If you’re like most people, you will experience back pain at some point. According to the American Chiropractic Association, 31 million Americans deal with back pain at any given time. Back pain can be a chronic condition, and it has many different causes, including injury, illness, and poor posture.
While a good night’s sleep can often help relieve chronic aches and pains, that’s not always the case for back pain. In fact, sleeping on a bad mattress can actually make back pain worse and cause it to continue indefinitely. To create a healthy sleeping environment that’s good for the back, a mattress needs to balance softness and support. Too much softness can lead to spinal misalignment, and too much firmness can cause pressure points. To reduce back pain, opt for extra firm mattresses. They cause very little movement at night, limiting the twisting and turning you do while asleep.
If your mattress is causing or worsening your back pain, you could think about replacing it. However, new mattresses are expensive, and they are hard to dispose of in an environmentally friendly way.
To get the best value for your money, find a mattress topper that's good for your hips. That way, you are guaranteed quality and painfree rest.
A mattress topper is a far more eco-friendly and cost-effective solution. The right mattress topper can provide comfortable support for proper sleep posture and true relaxation.
How The Right Mattress Topper Can Help With Back Pain
The right mattress topper can significantly reduce or eliminate back pain from a bad mattress. If your mattress is too soft, it doesn’t provide enough support for your spine, neck, and hips, which can cause tension and pain from poor sleep posture. Adding a firm mattress topper to a too-soft bed can provide adequate support for your spine, keeping it in alignment while you lie down. Especially if you're travelling with your emotional support animal. Not only is losing them devastating as a pet owner, this could also mean your mental health can suffer while you look for a replacement ESA--if you ever get around to getting another one so soon.
If you have a mattress that is too firm, it can also cause back pain. One issue with firm beds is the formation of painful pressure points, which are especially common for side sleepers. When you lie on your side on a hard mattress, there is a lot of weight on the shoulders and hips, which can create pressure points.
The other problem with a too-firm mattress is that it doesn’t allow the hips and shoulders to sink down enough to maintain the correct spinal curvature and alignment, which can lead to chronic aches and pains. A soft mattress topper alleviates both of these issues by cushioning the body comfortably without eliminating support.
Our Pick for the 10 Best Mattress Toppers For Back Pain
Ready to upgrade your bed and improve your sleeping experience? We’ve compiled a list of the best available options based on research and mattress topper reviews. Read on to find the best mattress topper for back pain.
1. COMFORT BOOST Mattress Topper
A cozy duvet-style option that’s overstuffed with a fluffy down alternative, the COMFORT BOOST mattress topper balances firm support with cloudlike comfort. This mattress topper is 2 inches thick, and it has square baffle stitching that keeps the filling evenly distributed. It’s designed with an adjustable pocket and elastic banding to fit snugly on any mattress up to 21 inches thick. The underside of the cotton cover is made of strong fabric for reliable durability. With a breathable cotton cover, this down-alternative mattress topper keeps even hot sleepers comfortable.
Bottom Line: A plush mattress topper that’s overstuffed with an animal-friendly down alternative filling that provides cozy support and features a breathable cotton cover.
2. ViscoSoft Select High-Density Memory Foam Mattress Topper
This ViscoSoft mattress topper is made of high-density memory foam for reliable spinal support and customized contouring. Integrated ventilation and cooling gel make this mattress topper great for hot sleepers. The removable cover is easy to keep clean in a washing machine.
Bottom Line: Designed to cradle every part of the body and support the spine, this memory foam topper includes a washable cover and cooling gel for reliable temperature regulation.
3. LUCID Ventilated Gel Memory Foam Mattress Topper
This memory foam mattress topper is 3 inches tall and made entirely of ventilated gel memory foam. Softer than some other memory foam models, this topper provides a plush surface that relieves pressure points and spinal misalignment caused by a too-firm mattress.
Bottom Line: With an affordable price point and soft feel, this ventilated memory foam mattress topper adds comfortable cushioning to a firm or extra firm mattress.
4. Sleep Innovations Dual-Layer Gel Memory Foam Mattress Topper
Featuring two distinct layers, this 4-inch-tall Sleep Innovations mattress topper pairs the support of memory foam with the pillow top coziness of synthetic down. The bottom layer of this mattress topper is made of 2-inch memory foam that’s infused with cooling gel. The top layer is a quilted pillow top that creates a plush feeling and also keeps the memory foam layer clean.
