Why Your Mattress Matters for Arthritis and Joint Pain

It’s estimated that over one-third of Americans suffer from some degree of arthritis in their joints.

Even though arthritis is very common among adults in this country, there are things you can do to alleviate the pain and discomfort you experience from this disease—like sleeping on the best mattress for joint and back pain.

The proper mattress offers the right balance of joint support and soft cushioning to help relieve pain and promote a better night’s rest. However, with so many options to choose from, you might be left wondering which is the right mattress for you.

In this guide, we’ll explore the relationship between sleep quality, arthritis and mattresses, cover the best type of mattress for joint pain, and review the innovative mattresses tailored for joint pain sufferers—all available at Mattress Firm.

What Is Arthritis?

Arthritis is a common ailment that causes joint swelling, pain, stiffness and discomfort. It typically affects people 50 years of age or older, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

This disease can damage any joint in the body, most often the hands and wrists, knees, hips, shoulders, lower back and feet. It can develop for various reasons, and there are over 100 different types of arthritis.

One of the most common types is osteoarthritis, which develops in people after a lifetime of normal wear and tear on the joints. Another is rheumatoid arthritis, which develops when a person’s immune system mistakenly causes joint damage.

While there is no cure for arthritis, medical providers may recommend different treatments to help patients manage their symptoms and live more comfortably. These include lifestyle changes, such as selecting the best mattress for joint pain, that help alleviate pressure on sensitive joints and support proper body alignment.

How Can Arthritis Affect Your Sleep Quality?

Arthritis and sleep quality issues are closely related. In fact, the Arthritis Foundation reports that upwards of 80% of people with the disease have trouble sleeping.

The joint pain, stiffness and discomfort caused by arthritis can disrupt a person’s normal sleep patterns, leading to fatigue and worsening joint pain.

These arthritis symptoms make it difficult to get comfortable in bed, doze off and stay asleep through the night. Thus, finding a mattress that offers proper support can help alleviate discomfort during rest rather than exacerbate a person’s arthritis symptoms.

Sleep Positions and Their Impact on Joint Pain and Arthritis

As someone with arthritis, it’s not only what you sleep on that matters but how you sleep as well.

You may not know it, but your typical sleep position can either exacerbate or alleviate joint pain. Here’s how:

• Side sleeping: Can aggravate joint pain, stiffness and discomfort by putting extra pressure on the shoulders, hips, knees and ankles; side sleepers should use a tall and supportive pillow to promote proper neck and back alignment and another pillow at the curve of the waist or between the knees for additional support
• Back sleeping: Recommended for many different types of arthritis; helps keep your body in proper alignment without putting additional stress on sensitive pressure points like your hips and shoulders; sleepers may find more relief by sleeping with a pillow under the backs of the knees to relieve strain on the lower back
• Stomach sleeping: Not recommended by the Arthritis Foundation; those who must sleep on their stomachs may place a thin pillow below the pelvis to promote proper spinal alignment 

Best Mattress Types for Arthritis Relief

What is the best type of mattress for joint pain and relief from arthritis symptoms? Generally, the best options are those that address pressure points, offering extra cushion in sensitive areas while providing adequate joint support to keep your body properly aligned.

The following are the main mattress types that offer the most relief for arthritis sufferers:

Memory Foam Mattresses

Memory foam mattresses are good options for people with joint and back pain. They offer optimal pressure relief, helping your body weight distribute evenly across the sleep surface.

This way, you can avoid placing unnecessary pressure on joints that are already stiff or painful from arthritis.

At the same time, memory foam mattresses mold to each sleeper, offering customized support for the natural contours of your body, even as you reposition yourself throughout the night.

Latex Mattresses

Latex mattresses combine excellent responsiveness with breathability and moderate pressure point relief, making them a great choice for those with arthritis and joint pain.

They are considered among the best mattresses for joint pain because they have a highly responsive surface. Thus, sleepers can easily change positions and remain comfortable throughout the night.

