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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 over my top picks for the best mattresses for shoulder pain, detailing how each bed on this list offers sleepers with pain concerns the pressure relief and support they need.
Sometimes sleeping can be a pain the neck…and in the shoulders! Anyone who struggles with pain and discomfort in these areas knows how hard it is to fall asleep and stay asleep. Luckily, finding the best mattress for neck and shoulder pain can help you get a good night’s rest.
Out of the hundreds of mattresses we have reviewed, we considered twenty beds for this list. Ultimately, we decided that nine mattresses stand out among the rest when it comes to neck and shoulder pain relief. Here are the nine best mattresses for neck and shoulder pain.
Our Verdict: What’s the Best Mattress for Neck and Shoulder Pain?
Our expert reviewers chose the Nectar as the best mattress for neck and shoulder pain due to its comforting plush construction affordable price point.
Best Mattresses for Neck and Shoulder Pain: Our Top Picks
How We Chose the Best Mattresses for Neck and Shoulder Pain
Our team of sleep specialists has reviewed more than 150 mattresses, using proprietary analysis and hands-on testing to establish easy-to-understand scores. In addition to an overall score, we create subscores for support, edge support, cooling, motion transfer, durability, trial period, and warranty.
To choose the Best Mattresses for Neck and Shoulder Pain, we focused primarily on scores for support, which assists in spinal alignment. We also kept a close eye on the category of durability, because a mattress that sags quickly can contribute to discomfort and pain. All beds scored an above-average 3.5 out of 5 in these areas.
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
The Nectar is great for shoppers on a budget, and you won’t have to sacrifice quality for a low price. Unlike the Saatva mattress, this all-foam mattress contours the body and has a slow-moving feel. This is helpful for people with neck and shoulder pain because it cradles the joints and alleviates pain along pressure points. Additionally, Nectar mattresses are made with gel-infused foam, which helps dissipate body heat.
What the testers say: “The Nectar did a great job of cradling my body, which helped relieve pressure on my joints. I think this bed would feel great for sleepers with sore shoulders. But if you prefer a responsive feel, the Saatva is a better choice.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Love About the Nectar Mattress
The Nectar is a great choice for most side sleepers. The soft foam layers cradle shoulders and hips, which helps alleviate joint pain.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly mattress that’s made from quality materials and is durable, this mattress fits the bill. The Nectar is a budget-friendly bed that will last at least seven years.
If you sleep with a partner who disturbs you through the night, the Nectar may be a good fit. The Nectar mattress isolates motion well, which means couples shouldn’t feel each other’s movements during the night.
What to Keep in Mind About the Nectar Mattress
You might overheat on the Nectar if you’re typically a hot sleeper. The gel foam helps dissipate body heat, but if you sleep particularly hot at night, you may want to consider the Saatva mattress instead.
Stomach sleeping isn’t a position that’ll be tolerated well on the Nectar. This mattress isn’t firm enough to support the hips, so stomach sleepers might develop lower back pain.
User reviews
On the Nectar website, customers gave the mattress a rating of 4.7/5. Many people said it helped alleviate pain along their pressure points and improved their sleep quality. Some people complained about long shipping times, and others said the mattress felt too soft.
Best Cooling Mattress for Neck and Shoulder Pain – Helix Midnight
Best Cooling Mattress
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.
4.1
Helix
Helix Midnight
Medium-Firm Feel
Breathability
Motion Isolation
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 Midnight 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 6.5/10. This is the industry standard for medium-firm.
Price
$936-$1,748 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, short queen, king, California king, RV king
Side Sleepers
Provides good pressure relief for side sleepers under 230 lbs.
Back Sleepers
This mattress offers good support and body contouring for back sleepers under 230 lbs.
Couples
This bed absorbs motion well for a hybrid mattress, so couples shouldn’t notice their partner’s movements.
Pros of the Helix Midnight Mattress
The Helix Midnight mattress is a fantastic choice for back and side sleepers. It’s a perfect medium-firm mattress that offers a lot of comfort from the foam at the top with supportive coils at the bottom.
This mattress shouldn’t trap too much heat thanks to the coils, which allow for airflow. You also have the option to add a specialized cooling cover.
Hybrid mattresses can be bouncy and disturb others who are in bed, but the Helix Midnight absorbs motion very well for this type of mattress.
Cons of the Helix Midnight Mattress
This mattress is too soft to support stomach sleepers. The hips will dip into this bed over time, which can cause strain on the lower back.
