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Between each of the bones in our spine—the vertebrae—are small, round, pillow-shaped discs that help hold our vertebrae together and keep the bones from rubbing against each other, among other important tasks. Discs can go wrong in a few ways, one of them being when the interior of the disc herniates, or pushes outwards, sometimes pressing against the nerves in your spine. A herniated disc in the upper spine can cause pain in the neck and arms, while a herniated disc in the lower spine can cause sciatica, a pain that can be felt in the hips and legs due to pressure on the sciatic nerve.
“The jelly donut analogy is the best we have for herniated discs. A disc has a hard outside and a soft jelly inside. In a disc herniation, the outer fibers of the outside of the donut will tear and allow some of the jelly to come out. It’s very irritating to nerve roots and results in a big inflammatory response”
— Rojeh Melikian, spine surgeon at DISC Sports and Spine Center
Some herniated discs result in constant pain, making it difficult to move or get a good night’s sleep. In fact, research suggests 50%–80% of people with a herniated disc develop a sleep disorder. Sleep is essential for maintaining cognitive function, reducing the risk of falls, and healing from injuries like herniated discs, among other benefits.
So, how can you improve your sleep when you have a herniated disc? A new mattress might help, but it usually isn’t necessary unless you have chronic disc pain or your old mattress is ready to bite the dust. That’s because most herniated disc injuries resolve in two to 12 weeks. In some cases, a new mattress might not be delivered in time to make a difference, and it can be an expensive solution for short-term gain.
Instead of choosing the best mattress for a herniated disc, you may want to consider a firm mattress topper to lend temporary support to your current mattress. Pillows under or between your legs may also help you get into a comfortable sleep position.
Consider shopping for a new mattress if your doctor has said you’re at risk for repeat herniations or you have chronic back pain. To get you started, we chose eight models that promote healthy spinal alignment and performed well in our pressure relief tests.
A medium-firm or firm mattress is better for a herniated disc because it keeps the spine supported in normal alignment. The spine may curve unnaturally on a mattress that’s too soft.
Mattresses with good pressure relief can ease existing aches and pains without creating new ones, helping you to relax and fall asleep.
For lumbarⓘ The lower section of the spine, beginning below the ribcage. The lumbar spine supports the weight of the body and is highly prone to strain and injury. (lower back) herniated discs, we like to see mattresses with supportive material under the lower back, like stronger steel coils or firmer foam.
Raising your feet or torso may help ease back pain associated with a herniated disc, so we looked for mattresses that are compatible with adjustable bases for added convenience.
The Saatva Rx mattress is specially designed to reduce lower back back pain stemming from conditions like lumbar herniated discs. The mattress features extra support in the lower back area to help keep the spine supported in normal alignment, and our testers confirmed that their spines felt aligned and “gently cradled” as they moved from their backs to their sides and stomachs. If your herniated disc feels worse when you bend forward or backward, maintaining the spine in a neutral positionⓘ The spine’s natural curves at the neck, middle, and lower (lumbar) sections. may help you get some relief at night.
One tester said the Saatva Rx felt like a cloud. Another compared it to a water bed. “There’s no pressure. I can feel the mattress holding up my hips and shoulders, but my spine feels neutral,” they said.
The Saatva Rx has a few features we haven’t seen in other mattresses. For example, instead of placing a solid sheet of memory foam over the pocketed coils, Saatva cut the memory foam into small circles that fit over each pocketed coil. This seems to allow the mattress to conform to the shape of the body and relieve pressure pointsⓘ The parts of the sleeper’s body that are in direct contact with the mattress, such as the backside, shoulder, hips, and ribcage. . The Rx also has a unique layer of 1-inch “micro coils” above the memory foam to assist with body contouring and support.
This mattress has excellent edge support to help you feel stable as you get in and out of bed. Our testers also felt supported when lying on the edge of the mattress. It’s bouncy but doesn’t transfer motionⓘ The amount of movement felt on one side of the mattress when a bed partner moves on the other side of the bed. to the other side of the bed, so you can easily change positions without disturbing your partner.
At 15 inches high, the Saatva Rx is one of the tallest mattresses we’ve reviewed. A mattress that’s too high may pose a fall risk or make it more painful to get in and out of bed if your feet don’t reach the floor when sitting on the edge. Make sure you pair it with an appropriately sized bed frame for best results.
Who may love it
Who may want to avoid it
The Saatva Rx has a star rating of 4.9 out of five from more than 70 reviews on its product page. Many reviewers said it has helped with hip and back pain and that the delivery personnel were courteous and respectful.
