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Our team of Certified Sleep Science Coaches have reviewed 600+ mattresses and accessories for over seven years using proprietary analysis and hands-on testing. We assess each bed for support, cooling, firmness, pressure relief, and more.
I’ll go into detail on my top picks for the best mattresses for lower back pain and sciatica. All of the beds on this roundup have the unique support and cushioning that sleepers with this type of pain need.
Anyone who deals with sciatica knows that it can be a pain (literally) to fall asleep and stay asleep. The throbbing pain in the lumbar area, the shooting pain down the leg — none of it makes for a restful night. That’s why we’ve put together this roundup of the best mattresses for sciatica. And if you just have general upper or lower back pain, our list of the best mattresses for back pain may be more helpful to you.
Our Verdict: What’s the Best Mattress for Sciatica?
Our expert reviewers chose the Helix Dusk Luxe as the best mattress for sciatica since it’s designed to keep the spine in neutral alignment and is made with zoned support, meaning the areas such as the hips and shoulders will get the additional support they need.
[Editor’s Note: The information provided should not be considered a substitute for professional advice. Please consult a medical professional or another medical expert if there are any health-related questions.]
The Best Mattresses for Sciatica: Our Top 10 Picks
Our team of Certified Sleep Science Coaches have reviewed more than 600 mattresses, using proprietary analysis and hands-on testing to establish easy-to-understand scores. In addition to an overall score, we measure subscores for support, edge support, cooling, motion transfer, durability, trial period, and warranty.
When it comes to the best mattresses for sciatica, there are many important factors. But to keep the spine in a neutral alignment (an absolute must for helping to prevent this type of pain), a bed is going to need to have a good amount of support. Nine of these beds scored a 4 out of 5 in both durability and support, ensuring long-lasting sturdiness. The mattresses that didn’t still scored above-average in each category.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.6
Helix
Helix Dusk Luxe
Medium-Firm Feel
Lumbar Support
Pressure Relief
Hybrid mattress
100-night sleep trial
Free shipping
Cyber Monday Sale – Extended
Save 20% sitewide + 2 FREE pillows with any mattress ($150+ value) See Details
The Helix Dusk Luxe is a hybrid mattress. This means it has both cushioning foam and supportive coil layers.
Firmness
being the softest, we rated the Medium model a 6.5/10, which is the industry standard for medium-firm.
Price
$1,373-$2,873 (before discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, short queen, king, California king, RV king
Side Sleepers
This mattress should offer plenty of pressure relief for side sleepers.
Hot Sleepers
This bed shouldn’t trap heat thanks to the coils. You can also opt for a cooling cover.
Heavyweight Sleepers
This mattress has a thick comfort layer and sturdy coils that can handle heavier weights.
Pros of the Helix Dusk Luxe
This is an upgraded version of the Helix Dusk. It offers a thicker comfort layer which can offer more pressure relief for side sleepers.
The coils are zoned, meaning it’s firmer in the center to offer more lumbar support for back sleepers.
The medium-firm feel to this mattress makes it a great choice for a variety of body types.
Cons of the Helix Dusk Luxe
Because this is a luxury version of the base model, it might not fit everyone’s budget.
This mattress is too soft to offer support for stomach sleepers.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
15-year warranty
Returns
Free refunds during the trial period.
If you like the sound of the Helix Dusk, but want a more luxurious version, the Helix Dusk Luxe is the perfect upgrade. It’s a bit softer than the base model, and has a few more features to elevate your sleep. The coils are zoned for extra lumbar support, and the comfort foam is thicker for some added pressure relief.
Our Expert’s Take
A firmer mattress can do wonders for sciatica, depending on the type of sleeper. If you’re a back sleeper, stomach sleeper, or switch between these two positions, then you should opt for a firm mattress. That’s because firm beds promote a neutral spinal alignment for these sleepers, and keeping the spine straight is the key to preventing and soothing any type of back pain. The Helix Dusk Luxe has that nice, firm feel that’s going to offer these sleepers the neutral spinal alignment they’re looking for. In addition, it’s made with zoned support, which is designed to be firmer in areas where you need extra support, like the hips, and softer at sensitive areas like the head and shoulders.
What the testers say: “The Helix Dusk Luxe is particularly great for back pain thanks to its zoned support. This means it felt softer at the shoulders and firmer at the midsection, which helped keep my spine in a healthy, neutral alignment.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Love About the Helix Dusk Luxe
Hot sleepers will love the breathable construction of this mattress. Between the innerspring coils and an optional cooling cover, it should help keep you avoid overheating.
The zoned support can help promote proper spinal alignment by using softer foam in areas where your shoulders and hips may need to sink in and firmer foam in other areas.
This mattress offers a luxurious feel and impressive durability.
What to Keep in Mind About the Helix Dusk Luxe
If you’re a side sleeper, you may not get enough contouring from this bed. Instead, check out the Helix Sunset Luxe model.
This might not be the best fit for folks looking for a budget-friendly option. Check out our list of the best cheap mattresses for more affordable beds.
Other User Reviews
On the Helix site, the Helix Dusk Luxe mattress is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars. Many users love the cooling cover and say the bed is comfortable. Some reviewers say that theirs feels too soft for their preferences while others noted some sagging.
Best Mattress for Side Sleepers with Sciatica – Nectar
Best Mattress for Side Sleepers
Mattress Clarity Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
The Nectar mattress is an all-foam mattress. It has a plush comfort layer followed by a thin layer of transition foam. At the bottom, there’s a layer of high-density base foam.
Firmness
On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated the Nectar mattress a 6.5/10, which is the industry standard for medium-firm.
Price
$699-$1,798 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
Couples
This mattress isolates motion well, which means couples shouldn’t feel movement come over to their side of the bed.