While this bed absorbs motion well, it’s still a hybrid. If you don’t want that bouncy, coil feeling to your mattress, you should look for an all-foam bed.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
10 years
Returns
Free returns during the trial period
The Helix Midnight is Helix’s most popular model because of its medium-firmness and works well for back and side sleepers. The top layers of foam provide good pressure relief, but the coils offer a good amount of support. It won’t trap heat thanks to those coils, and you can even opt for a cooling cover. Be sure to watch our video review to learn more about the Helix Midnight.
Our Expert’s Take
There are many factors to consider when purchasing a great mattress for neck and shoulder pain, such as sleeping position and body weight. To avoid the guesswork, choose a mattress from Helix. The company has a sleep quiz on its website and can recommend one of its eighteen hybrid mattresses, ranging from very soft to very firm. The brand’s most popular model is the Helix Midnight. It features a soft and breathable cover, and the individually wrapped coils promote airflow, making it a great option for hot sleepers.
What the testers say: “I spent a long time lying on the Helix Midnight, and I didn’t feel myself come close to overheating. The combination of airflow-promoting coils and breathable cover kept me sleeping cool.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
What to Keep in Mind About the Helix Midnight
The Midnight is a great fit for back and side sleepers. This medium-firm mattress offers the comfort and support back and side sleepers need.
The Helix Midnight proves to be an excellent mattress for The coils promote airflow, and the cover is breathable.
The Helix Midnight is a great fit for fans of a bouncy, responsive feel. Thanks to the coils, sleepers will feel like they’re resting “on top of” the mattress, rather than “inside it.”
Who Might Not Like the Helix Midnight
The Helix Midnight isn’t firm enough to support people who weigh more than 300 lb. If you fall in this category, you may want to consider getting the Helix Plus mattress.
Like I mentioned above, the Midnight doesn’t offer a typical slow-moving feel. This mattress doesn’t offer very much body contouring, so if that’s what you’re looking for, the Nectar mattress may be a better choice.
User reviews
The Helix Midnight has earned a 4.5/5 rating on the Helix Mattress website. Many side sleepers said it offered the comfort and support they need. Other people said the mattress felt too soft.
Best Mattress for Neck and Shoulder Pain for Combination Sleepers – WinkBeds
Best Mattress for Combo 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 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
If you’re a combination sleeper and you suffer from neck and shoulder pain, a softer mattress might be just what you need. Sleepers who suffer from pain at pressure points can really benefit from a mattress that cushions these sensitive areas and prevents more tension from building up there. The WinkBeds Original offers four firmness options, including a Softer model that offers gentle contouring. It’s an especially good choice for back sleepers with this type of pain and can work well for side sleepers, too.
What the testers say: “The WinkBed has a more traditional innerspring feel, which means it feels very responsive and is easy to move around on. This makes it a great choice for combination sleepers who don’t want to feel stuck in their mattress.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Love About the WinkBed
If you’re a fan of a bouncy responsive mattress or sleep with a partner and are looking for the best mattress for sex, the WinkBed may be a good fit. The coils make it easy for sleepers to change sleeping positions. You won’t feel “stuck” inside this mattress.
If you’re a hot sleeper, the WinBed may be a good fit, as it comes equipped with cooling benefits. The coils in this mattress allow room for airflow, which is great for people to tend to sleep hot at night.
Many different types of sleepers should be able to find a WinkBed mattress that’s a perfect fit. The WinkBed is available in many different firmness levels, so it’s great for a variety of sleeping positions and body types.
What to Keep in Mind About the WinkBed
If you’re a couple concerned about motion transfer and feeling you’re partner’s movements, keep in mind that because the coils in this mattress feel bouncy and responsive, the WinkBed doesn’t isolate motion well. People may feel their partner’s movements during the night.
As mentioned above, the WinkBed is bouncy and responsive. If you like to sink into your mattress and get lots of body contouring, we recommend the Nectar mattress.
User reviews
On the WinkBeds website, most customers gave the mattress five out of five stars. People praised the mattress’s comfort level and support, and several people said they had a great experience with the customer support team.
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
The Nolah Evolution Hybrid is a luxury mattress that works for a variety of sleepers. This high-tech hybrid mattress boasts a host of high-quality features, including a heat-dissipating cover, some graphite-infused AirFoam Ice, and the brand’s patented HDMax Tri-Zone coils. The AirFoam comfort layer helps cushion sore necks and shoulders, and the coils are divided into three sections to provide targeted lumbar support. The coils also respond to movement and weight distribution. The Nolah Evolution comes in three firmness options, so whether you’re a side, back, stomach, or combination sleeper, you can find a model that suits your needs.