“[I] Decided that it was time for a hybrid after experiencing back problems for a while. The first three nights on this Rx mattress were awful and I was as sore as could be, but we stuck with it and it’s a night and day difference. It’s extremely quiet. It has more spring to it than the memory foam. It also sleeps much cooler. The one year sleep guarantee gives complete peace of mind. Highly recommend.”
—Andy L., verified buyer, 5/26/2024
“I have a long history of orthopedic issues and have had 12 surgeries. […] I have had many mattresses over the years, but nothing compares to this. I need [a mattress that gives] no pressure on prior surgical areas while being supportive. I have never slept so good on a mattress right from the start. […] I have only had the mattress [for] two months, but I am sleeping so soundly and even when I do wake up I go right back to sleep. There is no switching sides hip to hip at night to get comfortable and I can lay on my back also without that stiff feeling. […] If you have any type of orthopedic issues, try this mattress. I absolutely do not think you will be disappointed.”
—Deb R., verified buyer, 1/13/24
“Sciatica, lower back pain, and neck pain—I feel none of it with this Saatva Rx mattress. I can’t believe it. It’s like a miracle mattress.”
—Kellie L., verified buyer, 11/26/2023
Read our full Saatva Rx review for more.
“Lying down is uncomfortable with a herniated disc because it is applying pressure to an area that is already inflamed and irritated, which can promote further pain if a nerve is being pinched.”
—Kelly Baez, physical therapist at Tampa Bay Physical Therapy
Our testers rated the Helix Dusk Luxe a seven out of 10 on the firmness scale. This firm support helps keep the spine supported in proper alignment, which prevents uncomfortable pinching or rubbing around the herniated disc. If you like the plush feel of a softer mattress, the Helix Dusk Luxe offers a good compromise due to its pillow top. Our testers felt comfortable and well-supported in all sleeping positions.
That said, the Helix Dusk Luxe loses its support near the edge of the mattress. If you tend to sleep close to the edge of the bed at night or need good edge support for getting in and out of bed, this may not be a good mattress for you.
Moving around on the Helix Dusk Luxe is easy because of a bouncy layer of coils. Some of that bounce was felt by our testers during the motion isolation ⓘ The ability of a mattress to keep movement on one side of the bed from affecting the other side. test. “I could feel the other person’s movement rippling over to my side of the bed, but it wasn’t jarring,” one tester said.
If you or your partner are easily disturbed by movement at night, you may want to consider a mattress with better motion isolation, like the Saatva Rx or WinkBed.
The Helix Dusk Luxe comes with a 100-night trial period, which is typical for the mattress industry. It’s also covered by a 15-year warranty against manufacturing defects.
Who may love it
Who may want to avoid it
The Helix Dusk Luxe has a star rating of 4.5 out of five from more than 1,250 reviews on its product page. Most reviews are positive, with buyers saying it’s comfortable and reduces pain. Some negative reviews say the mattress begins to sag within a short amount of time.
“Prior to sleeping on the Helix Dusk Luxe, I was experiencing back stiffness every morning. Since I have been sleeping on it for a few months, that stiffness has gone away and I wake up more refreshed. I added the cool topper to the mattress, which keeps the bed cool and makes for more comfortable sleeping.”
—Carolyn P., verified buyer, 5/13/2024
“Very comfortable! Probably the best mattress I have ever owned. I am a back and stomach sleeper so this mattress works perfectly! Only one issue I have and it’s a really minor issue, is the sides should be built stronger like the middle of the mattress. Sides will collapse about 3/4 of the way when you sit on the mattress and if you sleep near the edge it will collapse 1/2 down, leaving you sleeping at an angle to your side. You have to sleep about 6″ to 12″ in from the edge so you maintain level when sleeping.”
—Joshua W., verified buyer, 3/6/2024
“As someone who has long struggled with back issues, finding the right mattress has been crucial for my comfort and health. I’m thrilled to say that the Helix Dusk Luxe has been an absolute game-changer. This mattress has transformed my sleep experience. I wake up feeling refreshed and free of the usual morning stiffness and soreness. Beyond comfort, the quality is exceptional.”
—Jose P., verified buyer, 3/18/24
Read more in our Helix Dusk Luxe review.
If you have a lumbar herniated disc, you may experience sciatica as a result of the bulging disc pressing against the sciatic nerve.
The sciatic nerve starts at the lower back and branches off into two long nerves that go down each leg, all the way down to the toes. Depending on where the herniated disc is pressing against the nerve, you might feel a painful burning or tingling sensation down one or both legs. Since the sciatic nerve is responsible for muscle control, you might also have some weakness in your leg.