Plus, since latex is a natural material, it offers better breathability and air circulation than denser materials like memory foam. This keeps sleepers from overheating and creates a more comfortable sleep environment overall.

Hybrid Mattresses

Many consider hybrid mattresses the best bed for joint pain. The top memory foam layer offers extra cushion to alleviate pressure from sensitive joints, while the coil base provides the structure and support that keeps the body in good alignment.

These beds also tend to have better edge support, which makes it easier for those with stiff joints or mobility issues to get in and out of bed.

Additionally, hybrid mattresses offer better airflow and temperature regulation than 100% memory foam mattresses, which helps to keep sleepers more comfortable at night.

What To Consider When Buying a Mattress for Arthritis and Joint Pain

Arthritis sufferers shouldn’t sleep on just any bed. They require mattresses made with specific features and materials that are specially designed for joint pain relief.

If you’re looking to upgrade your mattress to help alleviate your joint pain and discomfort, the following are some of the most important factors to consider:

Firmness

Each person has their own personal preferences regarding mattress firmness. However, a medium-firm mattress is generally considered better for individuals with arthritis and joint pain.

A softer mattress might seem ideal to be more gentle on painful, sensitive areas, but it might lack sufficient support and put more strain on certain joints. On the other hand, a mattress that is too firm can create uncomfortable pressure points.

Your body weight and sleeping position also influence the firmness level that’s best for you, so it’s best to test out mattresses in the store to find the right match.

Materials

As explored above, certain materials, such as memory foam and latex mattresses, are better suited for people with arthritis.

Both types of materials help evenly distribute your weight, prevent pressure points and provide ample support to promote proper alignment.

If you’re prone to overheating, you may also want to look for a mattress made with cooling technology and materials like breathable mattress covers or gel-infused foam, which help draw away heat from the body and make it easier to fall and stay asleep.

Motion Isolation

A mattress with good motion isolation is also a good idea if you share the bed with someone else. This way, you can readjust and change sleeping positions as needed without worrying that you’re disturbing your sleep partner.

A memory foam mattress offers the best motion isolation, though latex mattresses and ones made with pocketed coils also help minimize motion transfer.

Edge Support

Additionally, arthritis sufferers might want to look for a mattress with good edge support that doesn’t sag or droop when you sit on or near the edge of the bed.

This is an especially important feature for those with limited mobility or joint aches and pains, as it prevents them from feeling like they’re “sinking” into the mattress, which can make it more difficult to get in and out of bed.

Tips for Restful Sleep Despite Arthritis and Joint Pain

Aside from choosing the best mattress for joint and back pain, there are other things you can do to sleep more comfortably.

The following are practical tips and suggestions to help manage arthritis symptoms at night and allow you to get more restful sleep.

Use Supportive Pillows

The type of pillow you use can impact your sleep comfort and joint pain. It’s a good idea to select one that’s comfortable and supportive, though the best type of pillow to use will depend on your typical sleep position.

No matter how you like to sleep, find a pillow that allows you to align your head, neck and shoulders properly.

For back sleepers, this might mean using a thin pillow that won’t strain your neck. But, side sleepers might need a thicker pillow that supports the natural curvature of the neck.

Maintain a Consistent Sleep Schedule

It’s also a good idea to get into a consistent routine of going to bed and waking up at a certain time each day.

This helps get your mind and body into a natural sleep rhythm, which can help you feel more naturally tired at night and doze off more easily, even if you’re feeling some aches and pains.

Create a Comfortable Sleep Environment

Even if you’re using the right type of mattress or a specially designed mattress topper for arthritis, you may have trouble getting good quality sleep if your environment is too hot or noisy to get comfortable.

It will be easier to relax each night and fall into deep rest if your environment is optimal for sleeping. This typically means creating an environment that’s cool, quiet and free from excess light, though each person has their own preferences.

Browse Our Top Selection of Mattresses for Arthritis at Mattress Firm

Whether you’re looking for the best mattress for osteoarthritis or better support for hip pain or general joint discomfort, you’ve come to the right place.

