Best Orthopedic Mattresses: Customer Favorites

An orthopedic mattress is designed with features that can help alleviate back pain and achy joints. Most orthopedic mattresses are supportive enough to promote even alignment and reduce pressure buildup along the spine. These mattresses also have comfort layers with ample cushioning to soothe sore and achy spots. However, there are no certifications or official requirements for “orthopedic” mattresses, so the definition is a bit vague.

The best orthopedic mattress for any given sleeper depends on a few factors. Sleep position and body type are the two most important considerations – the “best” mattress for a side sleeper under 130 pounds may not be a good fit for a back or stomach sleeper over 230 pounds. Finding a mattress that provides adequate support for your body in your preferred sleep position will help ensure back and joint pain doesn’t affect your nightly rest.

Doctors usually recommend mattresses that reduce pain to help you sleep comfortably. However, most medical experts agree a mattress alone won’t “fix” longstanding pain. If pain is keeping you up at night, investing in a new mattress might help you sleep better. Your doctor can also make recommendations for treatments, lifestyle changes, and other measures that will decrease your pain over time.

Yes, some orthopedic mattresses are firm, but others are designed to feel softer. Sleepers over 230 pounds often benefit the most from firm mattresses – especially if they sleep on their back and/or stomach. We recommend taking advantage of free online mattress “sleep trials” to see whether or not a firm mattress is best for you.

Some orthopedic mattresses have springs. Traditional innersprings have thin foam layers and thick steel coils, while hybrid mattresses have thicker foam or latex layers and springs encased in fabric to reduce noise and motion transfer. Most people with orthopedic needs find hybrids more comfortable because they offer deeper cushioning and feel plusher on the surface without sacrificing their overall support.

How long an orthopedic mattress lasts depends on its construction. There are five general types of mattresses. Based on our own product testing as well as mattress owner surveys and experiences, we’ve calculated the average lifespan for each mattress type:

• Foam: 6 to 7 years
• Innerspring: 5 to 7 years
• Hybrid: 6 to 8 years
• Latex: 7 to 9 years
• Airbed: 5 to 8 years