Mattress for Arthritis:Waking up with stiff, achy joints? You’re not alone! About one-third of adults in the United States have arthritis, and many struggle to get a good night’s sleep because of pain and discomfort. The right mattress can make a huge difference in how you feel when you wake up each morning. This guide will help you find the perfect mattress to ease your arthritis pain and help you sleep better.

Table of Contents

Have you ever wondered why your arthritis pain feels worse after a night on the wrong mattress? The connection between your sleep surface and joint pain is stronger than you might think!

Top 10 Mattress for Arthritis Relief

1. WinkBed – Best Overall

The WinkBed’s four firmness options (soft to plus) suit all sleepers. Its zoned coil system supports heavier areas like hips, while the gel-infused foam top cools and cushions joints. Rated 8.9/10 by Sleep Foundation testers, it’s ideal for side and back sleepers needing adjustable support.

2. Saatva Rx – Best Luxury

This hybrid mattress uses medical-grade foam to reduce pressure on shoulders and hips. Its organic cotton cover feels luxurious, and free in-home setup helps those with mobility issues. Though pricey, it’s backed by a 365-night trial.

3. Leesa Oasis Chill Hybrid – Best Pressure Relief

Copper-infused foam reduces inflammation while cooling gel prevents overheating. Perfect for side sleepers under 230 lbs, its medium-soft feel cradles joints without sinking too deep.

4. Sleepwell Spinetech Air Luxury – Best for Spinal Support

Featured in Sleepwell’s research, this mattress uses 3-zoned foam to align your spine and Impression foam to distribute weight evenly. The knitted fabric cover adds plush comfort, ideal for lower back pain.

5. Sleepwell Ortho Pro Profiled – Best Budget Pick

With cool gel-infused foam and five support layers, this mattress adapts to your body. Its medium-firm feel balances cushioning and support, great for hip and knee arthritis.

6. Helix Midnight Luxe – Best for Side Sleepers

A pillow-top hybrid with zoned lumbar support. The memory foam layer relieves shoulder and hip pressure, while coils keep your spine neutral. Rated 8.5/10 for cooling.

7. Nectar Premier – Best Memory Foam

This mattress scored high in pressure relief during Sleep Doctor tests. Its thick foam layers cradle joints, and the heat-wicking cover prevents night sweats.

8. Layla Memory Foam – Best Flippable Design

One side is soft for rheumatoid arthritis, the other firm for osteoarthritis. The copper-infused foam reduces stiffness, and it’s $1,099-a steal for dual firmness.

9. Bear Elite Hybrid – Best for Active Lifestyles

Used by athletes, its responsive latex and cooling gel help you move easily. The targeted support reduces hip and knee pain during position changes.

10. Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Adapt – Best for Severe Pain

Tempur-Pedic’s NASA-inspired foam molds to your body, easing pressure on swollen joints. Though expensive, it’s a top pick for chronic pain relief.

When to Replace Your Mattress

Replace yours if:

It’s older than 7 years
You wake up with more pain
You see sags deeper than 1.5 inches

How Arthritis Affects Your Sleep?

Arthritis causes joint pain, stiffness, and inflammation that can make it hard to fall asleep and stay asleep. When you can’t sleep well, your pain often feels worse the next day. This creates a frustrating cycle – pain disrupts sleep, and poor sleep increases pain.

“There’s a reciprocal relationship between pain and poor sleep. The poorer people sleep, the more pain they tend to be in,” says Kevin Fontaine, PhD, assistant professor of rheumatology at Johns Hopkins University. “If people with arthritis can improve the quality of their sleep, they can usually reduce their day-to-day pain.”8

Many arthritis sufferers notice their symptoms get worse at night. This happens because:

You’re not moving around as much when trying to sleep
Your body produces less natural pain-relieving hormones at night
You notice pain more when there are fewer distractions
Your mattress might put pressure on already sensitive joints

Why Your Mattress Matters So Much?

