Here, we look at our six best picks to help people with arthritis and joint pain improve their sleep. We found that the best mattress for arthritis is the WinkBed Mattress based on its support and comfort features.
A mattress to suit those with arthritis would generally be medium-firm. However, comfort is completely subjective. A person will need to try a mattress for a while to decide whether it is a good fit.
Purchasing a mattress with a long trial period may be a good idea.
Please note that all prices listed for mattresses are for queen size unless otherwise stated.
Below, we compare the best mattresses for arthritis based on type, firmness, sleep trial, and price.
| Type | Firmness | Sleep trial | Other features | Price (queen) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| WinkBed | hybrid | soft, firm, luxury firm, and plus | 120 nights | pillow top with gel-infused foam, tencel cover, individually wrapped coils | $1,799 |
| Helix | hybrid | medium-firm | 100 nights | cooling pillow top, memory foam, individually wrapped coils | $2,373.80 |
| Layla | foam | soft and firm | 120 nights | knit cover, memory foam, high-density foam | $1,099 |
| Leesa | foam | medium-firm | 100 nights | knit cover, memory foam, high density foam | $1,332 |
| Nolah | hybrid | medium-firm | 120 nights | • cooling technology • Copper-infused memory foam | $2,499 |
| Titan | hybrid | medium | 120 nights | gel memory foam, individually encased coils, contouring foam | $1,599 |
MNT chooses mattresses that meet the following criteria:
- Certifications: MNT will choose mattresses that have CertiPUR-US or other certifications. This means they are low in pollutants and free from heavy metals and volatile organic compounds.
- Materials and fill: MNT selects mattresses comprising different materials and fills, such as memory foam and latex, to suit a range of sleep and lifestyles.
- Firmness: MNT selects mattresses available in a range of firmness options to suit most people’s sleeping styles.
- Sleep trials and warranties: MNT chooses companies that offer a sleep trial, generous warranties, and clear returns policies.
- Budget: MNT features mattresses to suit a wide range of budgets.
Medical News Today follows a strict product selection and vetting process. Learn more.
A comfortable and supportive mattress is important for people with arthritis. A mattress should support the spine to prevent excessive pressure on the joints.
People should consider the following factors when choosing the right mattress for their needs:
- Mattress type: People can consider whether they would prefer an all-foam or a hybrid mattress. Hybrid mattresses can be easier to get in and out of and move on.
- Firmness: People get better sleep and may have less morning stiffness when they sleep on a mattress that supports the shoulders, hips, and lower back while keeping the spine aligned.
- Cushioning: Individuals need to determine their ideal softness and temperature levels for the mattress to provide enough cushioning without getting too hot. Many companies offer sleep trials so customers can test the mattress before purchasing. People can also test some mattress brands in-store.
- Durability: This is how long a mattress will provide its basic level of comfort and support. People can read customer reviews to see how durable their chosen mattress may be.
- Warranty: A quality mattress should have at least a 10-year warranty.
According to the Arthritis Foundation (AF), about 70% of individuals with osteoarthritis have some trouble sleeping. Insufficient sleep can make it harder for people with arthritis to manage their condition. Finding a suitable mattress for arthritis and joint pain can help people get the rest they need.
Although there is not much scientific data on the best mattress for arthritis or joint pain, some studies have found that sleeping on a medium-firm mattress may help reduce pain. Mattresses that provide cushioning and support may best serve people with arthritis.
People with a larger budget might consider smart mattresses. These mattresses can automatically adjust a bed’s firmness to suit an individual’s sleeping preferences and body position. Some can provide different firmness levels on different sides of the bed for partners with differing needs.
Those seeking a less expensive mattress for joint pain could look for one that provides pressure relief in areas where they need it. These are typically known as zoned support mattresses because they provide extra support in key areas of concern, such as the lower back, shoulders, and hips.
Depending on the mattress design, this zoned support can be heavier-duty coils or more dense foam. Additionally, mattresses with a cushiony layer on top can provide extra comfort, which means they could be the best mattress for some people with sore joints.
To discover more evidence-based information and resources for arthritis, visit our dedicated hub.
Sleep is
However, pain from arthritis can make it difficult to get good quality sleep. Not getting enough sleep can worsen joint pain, making sleeping even harder. Additionally, many people find that their arthritis pain gets worse at night.
“The most important thing for joint health and comfort, regardless of sleeping position, is finding neutral spinal and joint alignment while sleeping. When the spine and extremities are in a neutral position, there is less stress on the joint surfaces affected by arthritis. This is why finding a mattress that will support your body in proper alignment during your preferred sleep position is so important.”
