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.
Best Mattresses for Neck and Shoulder Pain: Our Top Picks
- Nectar – Best Overall Mattress
- Helix Midnight – Best Cooling Mattress
- WinkBeds – Best for Combination Sleepers
- Nolah Evolution Hybrid – Best Luxury Mattress
- Saatva Classic – Best Innerspring Mattress
- Bear Star Hybrid – Best Hybrid Mattress
- Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid – Best Affordable Mattress
- Titan Plus Luxe – Best Mattress for Heavy Sleepers
- Birch Luxe Natural – Best Firm Mattress
Best Mattress for Neck and Shoulder Pain: Our Video Roundup – 2024
Compare the Best Mattress for Neck and Shoulder Pain
Nectar Mattress | Helix Midnight Mattress | WinkBed Mattress | Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress | Saatva Mattress | Bear Star Hybrid Mattress | Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress | Brooklyn Bedding Titan Plus Luxe | Birch Luxe Natural Mattress | |
Rating | |||||||||
Firmness | Medium-firm: 7/10 | Medium-firm: 7/10 | Multiple firmness options | Multiple firmness options | Multiple firmness options | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Multiple firmness options | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Firm: 7.5/10 |
Material | Foam | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Innerspring | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid |
Cooling | -- | -- | ✓ | -- | ✓ | ✓ | -- | -- | -- |
Sleep Position | Combination | Back & Side | Combination | Back & Side | Back & Stomach | Back & Side | Back | Back & Side | Back & Stomach |
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.
Best Mattress for Neck and Shoulder Pain – Nectar
Nectar Mattress
Material
Foam
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight side sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Nectar Mattress
Nectar is a very comfortable memory foam mattress that happens to also be an amazing value.
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight side sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Nectar Mattress
Nectar is a very comfortable memory foam mattress that happens to also be an amazing value.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight side sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Best Cooling Mattress for Neck and Shoulder Pain – Helix Midnight
Helix Midnight Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Helix Midnight Mattress
The Helix Midnight is the brand's most popular model. It has a balance of comfort and support and should be an excellent match for back sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Helix Midnight Mattress
The Helix Midnight is the brand's most popular model. It has a balance of comfort and support and should be an excellent match for back sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Best Mattress for Neck and Shoulder Pain for Combination Sleepers – WinkBeds
WinkBed Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
WinkBed Mattress
The WinkBed is a mattress that offers an excellent balance of comfort and support.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
WinkBed Mattress
The WinkBed is a mattress that offers an excellent balance of comfort and support.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Best Luxury Mattress for Neck and Shoulder Pain – Nolah Evolution Hybrid
Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress
The Nolah Evolution is a high-end hybrid mattress that features great support, comfort, and cooling.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress
The Nolah Evolution is a high-end hybrid mattress that features great support, comfort, and cooling.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Best Innerspring Mattress for Neck and Shoulder Pain – Saatva Classic
Saatva Mattress
Material
Innerspring
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Saatva Mattress
The Saatva is an organic mattress that is both comfortable and supportive. This mattress comes in multiple firmness options to fit a variety of sleepers.
Material
Innerspring
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Saatva Mattress
The Saatva is an organic mattress that is both comfortable and supportive. This mattress comes in multiple firmness options to fit a variety of sleepers.
Material
Innerspring
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Best Hybrid Mattress for Neck and Shoulder Pain – Bear Star Hybrid
Bear Star Hybrid Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Bear Star Hybrid Mattress
The Bear Star Hybrid has a great balance of comfort and support. It is a great match for back and side sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Bear Star Hybrid Mattress
The Bear Star Hybrid has a great balance of comfort and support. It is a great match for back and side sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Best Affordable Mattress for Neck and Shoulder Pain – Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress
Brooklyn Bedding has amazing products that are sold at very affordable prices. This mattress is extremely high-quality and a great option for combination sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress
Brooklyn Bedding has amazing products that are sold at very affordable prices. This mattress is extremely high-quality and a great option for combination sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Best Mattress for Heavy Sleepers with Neck and Shoulder Pain – Titan Plus Luxe
Brooklyn Bedding Titan Plus Luxe
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Brooklyn Bedding Titan Plus Luxe
The Brooklyn Bedding Titan Plus Luxe mattress is designed with heavier-weight sleepers in mind, creating a pleasant sleep experience for several types of heavyweight sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Brooklyn Bedding Titan Plus Luxe
The Brooklyn Bedding Titan Plus Luxe mattress is designed with heavier-weight sleepers in mind, creating a pleasant sleep experience for several types of heavyweight sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Price Range
$$$$$
Best Firm Mattress for Neck and Shoulder Pain – Birch Luxe Natural
Birch Luxe Natural Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
100 Nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Warranty
25-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Birch Luxe Natural Mattress
The Birch Luxe Natural Mattress is a new mattress designed with luxury in mind. This is a luxury hybrid mattress perfect for fans of eco-friendly made mattresses.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
25-year warranty
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 Nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Birch Luxe Natural Mattress
The Birch Luxe Natural Mattress is a new mattress designed with luxury in mind. This is a luxury hybrid mattress perfect for fans of eco-friendly made mattresses.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Trial Period
100 Nights
Warranty
25-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
How Does Neck and Shoulder Pain Impact Sleep?
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.
RELATED: Best Mattress For Back Pain
What Causes Neck and Shoulder Pain?
Several factors can contribute to neck and/or shoulder pain. Sometimes these pains are related, and sometimes not.
Neck Pain Causes
Some of the most common causes of neck pain include:
- Muscle strain
- Muscle tension provoked by workouts or stress
- Poor posture during workouts or while sitting, standing, or lying down
- Injury
- Worn joints
- Compressed nerves
- Osteoarthritis
- 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.
- A medium-firm to firm mattress will provide support, a touch of pressure, and are some of the best mattresses for heavy side sleepers (200+lb).
- 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.
- Avoid sleeping in odd positions, such as on the couch with the head on an armrest.
- 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:
Mattress | Best For |
Nectar | Best Overall Mattress |
Helix Midnight | Best Cooling Mattress |
WinkBeds | Best Mattress for Combination Sleepers |
Nolah Evolution Hybrid | Best Luxury Mattress |
Saatva Classic | Best Innerspring Mattress |
Bear Star Hybrid | Best Hybrid Mattress |
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid | Best Affordable Mattress |
Titan Plus Luxe | Best Mattress for Heavy Sleepers |
Birch Luxe Natural | Best Firm Mattress |
FAQs
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.