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Arthritis pain can negatively impact sleep. The best mattress for arthritis will relieve pressure on joints and support the body. We look at the best options online and provide a hands-on review.
Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All product information is purely research-based. All quotes are provided by Kelli McGrane MS, RD, Nutrition & Fitness Market Editor at Healthline, who bought the Leesa Mattress with her own money.
Please note that all prices listed for mattresses are for queen size, unless otherwise stated.
MNT chooses mattresses, sheets, pillows, and other bedding that meet the following criteria:
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Materials and fill:MNT selects products made from different materials and fills, such as memory foam and latex, to suit a range of sleep and lifestyles.
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Firmness: MNT selects mattresses that are available in a range of firmness options to suit most people’s sleeping styles.
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The organization Versus Arthritis highlights the importance of a comfortable and supportive mattress. It states that a mattress should support the spine to prevent excessive pressure on the joints and that sleeping on an unsupportive mattress can contribute to joint pain.
People should consider the following factors when choosing a suitable mattress:
Size: Individuals need to determine what mattress size will meet their needs.
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.
About 70 percent of individuals with osteoarthritis (OA) have some sort of trouble sleeping, according to the Arthritis Foundation. Unfortunately, insufficient sleep can make it harder for people with arthritis to successfully manage their condition. Finding a good mattress for arthritis and joint pain can help people get the rest they need.
Although there is not much scientific data on which type of mattress is best for people with arthritis, some studies have found that sleeping on a medium firm mattress may help reduce pain. People with arthritis may be best served by mattress that provide cushioning and support.
Persons willing to go all out in their search for the best mattresses for arthritis and joint pain 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 less expensive options could look for mattresses the provide the best pressure relief in areas where they need it. These are typically called zoned support mattress, because they provide extra support in key areas of concerns, such as the lower back, shoulders, and hips.
This zoned support can take the form of heavier duty coils or more dense foam, depending on how a mattress is constructed. Additionally, mattresses with a cushiony layer on top can provide extra comfort for people with sore joints.
To discover more evidence-based information and resources for arthritis, visit our dedicated hub.
Sleep is vital for good health. However, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 1 in 3 people report not getting enough sleep. Research suggests that adults should get 7 or more hours of sleep per night.
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.
Finding an appropriate mattress may allow people with arthritis to get optimal sleep comfort and quality. It is also important for people to maintain their mattress quality and replace it when it begins to deteriorate. An old and uncomfortable mattress can adversely impact a person’s ability to sleep.
People experiencing arthritic pain may wish to speak to 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 should discuss the benefits and risks of these treatments with a healthcare professional.
Below, we answer some of the top frequently asked questions about mattresses for arthritis.
Can a mattress really help with arthritis?
There is not much research investigating the mattress types, materials, structure, and how they can affect people with arthritis in both the short and long term.
However, a 2019 review found that sleep position may positively or negatively affect a person’s spine-related discomfort. A person should consider areas of the body that require extra support and look for mattresses that match their needs.
Does a firm mattress help with arthritis?
According to a 2021 study, a medium-firm mattress may promote sleep comfort, quality, and spinal alignment.
However, people’s preferences may vary.
Which mattress can help with arthritis in the hips?
Ideally, a mattress that can help arthritis in the hips is soft enough to provide comfort but firm enough to support the shoulders, back, stomach, and hips. People may wish to consider zoned support mattresses, which offer softer areas for the hips but firmer support for the back.
Is memory foam good for osteoarthritis?
Memory foam mattresses may suit people with osteoarthritis as it adapts to the body, providing cushioning while supporting weight.
What kind of mattress is good for arthritis?
The Arthritis Foundation recommends choosing a mattress that relieves pressure points if a person has arthritis. They can look for a memory foam, latex, or hybrid mattress.
What firmness of mattress is best for arthritis?
People with arthritis can consider opting for a medium or firm mattress. If the mattress is soft, it can add pressure to the joints and worsen symptoms.
They can use a mattress topper if they feel the medium or firm mattress is too firm.
What kind of mattress is best for elderly with arthritis?
Older people with arthritis may benefit from an adaptive mattress that offers different levels of comfort, contouring, and support in different areas of the mattress.
Good quality sleep is essential for health. Experiencing joint pain due to arthritis can make it difficult to get comfortable and disrupt sleep.
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 aligned.
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.
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