At Mattress Firm, we offer a large collection of mattresses designed to provide optimal support and comfort for a more restful night’s sleep.

Explore the following mattresses, which aim to alleviate pressure points, promote proper spinal alignment and help you wake up feeling more refreshed.

Serta Perfect Sleeper Sleep Excellence Medium PillowTop Mattress

What We Like

The Serta Perfect Sleeper Sleep Excellence Medium PillowTop Mattress is one of the best mattresses for arthritis and osteoporosis sufferers.

Only available at Mattress Firm, this mattress provides optimal support where you need it, ensuring your body weight is evenly distributed across the sleep surface for good joint and spine alignment.

What this mattress offers in support it matches in comfort. There’s an optional upgrade for a QuiltLoft Memory Foam layer that effortlessly hugs your body to alleviate aches and pains. Plus, you may also appreciate the mattress’s advanced cooling technology, which helps create a cool and comfortable sleep environment.

Features

• Medium comfort
• 13.5” mattress height
• Quilting layer with CoolFeel fabric
• Antimicrobial mattress protection
• Gel foam lumbar support band
• 825 individually wrapped coils with Best Edge foam encasement

What Customers Are Saying

Recommended by 82% of reviewers

“As a ‘medium’ mattress, I was concerned that it was too soft ... but once I elevated it from the floor to a frame and gave it a week or two ... The softness concern dissipated, and instead, I noticed I was no longer waking up w/ aches and pain; I crawl into bed and immediately feel restoration turning on (so to speak). I'm satisfied.” – J. Cooper

“This mattress has been great. My husband and I no longer wake up with aches and pains. We are no longer waking up during the night, so we are sleeping better.” – Anonymous

“Pretty good so far, my back feels ten times better, I highly recommend this… My whole body is relaxed and no longer tight and in pain.” – Shae Lynn

Sleepy's Basic Memory Foam Mattress

What We Like

If you’re looking for a more affordable option conveniently delivered in a box, check out the Sleepy’s Basic Memory Foam mattress.

It’s a best-seller at Mattress Firm for a reason—the hybrid model offers the support you need to ease joint discomfort, whether you’re a side, back or stomach sleeper.

The mattress’s individually pocketed coils help to alleviate joint aches, stiffness and pain while also providing excellent motion isolation to keep your sleep partner undisturbed as you reposition yourself throughout the night.

Features

• Medium comfort
• 8” mattress height
• Carbide gel memory foam
• Caliber Edge pocketed innersprings

What Customers Are Saying

Recommended by 73% of reviewers

“This is an excellent mattress! I'm very pleased with my purchase. The hybrid material gives enough firmness while also being plush and cozy--and it stays cool! I feel like this mattress is as good as some costing two or three times the price.” – Deb

“Love the new bed/mattress. Good night of sleep is so much better than a night of tossing and turning in discomfort. I wish I would have bought mine sooner!” – Anonymous

“Overall, the Sleepy’s Hybrid 12-inch Mattress has been an excellent addition to my home. It’s comfortable, supportive, and cool—all the things I was looking for in a mattress. If you’re in the market for a new mattress that offers a great balance of plushness and support, I highly recommend giving this one a try.” – Angel

Purple Original Mattress

What We Like

For all-over pressure point relief and comfort, look no further than the Purple Mattress base model. Our Sleep Experts praise this mattress for offering the perfect blend of technology, support and comfort.

It’s made with an innovative GelFlex Grid that cradles pressure points while shaping to your body for personalized support that helps you feel pain-free, relaxed and rejuvenated. Plus, its Comfort Core layer creates a stable sleep surface for minimal motion transfer between you and your sleep partner. Simply put, it’s one of the best mattresses for seniors with arthritis.

The mattress is specially designed to draw heat away from the body, so if you’re also a hot sleeper, the Purple Mattress will help you stay cool and refreshed all night long.