— Gregory Minnis, DPT
How to sleep with arthritis
Finding the best mattress for joint pain may allow people with arthritis to get optimal sleep comfort and quality. It is also important for individuals to maintain their mattress quality and replace it when it begins to deteriorate. An old and uncomfortable mattress can adversely affect a person’s ability to sleep.
According to the AF, those with the condition can try the following measures:
- trying to allow enough time for quality, deep sleep
- avoiding having naps to aid a consistent sleep routine
- monitoring sleep patterns and pain via a journal or digital sleep tracker
- taking regular part in vigorous exercise before sunset, as this can improve sleep and daily energy
- removing electronic devices, such as smartphones and TVs, from the bedroom and avoid using them just before sleep
- avoiding caffeine and alcohol, especially in the evening and at night
- avoiding smoking, if applicable
- ensuring a comfortable bedroom temperature
- keeping the environment quiet and dark
British charity the National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society (NRAS) advises choosing a sleep position that keeps the neck in a neutral position.
Back sleeping
For back sleepers, this means using a pillow with an appropriate thickness to keep the chin and neck at an approximate right angle. If a person sleeps on their back with a pillow that is too thick, it can overstretch their neck, arms, and shoulders.
Back sleepers may also improve their sleeping position by placing one pillow beneath the small of their back and one pillow under their knees.
Side sleeping
For side sleepers, this means using the right thickness of the pillow to keep the upper spine aligned with the lower spine. Flexing the knees can reduce the curve in the lower back.
Side sleepers are also at increased risk of hip pain due to the pressure this position places on the hip joint. People who prefer to sleep on their back can try to sleep on their most comfortable side to avoid increasing their pain.
Side sleepers may also improve their sleeping position by placing one small pillow under the curve of their waist and another one between their knees to reduce pressure points.
Stomach sleeping
The NRAS does not recommend stomach sleeping because it can stretch and tire the neck and upper shoulder muscles.
One 2022 study in knee osteoarthritis found that back sleepers benefitted from sleeping with their feet hanging over the end of the mattress to reduce their symptoms. Sleeping in this position stopped the knee from being held in full extension.
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People experiencing arthritic pain may wish to speak with a doctor before purchasing a new mattress. While a suitable mattress may help with aches and pains, it should not be a substitute for medical treatment.
Treatment for arthritis can include medication, physical therapy, or surgery. People can discuss the benefits and risks of these treatments with a healthcare professional.
People with arthritis can consider choosing for a medium or firm mattress. If the mattress is soft, it can add pressure to the joints and worsen symptoms.
Scientific data on the best mattress for arthritis is limited, but some research suggests that using a medium-firm mattress could help ease pain.
People can use a mattress topper if they feel a medium or firm mattress is too firm.
According to a 2021 review of literature, a medium-firm mattress may promote sleep comfort, quality, and spinal alignment.
However, people’s preferences may vary.
There is not much research investigating mattress types, materials, and structure and how they can affect people with short- and long-term arthritis.
However, a 2019 review indicated that sleep position may positively or negatively affect a person’s spine-related discomfort. It can be helpful for a person to consider areas of the body that require extra support and look for mattresses that match their needs.
There is limited research suggesting which mattress offers the best support for rheumatoid arthritis. This may come down to personal preference and an individual’s needs.
A person may wish to find a mattress that provides cushioning and pressure point relief and is not too firm or too soft. A medium-firm mattress may be the best option for pain reduction.
Choosing whether to sleep on a soft or a hard bed when experiencing arthritis is a personal decision according to an individual’s needs and preferences. Generally, medium-firm mattresses may be likely to reduce pain.
However, a person’s body weight may also influence whether they choose a soft or a hard bed. For instance, people with larger body weights may experience better support from a firmer mattress, while those with smaller frames may prefer a softer mattress for more surface area contact with their bodies.
If a person’s previous mattress has become uncomfortable, a new mattress may help ease arthritis pain. An older mattress may sag or become too soft to support the joints properly, while a new mattress may be firmer and provide better support.
Good quality sleep is essential for health. Experiencing joint pain due to arthritis can make it difficult to get comfortable and disrupt sleep. The best mattress for arthritis, according to our product selection criteria, is the Winkbed Mattress due to its support and comfort features.
It is important for people with arthritis to ensure their mattress supports the body, avoids putting excessive pressure on their joints, and helps keep the spine in alignment.
It is also vital to maintain the quality of a mattress and replace it when it begins to deteriorate, as this can cause additional joint pain.
