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Arthritis pain can negatively impact sleep, but mattresses can help relieve joint pressure. Here, we share our top picks and hands-on review.

Medical News Today has tested some of the products below. Reviewers may have received some products from the manufacturers for free, which does not influence their review. All opinions are the reviewers’ own.

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.

TypeFirmnessSleep trialPrice (queen)
WinkBedhybridsoft, firm, luxury firm, and plus120 nights$1,799
DreamCloudhybridfirm1 year$799
Nectarfoammedium-firm365 nights$699
Helixhybridmedium-firm100 nights$2,373.80
Saatvahybridplush soft, luxury firm, and firm365 nights$1,995
TEMPURfoamsoft, medium, medium hybrid, and firm90 nights$3,399
Laylafoamsoft and firm120 nights$1,099
Leesafoammedium-firm100 nights$1,299
Nolahhybridmedium-firm120 nights$2,499
Birchhybridmedium-firm100 nights$2,123.80
Titanhybridmedium120 nights$1,599

MNT chooses mattresses, sheets, pillows, and other bedding that meet the following criteria:

  • Certifications: MNT will choose products that have CertiPUR-US or other certifications. This means that the products are low in pollutants and free from heavy metals and volatile organic compounds.
  • Size: MNT chooses products that are available in various sizes.
  • 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.
  • Budget: MNT features products to suit a wide range of budgets.
  • Firmness: MNT selects mattresses that are available in a range of firmness options to suit most people’s sleeping styles.
  • Sleep trials: MNT chooses companies that offer a sleep trial.
  • Shipping: Where possible, MNT will include shipping information, such as where the company delivers to and whether shipping is free.
  • Warranties and return policies: MNT will include products that carry warranties and clear returns policies.

Medical News Today follows a strict product selection and vetting process. Learn more here.

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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 should consider whether they would prefer an all-foam or a hybrid 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% of individuals with osteoarthritis (OA) have some trouble sleeping, according to the Arthritis Foundation. Insufficient sleep can make it harder for people with arthritis to manage their condition. Finding a good mattress for arthritis and joint pain can help people get needed rest.

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 mattresses that provide cushioning and support.

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 less expensive options could look for mattresses that provide the best pressure relief in areas where they need it. These are typically called zoned support mattresses, because they provide extra support in key areas of concern, such as the lower back, shoulders, and hips.

This zoned support can be 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.

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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.

“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

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.

According to the Arthritis Foundation (AF), those with the condition should:

  • try to allow enough time for quality, deep sleep
  • avoid having naps to aid a consistent sleep routine
  • monitor sleep patterns and pain via a journal or digital sleep tracker
  • take regular part in vigorous exercise before sunset, as this can improve sleep and daily energy
  • remove electronic devices, such as smartphones and TVs, from the bedroom and avoid using them just before sleep
  • avoid caffeine and alcohol, especially in the evening and at night
  • avoid smoking
  • ensure a comfortable bedroom temperature
  • keep the environment quiet and dark

Learn more sleeping tips.

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 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.

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.

Memory foam mattresses may suit people with arthritis as it adapts to the body, providing cushioning while supporting weight.

There is not much research investigating the mattress types, materials, structure, and how they can affect people with arthritis short term and long term.

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.

It can be helpful that people aim to find a mattress that provides cushioning and pressure point relief that is not too firm or too soft. A medium-firm mattress may be the best option for pain reduction.

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.