Side Sleepers
It offers great pressure relief for side sleepers under 230 lbs.
Back Sleepers
The Nectar mattress offers plenty of support for most back sleepers under 230 lbs.
Pros of the Nectar Mattress
This mattress has a slow-moving feel. If you like mattresses that contour to your body, this could be a great option.
The Nectar mattress isolates motion well, which is helpful for people who share a bed with a partner or a pet.
It offers plenty of pressure relief for side sleepers who weigh less than 230 lb.
Cons of the Nectar Mattress
Even though it has cooling gel-infused foam, it’s not the best mattress for hot sleepers.
It’s not supportive enough for most stomach sleepers. In this position, you may feel your hips sink out of alignment, which can lead to lower back pain.
Because it’s an all-foam bed-in-a-box mattress, it has a 48-hour off-gassing period. You’ll need to let the mattress air out for two days before sleeping on it.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Forever warranty
Returns
You’ll receive a full refund if you return your mattress within the trial period.
The Nectar is an affordable all-foam mattress that offers lots of pressure relief and body contouring. It works well for most side sleepers, because it helps cushion shoulders and hips. It is also a good option for couples, because it isolates motion well. However, the Nectar mattress isn’t supportive enough for most stomach sleepers and heavyweight people. If you tend to sleep hot at night, you may want to look for a mattress with more cooling features. Learn more in our Nectar mattress video review.
Our Expert’s Take
Anyone who reads this list might notice a common theme — neutral spinal alignment. With that in mind, side sleepers with sciatica should strongly consider the Nectar. It’s one of our favorite mattresses for relieving pain, since the thick layer of gel-infused memory foam provides outstanding pressure relief. But at the bottom of the bed, an even thicker layer of base support form keeps you lifted, allowing your spine to stay straight. You shouldn’t feel too much pressure on those shoulders and hips, and with the Nectar’s strong foam foundation, you should get good lumbar support as well.
What the testers say: “While side sleeping on the Nectar, I felt its foam contour around my body’s curves. This helped relieve pressure along my joints and kept me feeling nicely supported.” — Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Love About the Nectar
The Nectar is a great value mattress. It’s not the cheapest mattress on the market, but it does offer high-quality materials at a budget-friendly price.
This model provides good contouring for most sleepers. Side sleepers, in particular, will likely appreciate how it cradles their hips and shoulders.
Thanks to its excellent contouring, this bed is a good option for relieving pressure. This could help ease aches and pains from sleeping on a too-firm mattress.
What to Keep in Mind About the Nectar
Sleepers who weigh more than 230 lbs probably won’t find this bed supportive enough. A bed designed for these sleepers, like the Titan Plus, is likely a better option.
Stomach sleepers also aren’t likely to receive enough support from the Nectar. Instead, check out our top picks for the best mattresses for stomach sleepers.
Other User Reviews
On Nectar’s website, the Nectar is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars. Sleepers with back pain say this bed helps ease some of their symptoms and sleep well at night. Some users, though, noted that they felt the bed was too firm.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.0
DreamCloud
DreamCloud Original
Firm Feel
Responsive
Affordable
Hybrid mattress
365-night sleep trial
Free shipping
Cyber Weekend Extended
Up to 50% off mattresses + spend $1,000 and save $100 See Details
The DreamCloud is a hybrid mattress. This means it has both cushioning foam and supportive coil layers.
Firmness
On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated this mattress 7.5/10. This makes the mattress firmer than average.
Price
$839-$2,178 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
Back Sleepers
Great support for back sleepers under 230 lbs.
Couples
Good balance of motion isolation and responsiveness.
Hot Sleepers
This bed’s cooling features can help keep you from overheating at night.
Pros of the DreamCloud
It is a good option for back sleepers. While it is a bit firmer than average, its balance of comfort and support will keep the spine in neutral alignment.
You shouldn’t be sleeping too hot on this mattress. The breathable cover, gel-infused foam, and airflow-promoting coils should prevent the mattress from trapping heat.
You should never feel stuck in this mattress. The DreamCloud is bouncy and responsive, so you will have no trouble moving around and changing positions.
The DreamCloud is a good value option. Hybrid mattresses can be quite pricey, but the DreamCloud is surprisingly affordable.
Cons of the DreamCloud
Side sleepers will want to find a softer mattress to give them the pressure relief they need.
Fans of the slow-moving memory foam feel won’t get that feeling on the DreamCloud.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Returns
You’ll receive a refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day “break-in” period.
The DreamCloud is a hybrid mattress that offers great support for back sleepers and nice cooling for hot sleepers. Its mix of foam and coils ensures you get the right amount of support, while its breathable materials ensure you don’t sleep too hot. It is a bouncier mattress, and if you prefer more of a memory foam feel, consider the Nectar mattress. Learn more in our video review.
Our Expert’s Take
When selecting a mattress that combats sciatica, it’s important that the bed promotes spinal alignment and allows for pressure and pain relief. A hybrid mattress is a great option for this, since its combination of coils and foam should satisfy both of these needs. And one of our favorite hybrid mattresses is the DreamCloud. It has a medium-firm hybrid construction that’s ideal for both back and side sleepers, offering an “on-top-of-the-bed” feel.
What the testers say: “I really enjoyed the balance of comfort and support that I got on the DreamCloud. The coils kept me nicely held up, while the soft foams contoured around my pressure points.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Love About the DreamCloud
This may be a great choice for back sleepers. The DreamCloud’s medium-firm firmness and balanced feel will likely work well to keep their spine in a healthy alignment.
The DreamCloud’s coils provide room for air to flow, promoting temperature regulation. It also features a breathable cashmere-blend cover and gel-infused memory foam to help keep you cool.