What the testers say: “I tested the Luxury Firm version of this bed and found it to be a great match for back and side sleeping. However, I’d recommend lightweight sleepers choose the Plush version for optimal pressure relief, and I’d direct heavier sleepers to the Firm option.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Love About the Nolah Evolution
This mattress should be an excellent fit for combination sleepers. The Nolah Evolution offers excellent lumbar support, which is great for people who rest in many different sleeping positions.
For sleepers who sleep hot at night, the Nolah has cooling benefits to help curb that. The cooling foam and breathable coils help keep sleepers cool all night long.
The Nolah Evolution is a long-lasting, quality investment. Because it’s made with high-quality materials, the Nolah Evolution should last at least a decade.
Who Might Not Like the Nolah Evolution
As we mention, this mattress is a great investment and made with quality materials, so that shows in the price tag. The Nolah Evolution is a luxurious mattress, so it has a higher price point.
If you sleep near the edge of the bed, beware. The Nolah Evolution doesn’t have the best edge support. If you sit or rest near the side of the bed, you may feel yourself roll off. Consider the Saatva mattress if you want better edge support.
User reviews
The Nolah mattress has earned a 4.9/5 rating on the website. Many side sleepers said they got the necessary pressure relief and lumbar support. It was also helpful for older people who dealt with joint pain.
Best Innerspring Mattress for Neck and Shoulder Pain – Saatva Classic
Best Innerspring Mattress
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.
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 mattress is a luxury hybrid mattress with an innerspring feel. Customers have a choice of three firmnesses: Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, and Firm. We reviewed the Luxury Firm model and found it to be a great match for back sleepers and side sleepers who deal with neck pain and shoulder pain. The Saatva’s pillow-top relieves pressure on the shoulders, while the two sets of coils help support the spine.
What the testers say: “While lying on the Saatva Classic, I felt the bed supporting and comforting my body in all the right areas. This led to an even weight distribution, which is really important for alleviating pain.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Love About the Saatva
It’s a great fit for hot sleepers. The coils promote airflow, and because the mattress feels so responsive, you won’t sink in too far and feel heat building up around your body.
People with back pain should love the Saatva. The mattress feels firmer in the center and softer near the head and the foot, which helps people maintain the proper spinal alignment and alleviate back pain.
The Saatva works well for combination sleepers. This mattress offers both comfort and support, which is great for people who switch sleeping positions during the night.
What to Keep in Mind About the Saatva
If you’re looking for a classic memory foam feel, the Saatva may not be a great fit. This mattress has a classic innerspring construction, which makes it feel bouncy and responsive. If you want more body contouring, you may want to consider the Nectar mattress instead.
The Saatva mattress isn’t a mattress that’s price friendly, and it may not be a great fit for folks on a budget. The Saatva mattress is a luxurious bed that will last a long time, and because of this, it has a higher price tag.
User reviews
On Saatva’s website, the Classic mattress earns a rating of 4.8/5 stars. Customers praised Saatva’s customer service team, and many people expressed gratitude for the free white glove delivery. A few people left one-star reviews, saying that their mattress was defective and started sagging after only a few years.
Best Hybrid Mattress for Neck and Shoulder Pain – Bear Star Hybrid
Best Hybrid Mattress
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.
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
The Bear Star Hybrid is a luxurious hybrid mattress with a medium-firm feel. This bed is a win for folks with neck and shoulder pain thanks to its Celliant cover, which is purported to help promote circulation and athletic recovery. Its soft, copper-infused memory foam cradles sensitive joints, and its sturdy coils keep sleepers comfortably positioned and supported. The Bear Star Hybrid also sleeps quite cool, thanks to its breathable cover and airflow-promoting coils.
What the testers say: “The Bear Star Hybrid has a medium-firm, balanced feel that’s great for sleepers who want a bit of bounce to their mattress. However, if you’re a side sleeper looking for extra pressure relief, I’d opt for a softer bed.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Love About the Bear Star Hybrid
The Bear Star Hybrid is a great match for multiple types of sleepers, but especially back sleepers. The medium-firm feel helps support the spine and alleviate back pain.
If you’re someone who overheats at night, the coils in this mattress promote airflow, and the cover feels breathable. These are both great cooling features for hot sleepers.
If you sleep with a partner and are concerned about their movements waking you up at night,the Bear Star Hybrid isolates motion well, so you shouldn’t notice each other’s movements during the night.
What to Keep in Mind About the Bear Star Hybrid
If you’re on a tight budget, the Bear Star Hybrid may not be a good fit for you. The Bear Star Hybrid costs more than other options on the market. Check out our list of best mattresses under $1,000 for more great options!