Your mattress is super important if you have arthritis. A bad mattress can:

Put extra pressure on painful joints
Force your spine into an unnatural position
Make inflammation worse
Make it harder to change positions during the night
Cause you to wake up more often

But a good mattress can:

Support your body weight evenly
Cushion sensitive joints
Keep your spine properly aligned
Reduce pressure points
Help you stay asleep longer

Types of Mattresses for Arthritis

There are several types of mattresses to choose from, and each has different benefits for people with arthritis. Let’s look at the main types:

Memory Foam Mattresses

Memory foam is a special material that molds to your body shape when you lie on it. It’s like getting a gentle hug from your mattress!

Good points:

Forms to your body’s shape
Reduces pressure on painful joints
Stops motion transfer (good if you share a bed)
Helps keep your spine straight

Not-so-good points:

Can trap heat and make you feel hot
Might make it harder to move or change positions
Sometimes has weaker edge support
Some people find it feels too “sinking”

Latex Mattresses

Latex mattresses are made from either natural rubber tree sap or synthetic materials.

Good points:

Bouncy and responsive
Good pressure relief
More cooling than memory foam
Often made from natural materials
Usually lasts a long time

Not-so-good points:

Can be expensive, especially natural latex
Might not reduce motion transfer as well
Some have weak edges
Heavier and harder to move

Hybrid Mattresses

Hybrid mattresses combine coils with layers of foam or latex on top. They try to give you the best of both worlds!

Good points:

Good balance of support and comfort
Better airflow for cooler sleeping
Strong edge support
Responsive and easier to move on

Not-so-good points:

Can transfer motion more than all-foam mattresses
Sometimes more expensive
Heavier than all-foam mattresses
Might not provide as much pressure relief as memory foam alone

Innerspring Mattresses

Traditional innerspring mattresses use steel coils for support with thin comfort layers on top.

Good points:

Generally more affordable
Good airflow and cooling
Easy to move around on
Good support

Not-so-good points:

Usually less pressure relief
More motion transfer
Can create pressure points for arthritis sufferers
May wear out faster in some cases

Airbeds

Airbeds use air chambers that can be filled or emptied to change firmness levels.

Good points:

Adjustable firmness (great for changing arthritis symptoms)
Can have different settings on each side
Long-lasting if well maintained
Good for people whose needs change often

Not-so-good points:

Often very expensive
May require electricity
More parts that could break
Setup can be complicated

What Firmness Level is Best for Arthritis?

One of the most important things about a mattress is how firm it feels. For arthritis, finding the right firmness can really help with pain.

The best firmness depends on:

What type of arthritis you have
Your body weight
Your favorite sleeping position
Personal preference

Most experts suggest medium to medium-firm mattresses for arthritis. A large study from 2003 showed that medium-firm mattresses helped people with back and joint pain the most.

If you have osteoarthritis: You might prefer a slightly firmer mattress that provides good support.

If you have rheumatoid arthritis: A slightly softer mattress with more cushioning might feel better on painful joints.

If you weigh under 130 pounds: You might need a softer mattress to allow enough sinking for pressure relief.

If you weigh between 130-230 pounds: Medium to medium-firm mattresses usually work well.

If you weigh over 230 pounds: You may need a firmer mattress to provide enough support and prevent sinking too deeply.

Remember, even these are just starting points. Everyone’s body and comfort preferences are different!

How Your Sleeping Position Affects Arthritis Pain?

The way you sleep can make a big difference in your arthritis pain. Different positions put pressure on different joints.

Side Sleeping

Side sleeping is very popular and can be good for many people with arthritis.

Benefits:

Reduces pressure on your back
Good for spine alignment with the right mattress
Can help with snoring and sleep apnea

Challenges:

Creates pressure points at shoulders and hips
Can cause pain if your mattress is too firm

Mattress needs: Side sleepers usually need a medium-soft to medium mattress that lets shoulders and hips sink in a little while supporting the waist.

Pro tip: Try placing a pillow between your knees to keep your spine aligned and reduce stress on your hips.

Back Sleeping

Back sleeping naturally aligns the spine and can be very comfortable for arthritis sufferers.

Benefits:

Distributes weight evenly
Keeps spine in a neutral position
Reduces pressure on joints

Challenges:

Can cause lower back pain if your mattress doesn’t provide enough lumbar support
May worsen snoring or sleep apnea

Mattress needs: Back sleepers usually do well with medium to medium-firm mattresses that support the natural curve of the spine.

Pro tip: A small pillow under your knees can help maintain the natural curve in your lower back.