Even though it’s made with high-quality materials, the DreamCloud is available at a budget-friendly price point.
What to Keep in Mind About the DreamCloud
This is another option that probably isn’t the best fit for people who weigh more than 230 lbs. Instead, check out our list of the best firm mattresses.
You won’t get a traditional “hugged” memory foam feel from this bed. The Emma is a good alternative because it’s a memory foam bed that still sleeps cool.
Other User Reviews
On the DreamCloud site, the DreamCloud mattress earned 4.6 out of 5 stars. Users praise the feel of this mattress, saying they feel cushioned and supported. Some reviewers say they were disappointed with the bed’s motion transfer and edge support, though.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
The WinkBed is a hybrid mattress. This means it has both cushioning foam and supportive coil layers.
Firmness
Multiple firmness options: Softer, Luxury Firm, and Firmer. On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated the Luxury Firm model a 7/10, which is slightly firmer than the industry standard for medium-firm.
Price
$1,149-$2,049 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
Side Sleepers
Great pressure relief for side sleepers over 130 lbs.
Back Sleepers
Great support for back sleepers under 230 lbs.
Hot Sleepers
This bed’s cooling features can help keep you from overheating at night.
Pros
It has a bouncy, responsive feel. This is great for combination sleepers who benefit from a bed that makes it easy to change positions at night.
The WinkBed features zoned support. With firmer foam at the top and bottom and more cushioning foam in the middle, this bed has excellent lumbar support.
This bed sleeps cool. Thanks to the breathable coils and gel-infused memory foam, hot sleepers can expect a cool night’s rest.
Cons
This isn’t the best option for motion isolation.
The WinkBed doesn’t have a traditional “sink-in” memory foam feel.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Returns
You’ll receive a full refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day “break-in” period.
The WinkBed is a versatile mattress that provides zoned support and cooling comfort for a fair price. This bed’s excellent responsiveness makes it a good fit for combination sleeper that want a bed that’s easy to move around on. For couples looking for motion isolation, though, this probably isn’t the best choice. Instead, check out the Nectar Premier Copper. Learn more in our video review.
Our Expert’s Take
The WinkBed is a luxury innerspring mattress available in four firmnesses: Softer, Luxury Firm, Firmer, and Plus (made just for larger people). All four versions feature two sets of coils, similar to the Saatva mattress. Also, each model boasts a pillow top, but its plushness will depend on which firmness you select. Whether you opt for their softer or firmer models, you will still get some of that cloud-like pillow top feel. It would give you the experience you might have at a luxury hotel.
What the testers say: “The moment I lay down on the WinkBed, I could feel that it was a luxury mattress. Its cover is made from Tencel, a naturally soft textile, and its Euro pillow top is plush and infused with gel.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Love About the WinkBed
This is a bouncy, responsive mattress, so it’s likely a good fit for combination sleepers who will benefit from moving positions easily throughout the night.
The WinkBed is a cool mattress thanks to its coil construction and breathable cover.
This is another mattress with zoned support, which makes it a good fit for folks looking for a bed that will promote healthy spinal alignment.
What to Keep in Mind About the WinkBed
While this bed offers lots of responsiveness, that means it doesn’t have that “sink-in” feeling like a traditional memory foam bed would. If that’s what you’re looking for, check out the Layla.
This is an expensive option, so it may not be the right fit for all shoppers.
Other User Reviews
On the WinkBeds site, the WinkBed earned 4.8 out of 5 stars. Many customers love that the bed is made in the U.S. and enjoy the medium-firm feel of the Luxury Firm option. Some do mention that it’s a heavy bed to move, so they recommend having someone else to help you set it up.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.5
Nolah
Nolah Evolution
Multiple Firmnesses
Cooling
Motion Isolation
Hybrid mattress
120-night sleep trial
Free shipping
Cyber Monday Sale
35% off sitewide + 2 free pillows + $150 off BedJet with mattress purchase See Details
The Nolah Evolution is a hybrid mattress, which means it has coils at the bottom and memory foam on top.
Firmness
Multiple firmness options: Plush, Luxury Firm, and Firm. On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated the Luxury Firm model a 6.5/10, which is the industry standard for medium-firm.
Price
$1,499-$3,198 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
Back Sleepers
The Nolah Evolution Hybrid offers great lumbar support for most back sleepers under 300 lb.
Hot Sleepers
This bed has graphite-infused foam, which helps dissipate body heat. It also has coils that promote airflow.
Pros of the Nolah Evolution
It has great cooling features, such as graphite-infused foam and airflow-promoting coils.
Even though it has coils, it isolates motion well. This makes it a great mattress for couples.
It’s available in three firmness levels, so it works for a variety of people.
Cons of the Nolah Evolution
It lacks a slow-moving feel.
It’s not supportive enough for most people who weigh more than 300 lb.
Because it’s a luxurious mattress, it might be too pricey for some people.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Returns
You’ll receive a full refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day “break-in” period.
The Nolah Evolution Hybrid mattress is available in three firmness levels. The Luxury Firm model works well for many back and side sleepers. This mattress has many cooling features, and it isolates motion well. It’s not a great option for most people who weigh over 300 lb, though. If you fall in this category, you may need more lumbar support. Watch our Nolah Evolution mattress review video to learn more.
Our Expert’s Take
If you’re looking for a mattress that’s going to help with sciatica symptoms but also make you feel like royalty, try the Nolah Evolution hybrid. It has a zoned construction, meaning it’s firmer towards the center. This, along with strong coils, creates extra lumbar support. Other luxurious touches include a plush Euro-top and a memory foam comfort layer that cushions pressure points. While the bed has a softer feel, you shouldn’t get stuck in the material, as a 2” transition layer helps sleepers with ease of movement.