Since this mattress isn’t a firm mattress, it won’t be the best fit for stomach sleepers. This mattress isn’t firm enough to support the hips. Stomach sleepers could develop lower back pain on this mattress but should check out our list of best mattresses for stomach sleepers to find a better option for them.
User reviews
On the Bear Mattress website, the Star Hybrid earns a 4.5/5 rating with customer reviews. Heavier people found that the Bear Star Hybrid supported their spine without causing the mattress to sink, and lightweight people said the bed offers great comfort and support. Some customers complained that the mattress is not firm enough. If you’re a stomach sleeper, we recommend finding a more supportive mattress such as the Saatva 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.
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 Editor’s Take
Neck pain can be a daily struggle and can make falling asleep or waking up excruciating. The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid is a high-end mattress that can help you ease into sleep while relieving inflammation in the neck without the high-end cost ($999 for a queen). The Brooklyn Signature uses a foundation of coils to create airflow and help support a healthy sleeping position. With two layers of foam and a 1.5″ thick quilted cooling cover on top, that works to relieve pressure, keep you cool, and support you while you rest.
Moreover, the mattress is versatile, offering three firmness options to help accommodate your unique sleeping habits. Matching firmness to your sleeping style is key to finding a bed that can offer a healthy balance of comfort, relief, and support based on how you sleep. This is why Brooklyn’s multiple options stand out, making it more suitable for most sleepers struggling with neck pain to find relief regardless of whether they sleep on their side, back, or stomach.
Furthermore, while Brooklyn’s three top comfort layers help to cradle your neck and relieve pressure, some may worry that the foam materials may trap heat and leave you feeling warm when you fall asleep. However, likely due to the innerspring base and high-end foam technology, our testers found that Brooklyn was great for hot sleepers, giving it a 4/5 score for its temperature regulation. Regardless of how you sleep, the Brooklyn Bedding Signature likely has an option that suits you and can be a great solution to the agony of neck pain at night at an affordable rate compared to similar caliber beds.
What our testers say: “It’s a great match for combination sleepers, those who tend to shift position in the night. The Medium model offers both lumbar support and pressure relief, which is beneficial for most back and side sleepers.” –Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Love About the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
Brooklyn’s design and multiple firmness options make it a great choice for almost all sleeper types to find pressure relief for neck and back pain.
One of the most relieving aspects of the Brooklyn Bedding Signature mattress is its affordability, especially when compared to similar-grade luxury mattresses.
Testers found the mattress easy to move around and change positions on, making it a good choice for couples looking for a mattress together.
What to Keep in Mind About the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
Our testers found the bed to have subpar motion isolation.
While very versatile, heavier stomach sleepers may struggle to get the full support they need. We’d suggest looking at a mattress specifically designed for heavier bodies, like the Titan Plus, or Titan Plus Luxe (which we cover next in this roundup).
User reviews
There isn’t a full reviews section on the official Brooklyn Bedding website of the Signature Hybrid, but on Amazon, the bed has almost 150 global reviews, averaging a 4.4/5 rating. One verified customer attests, “This is a nice mattress. I got the medium firmness twin, and it’s perfect for me at 5’8″ and 150lbs. Nice and soft but still supportive. I’ve only slept a couple of nights on it, but it’s a huge improvement over the old boxspring I had—no more pain in my back, neck, and shoulders when waking up.”
Best Mattress for Heavy Sleepers with Neck and Shoulder Pain – Titan Plus Luxe
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 Luxe 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 6.5/10. This is the industry standard for medium-firm.
Price
$899-$1,799 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split California king
Side Sleepers
Great pressure relief for side sleepers over 230 lbs.
Back Sleepers
Great support for back sleepers, especially those over 300 lbs.
Pros of the Titan Plus Luxe
Heavyweight side sleepers will feel excellent pressure relief on this mattress. Its plush top will relieve almost all pressure on the shoulders and hips.
Heavyweight back sleepers will experience an excellent balance of comfort and support on this mattress. This plush layers will provide some contouring while the extra-supportive coils will hold up the body.
Hot sleepers should not overheat on this mattress. Gel infusions, airflow-promoting coils, and a breathable cover will help you sleep cool all night long.
Cons of the Titan Plus Luxe
If you are a lightweight person, the Titan Plus Luxe is not made with you in mind.
Heavier stomach sleepers will find this mattress to be too firm.
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 Titan Plus Luxe is an extra-supportive mattress that offers some nice comfort as well, making it a great option for heavier back and side sleepers. And, while most mattresses for heavy people are quite expensive, the Titan Plus Luxe is a great value. However, heavier stomach sleepers may need a firmer mattress. Learn more in our video review.
