10 Best Mattresses for Sciatica 2023

• Best for lower back pain: Helix Dusk Luxe Mattress | Skip to review
• Best for ergonomic support: Casper Wave Hybrid Mattress | Skip to review
• Best for minimizing motion transfer: Layla Hybrid Mattress | Skip to review
• Best for pressure points: Botanical Bliss Organic Latex Mattress | Skip to review
• Best for an affordable mattress: Kescas Hybrid Mattress | Skip to review
• Best for side sleepers: Vesgantti Upgraded Comfort Hybrid Mattress | Skip to review
• Best for adjustable firmness: Sleep Number 360 c2 Smart Bed | Skip to review
• Best warranty: The DreamCloud Hybrid Mattress | Skip to review
• Best for hot sleepers: The Winkbed Luxury Firm | Skip to review
• Best hypoallergenic: Puffy Mattress | Skip to review

Sciatica causes pain or a burning sensation in the buttocks. Some people may also have a prickling sensation or leg weakness.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend that adults sleep for around 7–9 hours per night. Those with sciatica may have to consult a doctor and sleep on a mattress that does not irritate the sciatic nerve. An unsupportive mattress may worsen pain and disrupt an individual’s sleep.

This article discusses sciatica in more detail and reviews some of the best top mattresses for people with the condition.

Learn more about sciatica here.

Below, we look at 10 different mattresses for sciatica.

Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All information presented is purely research-based and correct at the time of publication.

Best for lower back pain: Helix Dusk Luxe Mattress

• Price: $2,373.80 for a queen size
• Firmness: medium
• Sizes: twin—Californian king
• Height: 13.5 inches (in)

The Helix Dusk Luxe Mattress offers zoned lumbar support. This means there is targeted support for the lower back, where sciatica symptoms tend to begin.

Its medium-firm feel offers support and keeps sleepers comfortable.

The foam offers support for both back and stomach sleepers, though back and stomach sleeping are not ideal for people with sciatica. These positions both increase pressure on the lower portions of the spine.

People who sleep on their backs can decrease this pressure by placing a pillow underneath their knees.

Best for ergonomic support: Casper Wave Hybrid Mattress

• Price: $2,895 for a queen size
• Firmness: medium-firm
• Sizes: twin XL—Californian king
• Height: 13 in

The Casper Wave Hybrid mattress uses gel pods to relieve pressure on painful areas like the back and hips.

These pods sit at the waist and hip areas, so there is minimal sinking and spinal support.

The mattress has a layer of AirScape perforated foam which features a breathable design. The website states that the mattress comes with a soft knit cover and edge support. This helps prevent sinking when people get in or out of bed.

It offers ergonomic support. This means it is soft around the shoulders and aligns the body in any sleeping position.

Best for minimizing motion transfer: Layla Hybrid Mattress

• Price: $1,699 for a queen size
• Firmness: soft and firm
• Sizes: twin—Californian king
• Height: 13 in

Hybrid mattresses use foam and spring technologies to combine springs’ bounce with foam’s comfort.

The CertiPUR-US-certified Layla Hybrid Mattress uses copper-infused memory foam that transfers heat away from the body to keep sleepers cool. Copper is naturally antimicrobial, meaning that it helps keep the mattress odor and bacteria-free.

The internal support system features individually pocketed coils that help minimize motion transfer between sleepers. This may suit couples as if a person changes position, they would not disturb their partner.

These coils support pressure points such as the hips and shoulders, keeping the spine in alignment.

People can flip this mattress, with one side offering a plush feel and the other a firm feel. This firmer option offers greater support than the soft version and is suitable for all sleeping positions.

Shipping is free in 48 states.

Best for pressure points: PlushBeds Botanical Bliss Organic Latex Mattress

• Price: from $2,949 for a queen size
• Firmness: medium and medium-firm
• Sizes: twin—split Californian king
• Height: 9, 10, or 12 in

This mattress is made with a range of materials certified under the Global Organic Textile Standard and Global Organic Latex Standard. These materials include organic cotton, wool, and organic latex. It also comes with recommendations from orthopedic specialists and chiropractors.

Two layers of Dunlop latex sit beneath a layer of Talalay latex. The two types of latex offer different levels of firmness, so the mattress offers softness and support.

This mattress also helps keep pressure points on the body free from pain as it contains Talalay latex and a high-density core.

The 10-lb organic wool offers breathability and keeps the mattress cool during sleep.

Best for an affordable mattress: Kescas Hybrid Mattress

• Price: from around $235.99 for a queen size
• Firmness: medium-firm
• Sizes: twin—queen
• Height: 8, 10, and 12 in

The Kescas Hybrid Mattress is an affordable option for those looking for a CertiPUR-US-certified mattress that offers a medium-firm feel and an orthopedic design.