Sciatica can also occur independent of a herniated disc. Either way, it’s good to look for a mattress that supports normal spinal alignment and offers pressure relief along the lower back and hips to ease sciatic pain. You don’t want the mattress to compress your sciatic nerve further.
The Bear Elite Hybrid is one of the best pressure relieving mattresses we’ve tested so far. Images from a pressure mapping systemⓘ A mat with sensors that detects pressure buildup when someone lays across it. show little to no pressure buildup under our testers’ shoulders, backs, or hips in both back and side sleeping positions.
This mattress is built with heavy-duty coils where the lower back typically rests, which helps keep the spine in healthy alignment. It comes in three firmness levels: soft, medium, or firm. Our team tested the medium option, which we rated a 6.5 out of 10 on the firmness scale.
The Bear Elite Hybrid is not very bouncy, which may make it difficult to change positions or to push up into a sitting position. On the other hand, it has good motion isolation. One of our testers owns a Bear Elite Hybrid, and they report feeling much less of their partner’s movement compared to their former innerspring mattress.
Learn more about the best mattresses for sciatica and read our full Bear Mattress review.
Who may love it
Who may want to avoid it
The Bear Elite Hybrid has a star rating of 4.6 out of five from more than 3,700 reviews on its product page. Most buyers said it’s a comfortable and supportive mattress, but quite a few mention that it made them feel hot.
“I was looking for a new mattress because my previous mattress (foam) just became too firm over time. My husband and I both experience back pain and decided on switching to a hybrid instead of foam. We came across the Bear mattress and it has exceeded our expectations. This mattress has just the right amount of firmness so you won’t sink into the bed, but just the right amount of plush to make you feel like you’re sleeping on clouds. Shipping also came on time, and overall I just had a pleasant experience.”
—Jada, verified buyer, 6/4/24
“Really happy with this mattress. We had a traditional spring/pillow top that was just too soft. The level of firmness of this mattress is great. It took only a couple of days to adjust to it. It has helped my back and hip immensely.”
—Ann S., verified buyer, 1/3/24
“We love our new Bear Hybrid Elite Mattress! My husband and I have complete opposite sleep preferences, and we both love this. I did add a mattress topper because I like my bed to be fluffy and soft, but I need a firm mattress. The first night using it, my hip and shoulder pain was gone. My husband’s back is much better. We are very happy!”
—Kristen R., verified buyer, 4/7/23
“A herniated disc is very treatable. Some [patients] don’t need anything. Some people get better with physical therapy as they have some residual muscle weakness or stiffness. Some patients require steroid injections to diminish the local inflammation. If it’s a true extruded fragment that causes sciatica, a spine surgeon like myself may remove the fragment.”
—Georgiy Brusovanik, spine surgeon at Miami Spine Doctor in Miami
Finding a mattress that’s right for you can be a guessing game, even when you follow the advice of experts. “It’s very much a Goldilocks approach,” said Todd Sinett, a chiropractor in New York City. “Just because you’re diagnosed with a herniated disc doesn’t mean there is one mattress that fits all. You need to find what works for you.”
Other medical professionals we talked to said their patients tend to do well on a firmer mattress. But if that doesn’t work for you, you’ll appreciate the flexibility of the WinkBeds exchange program.
You’ll have 120 nights to try your new mattress and return it for a full refund (delivery fees are non-refundable). Or, you can exchange it for a different WinkBed mattress. The company has a required 30-day trial before you can initiate a return or request an exchange. Once that has passed, if you think you need a different level of firmness, the company will send you another mattress. The second mattress comes with a 60-day trial period, during which you’re allowed to keep the original mattress so you can compare the two.
“You can test both mattresses out during the 60-day trial period, decide which one would be more comfortable for you, and return the mattress that doesn’t work out,” a WinkBeds customer service representative told us. Just make sure to initiate the exchange before your original trial period of 120 days has passed.
You can arrange for pickup of the mattress you won’t be keeping, whether it’s the original mattress or the replacement, before the 60-day trial for the second mattress passes. WinkBeds charges a $49 recycling fee for the discarded mattress.
Our testers have nothing but good things to say about the WinkBed mattress. We tested the Luxury Firm option and think it’s a good choice for people with herniated discs and other types of back pain due to its ability to relieve pressure and support the spine in a neutral position. We rated the Luxury Firm a six out of 10 on the firmness scale. If you think you need firmer support, consider the Firmer or Plus options. If the Luxury Firm feels too firm for you, try exchanging it for the Soft option.