Our Editor’s Take
Finding a bed that’s pressure-relieving enough for joint pain but supportive enough for heavy sleepers can be a challenge. That’s where the Titan Plus Luxe comes in. A memory foam cover and proprietary foam designed for pressure point relief assist in relieving neck and shoulder pain. Still, there are sturdier foams and extremely supportive coils that provide support for heavier sleepers and ensure promote proper spinal alignment. This balance of pressure relief and support helps alleviate neck and shoulder pain.
What the testers say: “As a heavy sleeper myself, one of the first things I look for in a mattress is support. The Titan Plus kept me held up nicely, and I liked how the foams contoured around my joints. – Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Love About the Titan Plus Luxe
The Titan Plus Luxe was designed to support heavier people. It has strong coils that won’t sag over time. If you weigh more than 230 lb, you shouldn’t “bottom out” on this bed.
Though the Titan Plus Luxe features a coil layer, it isolates motion well. This is rare for a hybrid mattress. The top layers help isolate motion, which is great news for couples.
Hot sleepers should enjoy this mattress’ cooling benefits. The coils promote airflow, but if you are a particularly hot sleeper, you can upgrade to the cooling cover.
What to Keep in Mind About the Titan Plus Luxe
As mentioned, the Titan Plus Luxe is a great fit for sleepers who weigh more than 230 lbs. Because this was made with heavier people in mind, lightweight sleepers will find the Titan Plus Luxe to be too firm.
The Titan Plus Luxe is a bit too soft for heavier stomach sleepers. If you fall in this category, you may want to consider getting the original Titan Plus mattress instead.
The Titan Plus Luxe has a responsive feel. If you need more body contouring, or you’re a fan of a typical slow-moving memory foam feel, you may want to look elsewhere.
User reviews
On the Brooklyn Bedding website, customers gave the Titan Plus Luxe great reviews. Couples said the bed helped isolate motion well, and combination sleepers got the lumbar support they needed. Though most people found the Titan Plus Luxe mattress firm and supportive, some lighter people said the bed felt too soft. We recommend this mattress for people who weigh more than 230 lb.
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
Birch
Birch Luxe Natural
Firm Feel
Eco-Friendly
Breathable
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 Birch Luxe is a luxury hybrid mattress that uses natural foam and wool for comfort and steel coils for support.
Firmness
On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest and 10 being the firmest, we rated the Birch Luxe a 7.5/10, meaning it’s quite firm.
Price
$812-$1,649 (before discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
Back Sleepers
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleepers
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight stomach sleepers.
Hot Sleepers
This bed’s cooling features can help keep you from overheating at night.
Pros of the Birch Luxe
This bed is one of the firmer options, which is great if you like a bed with less sinkage and more pushback.
Birch Luxe sleeps exceptionally cool, from its cover to breathable coil base.
The Euro-top has you feeling like you’re sleeping in the lap of luxury, all wrapped in an eco-friendly package.
Cons of the Birch Luxe
As a more responsive mattress, you won’t feel hugged by the bed, which may not be preferable.
Organic and sustainably-sourced materials make the Birch Luxe one of our pricier picks.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
15-year warranty
Returns
Free refunds during the trial period.
Our Expert’s Take
A proper balance of comfort and support is recommended for those with neck and shoulder pain, and that’s why a medium-firm mattress is typically the best choice. However, what if you’re a stomach sleeper or a heavier sleeper who needs a firmer mattress for proper support? The Birch Luxe Natural is the eco-friendly solution to this. With a 7.5/10 on the firmness scale, this mattress should be especially comfortable for most back and stomach sleepers. Still, there’s a plush Euro top cover and four luxurious comfort layers to ease sleepers into the firmer surface and ultimately ease neck and shoulder pain.
What the testers say: “I generally don’t recommend firm mattresses for those with neck and shoulder pain, but the Birch manages to offer some pressure relief along with its firm feel. I’d recommend it as a good choice for back and stomach sleepers.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Love About the Birch Luxe Natural
This mattress is an organic and environmentally friendly mattress made with high-quality and eco-friendly materials, such as organic cotton, cashmere, and wool.
Latex foam is naturally cooling, so it won’t trap body heat. This is great for hot sleepers who are looking for a mattress to help them stay cool as they sleep.
Back and stomach sleepers need to ensure that they are receiving proper spinal support while sleeping, and since the latex foam feels particularly firm, this mattress is great for people who rest on their back and stomach.
What to Keep in Mind About the Birch Luxe Natural
Although this mattress is a good fit for back and stomach sleepers, some side sleepers might not find as much comfort since the mattress doesn’t offer enough pressure relief for side sleepers.