Bottom Line: This well-designed mattress topper has a cozy pillow top over a layer of gel-infused memory foam for a versatile mix of softness and support.
5. EASELAND Pillow Top Mattress Topper
From EASELAND, this mattress topper is filled with a microfiber down alternative that’s held in place by square baffle stitching with a border on each side. The cover is made of breathable cotton designed to keep the sleeper as cool as possible, and there is an internal allergen barrier as well.
Bottom Line: Featuring a cotton cover and animal-friendly synthetic down, this quilted pillow top mattress topper is an affordable option for people looking for a bit of extra softness on a decent mattress.
6. Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR Supreme Mattress Topper
With a medium-firm feel and 3-inch height, this Tempur-Pedic mattress topper is a good choice for any sleeper who wants contoured support for better sleep posture and healthy spinal alignment. The memory foam helps relieve pressure points, and the removable cover is easy to toss in the washing machine.
Bottom Line: Featuring an easy-to-clean removable cover and proprietary memory foam that’s also used in the brand’s mattresses and pillows, this Tempur-Pedic mattress topper offers adaptable support that conforms to your body.
7. BedStory 4-Inch Mattress Topper
This mattress topper is 4 inches thick and made of two distinct layers of memory foam inside a hypoallergenic, washable cover. The top layer is memory foam infused with cooling gel and ventilated for maximum airflow. This sits on a 2-inch layer of dense memory foam designed for strong support. Together, these layers create a cushy and contoured sleep surface.
Bottom Line: At 4 inches tall, this thick memory foam topper is easy to clean thanks to the removable cover and has two layers of certified memory foam for excellent support.
8. RECCI Pressure-Relieving Memory Foam Mattress Topper
Made of memory foam with a bamboo viscose cover, this mattress topper provides a softer level of support that works well for side sleepers or those with extra-firm mattresses. The certified memory foam has a breathable cell structure designed for better airflow, and the bamboo cover also has a cooling effect.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a “marshmallow-like” softness with the customized support of memory foam and an easy-to-clean removable cover.
9. Best Price Mattress 5-Zone Memory Foam Topper
This eye-catching memory foam topper features a cutting-edge improvement over traditional egg carton waves with five different textures arranged in zones. The zoned design provides targeted pressure point relief for different areas of the body: head/neck, shoulders, back/hips, legs, and feet. An infused lavender scent encourages relaxation.
Bottom Line: A low-priced memory foam mattress topper with several unique features: lavender scent, 3-year warranty, and a combination of waves and swirls designed to eliminate pressure points.
10. Linenspa Gel-Infused Memory Foam Mattress Topper
This 3-inch memory foam mattress topper features integrated cooling gel beads that regulate temperature by dissipating heat. While there is no cover included, this topper is made of pure memory foam and includes a 3-year warranty. For a very affordable price, this mattress topper can make a too-firm mattress comfortably soft.
Bottom Line: With an affordable price tag and cooling gel, this memory foam topper is a great way to add contoured support to a too-firm bed, relieving pressure points that cause back pain.
How To Choose A Mattress Topper For Back Pain
There are a lot of mattress toppers available in a wide range of styles, materials, and prices. Whether you are looking for a thin style or an extra thick mattress topper, it’s important to make sure you find the one that’s the best fit for your mattress and sleeping position. For example, taller and heavier individuals generally need toppers that have higher firmness and thickness specifications, and side sleepers often find softer toppers more comfortable.
What To Consider When Buying A Mattress Topper For Back Pain
There are numerous factors to consider when choosing a mattress topper for back pain. Read on to learn more about features such as heat retention, density, motion transfer, and thickness.
Thickness
Mattress toppers come in several different thicknesses. Most are between 1 inch and 4 inches thick. There are many things to consider when deciding how thick of a mattress topper you want. Thicker toppers will change the feeling of your bed more, so if you just want to modify your mattress a little bit, it’s better to go with a thinner topper.
Thicker toppers also tend to cradle the sleeper more than thinner toppers, which can be more comfortable, but also hotter. Tall or heavy people usually get the best benefits from toppers that are at least 3 inches thick. While thick toppers tend to work well for people who sleep on their sides or backs, a thinner topper can be better for stomach sleepers.
Firmness/Density
The density of the material or filling determines how firm a mattress topper is. Memory foam, latex, and down-filled mattress toppers are all available in soft to extra-firm varieties. Denser materials are heavier and firmer, whereas softer toppers are less dense.