The WinkBed has good edge support, bounce, and motion isolation, earning scores of at least four out of five in all of our testing categories. We consider it one of the best mattresses on the market, and it happens to also be one of the most affordable options on this list.
Who may love it
Who may want to avoid it
The WinkBed has a star rating of 4.8 out of five from more than 8,600 reviews on its product page. The majority of buyers praise the mattress’s comfort and the company’s customer service.
“We have had our mattress for about six weeks. Our prior mattress was quite plush, so it took a bit of time to adjust to the firmness of this bed. However, now that we’ve gotten used to it, we’ve found it to be very supportive and comfortable and we sleep very well.”
—Amy B., verified buyer, 5/23/24
“Feels great. Firm, but not too firm, and comfortable. I was having back issues with our 11-year-old memory foam mattress. I did my research and your bed was recommended for older people with back issues. Definitely mixed feelings on purchasing a bed without trying it out first, but your warranty on guaranteed satisfaction or return it with no hassles convinced us.”
—Michael O., verified buyer, 5/22/24
“We bought our WinkBed and slept on it for 30+ days. It was a solid choice and was a quality bed. We did however decide it wasn’t a good fit for me and my husband. So we initiated a return. They were so quick to get back to us and the return was really hassle-free. Highly recommend giving this mattress a try—if it’s not a good fit for you, their return policy is top-notch.”
—Sarah G., verified buyer, 5/20/24
Learn more about this mattress in our full WinkBed review.
I always say, when shopping for a mattress, you want to go to a reputable store. In case you need to switch out the mattress, they’ll let you exchange it if you’re not happy with it. That’s really what you want to do.
—Todd Sinnett, chiropractor at Tru Whole Care in New York
The Nolah Evolution mattress features unique memory foam technology that allows the hips and shoulders of side sleepers to sink further into the mattress, which helps relieve pressure points. This makes the Nolah Evolution one of the best mattresses for side sleepers with back pain.
Nolah uses a layer of specialty foam called AirFoam™, which has five lines of perforated holes ⓘ Perforated foam or latex is designed by drilling holes through the material to increase the breathability and cooling capabilities of a mattress, as well as to increase the softness of the foam. punched into it at the head and foot of the mattress. The section of the mattress that supports the lower back area remains firmer for better support and proper spinal alignment, which can help ease the pain caused by a herniated disc.
The Nolah Evolution includes three other types of foam, all of which are layered on top of 8-inch steel coils. Thicker coils are located around the perimeter of the bed and at the center as well, giving this mattress extra lower back support and a sturdy edge.
Firm option, which we rated as a seven out of 10 for firmness. Our testers said their spines felt neutral in all sleeping positions. “When I rolled onto my side, I could feel my shoulders and hips sink into the material, but there was no pressure buildup,” one tester said. “It was pretty easy to move around too.”
Testers said the mattress has decent motion isolation, but they could still feel someone changing positions on the other side of the bed.
Measuring 15″ high, the Nolah Evolution is one of the highest mattresses on the market. Consider pairing it with a platform bed frame so you don’t have to use a boxspring. A mattress that’s too high for you to place your feet flat on the floor while sitting on the edge of the bed may make it painful to get in and out of bed or increase your risk of falling.
Who may love it
Who may want to avoid it
The Nolah Evolution has a star rating of 4.9 out of five from more than 875 reviews on its product page. Most reviewers say it’s a comfortable mattress that has eased pain associated with arthritis and other conditions.
“I appreciate that this company directed what bed to get for different weights. I bought the recommended luxury firm. No more back pain. It cradles while at the same time is supportively firm. A perfect marriage. Like cream in coffee, it is refreshing. My husband had been waking up with back pain every day, but that’s no longer.”
—Rainbow T., verified buyer, 11/14/2023
“From the first night the Nolah arrived my wife and I both noticed a huge increase in our quality of sleep. It’s more comfortable and inhibits motion transfer really well. It’s hard to get up every morning!”
Shyam V., verified buyer, 9/26/2023
“The shopping experience was easy. The delivery of it was quick. […] After two back surgeries and being used to back pain, I can truly say that I have found a mattress that I love!”
—Michelle H., verified buyer, 9/22/2023
Learn more in our full Nolah review.
Higher-weight sleepers tend to need a firm mattress to keep their spine in healthy alignment, which is why the Titan Plus is a particularly good option. It features 8″ steel coils topped by 3″ of cushioning foam. That’s a relatively small amount of foam compared to other options on the market, but it still manages to offer comfort, pressure relief, and support. If you feel like your herniated disc feels worse when you sink into your mattress, the Titan Plus may offer relief.