Organic materials cost more, so the Birch Luxe Natural has a higher price tag. If you’re a shopper on a budget, this mattress may not be a great fit.
The Birch Luxe is a bouncy mattress since it’s made from latex. Latex foam feels more responsive than memory foam. If you want more body contouring, consider the Nectar mattress instead.
User reviews
The Birch Luxe Natural mattress earns a 4.6/5 on the Birch website. Customers praised the mattresses cooling features, and others said that it offers excellent support. Some people left one-star reviews because the firm surface exacerbated their neck and shoulder pain. As we mentioned above, firm mattresses aren’t always the best for people with chronic pain. If you need more pressure relief, consider the Nectar or Saatva mattresses.
Sure, poor sleep posture can provoke neck and/or shoulder pain, but research also suggests that poor-quality sleep can exacerbate pain. But the relationship between sleep and pain isn’t just a one-way street, with poor sleep leading to pain. This relationship goes both ways.
Experts propose that pain can make it harder to fall and stay asleep, and it can diminish overall sleep quality. Even if a person who’s experiencing pain does manage to fall asleep, they may not feel well-rested in the morning. It’s a vicious cycle, with poor-quality sleep leading to more pain during the day and daytime pain leading to worse sleep at night.
Serious health conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, meningitis, and cancer.
Shoulder Pain Causes
Like neck pain, shoulder pain can stem from a variety of causes. These include:
Muscle strains
Muscle tension
Frozen shoulder
Osteoarthritis
Rotator cuff injury
Shoulder bursitis (inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs that cushion the shoulder joint)
Shoulder impingement syndrome
Everyday activities can trigger the causes leading to neck and/or shoulder pain. These include doing housework, playing with the kids, slumping over a computer or phone all day, carrying a shoulder bag, and sleeping with poor posture. Additionally, stress can trigger and exacerbate pain in the neck and/or shoulders.
What to Look for in a Mattress for Neck and Shoulder Pain
A lumpy, sagging, or excessively firm or soft mattress can contribute to neck and shoulder pain. If a person’s bed falls into any of those categories (or is uncomfortable for any other reason), then it’s a good idea to shop for a new mattress. To increase the chances of buying a mattress that doesn’t exacerbate neck and shoulder pain, consider the following guidelines.
Firmness
A medium-firm mattress is the best choice for people who have neck and shoulder pain. Newer research suggests medium firmness should support spinal alignment while also offering pressure relief. That said, note that firmness is somewhat subjective. What matters most is that the individual sleeper in question feels comfortable.
Sleeping Position
A person’s body type and sleeping position will impact the perceived firmness of a mattress as well as the support needed. For instance:
Lightweight side sleepers want a softer mattress to enjoy enough pressure relief around the shoulder.
Lightweight stomach or back sleepers should be happy with a medium bed balancing comfort with support. Read our best mattress for lightweight sleepers page for more information.
Average-weight side sleepers may prefer a mattress between medium and medium-firm.
Average-weight stomach and back sleepers should find proper support on a medium-firm mattress.
Heavyweight stomach or back sleepers will probably need a firm mattress in order to enjoy adequate spinal support.
As a general rule, back and stomach sleepers need to prioritize spinal alignment, while side sleepers will want to emphasize pressure relief.
Motion isolation
This term refers to a bed’s ability to minimize motion transfer across the mattress. Partners who don’t want to be disturbed by each other’s movements should look for a mattress that absorbs motion well, such as memory foam. Finding a mattress with great motion isolation may allow you to stay asleep longer, and help keep partners from waking each other through the night and causing excessive tossing and turning, which may contribute to neck and shoulder pain.
Edge support
When the edges of a mattress feel sturdy, you can lay near the edge without feeling like you’re going to roll off. Falling off of your mattress can of course contribute to injury, but even the feeling of falling off can cause disturbances in your sleep, and take away from getting a good night’s rest.
Noise
A squeaky or otherwise noisy mattress can cause disturbances during the night and may wake you up from your sleep or cause unnecessary tossing and turning throughout the night. A noise-free mattress, on the other hand, can promote quality sleep and potentially help prevent any further neck or shoulder pain.
Temperature Regulation
A mattress’s temperature won’t affect neck or shoulder pain directly, but it can have a big impact on a person’s ability to fall and stay asleep. If someone is already suffering from pain, then the last thing they need is discomfort on a stuffy mattress. As a remedy, look for a bed designed with breathability and temperature neutrality in mind.
If sleeping hot is a big problem for you, then you may want to take a look at our best cooling mattress list.