Stomach Sleeping

Stomach sleeping is generally not recommended if you have arthritis.

Challenges:

Forces your neck to turn to one side
Can cause neck and back pain
Places strain on the spine

Mattress needs: If you must sleep on your stomach, a firmer mattress helps prevent your midsection from sinking too deeply, which would arch your back uncomfortably.

Pro tip: Try to train yourself to sleep in a different position, or use a very thin pillow to reduce neck strain.

Top Features to Look for in an Arthritis-Friendly Mattress

When shopping for a mattress to help with arthritis, these features are especially important:

Pressure Relief

Good pressure relief means the mattress distributes your weight evenly and prevents pressure from building up on painful joints. Look for:

Contouring foams
Zoned support (firmer under heavier parts of your body, softer under lighter parts)
Sufficient comfort layers on top

Support

A supportive mattress keeps your spine aligned and prevents you from sinking in too deeply. Look for:

Strong support core
Reinforced edges
Adequate transition layers
Proper support for your body weight

Motion Isolation

If you share a bed, good motion isolation means you won’t feel your partner’s movements. This is important because:

You’ll be disturbed less during the night
Less movement means less pain
Better sleep quality overall

Memory foam mattresses typically have the best motion isolation.

Temperature Regulation

Many people with arthritis are sensitive to temperature changes. Look for:

Cooling gels in foam
Open-cell foam structures
Phase-change materials
Breathable covers
Good airflow in hybrid or innerspring designs

Edge Support

Strong edge support makes it easier to:

Get in and out of bed
Sit on the edge without sliding off
Use the entire surface area of the mattress

This is especially important if you have mobility issues from arthritis6.

Ease of Movement

Changing positions helps prevent stiffness, so look for:

Responsive materials like latex
Hybrid designs that offer both cushioning and bounce
Mattresses that don’t make you feel “stuck”

Top Mattress Recommendations for Arthritis (2025)

Based on expert reviews and testing, these mattresses are frequently recommended for people with arthritis:

WinkBed

The WinkBed consistently ranks as a top choice for arthritis sufferers. It offers:

Four firmness options to suit different needs
Strong edge support to help with getting in and out of bed
Zoned support system that provides extra support where needed
Good pressure relief from the pillow top
Excellent durability

The variety of firmness options makes it versatile for different types of arthritis and sleeping positions1.

Leesa Oasis Chill Hybrid

The Leesa Oasis Chill Hybrid excels at pressure relief, which is crucial for painful joints. Features include:

Gel-infused foam for cooling
Copper-infused memory foam (may help reduce inflammation)
Available in medium-soft and medium firmness
Good for side and back sleepers up to 230 pounds
Especially helpful for shoulder and hip pain

Helix Midnight Luxe

This mattress offers balanced support and pressure relief that works well for multiple sleeping positions. It features:

Medium firmness that works for most arthritis sufferers
Pillow top for extra cushioning
Zoned lumbar support
Good motion isolation for couples
Premium cooling cover

Nectar Luxe

The Nectar Luxe provides the deep pressure relief of memory foam, which can be ideal for arthritis pain:

Thick comfort layers cradle joints
Medium firmness suitable for most sleepers
Excellent motion isolation
Good value for the quality
365-night trial period

Sleepwell Spinetech Air Luxury

This mattress is specifically designed with joint pain relief in mind:

3-zoned profiled foam for targeted support
Impression foam layer for even pressure distribution
Premium knitted fabric with plush box top
Multiple layers (eight in total) for comprehensive comfort
Especially good for back and lumbar support

DreamCloud Premier Rest

This luxury hybrid is particularly good for side sleepers with hip and shoulder arthritis:

Plush pillow top for pressure relief
Supportive coil system for proper alignment
Balanced feel that’s not too soft or too firm
Good cooling properties
Generous warranty and trial period

Special Options: Adjustable Beds for Arthritis

Adjustable beds can be a game-changer for people with severe arthritis. These beds let you change the position of your head and feet, which can:

Distribute weight more evenly – This reduces pressure on painful joints by supporting all parts of your body properly17.
Find the perfect position – With the touch of a button, you can find the most comfortable position for your specific arthritis pain12.
Improve blood flow – Elevating certain parts of your body can improve circulation, which may help reduce inflammation in your joints17.
Make it easier to get in and out of bed – The ability to raise the head of the bed can make transitioning from lying to sitting and then standing much easier on painful joints12.
Help with specific conditions – For example, elevating your legs can help with knee arthritis, while raising your upper body slightly can ease shoulder and neck pain.