It features individually wrapped pocket coils that align head, shoulder, waist, hip, and leg. It also responds quickly to different positions.

Two high-density foam layers keep the mattress soft and relieve pressure on potentially painful points. At the same time, it stops sleepers from sinking into the mattress and sleeping in positions that may worsen sciatica symptoms.

Best for side sleepers: Vesgantti Nova Future Hybrid Mattress

• Price: $246.99 for a queen size
• Firmness: medium-soft
• Sizes: twin—queen
• Height: 10.6 in

The Vesgantti Upgraded Comfort Hybrid Mattress is another CertiPUR-US-certified option that offers buyers a 100-night trial. This can allow a person time to determine whether the mattress improves their sciatica symptoms.

It is also an affordable option.

This mattress has non-toxic materials, individually wrapped pocket springs, and supportive memory foam suitable for people who like to sleep on their side.

The responsive nature of both the pocket springs and foam means the mattress conforms to the position of the body as it changes during the night. This keeps pressure off of potentially painful areas, such as the hips.

Best for adjustable firmness: Sleep Number 360 c2 Smart Bed

• Price: $1,099 for a queen size
• Firmness: adjustable firmness
• Sizes: twin—split Californian king
• Height: 8 in

The Sleep Number 360 c2 Smart Bed features a 2-in gel-infused layer and confirms to a person’s body shape to provide support in the right places.

Another feature is that a person can adjust firmness using an app. This allows them to sleep with the firmness or softness they need depending on the pain that their sciatica is causing. They can also adjust the mattress firmness for each side of the bed.

The bed automatically adjusts to suit each sleeper and uses sleep analysis technology to inform users about their sleep quality each night.

Best warranty: DreamCloud Hybrid

• Price: $1,332 for a queen size
• Firmness: medium-firm
• Sizes: twin—split king
• Height: 14 in

The DreamCloud Hybrid mattress features a soft and breathable cashmere blend cover, keeping users cool while they sleep.

It also has CertiPUR-US-certified gel-infused memory foam that adapts to the body shape and offers pressure-relieving support. This may be helpful for persons with neck, shoulder, back, or hip pain.

Other features include individually-wrapped coils that offer edge support and reduce motion transfer, a stability base layer, and a shift-resistant lower cover.

Best for hot sleepers: The Winkbed Luxury Firm

• Price: $1,799 for a queen size
• Firmness: medium-firm
• Sizes: twin—Californian king
• Height: 13.5 in

The Winkbed features a eucalyptus-derived Tencel cover. This cover is moisture-wicking, cooling, and absorbent. The company also states that this material is eco-friendly.

It has a pillow top with gel-infused foam for cushioning and support and individually wrapped pocketed coils for zoned support. It also has edge support.

The website also claims the Winkbed contains a stabilizing gel foam to reduce motion transfer.

The gel-infused layers may help reduce overheating during sleep. This may make the mattress a good option for people who sleep hot and prefer a firmer feel.

Best hypoallergenic: Puffy Mattress

• Price: $2,399 for a queen size
• Firmness: medium-firm
• Sizes: twin—split king
• Height: 10 in

The Puffy Mattress contains a hypoallergenic cover that helps reduce allergy triggers and prevents the build-up of dust mites and dust. The cover is also stain resistant.

The mattress contains CertiPUR-US-certified memory foam that helps the body remain cool. The bottom layer is a grip base cover to keep the mattress in place on the bed frame.

It reduces motion and transfer and has been endorsed by the American Chiropractic Association.

The following table compares the mattresses in this article.

A good mattress for someone with sciatica should keep the spine in alignment throughout the night to help alleviate symptoms.

A person may want to consider their usual sleeping position when choosing a mattress. Certain mattresses may suit back, side, or front sleepers.

These are some factors that individuals may consider when looking for a mattress to help reduce their pain:

• Price: Mattresses can vary in price. It may be a good idea to check if the price goes up when choosing different mattress firmness or thickness options.
• Pressure relief: People with sciatica may prefer mattresses with higher levels of pressure relief. Types to look for include memory foam and hybrid mattresses.
• Warranty: Check the warranty period that companies offer. These ensure that a person can replace defective items without extra costs.
• Materials: Mattresses consist of different materials, such as memory foam or latex. People with latex allergy may avoid getting a latex mattress, but those looking for a pressure-relieving option may opt for memory foam.
• Sleep trial: Most manufacturers offer a sleep trial. It allows customers to try out their mattress to see if it relieves their back pain. If they are not satisfied, they can return their product within the indicated time frame.
• Firmness: A person may opt for a soft, firm, or medium-firm mattress that supports their needs. Some mattresses have a flippable design and a soft and firm side. Users may flip their mattresses to choose a different firmness level.
• Motion transfer: Mattresses with reduced motion transfer move as the individual moves. People who sleep with their partner may prefer this feature so that they do not disturb them when changing positions.
• Edge support: Some mattresses provide high resistance around the edges. This may provide more support and stability and help prevent sagging, making it easier for users to get in or out of bed.

