Last updated: October 18, 2024
Best Mattress for Back Pain Relief of 2024:
Performance Tested and Reviewed
Edited by: Lisa Libutti, Sleep Wellness Specialist
Published: October 03, 2024
Published: October 03, 2024
Looking to replace your mattress for better back support and pain relief? You’re in the right spot!
The right mattress can make all the difference for those with chronic pain, providing the comfort and support needed for deep, restful sleep. We’ve identified the best options that balance firmness and comfort. Here are our top-rated mattress picks for back pain relief, starting with the “Back Science Series 2” mattress.
We tested spinal alignment for each mattress using The Mattress Checker App to objectively see which ones really do properly support your back.
Here Are The Top 5 Best Mattresses for Back Pain
Using our 10-Point Rating System
ON MOBILE: TAP TABLE AND DRAG LEFT TO SEE RATINGS
Our 5 Top-Rated Mattress Picks by Sleep Examiner
#1 Top-Rated Mattress For Back Pain
Best mattress for back alignment, pressure relief, and spinal support.
As our top mattress pick for spinal support and back pain relief, you might be curious if the “Back Science Series 2″ mattress” really” is the sleep system that has your back. While most brands promote the ability to provide the best back support, we found that the Back Science mattress truly backs up its claims with objective scientific evidence.
Versatile enough to excel for back, side, and stomach sleeping, the “Back Science Series 2” is described as the luxury-firm mattress in the series. They also offer models like the medium-firm “Back Science Series 3“, which provides more plush pressure relief for side sleepers. For back sleepers seeking strong support, the Back Science Series 1 is designed as a firmer option.
Even with all of these great attributes, we were eager to put the Back Science mattress to the test with our Sleep Examiner 10-point performance inspection and evaluation. Our goal was to provide all the insights you need and to show why it became our top pick for those seeking optimal back support and the relief necessary for a better night’s sleep.
Back Science Series 2 Mattress Rating
-
1. Back Alignment & Overall Support - 10/10
10/10
-
2. Firmness & Pressure Relief - 9/10
9/10
-
3. Sleeping Position Compatibility - 10/10
10/10
-
4. Edge Support - 9.5/10
9.5/10
-
5. Cooling - 10/10
10/10
-
6. Eco-Friendly & Off-Gassing - 9.5/10
9.5/10
-
7. Motion Transfer / Motion Isolation - 9.5/10
9.5/10
-
8. Warranty - 10/10
10/10
-
9. Sleep Trial - 10/10
10/10
-
10. Customer & Trusted Ratings - 9.5/10
9.5/10
9.7/10
Summary
Mattress Performance Score
Pros
- Excellent Spinal Support: Lumbar-Flex system reduces back pain and prevents mid-section sinking.
- Firmness Balance: Rated 6-8/10, ideal for back, side, and stomach sleepers.
- Never Compressed: Full-size shipping ensures better coil system stability.
- 365-Night Trial: Includes free custom adjustments, exchanges, or returns.
- Strong Edge Support: Reinforced side rails prevent rolling off the bed.
- Cooling Features: Breathable cover and airflow system keep sleepers cool.
Cons
- May Have an Initial Mild Smell: occasional reports of a new foam smell that dissipates quickly.
- Not Bed-in-a-Box: Larger size may be inconvenient; $99 setup service available.
- Price Point: Premium materials and advanced technology result in a higher cost.
#2 Top-Rated Mattress For Back Pain
#2 rated mattress for back pain relief is perfect for those seeking a luxurious, firm sleeping surface with coil support and premium memory foam.
We were excited to review the Stearns and Foster Lux Hybrid Firm mattress, a fantastic fusion of old-school innerspring charm and cutting-edge Tempur-Pedic memory foam magic. Our review focuses on our 10-point performance score including various aspects such as back alignment, firmness, sleeping position compatibility, edge support, cooling, environmental impact, motion transfer, warranty, sleep trial, and overall customer satisfaction to give you a comprehensive understanding of this high-end luxurious feeling mattress.