While adjustable beds cost more than standard beds, many arthritis sufferers find the investment worthwhile for the pain relief and improved sleep they provide17.

Helpful Add-Ons: Mattress Toppers and Pillows

Sometimes, a new mattress isn’t in the budget, or your current mattress just needs a little improvement. This is where toppers and pillows can help:

Mattress Toppers for Arthritis

A good mattress topper can:

Add pressure relief to a too-firm mattress
Provide extra support to a too-soft mattress
Be replaced more affordably than a whole mattress

Latex toppers: Provide responsive support and moderate contouring. The Turmerry Latex Mattress Topper is specifically recommended for arthritis relief with its 7-zone design that provides targeted support.

Memory foam toppers: Offer excellent pressure relief and can transform the feel of a too-firm mattress. Look for options with cooling features if you sleep hot.

Wool or fiber toppers: Add softness and some pressure relief while helping regulate temperature.

Pillows for Arthritis

The right pillow is just as important as the right mattress, especially if you have neck or shoulder arthritis.

For neck arthritis:

Look for a pillow that supports your neck without tilting your head forward when lying on your back
A contour pillow with a wave shape can provide good support
Consider the right loft (height) for your sleeping position and body size

For side sleepers:

Use a pillow that fills the gap between your head and shoulder
Consider a body pillow to support your whole body
Place a pillow between your knees to align your spine and reduce hip pressure

For back sleepers:

Choose a medium-loft pillow that supports the natural curve of your neck
Consider a wedge pillow to slightly elevate your upper body if you have shoulder pain
A small pillow under your knees can reduce lower back strain

Pillow materials for arthritis:

Memory foam provides excellent support and keeps its shape
Latex offers good support with more responsiveness
Buckwheat pillows are adjustable and maintain their shape well
Microbead pillows are shapeable and cooling16

Creating a Better Evening Routine with Arthritis

What you do before bed can make a big difference in how well you sleep with arthritis. A good evening routine helps prepare your body and joints for rest:

1. Time Your Pain Medication Right

If your doctor has prescribed pain medication, consider taking it in the evening if your symptoms are worse at night. This can help you fall asleep more comfortably. Always follow your doctor’s instructions about when to take medications.

2. Use Heat Therapy Before Bed

Applying heat to painful joints 15-20 minutes before bed can help relax muscles and reduce pain:

Use a heating pad on sore joints
Take a warm bath or shower
Try heated gloves or socks for hand and foot arthritis

Just be sure to give your body time to cool down afterward, as being too hot can make falling asleep difficult.

3. Simplify Your Dinner Routine

Cooking a big meal when you have arthritis can be exhausting and increase evening pain. Try these ideas:

Use an instant pot or slow cooker for easy meals
Prep meals in the morning when you might have more energy
Consider batch cooking on good days to freeze meals for later
Keep dinner simple and nutritious

4. Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water throughout the day and have a glass of water in the evening. Staying hydrated helps:

Keep joints lubricated
Reduce fatigue
Prevent nighttime cramping

Just don’t drink too much right before bed to avoid nighttime bathroom trips.

5. Elevate Your Feet

Putting your feet up in the evening can help reduce inflammation and swelling:

Sit with your feet higher than your heart for 15-30 minutes
Use pillows to prop up your legs
Try an adjustable recliner if you have one

This simple practice can help decrease joint pain and prepare your body for sleep.

