave Hybrid Snow (#9) will be better equipped to handle that.
❌ You weigh over 230lbs: The three-layer Chill mattress won't provide enough support for heavier bodies. Opt for the hybrid version, or consider the WinkBed Plus (#5), which is specially made for larger sleepers.
❌ You want firmness options: While Sealy used to offer two firmness options, there is now only one (medium firm). Comfort is subjective, so you might prefer a mattress with more customizable features.
🔎 The Cocoon by Sealy Chill is a worthy option for warm sleepers with back pain who don't want to spend a fortune on a specialty mattress. (Upgrades for extra cooling or responsiveness don't cost all that much, either.) An evergreen 35% discount plus a free bedding bundle make it one of the best mattress values out there right now.
If you're on a tight budget, consider the Cocoon Chill. This all-foam mattress is the cheapest on our list, and we rate it amongst the best mattresses under $1,000. The Chill does an excellent job of distributing weight and alleviating pressure points. It's suitable for any sleeping position, although we'd especially recommend it to side sleepers. It's also one of the most consistently cool all-foam mattresses we've tested.
You are making some concessions for that lower price. While it provides good support for the price, we'd generally recommend a hybrid model (like all the others on our list) if you can afford it. Take note especially if you weigh more than average – the Chill likely won't provide enough support for you.
- Read more: Cocoon Chill mattress review
Best affordable hybrid mattress
✅ You have lower back pain: The DreamCloud's combo of adaptive foam and innersprings will cradle and support the lower lumbar and hips, which will be particularly helpful if you struggle with lower back pain.
✅ You share a bed: Couples, rejoice – we found the DreamCloud has low motion transfer, meaning you're less likely to be disturbed by any tossing and turning by your restless bedfellow (and likewise).
✅ You can't afford the Saatva Classic: You'll be making some concessions by choosing the mid-range DreamCloud over the luxury Saatva but you'll still enjoy a similar level of comfort as well as a 365-night trial and a forever warranty.
❌ You're a petite and/or a side sleeper: For sleepers under 130lbs, the DreamCloud may be too firm to offer any meaningful cradling or support. Some side sleepers might have a hard time adjusting to it, too.
❌ You use the entirety of your bed: The DreamCloud's edge support was underwhelming during our test. Those who sprawl out or like to sleep right up to the edge might want to look at the WinkBed (#5) or Awara (#8).
❌ You need something shorter: The DreamCloud is 14" tall. Combined with its weak edge support, this could make it difficult for sleepers with mobility problems to get in or out of bed comfortably.
🔎 The DreamCloud provides excellent support for sleepers with lower back pain in particular, and couples will be able to sleep in peace thanks to minimal motion transfer. It's a sound alternative to the Saatva Classic at the top of our list, offering a hotel-like feel, a one-year trial, and a lifetime warranty at a consistently low price.
Whether you or your sleeping partner (or both) suffer from back pain, the DreamCloud mattress will offer loads of relief. Our testers were impressed by the layers of adaptive foam and innersprings that immediately contoured their hips and lower lumbar, resulting in much less pain in those areas.
Another area where the DreamCloud mattress shines is its excellent motion isolation. There's little chance your partner's movements will disrupt your sleep (or vice versa). If either of you tosses and turns due to back pain, the relief that comes from the subtle hug of the DreamCloud will help solve that problem anyway.
Unlike the pricier Saatva and Brooklyn models, there's only one firmness option here: an 8 out of 10 on the firmness scale. That firmer feel is generally what's recommended for back pain sufferers, but be aware it still might feel a bit too firm – particularly if you're petite. Fortunately, DreamCloud offers a 1-year trial, which matches the best you'll find anywhere – and unlike Saatva, returns are free if you decide it's not right for you.
- Read more: DreamCloud Mattress review
Best for cooling
✅ You want firmness options (for less): The Aurora Luxe isn't the only mattress on this list to offer customizable firmness but it's the most affordable one to do so. Opt for something plush, firm, or in-between.
✅ You’re a hot sleeper: Our tester found the GlacioTex cooling cover offered excellent temperature regulation, even if it was a bit slippery. The infused foams and coils also play their roles in promoting proper airflow.
✅ Your bed has unusual dimensions: In addition to standard sizing, the Aurora Luxe is available in short queen, split California king, and two RV bed sizes (RV king and RV bunk).
❌ You share a bed: While not incredibly pronounced, we found there was a certain amount of motion transfer here. Couples should look at the DreamCloud (#3) instead. as it excels at absorbing movement.
❌ If you'd prefer a non-slip surface: Although the cooling cover provides excellent temperature regulation, we found that the cover made the sleep surface slightly slippery – not ideal for keeping your fitted sheet in place.