Stearns & Foster Lux Hybrid Mattress Rating
-
1. Back Alignment & Overall Support - 8.2/10
8.2/10
-
2. Firmness & Pressure Relief - 9.8/10
9.8/10
-
3. Sleeping Position Compatibility - 9.8/10
9.8/10
-
4. Edge Support - 8.5/10
8.5/10
-
5. Cooling - 7.5/10
7.5/10
-
6. Eco-Friendly & Off-Gassing - 6.9/10
6.9/10
-
7. Motion Transfer / Motion Isolation - 9.9/10
9.9/10
-
8. Warranty - 7.5/10
7.5/10
-
9. Sleep Trial - 7.9/10
7.9/10
-
10. Customer & Trusted Ratings - 8/10
8/10
8.4/10
Summary
Mattress Performance Score
Pros
- Side Sleepers: Offers contouring comfort and support for hips and shoulders.
- Back Pain Relief: Excellent spinal alignment and overall support.
- Couples: Exceptional motion isolation for undisturbed sleep.
- Edge Support: Sturdy edges for sitting or sleeping near the edge.
- Luxury Seekers: High-end materials and construction for a premium feel.
Cons
- Stomach Sleepers: May cause discomfort due to sinking feeling.
- Hot Sleepers: Potential to retain heat despite cooling cover.
- Eco-conscious Buyers: Lack of information on eco-friendly materials.
- Budget Shoppers: Higher price range might not fit all budgets.
- Those Needing Firm Returns: Return fee during the trial period can be costly.
#3 Top-Rated Mattress For Back Pain
#3 Rated best mattress back pain relief is perfect for staying cool while giving you a buoyant and supportive cooling gel, heat-wicking graphite adaptive memory foam.
Is your idea of a dream bed something soft, cool and preferably easy to order? Looking for something that feels luxurious, but won’t break the bank? What about something you wouldn’t mind sharing, as long as it’s made from quiet foam? If you’re checking all of these boxes, you might want to check out our 10-point mattress performance inspection and evaluation that will provide all the insights you need to make a decision about the Tuft & Needle Mint Hybrid Mattress.
Tuft and Needle Mint Hybrid Mattress Rating
-
1. Back Alignment & Overall Support - 8/10
8/10
-
2. Firmness & Pressure Relief - 8/10
8/10
-
3. Sleeping Position Compatibility - 9.5/10
9.5/10
-
4. Edge Support - 9/10
9/10
-
5. Cooling - 9/10
9/10
-
6. Eco-Friendly & Off-Gassing - 9.5/10
9.5/10
-
7. Motion Transfer / Motion Isolation - 7/10
7/10
-
8. Warranty - 9.5/10
9.5/10
-
9. Sleep Trial - 9/10
9/10
-
10. Customer & Trusted Ratings - 9/10
9/10
8.8/10
Performance Score
Mattress Performance Score
Pros
- Balanced feel with adaptive foam for various sleeping positions
- Effective temperature regulation with cooling gel and graphite
- Excellent motion isolation, ideal for couples
- Enhanced edge support for stability
- Durable construction with individually wrapped coils
Cons
- Too firm for some side sleepers
- Noticeable initial off-gassing odor
- Higher price compared to standard models
- Heavy and difficult to move
- Minor heat retention in hot climates
#4 Top-Rated Mattress For Back Pain
#4 Best mattress for back pain relief uses quality organic materials, for a balanced buoyant support, while remaining completely Eco-Friendly.
Discover eco-friendly comfort with the Avocado Green Standard Firm Mattress, perfect for those seeking style, support, and sustainability. Crafted from GOLS-certified latex, GOTS-certified cotton, and natural wool, this mattress combines firm, responsive support with premium organic materials, promoting optimal spinal alignment and relieving pressure points. Plus, it’s GREENGUARD Gold certified for a non-toxic sleep environment, making it an excellent choice for those prioritizing both comfort and planet-friendly living.