6. Limit Electronic Devices

The blue light from phones, tablets, and computers can make it harder to fall asleep. Try to:

Stop using electronic devices at least an hour before bed
Use night mode or blue light filters if you must use devices
Replace screen time with relaxing activities like reading or gentle stretching

7. Avoid Late Night Eating

Eating too close to bedtime can disrupt your sleep and potentially increase inflammation:

Try to finish eating at least 2-3 hours before bed
Avoid sugary snacks and processed foods in the evening
If you need a bedtime snack, choose anti-inflammatory options like cherries, nuts, or herbal tea

Helpful Bedtime Stretches for Arthritis

Gentle stretching before bed can help ease joint stiffness and prepare your body for sleep. Here are some simple stretches that can help:

Neck Stretches

Neck Rolls:

Sit comfortably with good posture
Slowly roll your head in a circle
Do 5 circles in each direction
Keep movements gentle and slow

Neck Tilts:

Gently tilt your head toward one shoulder
Hold for 15-20 seconds
Return to center and tilt to the other side
Repeat 3 times on each side

Shoulder Stretches

Shoulder Circles:

Roll your shoulders forward 5 times
Roll your shoulders backward 5 times
Keep the movements slow and smooth

Cross-Body Shoulder Stretch:

Bring one arm across your chest
Use the opposite hand to gently pull the arm closer
Hold for 20-30 seconds
Switch arms and repeat

Hand and Wrist Stretches

Finger Fans:

Spread your fingers wide apart
Hold for 5 seconds
Relax your hands
Repeat 5-10 times

Wrist Circles:

Extend your arms in front of you
Make circles with your wrists
Do 10 circles in each direction

Hip and Knee Stretches

Knee to Chest:

Lie on your back
Slowly bring one knee toward your chest
Hold with your hands for 20-30 seconds
Switch legs and repeat

Gentle Hip Rotations:

Lie on your back with knees bent
Keeping knees together, gently let them fall to one side
Hold for 10-15 seconds
Return to center and repeat on the other side

Remember to keep all stretches gentle and stop if you feel pain. The goal is to feel a mild stretch, not pain.

Temperature Management for Arthritis Pain

Temperature can greatly affect how arthritis feels. Managing it well can help you sleep better:

Cooling Options

Many people with inflammatory arthritis find that keeping cool helps reduce pain:

Cooling mattress toppers with gel-infused foam or phase-change materials
Breathable sheets made of cotton, bamboo, or linen
Cooling pillows with gel inserts or shredded fill for better airflow
Bedroom temperature kept between 65-68°F (18-20°C), which experts say is ideal for sleep
Ceiling fans or portable fans to increase air circulation

Warming Options

For some types of arthritis, especially osteoarthritis, warmth can help:

Electric blankets with adjustable settings (use before sleep or on low settings)
Heated mattress pads that warm the bed before you get in
Microwavable heat packs for specific painful joints
Warm socks for foot and ankle arthritis
Flannel sheets that feel warmer to the touch

Balancing Act

Some people benefit from both heat and cooling at different times:

Use heat before bed to relax muscles
Sleep on a cooling mattress to prevent overheating during the night
Layer bedding so you can adjust as needed
Consider dual-zone options if you share a bed with someone who has different temperature preferences

How to Test a Mattress When You Have Arthritis?

Finding the perfect mattress means properly testing it first. Here’s how to do it effectively:

Wear Comfortable Clothes

Dress as you would for bed so you can get a realistic feel for the mattress.

Lie Down for at Least 15 Minutes

A quick sit or lie-down won’t tell you much. Spend at least 15 minutes on each mattress you’re seriously considering.

Try Your Normal Sleep Positions

Test the mattress in all the positions you typically sleep in. Pay attention to:

How your spine feels
Pressure on your joints
How easy it is to change positions
Whether you feel properly supported

Check Edge Support

Sit on the edge of the mattress to test its support. This is important for getting in and out of bed easily.

Bring Your Partner

If you share a bed, both of you should test the mattress together to check:

Motion transfer
Whether it accommodates different body types and preferences
If you both have enough space

Ask About Trial Periods

Many companies offer sleep trials ranging from 30 to 365 nights. This is the best way to truly test a mattress. Make sure you understand:

How long the trial lasts
Return policy and any fees
If you need to try the mattress for a minimum period

Check Return Policies

Before buying, understand what happens if the mattress doesn’t work for you:

Is there a return fee?
Who handles the pickup?
Will you get a full refund?

Consider Online Options

Many online mattress companies offer generous trial periods and free returns, which can be easier than testing in a store if you have mobility issues.