Features

• Medium comfort
• 9.25” mattress height
• 2” GelFlex Grid
• Comfort Core layer

What Customers Are Saying

Recommended by 74% of reviewers

“Our Purple mattress is a game-changer for comfort-I've never slept so soundly! Its unique design offers perfect support and cushioning, making our nights more restful than they ever were on our old mattress. Nothing beats waking up refreshed and ache-free.” – A.K.

“It really does measure up. We were putting off spending the money, but my hip pain became so bad I knew SOMETHING needed to change. Knowing someone who has a Purple of their own, they swore by it, so we wanted to try. No regrets at all! Within the first week, my hip pain decreased and we were sleeping better.” – C.T.

“Super great mattress. The only one I've found that makes my back not hurt every morning. It's amazing.” – Jesse

Stearns & Foster Estate 14.5” Firm Mattress

What We Like

Treat yourself to luxurious, pain-free rest with the handcrafted Stearns & Foster Estate 14.5” Firm Mattress.

Every design choice in this mattress is made to promote comfort and pain relief. From the highest quality TEMPUR-Indulge Memory Foam to the exclusive innerspring system, the mattress helps relieve pressure at your most sensitive joints.

As a firm comfort mattress, it’s best for back and stomach sleepers. With consistent support throughout the bed, including at the edge, you don’t have to worry about this mattress sagging and putting unwanted strain on your lower back, neck and shoulders.

Features

• Firm comfort
• 14.5” mattress height
• TEMPER-Indulge Memory Foam layer
• Sustainably-sourced Tencel cover
• Intellicoil Innersprings with PrecisionEdge support
• AirVent System

What Customers Are Saying

Recommended by 80% of reviewers

“Very comfortable...no more waking up with back pain - would definitely recommend this mattress” – Seags

“Finally a good night's rest with minimal pain in the morning.” – Josiah

“So far, the mattress has been like heaven. No more back aches, actually no aches at all.” – Tonnee

“I find the mattress very comfortable and got it because I was having a lot of neck, back, and hip pain. It has the perfect combination of plushness and firmness, and I've been virtually pain-free since sleeping on it…” – Anonymous

Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-ProAdapt 12” Medium Hybrid Mattress

What We Like

Upgrade your sleep with the Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-ProAdapt 12” Medium Hybrid Mattress.

The mattress offers advanced pressure relief to anyone suffering from frequent aches and pains upon waking, no matter if you sleep on your side, stomach or back.

It’s made with over 1,000 premium innersprings and top-of-the-line Tempur-Pedic materials that respond to the unique contours of your body for exceptional pressure relief and motion isolation. It even features an additional layer of Advanced Relief material to provide 20% more pressure relief than standard TEMPUR-Material.

Features

• Medium comfort
• 12” mattress height
• 1,000 premium innersprings
• SmartClimate Cover System
• Ventilated TEMPUR-Material
• Advanced Relief material

What Customers Are Saying

Recommended by 88% of reviewers

“No more complaints of shoulder and hip joint pain. Best part is no more sleep interruptions from your partner changing positions.” – Mary Agnes

“Bed is so comfy and just right for people with neck, back, hip pain.” – Angela D.

“I haven’t had back problems since sleeping on this mattress. I am an obsessive searcher for the best of the best and I believe this bed is it. 10/10 would recommend.” – Mahala

Conclusion: What Is the Best Mattress for Arthritis and Joint Pain?

In general, a mattress that offers the right balance of support and cushion will help alleviate arthritis pain rather than exacerbate it.

However, the best mattress for those suffering from arthritis will vary for each individual. The type and location of the arthritis matter, as do the person’s unique preferences, sleeping position, budget and other factors.

If you’re in the market for a new mattress to help with your arthritis and joint pain, the mattresses listed above are a great place to start. Stop by your nearest Mattress Firm to test them out in person, and check out our latest sale to ensure you get the best price!

Frequently Asked Questions About Mattresses for Arthritis