What the testers say: “The Nolah Evolution has all the bells and whistles I’d expect in a luxury mattress: zoned support, a cooling cover, and plush Euro top, to name a few. Keep in mind that these extras come with a higher price tag.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Love About the Nolah Evolution
The excellent lumbar support this bed offers makes it a good option for sleepers with back pain.
This mattress is made with high-quality materials. From the support coils and edge support foam to the ArcticTex cover, this bed should last for a long time.
We found that this bed has great motion isolation, which means it’ll be harder to feel your partner’s movements throughout the night.
What to Keep In Mind About the Nolah Evolution
This bed isn’t likely to be a good fit for stomach sleepers who weigh more than 230 lbs. People in this category should opt for something more supportive, like one of our top picks for the best mattresses for heavy people.
If you’re looking to stick to a tight budget, you may want to consider the original Nolah instead.
Other User Reviews
On Nolah’s website, the Nolah Evolution earned 4.9 out of 5 stars. Reviewers rave about the easy buying and shipping process as well as the Nolah’s balance between cushion and support. Some users did note that the bed feels too firm for their liking.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.3
Saatva
Saatva Classic
Multiplem Firmnesses
Durable
Responsive
Hybrid mattress
365-night sleep trial
Free white glove delivery
Limited Time Offer
Take $300 off your order of $1,000 or more See Details
The Saatva is a hybrid mattress. This means it has both cushioning foam and supportive coil layers.
Firmness
Multiple firmness options: Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, and Firm. On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated the Luxury Firm model a 7/10, which is a bit firmer than average.
Price
$1,295-$2,790 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king, split California king
Stomach Sleepers
Supportive enough for stomach sleepers under 230 lbs.
Back Sleepers
Great support for back sleepers under 300 lbs.
Hot Sleepers
This bed’s cooling features can help keep you from overheating at night.
Pros
The Saatva mattress is a great option for combination sleepers. It is available in multiple firmness options, but the Luxury Firm model works well for multiple sleeping positions.
The Luxury Firm model of the Saatva will work well for most back sleepers. Its balance of comfort and support and zoned construction ensure you’ll sleep in good neutral alignment.
Shoppers looking for a long-lasting mattress will love the Saatva. It feature high-density foam and durable coils that should ensure it lasts for over 10 years.
Cons
If you like the feel of a memory foam mattress, you’re not going to love the feel of the Saatva.
Lightweight side sleepers might not get the best pressure relief, even on the softest Saatva model.
Shipping
Free white glove delivery
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Returns
You’ll receive a full refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day “break-in” period. A removal fee of $99 will be deducted from your refund.
The Saatva is a luxurious hybrid innerspring mattress that should be a great long-term investment. It is available in multiple firmness options, so it should work for the majority of sleeping positions, and its Luxury Firm model is one of the best mattresses for back sleepers. However, lightweight side sleepers and fans of memory foam should look elsewhere. Learn more in our video review.
Our Expert’s Take
The Saatva is a luxury innerspring mattress that features two sets of coils (micro-coils and support coils), along with a plush pillow-top. It’s also available in two heights (11.5″ and 14.5″) and three firmnesses (Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, and Firm). We personally slept on their most popular model, the Luxury Firm, and found it to be a great mattress for dealing with sciatica. The pillow-top offers some plush comfort while the two sets of coils provide an excellent amount of support. This helps keep the spine in alignment. The Saatva is also zoned so that the lumbar area will receive extra support.
What the testers say: “If you like a traditional feel and are not a fan of the sinking feeling of memory foam, then the Saatva is right up your alley. In my experience, it has a very supportive feel and will keep your back nice and straight, and it offers some good bounce to make switching positions easy.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Love About the Saatva Mattress
Moving positions is easy to do on this responsive bed. This is typically a positive feature for combination sleepers and couples.
There is a good balance between plush foam and supportive coils in the Saatva. This provides a comfortable mattress for many different types of sleepers.
Its Luxury Firm feel is a great option for back sleepers.
What to Keep in Mind About the Saatva Mattress
Sleepers who weigh less than 130 lbs likely won’t be comfortable on this bed. Instead, check out our list of the best soft mattresses.
This is another bed that won’t offer the traditional memory foam feel.
Other User Reviews
On Saatva’s site, the Saatva Classic earns 4.8 out of 5 stars. Users praise the white glove delivery and comfort of the mattress. Some do complain that it sleeps too hot or too firm for their preference.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature is a hybrid mattress. This means it has both cushioning foam and supportive coil layers.
Firmness
Multiple firmness options: Soft, Medium, and Firm. On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated the Medium model a 6.5/10, which is the industry standard for medium-firm.
Price
$665-$1,599 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, short full, queen, short queen, king, short king, Olympic queen, California king, split California king, RV king
Back Sleepers
Great support for back sleepers under 230 lbs.
Couples
Good balance of motion isolation and responsiveness.
Pros of the Brooklyn Bedding Signature
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature is a budget-friendly mattress. It’s a good fit for shoppers looking for an affordable, versatile bed.
Combination sleepers will find it easy to change positions on this bed. Thanks to its bouncy coil construction, the Signature offers a very responsive surface.
Back and side sleepers under 230 lbs can expect great pressure relief and support on this bed.
Cons of the Brooklyn Bedding Signature
This bed doesn’t provide much motion isolation.
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature isn’t a luxury mattress.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Returns
You’ll receive a refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day “break-in” period. A removal fee of $99 will be deducted from your refund.
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature is an affordable, no-frills bed with a medium-firm feel that should work for a wide variety of sleepers. While it’s made with durable materials and should last up to 10 years, it isn’t the most luxurious option. If you’re looking for a premium bed, check out the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe. Learn more in our video review.