Understanding Warranties and Trial Periods

When investing in a mattress for arthritis relief, understanding the fine print is important:

Sleep Trials

Most quality mattresses come with a sleep trial:

Typically range from 100 to 365 nights
Allow you to test the mattress in your home
Some require a minimum trial period (usually 30 days)

The WinkBed offers a 120-night trial with a 30-night minimum requirement, while the Nectar mattress provides a full year to test their mattresses1 5.

Warranty Coverage

Warranties protect against manufacturing defects, but coverage varies:

Length ranges from 10 years to lifetime warranties
Most cover sagging beyond a certain depth (typically 1-1.5 inches)
Usually don’t cover normal softening over time
May be voided by stains or using the wrong foundation

Return Policies

If the mattress doesn’t work for you, know what to expect:

Some companies offer free returns with full refunds
Others charge a return fee
Most arrange pickup of unwanted mattresses
Many donate returned mattresses to charity

Delivery Options

Consider delivery when making your purchase:

White glove delivery (includes setup and old mattress removal)
Standard delivery to your door
Bed-in-a-box convenience

White glove delivery can be particularly helpful if you have mobility limitations from arthritis.

Budget-Friendly Options for Arthritis Relief

A good mattress for arthritis doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are some affordable approaches:

Mattress Toppers

A quality topper can transform your current mattress for a fraction of the cost of a new one:

Memory foam toppers add pressure relief
Latex toppers provide responsive support
Wool toppers offer natural temperature regulation
Prices typically range from $50-$300 depending on quality and materials

Sales and Discounts

Mattresses are frequently discounted:

Holiday sales (Memorial Day, Labor Day, Black Friday)
End-of-season clearance events
Floor models at significant discounts
Coupon codes from manufacturer websites

Direct-to-Consumer Brands

Online mattress companies often offer better values by cutting out the middleman:

Fewer overhead costs
More competitive pricing
Still offer quality materials and construction

Consider Hybrids

Some hybrid mattresses provide excellent support and pressure relief at middle-range prices:

The combination of springs and foam can be more affordable than all-latex options
Still provides good support for arthritis sufferers
Often more durable than budget all-foam options

Look for Simplified Models

Some manufacturers offer simplified versions of their popular models:

Fewer layers but similar support
Less elaborate covers
Core technologies at a more accessible price point

Additional Sleep Tips for Arthritis Sufferers

Beyond choosing the right mattress, these strategies can help you sleep better with arthritis:

Create a Sleep Schedule

Going to bed and waking up at the same times helps regulate your body’s internal clock:

Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night
Keep your schedule consistent even on weekends
Create a bedtime routine that signals to your body it’s time to sleep

Manage Pain Before Bed

Work with your healthcare provider to develop a pain management plan:

Time medications appropriately
Consider topical pain relievers before bed
Use hot or cold therapy as recommended for your type of arthritis

Make Your Bedroom Sleep-Friendly

Your sleep environment matters:

Keep the room dark (use blackout curtains if needed)
Maintain a cool temperature
Reduce noise with earplugs or white noise machines
Remove electronic devices or at least turn off notifications

Stay Active During the Day

Regular gentle exercise helps reduce arthritis pain and improve sleep:

Water exercises are especially joint-friendly
Walking, even for short periods
Tai chi or gentle yoga
Always check with your doctor about appropriate activities

Watch What You Consume

What you eat and drink affects your sleep:

Avoid caffeine after noon
Limit alcohol, which can disrupt deep sleep
Skip large meals close to bedtime
Consider anti-inflammatory foods like fatty fish, nuts, and fruits

Manage Stress

Stress can worsen both arthritis symptoms and sleep problems:

Try meditation or deep breathing exercises before bed
Practice progressive muscle relaxation
Keep a journal to write down worries
Consider speaking with a therapist if stress is overwhelming

Check for Sleep Disorders

Some sleep problems require medical attention:

Sleep apnea is more common in people with certain types of arthritis
Restless leg syndrome can co-occur with arthritis
Insomnia might need treatment beyond better sleep habits

Talk to your doctor if you still have trouble sleeping despite making improvements to your sleep environment and habits.

When to Replace Your Mattress?