Sciatica is a symptom of an irritated or compressed sciatic nerve.

The sciatic nerve runs from the back’s sacral region, through the pelvis, and down the back of the legs and feet.

Some of these areas are very narrow. This means that if an individual has an inflamed or compressed nerve, they may experience lower back, buttock, or leg pain.

These are other causes of sciatica:

• spinal stenosis, which refers to the narrowing of the spaces within the spine
• spondylolisthesis, which refers to the vertebrae slipping out of position
• a herniated disk
• injury to the piriformis muscle

There is no one best mattress for sciatica. A person should carefully consider the benefits and drawbacks of the different types of mattresses.

Some common types of mattresses include:

• Memory foam: This type of mattress contours to the body and may provide pressure relief for joints. However, memory foam mattresses are dense and may retain more heat.
• Latex: This type of mattress is similar to memory foam but provides more bounce and may not retain as much heat, leading to a cooler sleep.
• Innerspring: This type of mattress uses steel coils to support the body. While these mattresses are often less expensive, they may be less durable.
• Hybrid: It uses memory foam and springs to provide extra support and comfort. In addition, the coils create air channels that can lead to a cooler sleep.

A 2021 review found that a medium-firm mattress may be better for spinal alignment, sleep quality, and comfort. However, firmness is subjective, and people should purchase a mattress that offers the support they require.

The sciatic nerve runs from the lower back to the feet. When the nerve is compressed or irritated, it can lead to pain, numbness, and weakness in the lower spine and down the back of the leg.

The pain that sciatica causes can affect a person’s sleep. The authors behind a 2018 study note that sleep disturbances are common among those with chronic lower back pain.

The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute states that sleep deprivation can increase a person’s chance of having:

• heart problems
• diabetes
• kidney disease
• high blood pressure
• a stroke

It can also increase daytime sleepiness and cause concentration difficulties.

The following are some frequently asked questions about mattresses and sciatica:

Can a bad mattress cause sciatica?

Many factors can affect how suitable a mattress is for someone. For example, a person’s weight and sleeping position may require a certain level of firmness.

A mattress that is too soft or too firm may not be comfortable. A person may wake up with aches and pains if the mattress does not provide the correct level of support.

If a person is waking up with back pain, it may be a result of their mattress. However, back pain and sciatica can occur for many reasons.

A doctor can help if people believe they have sciatica. They may provide a diagnosis and offer a treatment plan.

What type of mattress is best for sciatica?

Those with sciatica may benefit from using a medium-firm mattress.

A 2021 review notes that a medium-firm mattress may promote better spinal alignment, sleep quality, and comfort in people living with or without back pain. However, this is subjective.

Additionally, a 2018 study states that mattresses with a medium-firm firmness are better for reducing back pain than soft foam or very hard mattresses.

It is important to recognize that the firmness of a mattress is subjective, and people should look for the level of firmness that suits their needs.

What is the best sleep position for someone with sciatica?

People with sciatica should try to avoid putting pressure on the sciatic nerve in their lower back.

Some people may find that avoiding sleeping on their stomachs helps reduce sciatica pain, especially if they have a soft or unsupportive mattress. A person can sink into an unsupportive mattress, putting more pressure in the nerves on their back.

How can I get relief from sciatica on a budget?

Individuals who are on a budget may consider buying a mattress topper. This helps make the mattress softer or firmer, depending on the individual’s preference and the type of mattress they have. A person may also place a pillow underneath their knees to reduce the pressure on their back.

Some organizations may offer financial help or free mattresses. These include:

• The Mattress Firm Associate Relief Fund
• Samaritan House
• Crips for Kids
• Love INC

Is a firm or soft mattress better for sciatica?

Individuals with sciatica may use a medium-firm mattress, according to a 2021 study, as it helps align the spine. It also helps reduce back pain.

If a person’s sciatica symptoms do not improve after using a new mattress, it may be time to see a doctor.

Other treatments are available for sciatica, such as pain medications, physical therapy, or surgery.

Individuals may consider discussing the particular benefits and risks of each of these treatments with a healthcare professional.

Sciatica can develop in people who have a herniated disk, hip injury, or spinal problems. This can make it difficult for a person to get a good night’s sleep.

Some mattresses may help reduce pain. People may consider getting a mattress that suits their sleeping position and relieves pressure on their lower back, hips, and shoulders.

A good mattress should also provide spinal alignment so that sciatic nerve inflammation does not occur.