Our Expert’s Take
Good news: you don’t have to empty your entire wallet if you want a great mattress for sciatica. Brooklyn Bedding owns their own factory, so they can cut out the middleman and offer an excellent value for a high-quality mattress, such as the Signature Hybrid. During sales, a Queen can go for under $1,000. The Signature Hybrid model has three firmnesses: Soft, Medium, and Firm, so you can choose the amount of comfort and support that’s best-suited for your sciatica symptoms. We like the Medium version, since it offers a balanced feel ideal for pain relief.
What the testers say: “If you suffer from lower back pain and are on a budget, you can’t do much better than the Brooklyn Signature. It’s particularly good for back sleepers, as its firmness and support level will help keep your spine in a neutral alignment.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Love About the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
This is an affordable mattress. Brooklyn Bedding manufactures its own mattresses, so it’s able to offer some of the best prices.
You’ll experience a responsive surface on the Brooklyn Bedding Signature. This can be helpful for combination sleepers who switch positions at night.
What to Keep in Mind About the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
While this bed has plenty of responsiveness, it doesn’t absorb motion very well. This could be an issue if you or your partner wake up easily from movement at night.
Other User Reviews
On Brooklyn Bedding’s website, the Signature receives 4.7 out of 5 stars. Users praise the quality and comfort of the bed, but many also love its range of sizes available, including for RV beds. Some customers say the medium feel was not firm enough, and would have opted for the firm option instead.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.1
Bear
Bear Star Hybrid
Medium-Firm Feel
Lifetime Warranty
Muscle Recovery
Hybrid mattress
120-night sleep trial
Free shipping
December Deals
Use code DEAL30 for 30% off sitewide + 2 free pillows with mattress purchase See Details
The Bear Star Hybrid is a hybrid mattress, meaning the bed has a support layer of coils, and foam comfort layers.
Firmness
On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated this mattress a 6.5/10, which is the industry standard for medium-firm.
Price
$1,498 – $2,298 (before discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, split king, Cal king
Back Sleepers
Offers excellent cushioning for lightweight back sleepers.
Side Sleepers
Average weight side sleepers should feel ample pressure relief.
Hot Sleepers
This bed’s optional propietary cooling cover can help keep you from overheating at night.
Pros of the Bear Star Hybrid
All of the foam used is CertiPUR-US® certified
An excellent choice for couples
Celliant cover purportedly assists with blood circulation and recovery
Cons of the Bear Star Hybrid
Medium-firm feel may not work for strict side sleepers or stomach sleepers
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Returns
Returns are free, and you’ll receive a full refund if you return your mattress within the 120-day trial period.
The Bear Star Hybrid is a well-rounded mattress, offering lots of support and comfort, making it a strong choice if you’re looking for a medium-firm mattress that won’t run too hot. Learn more in our video review.
Our Expert’s Take
Bear designs their mattresses for athletes, and one of the most notable features of their beds is a cover made of Celliant. As a fabric, it’s believed by some to aid in muscle recovery, which can soothe the pain of folks with back pain and sciatica. But another bonus of the fabric is that it’s soft, breathable, and helps keep the mattress cool. Underneath the Celliant cover, you’ll find a layer of gel-infused memory foam, which helps pull heat away from the body. And to make things even better, this mattress contains strong coils which allows plenty of room for airflow.
What the testers say: “When I rested on the Bear Star Hybrid, I found it to be a really good match for back sleeping, with just the right ratio of support to pressure relief. However, it wasn’t as great for side sleeping. I’d recommend heavy side sleepers look elsewhere.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Love About the Bear Star Hybrid
This is a good option for most combination sleepers thanks to its responsive materials and balanced feel.
Back sleepers are also a good fit for this bed thanks to its impressive pressure relief.
It’s also a good option for a value mattress. It’s not a cheap mattress, but it’s a durable, quality bed at an affordable price.
What to Keep in Mind About the Bear Star Hybrid
Stomach sleepers probably won’t find this bed supportive enough.
The Bear Star Hybrid won’t provide a traditional memory foam feel.
Other User Reviews
On the Bear site, the Bear Star Hybrid receives 4.4 out of 5 stars. Many customers appreciate the high-quality materials in this mattress and say it’s a good balance of soft cushioning and firm support. Some users, though, said it felt too soft to them.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
The Plank Firm is a flippable mattress with two firmness levels on each side. On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated the softer side a 8/10. The firmer side comes in at a 9/10.
Price
$749-$1,532 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, short full, full, short queen, queen, olympic queen, short king, split king, split california king, California king, RV king
Stomach Sleepers
It offers ample hip support for most stomach sleepers, especially on the firmer side.
Heavyweight Sleepers
This mattress has a thick comfort layer and sturdy coils that can handle heavier weights.
Pros of the Plank Firm
It has a flippable design, so you can easily change its firmness level by turning the mattress over.
It’s the firmest mattress we have tested, so if you need a lot of spinal support, this is a good option.
It works well for stomach sleepers because it helps keep hips elevated and in the correct alignment.
Cons of the Plank Firm
This mattress is too firm for most side sleepers.
Because it’s made entirely out of foam, it tends to trap body heat.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Returns
You’ll receive a full refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day “break-in” period.
The Plank Firm mattress is one of the most supportive mattresses on the market. It has a flippable design, with two firmness levels in one. On our firmness scale, the the softer side feels like a 8/10 and the firmer side feels like a 9/10. Both sides tend to work well for stomach sleepers, but most side sleepers won’t get enough pressure relief on this bed. Watch our video review to learn more.