❌ You’re sensitive to smell: Your mileage may vary here, but during our review, we found that a noxious off-gassing smell lingered for hours after the unboxing. That's typical of most boxed mattresses.
🔎 The Brooklyn Aurora Luxe promotes excellent spinal alignment and boasts exceptional temperature regulation. Not only can you tailor the firmness to your liking but you can also kit out your RV with a mattress that's comfortable and supportive thanks to the non-traditional sizes on offer.
The Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe mattress combines a luxurious look and feel with excellent spinal support. Our self-confessed picky reviewer found this hybrid mattress amongst the most comfortable they'd ever slept on. The coils provide plenty of support to the spine, while the memory foam layers deliver comfortable cushioning without being overwhelming or making the sleep surface feel unstable.
Like a few other models on our list, you can choose your firmness level here. The middle option (rated 4-6/10 by Brooklyn) delivered the perfect balance of plushness and firmness for our petite tester, but there's also the option of going softer (2-4), or – perhaps more likely for back pain sufferers – firmer (7-8). Whatever sleep feel you go for, you can also touch more luxurious by adding the Cloud Pillow Top (on the version pictured here).
There's more good news if you're a hot sleeper, because this mattress has a special cooling cover that we found worked very effectively to prevent overheating during our testing period (even if it did make the sleep surface slightly too slippery for our liking).
One area in which this mattress fell down slightly was on motion transfer – it's perhaps not the best option for very light sleepers or anyone sharing a bed with someone on a different sleep schedule, as movements can reverberate across the sleep surface rather. If that's you, consider the DreamCloud instead.
Price-wise, the Aurora sits between the Saatva and DreamCloud. An evergreen sale means you can expect to pay 30% less than MSRP, putting it in the upper mid-range price bracket (or premium, if you want to splash out on the Cloud Pillow Top).
- Read more: Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe mattress review
Best for bigger bodies
✅ You want targeted support: The WinkBed's individually wrapped coils are zoned to deliver targeted support and pushback in specific areas, so the pressure will feel firmer in some spots and lighter in others.
✅ You need a heavy-duty mattress: This is the only model on our list that offers four firmness options: soft, luxury firm, firm, and Plus – the latter being specifically aimed at those weighing over 250lbs and over.
✅ You have severe mobility issues: WinkBed’s excellent edge support means that heavier people with mobility issues will find that the mattress will safely support them even as they sit on the edge of the bed before standing or laying down.
❌You're a very hot sleeper: Most people should find the temperature regulation for WinkBed adequate but if you’re often prone to overheating at night, opt for something like the Casper Wave Hybrid Snow (#9).
❌ You can afford the Saatva Classic: Unless you're a heavyweight sleeper (over 250lbs), the Saatva Classic (#1) will provide a better value and overall sleep experience so if you have the extra money to spare, we say go for it.
❌ You have no one to help set up: There's no white glove delivery so setting up this incredibly heavy mattress will be taxing, especially if you're already dealing with back pain and can't find anyone to help you out.
🔎 The WinkBed is a hybrid that gives the Saatva Classic (#1) a run for its money in terms of support and all-round function thanks to its individually zoned coils and gel-infused foam. For overweight sleepers with back pain, the WinkBed Plus is your best bet for ample relief.
The WinkBed is a customizable luxury mattress. Like a few models on our list, you can choose your firmness preference, but this is the only model that includes a Plus option for individuals over 250 pounds (it's one of the best mattresses for heavy people). Although nobody on our testing panel on this mattress grapples with regular back pain, we still felt well-aligned thanks to its Back Relief System. Hundreds of WinkBed 5-star customer reviews note reduced back pain and improved sleep quality.
The WinkBed's edge support is excellent, which bodes well for heavier people with mobility issues who must sit on the edge of their bed in order to get up or lie down, since it won't compress too much. At 13.5 inches thick, it's one of the tallest options on our list, and unlike the Saatva (#1) there's only one height option – consider a different option if you prefer to be lower to the ground.
Regular WinkBed mattress sales feature hundreds of dollars in savings for this award-winning mattress. You get 120 nights to test it at home, but you'll have to pay $49 to send it back. It's also quite heavy, weighing as much as 145 pounds, so you'll want to ask someone to help set up your new WinkBed mattress. (In-home delivery is not provided as a service.)
- Read more: WinkBed mattress review
Best memory foam mattress for back pain
✅ You suffer from lower back pain: The Loom & Leaf's concentrated lumbar support and 5lb body-hugging memory foam core helped alleviate our tester's nagging lower back pain.
✅ You're a combi sleeper: If you tend to shift during the night (or your partner has a different sleep style to you) this mattress could be an attractive option since we found it comfortable in any position.