Passing our thorough Sleep Examiner 10-point inspection, the Avocado Green mattress demonstrates exceptional durability, pressure relief, and balanced support. Designed to meet high standards in eco-conscious sleep solutions, this mattress lets you enjoy a sustainable, refreshing sleep experience, backed by the quality and performance you can trust.
Avocado Green Standard Firm Mattress Rating
-
1. Back Alignment & Overall Support - 7.8/10
7.8/10
-
2. Firmness & Pressure Relief - 7/10
7/10
-
3. Sleeping Position Compatibility - 8/10
8/10
-
4. Edge Support - 8/10
8/10
-
5. Cooling - 9/10
9/10
-
6. Eco-Friendly & Off-gassing - 10/10
10/10
-
7. Motion Transfer / Motion Isolation - 7/10
7/10
-
8. Warranty - 9/10
9/10
-
9. Sleep Trial - 9/10
9/10
-
10. Customer & Trusted Ratings - 9/10
9/10
8.4/10
Summary
Mattress Performance Score
Pros
- Eco-conscious consumers
- Back and stomach sleepers
- People with chemical sensitivities
- Back support mattress seekers
- Long-term investment seekers
Cons
- Side sleepers
- Budget-conscious shoppers
- Lightweight sleepers
- Soft mattress enthusiasts
- People seeking advanced cooling features
#5 Best Rated Mattress For Back Pain
#5 Top-Rated Mattress For Back Pain
#5 Best mattress for back pain relief works perfectly for side sleepers who need pressure relief and like a medium overall feel.
If you’re searching for a mattress that blends plush comfort with solid support, the Helix Midnight Luxe may be the perfect fit. Designed with a medium feel pillow-top and targeted lumbar support, this mattress offers side sleepers the ideal balance of softness and structure. Crafted from premium materials, it provides pressure relief and promotes proper spinal alignment, making it a great choice for those who prefer a softer bed.
The Helix Midnight Luxe passed our Sleep Examiner 10-point inspection, proving its high performance and durability. With features tailored for comfort and support, this mattress is built to help you wake up feeling refreshed and ready to tackle the day. Discover why the Helix Midnight Luxe is a top pick for those seeking both comfort and dependable support.
Helix Midnight Luxe Mattress Rating
-
1. Back Alignment & Overall Support - 7.8/10
7.8/10
-
2. Firmness & Pressure Relief - 9.5/10
9.5/10
-
3. Sleeping Position Compatibility - 9/10
9/10
-
4. Edge Support - 6.5/10
6.5/10
-
5. Cooling - 9.5/10
9.5/10
-
6. Eco-Friendly & Off-Gassing - 9.5/10
9.5/10
-
7. Motion Transfer / Motion Isolation - 8.5/10
8.5/10
-
8. Warranty - 9/10
9/10
-
9. Sleep Trial - 9/10
9/10
-
10. Customer & Trusted Ratings - 9.5/10
9.5/10
8.8/10
Performance Score
Mattress Performance Score
Pros
- Back and side sleepers needing excellent support.
- Those seeking high-quality materials and construction.
- Couples who want good motion isolation.
- Sleepers desiring a comfortable and luxurious pillow-top feel.
- Individuals who need effective pressure point relief.
Cons
- Budget-conscious shoppers.
- Stomach sleepers who prefer a softer mattress.
- People who frequently move or rotate their mattress.
- Those sensitive to initial off-gassing odors.
- Sleepers who need strong edge support.
Helpful Tips on Keeping Your Spine Aligned While Sleeping
Choosing the Best Mattress For Back Pain
Hi, I’m Lisa Libutti, and I want to share some essential tips for ensuring your spine stays aligned with the right mattress. A good night’s sleep is crucial for our overall health, and the mattress you choose plays a significant role in supporting your spine while you rest. Here’s how to ensure your mattress is up to the task.