Our Expert’s Take
Are you a stomach sleeper looking for a mattress that supports the lumbar area and helps with back pain by keeping the hips in line with the spine? If so, the flippable Plank Firm from Brooklyn Bedding is an excellent choice, as our mattress testers can attest. Since it’s an all-foam mattress, testers said they got just enough give-and-take in the top layers to cradle the hips, despite the bed’s true firmness — a 9/10 on the firm side, and 8/10 on the softer side, by our firmness measure. Hot sleepers also have the option of adding a cooling panel to both sides of the Plank, so it won’t trap heat and should help you sleep cool through the night.
What the testers say: “Even as a heavier guy who weighs more than 250 lbs, lying on my stomach I felt like my hips were perfectly in line with my spine on each side of the Plank Firm. Just bear in mind that this is a true firm mattress lover’s bed. Even the softer side is for someone with a more firm preference.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Love About the Plank Firm Mattress
The Plank Firm is flippable, adding overall durability and a degree of customizability for those who like to switch it up.
Brooklyn Bedding, the manufacturer of the Plank, owns its own factory, allowing the brand to cut out middle-man costs and pass savings onto the customer, as reflected by Plank’s affordable price ($749 for a queen without any sales).
The Plank has excellent edge support, rated 5 out of 5 by mattress testers, so you can get comfortable on every inch of the flippable bed.
What to Keep in Mind About the Plank Firm Mattress
Side sleepers may find that the bed digs into their hips and shoulders too much, and doesn’t offer enough pressure relief.
The Plank’s motion isolation is a bit disappointing. The firmer foams mean the Plank has more of a bouncy give-and-take rather than the slow-moving memory foam feel that offers better motion isolation.
Other User Reviews
On the Plank product page, the mattress earns 4.8 out of 5 stars among 3,000-plus reviews. Users say it’s a genuinely firm mattress — not just a claim, like with some brands. One verified buyer wrote that Plank helped with her back pain: “As a stomach sleeper, I love my new mattress!! It does not hurt my back like my previous softer mattress did. I cannot wait to go to sleep, whether it’s at night or during the day, after a night shift!!” Some buyers bemoaned though that the bed is comfortable exclusively for stomach sleepers, and not other positions.
Best Mattress for Heavy People with Sciatica – Titan Plus
Best Mattress for Heavy People
Mattress Clarity Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
The Titan Plus is a hybrid mattress. This means it has coils at the bottom and foam on top.
Firmness
The Titan Plus mattress is very firm. On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated it a 9/10.
Price
$699-$1,499 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split California king
Heavyweight sleepers
This mattress has a thick comfort layer and sturdy coils that can handle heavier weights.
Stomach Sleepers
It offers lots of hip support, which can help stomach sleepers maintain the correct spinal alignment.
Couples
This mattress has good edge support and motion isolation.
Pros of the Titan Plus
It works well for people who weigh 230 – 500 lb, thanks to its supportive feel.
This mattress has great edge support.
The Titan Plus mattress is breathable and cool, so it works well for hot sleepers.
Cons of the Titan Plus
Lightweight people likely won’t get enough pressure relief on this mattress.
It’s too firm for many side sleepers, who will likely need more cushioning along their shoulders and hips.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Returns
You’ll receive a refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day “break-in” period. A removal fee of $99 will be deducted from your refund.
The Titan Plus mattress works well for many heavyweight back and stomach sleepers. It’s quite firm, coming in at 9/10 on our firmness scale. This means that many side sleepers won’t get the pressure relief they need along their shoulders and hips. Watch our Titan Plus mattress review video to learn more.
Our Expert’s Take
The Titan Plus makes this roundup as the best mattress for heavy people since it’s designed specifically for heavy people. Heavier bodies tend to need more support and firmness, and this mattress comes in at a 9/10 on our firmness scale, making it one of the firmest mattresses we’ve ever tested. It’s supportive but still gives you an innerspring feel with a slight foam feel on top.
What our testers say: The Titan Plus felt very supportive whenever I rested on my back. In fact, some sleepers might find that this mattress feels too supportive in this position if they’re lighter than me. However, my spine felt very supported.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Love About the Titan Plus
This is a great option for most sleepers who weigh over 230 lbs. It should offer enough support even for heavyweight stomach sleepers.
The Titan Plus is made with durable materials, so it should hold up for a long time.
For a mattress that’s made for heavyweight sleepers, it’s available at a relatively affordable price point.
What to Keep in Mind About the Titan Plus
While this is a good option for heavyweight sleepers, if you weigh less than 230 lbs, you’ll likely find it too firm.
Looking for a bed that works well for heavyweight side sleepers? The Titan Plus Luxe offers a slightly softer feel that could be a better fit.
Other User Reviews
On the Titan website, the Titan Plus earns 4.7 out of 5 stars. Users love the firm feel and recommend the bed for sleepers over 200 lbs. The bed’s only one-star review on the site actually had nothing negative to say about it.
A lot of people think sciatica is a health condition in its own right, but it’s actually a symptom that could result from a variety of health issues or other causes.
Per the Mayo Clinic, the word “sciatica” describes pain that occurs along the sciatic nerve. This long nerve extends from the lower back, through the hips and rear end, and down both legs. People can experience sciatica pain anywhere along this nerve. Most commonly, sciatica pains radiate from the base of the nerve (in the lower back) into the buttocks and perhaps down one of the legs into the thigh and/or calf.
Sciatica pain is a very common complaint. The Cleveland Clinic estimates that approximately 40% of people in the U.S. will experience sciatica at some point in their life.
Because sciatica is a symptom, it can manifest in a lot of ways. Think of it like the common cold: A runny nose is a symptom, but it can mean different things for different people. Some people constantly blow their noses to contain all the mucus, while others just sniffle more than usual.