“I didn’t feel like I was sinking in, my back felt neutral, and I felt evenly supported,” said one of our back-sleeping testers.
Our side-sleeping testers didn’t feel as comfortable on the Titan Plus, which is typical for a firm mattress, since it often doesn’t provide the sinkageⓘ Good contouring sinkage can give sleepers the feeling of being “hugged” by their mattress, but too much sink can result in misalignment of the spine, especially for stomach and back sleepers. needed to provide pressure point relief at the shoulders and hips. “I could feel pressure building up in my hips when I was on my side,” one tester said.
Side sleepers usually benefit from softer mattresses that easily allow the shoulders and hips to sink lower than the rest of the body, keeping the spine in a neutral position while easing pressure. Because higher-weight sleepers tend to get better support from a firm mattress, a luxury-firm mattress like the Nolah Evolution is a good compromise for higher-weight side sleepers.
Testers said the Titan Plus had good bounce and was pretty easy to move around on, although the quilted top added a little bit of resistance. It has average motion isolation, meaning testers could feel the other person changing positions but didn’t feel jostled by their movement. The Titan Plus also has a sturdy edge that can help keep you in a stable sitting position.
We also like the price of the Titan Plus. At $699 for a twin, it’s the most affordable mattress on this list. It often goes on sale for an even lower price.
You’ll have the industry standard 120-night trial period to test out your mattress. Shipping is free, but there’s no option for white-glove delivery, paid or otherwise. The Titan Plus arrives compressed and rolled inside a box. Mattresses are heavy, so it’s a good idea to arrange for someone to help bring it inside and lift it onto your bed frame once you’ve unwrapped it.
Who may love it
Who may want to avoid it
The Titan Plus has a star rating of 4.7 out of five from more than 2,500 reviews on its product page. Most reviewers said the mattress is supportive, doesn’t sag, and has reduced their nighttime back pain. Several negative reviewers say the mattress is too soft for their needs and the edge collapses easily.
“It is the most comfortable bed I have ever slept on. I am 5′4″ and 330 pounds, and I don’t wake up with backaches. I found that I can sleep with a lot less pillows than before. It’s legitimately hard to convince myself to leave the bed in the morning.”
—Ruth M., verified buyer, 5/9/2024
“I have had my Titan mattress for three years now, and I can’t recommend it enough. I’m a side/stomach sleeper weighing around 290 pounds. With other mattresses, after a couple of years there’s a noticeable sag that starts to cause back pains, but I’m three years in and this mattress is as firm as the day I got it.”
—Scott G., verified buyer, 3/29/2024
“[I got] relief for herniated discs L4, L5, and S1 with the adjustable base as well! Firm is best.”
—Sean B., verified buyer, 5/26/22
Learn more in our full Titan Plus review.
If you’re prone to night sweats, the type of mattress you buy can make the difference between getting a good night’s sleep or tossing and turning to cool off. If you have a herniated disc, tossing and turning may aggravate nearby nerves and lead to more pain, so it’s especially important to choose a mattress that pulls heat away from the body if you’re sensitive to high temperatures.
Out of all the mattresses we’ve tested so far, the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe has the most impressive cooling capabilities. “It’s by far cooler to the touch than other mattresses I’ve tested, like the Bear Elite Hybrid, Titan Plus, and Birch Natural,” said one of our testers.
It also happens to offer excellent pressure relief for back and side sleepers, making it a good option for disc-related back pain even if you’re not a hot sleeper. The Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe comes in three firmness options: soft, medium, and firm. Our team tested the medium model, which actually feels firmer than expected—about a 7.5 out of 10 on the firmness scale.
Testers found that all sleeping positions were comfortable on this mattress. Even if you usually don’t change positions at night, having a herniated disc may require you to try different positions to get comfortable. Our tests indicate that pressure buildup and discomfort are less likely to occur with the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe, making it a good choice for finding a position that eases your pain.
“My spine felt neutral in all sleeping positions with no pressure. It feels great,” one tester said.
The Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe also shows promise as a good mattress for couples with different sleeping preferences, but it doesn’t isolate motion as well as other mattresses. If you or your partner wake up easily when the other gets in or out of bed, this may not be the best option. Testers said it had average bounce.
Who may love it
Who may want to avoid it
The Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe has a star rating of 4.7 out of five from more than 3,300 reviews on its product page. The majority of reviews are positive, with people saying it’s a comfortable mattress that stays cool throughout the night.