Even the best mattress won’t last forever. For people with arthritis, knowing when to replace a mattress is especially important:

Signs It’s Time for a New Mattress

Visible sagging or indentations – If you can see dips or valleys in your mattress, it’s no longer providing proper support.
Waking up with more pain – If your arthritis pain is worse in the morning, your mattress may be part of the problem.
Feeling the coils or support layer – When you can feel the inner structure of the mattress, the comfort layers have worn down too much.
Noisy springs – Squeaking or creaking indicates worn components.
Allergies getting worse – Older mattresses collect dust mites and allergens that can worsen inflammation.
Age of the mattress – Most mattresses last about 7-10 years, though higher quality ones may last longer.
Better sleep elsewhere – If you sleep better in hotels or on other beds, your mattress may be the issue.

Making Your Mattress Last Longer

To extend the life of your arthritis-friendly mattress:

Use a mattress protector – Shields against spills, sweat, and allergens.
Rotate regularly – Turn your mattress 180 degrees every 3-6 months (unless the manufacturer advises against it).
Use proper support – Make sure your foundation or bed frame provides adequate support.
Keep it clean – Vacuum your mattress periodically and clean spots according to manufacturer instructions.
Avoid jumping or sitting in the same spot – Repeated pressure in one area causes premature wear.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mattresses and Arthritis

Is a firm or soft mattress better for arthritis?

Most experts recommend medium to medium-firm mattresses for arthritis. However, the best firmness depends on your body weight, sleep position, and the type of arthritis you have. Side sleepers and people with rheumatoid arthritis often prefer slightly softer surfaces, while back and stomach sleepers and those with osteoarthritis may do better with firmer support1 15.

Can a mattress make arthritis worse?

Yes, the wrong mattress can definitely make arthritis symptoms worse by:

Creating pressure points on sensitive joints
Failing to provide adequate support
Forcing your body into unnatural positions
Making it harder to change positions during the night

How often should I replace my mattress if I have arthritis?

People with arthritis may need to replace their mattresses more frequently than others, typically every 5-7 years instead of 7-10. Watch for signs of wear that affect comfort and support, since even minor sagging can increase arthritis pain1.

Are adjustable beds worth the investment for arthritis?

Many arthritis sufferers find adjustable beds very helpful because they:

Allow you to find positions that minimize pain
Make it easier to get in and out of bed
Can improve circulation and reduce swelling
Let you elevate specific painful areas

While more expensive than standard beds, the benefits often outweigh the costs for people with significant arthritis pain12 17.

What’s the best sleeping position for arthritis?

The best position depends on which joints are affected:

For hip and knee arthritis: Back sleeping with a pillow under the knees, or side sleeping with a pillow between the knees
For shoulder arthritis: Back sleeping or sleeping on the unaffected side
For neck arthritis: Back sleeping with a supportive pillow

Stomach sleeping is generally not recommended as it can strain the neck and back6.

Can cooling mattresses help with arthritis?

Yes, cooling features can help some types of arthritis. Heat can increase inflammation in inflammatory types of arthritis like rheumatoid arthritis. Mattresses with cooling technologies like:

Gel-infused foam
Phase-change materials
Open-cell structure
Breathable covers

These can help regulate temperature and potentially reduce nighttime inflammation15.

Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Mattress

Finding the best mattress for your arthritis may take some time and research, but the improvement in your sleep and pain levels makes it worthwhile. Remember these key points:

The right mattress provides both support and pressure relief
Your sleeping position, weight, and type of arthritis all affect which mattress is best for you
Medium to medium-firm mattresses work well for most people with arthritis
Features like pressure relief, support, and ease of movement are especially important
A good sleep routine and bedroom environment enhance the benefits of your mattress

Most importantly, listen to your body. What works for someone else might not work for you, even if you have the same type of arthritis. Take advantage of sleep trials to find the mattress that truly helps you wake up with less pain and stiffness.

With the right mattress and sleep strategies, you can break the cycle of poor sleep and increased pain. Better rest leads to better days, with more energy and less discomfort to enjoy the activities you love.

Sweet dreams and pain-free mornings!

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Top 10 Mattress for Arthritis Relief

When to Replace Your Mattress

How Arthritis Affects Your Sleep?

Why Your Mattress Matters So Much?

Types of Mattresses for Arthritis

Memory Foam Mattresses

Latex Mattresses

Hybrid Mattresses

Innerspring Mattresses

Airbeds

What Firmness Level is Best for Arthritis?