With sciatica, the pain can range from mild to excruciating. It could feel dull or like a burning sensation or electric shock. Sometimes it manifests as numbness, muscle weakness, or a tingly sensation. The pain could be constant, or it might come and go. Some people find that sciatica is exacerbated by coughing, sneezing, or sitting for an extended period.
Are sciatica and lower back pain the same thing?
Though they’re closely related, lower back pain can refer to any pain in the lower back region, while sciatica is specifically pain that occurs along the sciatic nerve.
When to See a Doctor for Sciatica
In most cases, sciatica symptoms go away over time. However, people experiencing sciatica should seek medical treatment if:
The pain results from an injury.
The pain is sudden and severe.
The pain lasts longer than a week.
The pain gets progressively worse.
Their leg stays numb for a prolonged period.
They have trouble controlling their bowels or bladder.
In severe cases, a doctor might advise a variety of treatment options including spinal injections or surgery.
Dr. Babenko adds: “Most states allow for direct access to physical therapists. They are generally best equipped to be your primary source of assessment for any musculoskeletal condition. If you are experiencing any sciatica-related issues, a physical therapist will save you time and money in overall treatment and refer you to an MD or DO when appropriate. Most primary care physicians (PCPs) should refer you to a rehab program to best handle your sciatica condition. This will likely include a series of manual therapy and exercises to also identify the root cause so symptoms do not return.”
What Causes Sciatica?
Several issues can cause sciatica, with some being more serious than others. As a general rule, sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve is pinched, compressed, irritated, or inflamed. According to the Cleveland Clinic, known causes include:
A herniated or slipped disc, which could place pressure on the root of the sciatic nerve.
Degenerative disk disease, which wears down the disks between the spine’s vertebrae. This shrinks the space between vertebrae, narrowing nerve passageways and possibly pinching the sciatic nerve.
Injury to the lumbar spine or the sciatic nerve itself (such as a car accident).
Osteoarthritis, which can create bone spurs that compress the nerves in the lower back.
Piriformis syndrome, a neuromuscular disorder marked by spasms of the piriformis muscle. This muscle sits deep in the buttocks, and when it spasms it can irritate the sciatic nerve.
A slipped vertebra (dubbed spondylolisthesis) — another condition that can narrow the space between vertebrae and pinch the sciatic nerve.
Spinal stenosis, or narrowing of the spinal canal. Like degenerative disk disease, this shrinks the space available for the sciatic nerve and can cause pinching.
Tumors in the lumbar spinal canal, which can compress the sciatic nerve.
Cauda equina syndrome, a rare condition that impacts the bundle of nerves at the end of the spinal cord.
Risk Factors for Sciatica
Per the Mayo Clinic, several factors may increase a person’s risk of developing the conditions that can lead to sciatica. These include:
Age (older people are more prone to herniated disks and osteoarthritis)
Diabetes
Obesity
Occupations or hobbies that involve carrying heavy loads or twisting the back
A bad mattress doesn’t typically show up on lists of sciatica causes, but it’s certainly not going to help. That’s true for several reasons.
For starters, mattresses can play a big role in supporting healthy spinal alignment — or not. A bad mattress that doesn’t help the sleeper’s spine stay properly aligned could contribute to misalignment issues. Long-term misalignment of the spine (especially in the lower back) could place undue pressure on the sciatic nerve.
Additionally, according to an article published by Harvard Health, many people find their sciatica gets worse during prolonged periods of lying down. This is the case even in the best of conditions, so imagine how much worse someone might feel if they’re lying on an unsupportive or uncomfortable mattress.
If someone notices that their sciatica pain tends to feel worse when they wake up in the morning, this could indicate that their mattress is exacerbating their condition.
How Does Sciatica Impact Sleep?
Sciatica, along with other types of pain-related conditions, can have a negative impact on sleep quality. That’s because sciatica causes pain and discomfort that might make it hard to get comfortable enough to fall and stay asleep.
Per the Harvard Health article cited above, many people find their sciatica pain gets worse when they lie down for extended periods. This means people might experience a pain flareup right when they’re trying to obtain restful sleep.
This is a double-edged sword. Sciatica can make it harder to obtain quality sleep, and failing to sleep well might exacerbate sciatica pain. A review published in The Journal of Pain found that poor sleep quality can worsen people’s experience of pain.
Additionally, suffering from pain can take a toll on a person’s mental health. The anxiety, depression, or stress caused by pain might make it more difficult to obtain quality sleep. Here’s another double-edged sword: Not sleeping well can exacerbate anxiety, stress, and depression.
How Do Sleeping Positions Impact Sciatica?
A person’s preferred sleeping position will always have an impact on their sleep quality and spinal health. This is true even for people without sciatica, and it’s certainly true for people who are dealing with sciatica pain.
Back-Sleeping
Provided someone is sleeping on a supportive mattress, back-sleeping is often the best sleeping position when it comes to spinal health. A supportive mattress keeps a back sleeper’s hips elevated and in line with the spine, which reduces strain on the lumbar region.
This is especially important for sciatica sufferers, because the lumbar region contains the sciatic nerve. That said, a mattress that is too firm or too soft won’t provide the same support when it comes to sustaining spinal health.
Side sleepers often put a lot of pressure on the joints, which can especially cause hip, neck, and shoulder pain. If someone with sciatica feels pain in their hip and tries to side sleep on a mattress that puts pressure on the hip, this can exacerbate pain. That said, a mattress that relieves pressure around the hip could be ideal for a side sleeper with sciatica.
Spinal support is also an important consideration when side sleeping. While pressure relief around the hip is important, a mattress that’s too soft in this area can allow the hips to sink too far into the mattress and throw the lumbar spine out of alignment. This could exacerbate compression of the sciatic nerve.