“I’m only three weeks in on my new Aurora Luxe and although it hasn’t taken all of my aches and pains away, I do sleep much more sound and wake up more rested. I also sleep cool and comfortable. No more waking up in the middle of the night sweating. I have mobility issues due to arthritis in my back and hips and getting in and out of bed is so much easier for me now. Side support on my mattress is excellent and the springs give me a little extra boost when I get out of bed!”
—Marta H., verified buyer, 5/23/2024
“This bed has brought me so much comfort and relief! I have a degenerated disc in my back and a torn hip labrum, so sleeping can be very painful. The first couple of nights, sleeping on this mattress decreased the amount of times I woke substantially. Both my partner and I are hot sleepers and have yet to have too hot of a night. Thank God for this mattress. Highly recommend!”
—Zach E., verified buyer, 8/10/2023
“I sleep very hot so I was always waking up miserable. We decided to purchase this bed primarily for the cooling top as it was highly rated. That does work great and I’m very pleased with the result—although adding anything beyond a sheet will negate some of the effect. What really surprised me is that my back issues caused by a bulging disc at L4 have substantially reduced after several weeks of sleeping on this mattress. […] My spine alignment is definitely much better.”
—Cindi S., verified buyer, 7/10/2023
Learn more in our full Brooklyn Bedding review.
Mattresses that incorporate latex instead of memory foam tend to be bouncier, cooler, and faster to respond to position changes. Both materials contour to the body, and some people say latex evenly distributes weight better than foam, leading to better pressure relief.
As a latex hybrid mattress, the Birch Natural features some of the advantages of latex while offering the traditional support of steel coils. Our tests suggest the Birch Natural is a good choice for people with herniated discs because of its pressure relieving abilities, especially for back sleepers. Our side-sleeping testers reported some pressure point discomfort in their hips and shoulders, and the mattress sank too much for healthy spinal alignment for stomach sleepers.
The Birch Natural is one of the bounciest mattresses we’ve tested so far. Bouncy materials are easier to move around on and offer a gentle push when rising to a standing position from the edge of the bed. For people who sleep with a partner, bounce should be tempered by motion isolation. Unfortunately, our testers could feel the other person changing positions. “It felt like I was bouncing a bit,” one tester said.
This mattress is a good choice for people with herniated discs who want to stick to all-natural materials to avoid off-gassingⓘ The chemical odor given off from a new mattress. The smell is harmless and is usually gone within the first few days. or reduce allergen exposure. But it’s not as versatile as others on our list since it may lead to disruptive sleep for couples and doesn’t offer good pressure relief or spinal support for all positions.
Who may love it
Who may want to avoid it
The Birch Natural has a star rating of 4.6 out of five from more than 1,900 reviews on its product page. Most people are happy with it, but some say it doesn’t have enough support, and others believe it’s too bouncy.
“I love this mattress! It’s the perfect firmness, supports my back really well. […] Highly recommend! My back thanks you. For reference—I had back surgery a few months ago and I’ve been sleeping on a 25-year-old mattress with a 20-year warranty!”
—Vivian S., verified buyer, 4/20/2024
“Bought a Birch mattress a couple weeks ago and wanted to test it out before leaving a review. Honestly, I’m very happy with this mattress. I haven’t been consistently waking up with my allergies going off or my back hurting like I did with my old mattress. The mattress is soft but still firm enough to accommodate me during sleep. […] Very pleased with this purchase!”
—Dallin Y., verified buyer, 1/18/2024
“My spouse and I both have back and shoulder issues and decided to switch to this mattress. We also were waking up multiple times a night. After the first week or so, we started sleeping through the whole night and feel much less pain when we wake up. Amazing mattress!”
—Cody P., verified buyer, 12/3/2023
Read our in-depth Birch mattress review to learn more.
Our Reviews Team has dedicated more than 1,000 hours to researching the mattress industry, consulting more than 10 health care professionals, and testing roughly 40 brands and 130 unique mattress models for quality and comfort. We’ve also interviewed eight older adults who recently purchased a mattress and surveyed more than 3,200 recent mattress customers to understand their experiences shopping for a new bed.
Each mattress undergoes a rigorous 36-page testing procedure to score its different characteristics, including firmness, support, and other details most shoppers consider. We chose the best mattresses for herniated discs based on the scores of the relevant criteria. See how we tested the most important considerations for this review below.
Firmness
Like most mattress brands in the industry, we use a one to 10 scoring method when testing firmness, with 6.5 being a true medium firm. Our testers rated this by lying on the surface and comparing the feel to other mattresses we’ve tested. Material density and coil strength influence firmness the most.