Durability
As we’ve noted, a lumpy or saggy mattress can exacerbate neck or shoulder pain. The more durable a mattress, the longer it will take before it develops dips and bumps. Folks who want to prevent or minimize neck or shoulder pain will benefit from purchasing a mattress made with durable materials such as latex or pocketed coils. Check out our list of the best mattresses that won’t sag to see some of the most durable mattresses we’ve tested.
Budget
Everyone has a different budget, and it’s important to determine an appropriate price range before embarking on the quest for a new mattress. Not only will this help narrow down the list of available options, but it will also spare shoppers from finding a bed they love only to discover that it’s way outside their price range.
What Are the Best Sleeping Positions for Neck or Shoulder Pain?
A person’s sleeping position can impact whether they develop neck or shoulder pain, and it can also ease or exacerbate existing pain.
Sleeping Position
Good for Neck Pain?
Good for Shoulder Pain?
Side-Sleeping
✔️
X
Back-Sleeping
✔️
✔️
Stomach-Sleeping
X
✔️
Side-Sleeping
Harvard Health states side-sleeping is one of the best sleeping positions to prevent neck pain. If you’re a side sleeper with neck pain, sleep on a pillow that promotes proper alignment. Memory foam and feather pillows are great for side sleepers because these materials conform to the neck’s shape. We recommend checking out the Tuft & Needle Pillow if you’re a side sleeper with neck pain!
However, side-sleeping can be dicey for those dealing with shoulder pain. Side-sleeping can cause pressure to build up in the shoulder, which can exacerbate pain. These folks should make sure to sleep on the non-affected side until the pain has cleared up. One small study found that 67% of participants slept on the side with the painful shoulder. That’s not going to help!
Back-Sleeping
Along with side-sleeping, back-sleeping is one of the best sleeping positions for people with neck and shoulder pain. Back sleepers should avoid using a pillow that’s too high or stiff because it elevates the neck out of neutral alignment (try checking out the SpineAlign pillow if you’re a back sleeper with neck pain). Back sleepers with neck pain may want to try using a cervical pillow, which supports the natural curvature of the spine.
Back-sleeping won’t place undue pressure on either shoulder. Just allow the arms to rest loosely along the body. One small study found that people who sleep on their back with their dominant hand on their forehead are more likely to experience shoulder pain.
Stomach-Sleeping
Stomach-sleeping is not recommended for people with neck pain because the neck is turned to the side and cannot maintain neutral alignment. Sleeping on your stomach also puts a lot of strain on the neck because of the way your head is inclined on a pillow.
If you’re a stomach sleeper with neck pain, you may want to train yourself to sleep on your back or your side. If that isn’t an option for you, be sure you sleep on a thin pillow ideal for stomach sleepers.
Best Mattress Type for Neck and Shoulder Pain
Now that we’ve covered some general guidelines for shopping for a mattress for neck and shoulder pain, let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of different types of mattresses.
Mattress Type
Good for Neck Pain and Shoulder Pain?
Innerspring
✔️
Memory Foam
✔️
Hybrid
✔️
Latex
✔️
Airbed
✔️
Innerspring
As the name implies, an innerspring mattress is composed primarily of springs (or coils). This creates a supportive, bouncy feel. The supportive nature of an innerspring mattress can be useful in maintaining spinal alignment, especially for neck or shoulder pain sufferers looking to transition to back-sleeping. Folks wedded to stomach-sleeping should also find the support they need on an innerspring mattress.
Another perk of innerspring beds is that they tend to be more economical. If you can’t afford a more expensive latex or hybrid mattress, you could purchase an innerspring bed and then modify it to your comfort preferences. This can be done by adding a mattress topper. To maximize durability, look for an innerspring mattress made with pocketed coils.
Memory Foam
Memory foam mattresses are known for being highly pressure-relieving. This is because the material conforms to a sleeper’s body and contours around pressure points like the shoulders or hips.
Underneath their memory foam comfort layer, there’s a supportive layer normally made from a firmer polyfoam, which offers some support to the hips and spine. Memory foam specializes in cradling pressure relief, which is useful for anyone experiencing shoulder pain.
Hybrid
A hybrid mattress combines supportive coils with plenty of comfort from materials such as memory foam, wool, or latex. This is great for folks dealing with neck and/or shoulder pain, because the supportive coils promote spinal alignment while the comfort layer offers plenty of pressure relief. Hybrid mattresses can also be a good fit for those dealing with sciatica, lower back pain or hip pain.
Latex
Latex mattresses are often produced from natural or synthetic materials, all of which are known for durability, bounce, and slight contouring. Natural latex is also heralded as a fairly eco-friendly mattress material, and it creates a cool sleeping environment.
