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 Saatva Classic as the best mattress for neck and shoulder pain due to its comforting zoned construction that helps to keep your spine and shoulders aligned to help reduce pain.
Best Mattresses for Neck and Shoulder Pain: Our Top Picks
- Saatva Classic – Best Innerspring Mattress
- Helix Midnight – Best Cooling Mattress
- Nectar – Best Affordable Mattress
- Puffy Royal Hybrid – Best Medium-Firm Mattress
- WinkBeds – Best for Combination Sleepers
- Nolah Evolution Hybrid – Best Luxury Mattress
- Bear Star Hybrid – Best Hybrid Mattress
- Titan Plus Luxe – Best Mattress for Heavy Sleepers
- Layla – Best Mattress for Side Sleepers
- Birch Luxe Natural – Best Firm Mattress
Best Mattress for Neck and Shoulder Pain: Our Video Roundup – 2023
Compare the Best Mattress for Neck and Shoulder Pain
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| Saatva Mattress | Helix Midnight Mattress | Nectar Mattress | Puffy Royal Hybrid Mattress | WinkBed Mattress | Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress | Bear Star Hybrid Mattress | Brooklyn Bedding Titan Plus Luxe | Layla Mattress | Birch Luxe Natural Mattress | |
| Rating | ||||||||||
| Firmness | Multiple firmness options | Medium-firm: 7/10 | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Multiple firmness options | Multiple firmness options | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Multiple firmness options | Firm: 7.5/10 |
| Material | Innerspring | Hybrid | Foam | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Foam | Hybrid |
| Cooling | ✓ | -- | -- | -- | ✓ | -- | ✓ | -- | ✓ | -- |
| Sleep Position | Back & Stomach | Back & Side | Back & Side | Back & Side | Combination | Back & Side | Back & Side | Back & Side | Combination | 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 Innerspring Mattress for Neck and Shoulder Pain
Saatva Mattress
Material
Innerspring
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Saatva Mattress
The Saatva is an organic mattress that is both comfortable and supportive. This mattress comes in multiple firmness options to fit a variety of sleepers.
Material
Innerspring
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Saatva Mattress
The Saatva is an organic mattress that is both comfortable and supportive. This mattress comes in multiple firmness options to fit a variety of sleepers.
Material
Innerspring
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Price Range
$$$$$
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.
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.
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.
Read our full Saatva mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Innerspring Mattresses for more great options.
Best Cooling Mattress for Neck and Shoulder Pain
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.
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.
Read our full Helix Midnight mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Cooling Mattresses for more great options.
Best Affordable Mattress for Neck and Shoulder Pain
Nectar Mattress
Material
Foam
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Nectar Mattress
Nectar is a very comfortable memory foam mattress that happens to also be an amazing value.
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Nectar Mattress
Nectar is a very comfortable memory foam mattress that happens to also be an amazing value.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
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.
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.
Read our full Nectar mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Cheap Mattresses for more great options.
Best Medium-Firm Mattress for Neck and Shoulder Pain
Puffy Royal Hybrid Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
101 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Puffy Royal Hybrid Mattress
The Puffy Royal is a high-end hybrid mattress that should be a great choice for hot and side sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
101 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Puffy Royal Hybrid Mattress
The Puffy Royal is a high-end hybrid mattress that should be a great choice for hot and side sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
101 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
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 lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Our Editor’s Take
The Puffy Royal Hybrid provides good support and durability, two very important factors for mitigating neck and shoulder pain. Testing the Royal Hybrid, we found that our shoulders and hips felt sufficiently propped up, which helps maintain proper spinal alignment. And, because of the it’s hybrid construction, you’re less likely to notice the Royal Hybrid sag over time—good structural integrity in a mattress can help combat aches and pains.
What the testers say: “All Puffy mattresses are backed by a lifetime warranty, and that’s because they’re made with long-lasting and high-quality materials. We expect the Puffy Royal to last a long time – at least 10 years.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Love About the Puffy Royal Hybrid
- The Puffy Lux Hybrid has a medium-firm construction that accommodates a wide range of sleepers. This firmness should appeal to back sleepers specifically, as they need a mattress that allows their hips and shoulders to sink into the mattress a little bit. If your hips and shoulders sink too much it can throw your spine out of alignment.
- The lifetime warranty doesn’t just ensure that the company will have your back for a long time, it also displays the confidence that Puffy has in the quality of the product.
What to Keep in Mind About the Puffy Royal Hybrid
- The Puffy Royal Hybrid is quite expensive. A queen comes in at $2,399 before sales.
User reviews
Based on 12,344 reviews from the Puffy website, this mattress has an average rating of 5 out of 5. Clearly, customers have a lot of good things to say about the Puffy Royal Hybrid, with many comments highlighting how the bed has helped with different kinds of pain.
Read our Puffy Royal review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Medium-Firm Mattresses for more great options.