The experts we interviewed said a firmer mattress is ideal when recovering from a herniated disc because it helps support the spine in a normal alignment. Therefore, we considered mattresses that have scored six or above on our firmness tests.
Support
We score support on a scale of one to five, with five being the most supportive. Mattresses with strong support contour and push into the curves of your body, particularly the lower back or midsection. Not only do we feel support during testing, but we can also visualize it through pressure map results. Maps with mostly white space at the lower back show where the mattress isn’t making contact, which means the mattress isn’t supportive in those areas of the body.
We preferred mattresses with zoned support, meaning the lower back receives more support than the rest of the body. This helps the spine stay in a neutral position and takes pressure off the nerves that are being affected by a herniated disc.
Pressure relief
We rate pressure relief on a scale of one to five, with five being the most pressure relieving. We consider how it feels and use a pressure map with sensors to visualize pressure points around the body accurately. Blue and green pressure map results show great pressure relief, while yellows, oranges, and reds indicate pressure buildup.
When evaluating mattresses for herniated discs, we looked for high pressure relief scores, especially for the back-lying position.
Functional support
Our team developed this unique score to understand how well a mattress accommodates mobility issues, like difficulty moving around or getting up from the bed. We combined firmness (30%), support (30%), bounce (10%), and edge support (30%) to create a score between one and five, with five being the most helpful for movement in bed.
Because people with herniated discs may feel pain when changing positions or getting in and out of bed, we looked for mattresses with high functional support scores to make those movements as easy as possible.
To learn more about our testing and scoring methods, review our sleep methodology.
We continuously test new mattresses to make sure we provide up-to-date rankings and reviews.
We spoke with spinal surgeons, physical therapists, and a chiropractor to learn how mattress features affect herniated discs. While there’s no one-size-fits-all solution, a few themes emerged during our interviews.
“People [with herniated discs] tend to do better with a firmer mattress, something that they don’t sink into,” said Rojeh Melikian, a spine surgeon in Newport Beach, California. Georgiy Brusovanik, a spine surgeon in Miami, agreed. “I’ve always heard that denser mattresses are better for patients with chronic back pain as it allows them to have less kyphosisⓘ An exaggerated rounding of the upper back. , and they sink less,” said Brusovanik.
Our experts told us that most herniated discs can be treated in about six weeks, so it’s also important to get a mattress that will feel comfortable once you’re healed. If you prefer a soft mattress, consider getting a firm mattress topper as a temporary and affordable solution to ease pain from your herniated disc.
The lower back is prone to sinking out of alignment on a mattress that’s too soft or unsupportive. Some mattresses counteract this tendency by using stronger steel coils or a layer of firm foam in the middle of the mattress. This design is sometimes called “zoned support” because each area (or zone) of the body gets different levels of support. The goal is to keep the spine in healthy alignment in all sleeping positions so nothing aggravates the herniated disc.
Pressure can build up in the shoulders, back, and hips if the mattress doesn’t evenly distribute the sleeper’s weight. When you have a herniated disc, it’s especially important to not add pressure to the injured area, as it’s already irritated and inflamed. Our pressure relief scores can help you find a mattress that excels in this category.
If possible, look for a mattress that works with an adjustable base, which raises the head and foot of the bed at the touch of a button. This adjustability can take the place of pillows in helping you to find a position that eases discomfort.
“An adjustable base allows a person to adjust their lower back into more forward flexion, which is more optimal for a patient whose disc herniation is anteriorly placed,” said Kelly Baez, a physical therapist in Tampa Bay, Florida. “For a posteriorly placed disc herniation, extension is best, and therefore someone may prefer just lying flat on their back.”
You should avoid heavy lifting while healing from a herniated disc—and that includes lifting a mattress that may weigh more than 100 pounds.
Mattresses purchased online usually arrive compressed and rolled inside a box that’s left on your doorstep like any other delivery. If you’re not sure you can find someone to help you bring the box inside and unpack it, consider a company that offers white-glove delivery instead.
With white-glove delivery, you don’t have to lift anything. Delivery people bring the mattress into your home and set it up on your bed frame. They can also haul away your old mattress, but this typically costs extra.
A hybrid mattress is ideal for a herniated disc because it combines the support of an innerspring mattress with the comfort and body-contouring capabilities of memory foam or latex. They also tend to be compatible with adjustable bases, but make sure you confirm compatibility with the manufacturer.
By themselves, memory foam and latex may not provide enough support to promote healthy spinal alignment. Heavier areas of the body may dip lower than others, which can lead to additional aches and pains. If you’re considering a pure memory foam or latex mattress for a herniated disc, we recommend choosing a firm model.