✅ You share a bed: We detected very little motion transfer during our review. This is good news for those who share a bed with a light or restless sleeper, or a partner who operates on an opposing sleep schedule.
❌ You tend to overheat: The Loom & Leaf traps heat so it's not a good choice if you hail from a hotter part of the world or are prone to night flashes. The Saatva Classic (#1) sleeps cooler.
❌ You don't want to sink while you sleep: A memory foam mattress isn’t to everyone’s preference and although this one ticks lots of boxes when it comes to alleviating back pain, don’t go for this one if you don’t enjoy that ‘sink-in’ feeling.
❌ You need sturdy edges: Whether you like to sleep right up to the edge of the mattress, or you need to sit on the edge of the mattress before standing up or laying down, we felt as though the edge support here was lacking.
🔎 The Saatva Loom & Leaf comes in two firmness levels so it'll suit just about any type of sleeper. Specialized lumbar support plus layers of high-density memory foam will be a boon for anyone with lower back issues. Top-notch motion isolation will help couples avoid sleep divorce, as well.
Saatva makes our list once again – this time for its Loom & Leaf mattress. This handcrafted memory foam mattress comes in two firmness levels and features specialized lumbar support and body-contouring foam that work together to relieve pressure in your lower back and keep everything aligned. The upper and lower thirds of the mattress are slightly firmer but still soft enough to contour to your shoulders and knees. This is one of two all-foam mattresses on our list – if you're on a tighter budget, check out the Cocoon Chill (#4).
We tested out the relaxed firm model and our lead reviewer noticed a marked improvement in her lower back pain after three weeks of sleeping on it. The rest of our testing panel was also comfortable regardless of their position or stature. Despite the presence of cooling tech, we found the Loom & Leaf is still prone to trapping heat so chronically hot sleepers may want to check out a hybrid model. Or if you're a Saatva fan, a good alternative would be the Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid, which offers better temperature regulation.
Otherwise, we recommend the Loom & Leaf for sleepers with back pain who like the hug of memory foam and want something durable that they won't have to replace too often. Complimentary white-glove delivery is a nice perk, as is a 1-year trial – but you'll have to pay $99 to return it.
- Read more: Loom & Leaf mattress review
Best for joint pain
✅ You want support in all the right places: The Purple Plus offers ‘adaptive’ support, which means it’s firmer along the spine and lumbar but slightly softer around your legs and arms. This makes it effective at relieving pressure points without sacrificing alignment.
✅ You overheat at night: The GelFlex Grid does an outstanding job of promoting airflow so hot sleepers who toss and turn will find plenty of relief (and avoid further hurting their backs).
✅ You're a restless sleeper (or your partner is): The Purple Plus boasts excellent motion isolation so you're unlikely to feel your partner fidgeting (and they'll hardly notice your movements, too).
❌ You’re on a tight budget: Costing $400-$500 more than the Purple Original, the Purple Plus sits in the premium price bracket. If you don't need anything too sophisticated but want to experience the GelFlex Grid, consider the Original Purple mattress instead.
❌ Edge support is important: Edge support is lacking slightly, which means that sitting or laying towards the edge of the mattress may cause dipping.
❌ You want to choose your firmness: Although there is only one firmness option available, the unique blend of firmness and softness will suit a wide range of firmness preferences. However, this might not be the mattress for you if you want firm support throughout.
🔎 The Purple Plus is firmer where it counts, offering targeted lumbar support while alleviating any joint pain. Other key points include outstanding cooling technology and low motion transfer. You may need time to adjust to the feel of the GelFlex Grid, but once you settle in, you'll thank yourself for being patient.
Purple's mattresses have a slightly unusual sleep feel, thanks to a unique GelFlex grid – a springy, elastic gel grid that melds to your shape and cradles you comfortably in place, then springs back instantly when pressure is removed. The Purple Plus is a great choice for those with aching joints who need cushioning without sacrificing support.
When we tested the Purple Plus out, we ended up giving it two separate firmness ratings out of 10. We found it's softer underneath the arms and legs (6/10) yet firmer along the spine and lumbar (7.5/10). This means you'll have support in all of the right places and not wake up feeling misaligned.
There's another big benefit of the GelFlex Grid – the open structure means it sleeps nice and cool. (Hot sleepers who toss and turn to get comfortable can wind up contorting their spine in unpleasant ways.) Edge support is middling, but the low motion isolation makes the Purple Plus a fine choice for couples.
The Purple Plus mattress weighs up to 140lb, so ask someone to help move it if you're dealing with back pain. You can opt for in-home delivery and setup, but it costs an extra $200. Shipping is free otherwise, and you'll have 100 nights to trial the mattress.
- Read more: Purple Plus Mattress review
Best latex mattress for back pain