Best Mattress for Neck and Shoulder Pain for Combination Sleepers
WinkBed Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
WinkBed Mattress
The WinkBed is a mattress that offers an excellent balance of comfort and support.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
WinkBed Mattress
The WinkBed is a mattress that offers an excellent balance of comfort and support.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
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.
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.
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.
Check out our full WinkBeds Original mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Mattresses for Combination Sleepers for more great options.
Best Luxury Mattress for Neck and Shoulder Pain
Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress
The Nolah Evolution is a high-end hybrid mattress that features great support, comfort, and cooling.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress
The Nolah Evolution is a high-end hybrid mattress that features great support, comfort, and cooling.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
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.
Learn more in our full Nolah Evolution Hybrid mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Luxury Mattresses for other great options.
Best Hybrid Mattress for Neck and Shoulder Pain
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.
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.
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.
Learn more in our full Bear Star Hybrid mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Hybrid Mattresses for other great options.
Best Mattress for Heavy Sleepers with Neck and Shoulder Pain
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
$$$$$
Brooklyn Bedding Titan Plus Luxe
The Brooklyn Bedding Titan Plus Luxe mattress is designed with heavier-weight sleepers in mind, creating a pleasant sleep experience for several types of heavyweight sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Brooklyn Bedding Titan Plus Luxe
The Brooklyn Bedding Titan Plus Luxe mattress is designed with heavier-weight sleepers in mind, creating a pleasant sleep experience for several types of heavyweight sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Price Range
$$$$$
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.
Read our Titan Plus Luxe Mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Mattresses for Heavy Sleepers for more great options.
Best Mattress for Side Sleepers with Neck and Shoulder Pain
Layla Mattress
Material
Foam
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Layla Mattress
An innovative and flippable mattress, the Layla works for a variety of different types of sleepers.
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Layla Mattress
An innovative and flippable mattress, the Layla works for a variety of different types of sleepers.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
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.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Our Expert’s Take
Those who struggle with neck pain and shoulder pain are going to flip for the Layla mattress…literally. It’s a flippable memory foam bed featuring a soft side and a firm side. Both sides boast a layer of soft, pain-relieving memory foam. Side sleepers dealing with pain issues should use the soft side because it features a thicker layer of foam. They should feel almost no pressure on their shoulders and hips. Stomach sleepers will prefer the firm side, because the supportive foam will help elevate the hips and keep the spine in the proper alignment.
What the testers say: “Side sleepers with neck and shoulder pain need to be extra careful when looking for a mattress. When I slept on the soft side of the Layla mattress, I felt a ton of contouring and pressure relief. ” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Love About the Layla Mattress
- This mattress comes in two firmness levels in one, making it a good fit for most types of sleepers. This bed has a firm and soft side, so you can easily flip it to get the firmness level you desire.
- Hot sleepers who overheat at night should enjoy the cooling benefits the Layla offers. The copper-infused memory foam helps dissipate body heat.
- The Layla offers the typical soft, slow-moving, body-contouring feel that memory foam mattresses offer. You’ll gently sink into the foam layers and feel lots of pressure relief.
What to Keep in Mind About the Layla Mattress
- If you want a medium-firm feel, this probably won’t be a good fit for you. The Layla only has a firm and a soft side. If you want something in the middle, you may want to consider the Saatva Luxury Firm mattress.
- If you want a bouncy, responsive mattress The Layla mattress has a slow-moving foam feel, which could make it difficult for some people to move around on top of it.
User reviews
On the Layla website, most customers gave the mattress great reviews. Many people praised the mattress’s cooling features and comfortable foam layers. Some people did not like the mattress’s slow-moving feel.
Read our full Layla mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Mattresses for Side Sleepers for more great options.
Best Firm Mattress for Neck and Shoulder Pain
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
$$$$$
Birch Luxe Natural Mattress
The Birch Luxe Natural Mattress is a new mattress designed with luxury in mind. This is a luxury hybrid mattress perfect for fans of eco-friendly made mattresses.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
25-year warranty
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 Nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Birch Luxe Natural Mattress
The Birch Luxe Natural Mattress is a new mattress designed with luxury in mind. This is a luxury hybrid mattress perfect for fans of eco-friendly made mattresses.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Trial Period
100 Nights
Warranty
25-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
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.
Read our Birch Luxe Natural Mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Firm Mattresses for more great options.
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 heavyweight 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 lower back pain and sciatica 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 |
| Saatva Classic | Best Innerspring Mattress |
| Helix Midnight | Best Cooling Mattress |
| Nectar | Best Affordable Mattress |
| Puffy Royal Hybrid | Best Medium-Firm Mattress |
| WinkBeds | Best Mattress for Combination Sleepers |
| Nolah Evolution Hybrid | Best Luxury Mattress |
| Bear Star Hybrid | Best Hybrid Mattress |
| Titan Plus Luxe | Best Mattress for Heavy Sleepers |
| Layla | Best Mattress for Side 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.