One other note about side sleeping and sciatica: Because sciatica tends to occur only on one side, some people may find that side-sleeping on the opposite side helps them sleep more comfortably. If your hip is a major pressure area for you while you sleep, you may want to also check out our list of the best mattresses for hip pain.
Stomach-Sleeping
On all but the most supportive mattresses, sleeping on the stomach can cause the hips to sink too far into the mattress, which throws the spine out of alignment and can strain the lower back. For this reason, stomach-sleeping is often not ideal for people with sciatica. Make sure to take a look at our best mattresses for stomach sleepers as well.
What to Look for In a Mattress for Sciatica
Contemporary research suggests the ideal mattress for back pain sufferers is one that feels medium-firm (and comfortable) to the person who sleeps on it. Also, as we’ve discussed, spinal alignment is key for all sleepers and especially for people who suffer from sciatica. Make sure any mattress you purchase is designed to support spinal alignment in your preferred sleeping position(s).
Beyond that, here are some other factors to consider when searching for the best mattress for sciatica:
Pressure Relief: In addition to providing support for the spine, the best mattress for sciatica will offer some pressure relief for added comfort. This is extra important for side sleepers; pressure relief around the hip is key.
Durability: Research consistently finds that older mattresses often contribute to back pain because they no longer provide adequate spinal support. Take a look at our list of the best mattresses that won’t sag for more durable beds.
Motion Isolation: Sciatica sufferers may shift around during the night in an effort to regulate pain. This means they might keep their partner up with their tossing and turning. A mattress that minimizes motion transfer can help the partner get better sleep. See: our best mattresses for couples.
Trial Periods: A mattress might look good online or feel great in the store, but things can change after sleeping on it for several nights. Look for a mattress that offers a decent trial period so there’s time to determine whether the mattress is a good long-term fit and will help with your sciatica-related pain.
Sleeper’s Size And Weight: A person’s size and body weight can impact how they experience the feel and firmness of a mattress. Heavyweight sleepers will need a supportive mattress and a thicker comfort layer in order to feel both comfortable and supported, while lighter-weight sleepers will probably get adequate pressure relief from a thinner comfort layer.
Tips for Sleeping Better With Sciatica
No matter a person’s preferred sleep position, using pillows as props and following a few simple guidelines can promote more comfortable sleep. In all cases, the key is to strive for healthy spinal alignment:
Back sleepers can experiment with placing a pillow under their knees. This can help support the natural curve in the lumbar spine.
Back sleepers who notice a gap between their lower back and the mattress can place a small, rolled-up towel into the gap to ensure the lumbar region is properly supported.
Side sleepers can try placing a pillow between their knees and a pillow at their arms to hug. This helps keep the hips, pelvis, and spine in alignment.
Side sleepers who notice a gap between their waist and the mattress can tuck a small pillow or rolled-up towel into the gap to support healthier lumbar alignment.
Stomach sleepers can try placing a pillow under their abdomen. This helps support the lumbar spine and relieves strain in this area.
Dr. Babenko also has a tip for sleeping better with sciatica:
Perform some self-administered myofascial release (i.e. foam-rolling right before bed) to prime the body for the task of sleeping. This program should be developed on an individual basis. Along with the foam-rolling to areas like the legs, a breathing practice before bed can help affect the nervous system to better prepare for sleep.
Summary
Here’s a recap of the best mattresses for sciatica:
What kind of mattress is best for lower back pain?
A mattress with a good balance of comfort and support is going to be best for back pain. Hybrid mattresses, for example, have soft foam materials on top and more supportive coils on the bottom. A mattress that strikes this balance well will help keep the spine in neutral alignment while people are sleeping. Shoppers might also want to consider a mattress with a zoned construction because it will provide additional lumbar support.
What kind of mattress is best for sciatica pain?
Those who deal with sciatica pain should find a mattress that balances comfort with support. This will help keep the spine neutrally aligned while sleeping. If the spine is out of alignment, this can compress the sciatic nerve. All types of mattresses can help with this condition, but they need to be comfortable, supportive, and also provide good lumbar support.
How should I sleep with lower back pain?
There are a few ways a person can sleep to deal with lower back pain. Back sleepers can place a pillow under their knees, and side sleepers can place a pillow between their knees. Stomach sleeping is not a good position for lower back pain. However, if someone must sleep in this position, they can place a pillow under the stomach near the pelvis.
Can sciatica be caused by a bad mattress?
It is unlikely that a bad mattress will be the main reason for sciatica. However, a mattress that does not keep the spine in neutral alignment can surely exacerbate sciatica symptoms.
What’s the best pillow for back pain?
It’s going to vary from person to person, but we have several options for addressing pain in our roundup of best orthopedic pillows. The Saatva Latex is an especially good choice for those who suffer from back pain.
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Marten Carlson
Lead Mattress Reviewer
About Author
Marten has been writing about mattresses and sleep health for six years. He is the lead reviewer at Mattress Clarity where he tests mattresses, bedding, and sleep accessories.
In his role here, Marten’s reviewed over 500 mattresses and 150 sleep accessories (so you can rest assured that if he recommends a product, it’s been put through the wringer in our Austin studio). In addition, he has written more than 400 articles reviewing the quality of sleep and sleep products as well as sleep health. He’s especially interested in the correlation between sleep and mental health.
Marten’s also got a personal stake in sleep health. After writing dozens of pieces on the dangers of sleep apnea, he decided to get tested for the condition. Realizing he did, in fact, suffer from sleep apnea, he immediately started using a CPAP machine. He knows all too well the importance of a healthy night’s sleep and is passionate about helping others get the healthy, restorative sleep they deserve.
He received his bachelor’s degree in Film Production from Denison University and his master’s degree in Film Studies from Emory University.