The mixture of bounciness and contouring can work well for both back and side sleepers, who need a balance of spinal support and pressure relief. That pressure relief doesn’t come at the expense of feeling “stuck” in the mattress (a criticism of memory foam).
Airbed
Not to be confused with air mattresses, airbeds are luxury mattresses with a support core made of adjustable air chambers. The support core might be layered beneath a comfort layer made from foam or latex.
The main perk of airbeds is that they allow sleepers to personalize the firmness of their bed. This means people can change the feel of their bed depending on their pain levels and preferred sleeping position on a given night.
Sleeping Tips to Help Relieve Neck and Shoulder Pain
The way a person sleeps can help prevent neck and shoulder pain. It can also ease neck and shoulder pain stemming from a non-sleeping cause. Adopt the following tips to sleep better with neck and shoulder pain.
Sleep on a mattress that balances plenty of spinal support with some pressure relief.
Invest in pillows supporting healthy spinal alignment. Side sleepers need a pillow that keeps their neck aligned with the head and the middle of the shoulders. Back sleepers need flatter pillows supporting the spine’s natural curvature. Stomach sleepers should look for thinner pillows no more than 3” in height. Our best pillows for neck pain piece lists a number of options that will keep the spine properly aligned.
As noted above, be mindful of sleeping positions. People dealing with neck pain should stick to back and/or side-sleeping, while people with shoulder pain are better off on their back and should avoid side-sleeping until their condition clears up.
Travel with a small pillow to support the neck while sleeping upright in a train, plane, or car.
Before climbing into bed, practice some gentle neck and shoulder stretches. This helps loosen tight muscles and lessen pain so it’s easier to fall and stay asleep.
Other Tips to Relieve Neck and Shoulder Pain
Outside of sleeping, a few lifestyle tweaks can help reduce the chances of suffering from neck or shoulder pain. For instance:
Practice proper posture. While standing or sitting, align the ears over the shoulders and the shoulders over the hips.
People who work at a computer should adjust the desk, chair, and computer to support proper ergonomics. The knees should be slightly lower than the hips, and the monitor should be at eye level.
Take frequent stretch breaks during the workday and while traveling.
When talking on the phone, use a headset or speakerphone. Avoid tucking the phone between the ear and shoulder.
Exercise regularly to strengthen the muscles around the spine and shoulder.
While texting or scrolling on the phone, hold it at eye level so the neck doesn’t tip forward.
If possible, avoid repetitive motions such as lifting and throwing, as these can strain the shoulder joint.
Quit smoking, as it’s been linked to a higher risk of neck pain (among other serious health issues).
Experiment with hot or cold packs to see if they relieve the pain
If none of these tips are easing the pain (or if the pain is severe and persistent), then it’s time to chat with a doctor or physical therapist. They’ll be able to suggest next steps, which might include taking over-the-counter or prescription anti-inflammatories, physical therapy, or corticosteroid injections. In the most severe cases, surgery may be necessary. Hopefully, a few tweaks to a person’s sleeping environment and lifestyle habits will make a world of difference.
Summary
Here’s a summary of the best mattresses for neck and shoulder pain:
What is the best mattress for neck and shoulder pain?
Out of the mattresses we have chosen, we would say the Saatva is the best option for neck and shoulder pain. It features an excellent balance of comfort and support that should relieve pain in key areas while keeping the spine neutrally-aligned.
Can your mattress cause neck or shoulder pain?
A mattress can cause shoulder pain if it is too firm. If someone chooses a pillow that is too thin or too lofty, this can also lead to neck pain.
How should I sleep to avoid neck pain?
Finding the correct pillow can help sleepers avoid neck pain. They should consider their sleeping positions and go from there. Back sleepers will want a mattress with medium loft, side sleepers will want something loftier, and stomach sleepers should choose something on the thinner side.
Is a memory foam mattress good for neck pain?
It can be, but it really depends on the pillow. As long as the mattress keeps thee spine in neutral alignment and the pillow keeps the neck straight, sleepers should be resting with no real pain.
Can a bad mattress cause neck and shoulder pain?
The short answer? Yes, a bad mattress can cause neck or shoulder pain, and it can also exacerbate the pain a person already experiences.
For instance, a sagging or lumpy mattress can throw the cervical spine (aka the neck) out of alignment, leading to tension or strain. There’s also some evidence that a too-firm mattress can place a lot of pressure on the shoulders and other joints, thus contributing to aches and pains. A mattress that’s too soft isn’t any better though; if your hips drop too far into the mattress, gravity can create pressure as it drags on the shoulder.
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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.