On the other hand, traditional innerspring mattresses may add stress to pressure points by failing to contour to the body. A plush quilted cover may help, but thick layers of memory foam or latex typically perform better than a standard mattress topper.
Adjustable beds, also called air chamber mattresses, are another good option, but they tend to be expensive. Their main advantage is the ability to change firmness at the touch of a button, allowing you to change how the mattress feels as your needs change.
Replacing your old mattress with one of the best mattresses for back pain may be appropriate if you have a worn out mattress and chronic back pain, as it’s a long-term solution. Because raising your legs can lower tension on the back, consider pairing the mattress with an adjustable base. Baez said you can also use an adjustable base to lift the lower back, which activates the core muscles and may make it easier to rest.
If you have sudden back pain that’s likely to heal within several weeks, we don’t recommend buying a new mattress. Instead, use extra pillows to raise your knees or support your lower back. Your sleeping position affects where to put the pillows, which we’ll explain in the next section.
The best sleeping position for back pain is whichever gives you the best relief. “I usually tell people to try and see what works. Your body will tell you which way it wants to be,” said Melikian. “Having a couple of extra pillows around to get into a comfortable position can be very helpful.”
Many people find comfort when lying on their backs with a pillow propping up their knees. “It takes some of the weight off your lower back,” said Sinnett. If your lower back feels like it’s floating above the mattress or sinking in too much, consider placing a pillow under [your back] for extra support.
Other people feel best when lying on their sides with a pillow between their thighs or knees, which Baez said helps keep the spine in proper alignment. Side sleepers may also want to consider a U-shaped body pillow (also called a pregnancy pillow) for support. The pillow’s two sides can be used in many creative ways to add support wherever necessary. For example, you might try a hybrid sleeping position where you lean back against one side and prop the other side between your legs.
Sleeping on the stomach is not usually recommended for back pain because it can create an unnatural curve in the spine that strains the back. If you’re used to falling asleep on your stomach and can’t get comfortable on your back or side, use pillows under your stomach or hips to stop the spine from sagging and straining.
If you’re in the market for a new mattress, check these roundups for position-related recommendations: best mattress for side sleepers and best mattress for back sleepers.
| Mattress type | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid with latex |
| Mattress height | 15″ | 13.5″ | 14″ | 13.5″ | Starting at $150 through Load Up | 11.25″ | 13.25″ | 11″ |
| White-glove delivery | Free | None | Starts at $100 | None | 120 nights | None | None | Available in certain ZIP codes |
| Trial period | 365 nights | 100 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights | Lifetime | 120 nights | 120 nights | 100 nights |
| Warranty | Lifetime | 15 years | Lifetime | Softer, luxury firm, firmer, plus | Plush, luxury firm, firm, comfort plus | 10 years | 10 years | 25 years |
| Firmness | Medium | Medium-firm | Soft, medium, firm | N/A | N/A | Firm | Soft, medium, firm | Medium |
We consider the Saatva Rx the “Overall Best Mattress” for a herniated disc because it kept our testers’ spines in healthy alignment and received high praise for its overall comfort. We appreciate that it was designed specifically for people with back pain, and our tests suggest that it delivers on its promise. But the Saatva Rx is one of the most expensive mattresses we’ve reviewed. If it’s not in your budget, we’ve highlighted other supportive and comfortable mattress options, such as the Helix Dusk Luxe and the WinkBed.
Because herniated discs don’t usually take long to heal, we recommend finding a mattress that will support your back throughout the healing process and match your comfort preferences when the herniation is resolved. If your current mattress is still in good condition, consider using a firm mattress topper to help your spine stay in a neutral position as you heal.
Hybrid mattresses are a good choice for relieving a herniated disc. These mattresses combine supportive spring coils with body-contouring memory foam. Traditional innerspring mattresses, which don’t include memory foam, may cause pressure to build up. Memory foam mattresses with no coils may not provide enough support to keep the spine in alignment.
The best sleep position for a herniated disc is one that provides comfort. For some people, that means lying on their back with a pillow under their knees. Others may prefer to lie on their sides with a pillow between their legs. Try various positions to see if you can ease the pain.
If you feel constant pain from a herniated disc and can’t fall asleep in any position, talk to a medical professional about pain management so you can rest and heal.
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. People experience degenerative disc disease in different ways and have different sleeping preferences. Your weight and sleeping position can also affect your mattress choice. That said, the prevailing thought among experts is that a firmer mattress will support a healthy spinal alignment better than a softer one.
Have questions about this review? Email us at reviewsteam@ncoa.org.