Choose the Right Firmness
Finding the perfect mattress firmness can be tricky since it varies from person to person. However, a medium-firm to what is know as luxury firm mattress (a firm level that is more plush to give more shoulder and hip conforming penetration) is generally a safe bet for promoting spinal alignment. It should be firm enough to provide support but soft enough to contour to your body’s natural curves. Remember, a mattress that’s too soft can cause your spine to sag, while one that’s too firm can create uncomfortable pressure points.
Consider Your Sleeping Position
Your sleeping position greatly influences spinal alignment:
- Back Sleepers: Look for a medium-firm to firm mattress to support the natural curve of your lower back.
- Side Sleepers: A medium to medium-firm mattress or one that is softer where the shoulders and leg zones are located can help cushion your shoulders, while ensuring that your spine won’t dip in the mid-section.
- Stomach Sleepers: A firmer mattress with some softness on the surface only is usually better to prevent your lower back from sinking in and causing misalignment, while still remaining comfortable.
Use Proper Pillows
Pillows are just as important as your mattress for maintaining spinal alignment:
- Back Sleepers: Use a thinner pillow to avoid tilting your head too far forward.
- Side Sleepers: Opt for a thicker pillow to fill the space between your ear and shoulder, keeping your neck aligned with your spine.
- Stomach Sleepers: A very thin pillow or no pillow at all can help keep your neck from bending unnaturally.
Replace Your Mattress Regularly
Even the best mattresses don’t last forever. It’s a good idea to replace your mattress every 7-10 years or sooner if you notice signs of sagging or discomfort. A worn-out mattress can compromise spinal alignment and affect your sleep quality.
Try Before You Buy
If you can, test mattresses in-store to find one that feels supportive and comfortable. Spend at least 10-15 minutes lying on the mattress in your usual sleep position to get a good sense of whether it will support your spine properly.
Consider Mattress Materials
Different materials provide varying levels of support and comfort:
- Memory Foam: Conforms to your body, offering support and pressure relief, but may not have enough support for your back.
- Innerspring: Provides good support and has a bouncier feel, but may flatten out as the surface fiber wears over time.
- Hybrid: Combines foam and innerspring for balanced support and comfort.
- Latex: Offers a firmer feel and support, but is more expensive and not as comfortable for some.
Adjust Your Bed Foundation
A supportive bed frame or foundation is crucial for maintaining your mattress’s integrity and your spinal alignment. Make sure your bed frame provides adequate support for your mattress type to prevent sagging.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can choose a mattress that supports your spine and helps you enjoy a restful, health-promoting sleep. Proper spinal alignment not only enhances sleep quality but also helps prevent chronic back pain and boosts overall well-being.
Sweet dreams💤
How We Test Sleep Products
Honest & Authentic Sleep Product Reviews
In our review process, we blend authentic customer feedback, comprehensive research on product materials and compositions, and insights from expert sites specializing in online mattress comparisons and ratings.
After we conclude our research and analysis for each mattress, pillow or sleep product review, our system automatically generates an overall performance score based on the calculated data. For mattress reviews, this score is calculated based on the following factors: Support, Comfort, Durability, Materials, Quality, Affordability, Cooling, Edge Support, Off-Gassing, Trial Period, Warranty, and Customer Service.
Lisa Libutti
Sleep Solutions Specialist
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Lisa Libutti is a versatile freelance web designer and content curator with a solid track record in digital newsletter management, copywriting, and formatting for boutique websites, blogs, and online news sites. At Sleep Examiner, she specializes in comprehensive and unbiased sleep product reviews, providing in-depth analysis to help readers achieve better sleep quality. When not immersed in research, Lisa enjoys gardening, raw vegetable juicing, and dancing to electronic house music.
Best Mattresses of 2024