Deciding on how firm of a mattress topper you want is mostly based on personal preference. Some people prefer a softer sleeping surface and others like the feeling of a firm mattress topper. Remember, however, that you want to choose a firmness that is soft enough to eliminate pressure points and firm enough to support your spine. Softer toppers also allow you to sink down more, which can be very warm unless you choose a style with cooling properties.
Motion Transfer
If you share a bed with a partner, you have to find a mattress topper that is comfortable for both of you. Another issue to consider is motion transfer. Most mattresses, especially those that have springs, transfer kinetic energy very easily. This means that you can feel it when your partner rolls around or gets out of bed. If you are a light sleeper, these movements can significantly lower the quality of your sleep.
Adding a mattress topper can help reduce motion transfer, even on an innerspring mattress. Both memory foam and latex tend to dampen and absorb kinetic energy, effectively reducing motion transfer.
Heat Retention
All bedding retains body heat to some extent, which is great for chilly climates or people who tend to sleep cold. However, it can be quite uncomfortable for hot sleepers, and some types of mattress toppers can make heat retention worse.
If you are a hot sleeper, it’s important to choose a mattress topper with some cooling properties. If you are looking at a down-filled style, choose a topper with a breathable cover, such as cotton or bamboo. If you are looking at a memory foam mattress topper, look for features like integrated ventilation airways, breathable covers, and cooling gel.
Care and Maintenance
You might not immediately think about cleaning a mattress topper, but it can attract dust, odors, and stains, just like other bedding. When you are choosing a mattress topper, it’s a good idea to check the cleaning instructions so you know how to care for it.
Many comforter-style filled mattress toppers are entirely machine washable, which is very convenient. Machine-washable toppers may need to be line-dried, though some are able to go in a dryer. Latex and memory foam toppers themselves can’t go in a washing machine, though some have removable covers that are easy to wash. Non-machine-washable materials need to be spot cleaned, and you can also vacuum latex and memory foam to get rid of dust and debris.
Types Of Mattress Toppers For Back Pain
Most modern mattress toppers are made of memory foam, latex, or a down/synthetic down filling. Each material has unique benefits and challenges that make them best for certain situations.
Latex
Slightly spongy, latex is made of naturally occurring rubber compounds. Latex mattress toppers help reduce pressure points by spreading your weight out over a large surface. The material also contours to your body to create customized support. Many people feel that latex creates a “buoyant” effect that gives the impression of floating. Latex toppers tend to sleep slightly cooler than memory foam, and they are a bit more responsive to movement, which many people prefer for intimate activities.
Latex has a few potential downsides. It can still be overly warm, especially for hot sleepers who choose a very thick latex topper. The biggest issue is that some people are allergic to latex, so this type of mattress topper is not a viable option for them.
Memory Foam
Memory foam is used for a lot of mattress toppers, and it’s also a common material for pillows and mattresses. It was originally developed for NASA and intended to be used in airplanes to create a safer environment for passengers in the event of a crash. Nowadays, it’s mostly seen in bedding products.
Memory foam is made of dense polyurethane, and it’s designed to adapt to pressure before slowly returning to its original shape. When you lie on memory foam, the material contours around your body, giving under your shoulders and hips and providing comfortable support for your neck, spinal column, pelvis, and legs. This material works well to reduce back pain and pressure points, though it also tends to retain heat very well, so it can be uncomfortable for hot sleepers.
Down and Synthetic Down Alternatives
While there are a lot of latex and memory foam mattress toppers on the market, those aren’t the only options. Many people prefer toppers filled with down or a synthetic alternative. These mattress toppers are similar to duvets or comforters. They are made by stuffing the filling into a fabric cover and then adding quilt-like baffle stitching to hold the filling in place. Most styles have square baffles that keep the filling evenly distributed and prevent it from piling up in the sides or corners.
Traditional down comes from the undercoat of geese or other waterfowl. There are also many animal-friendly synthetic alternatives. Both natural and synthetic down offer a pillow-like coziness that feels like sleeping on a cloud. These mattress toppers are available in a range of firmness levels, and “overstuffed” styles tend to offer more firmness and support.
Polyfoam
Mattress toppers used to be made of polyfoam before memory foam was invented. This type of foam isn’t nearly as dense as memory foam, so it doesn’t provide the same level of support. Polyfoam mattress toppers are still available, and most of them have an “egg carton” design with wavy bumps across the surface.
Although polyfoam is inexpensive, it has a few cons. It holds onto heat very well, so it’s not a good choice for hot sleepers. Because it isn’t dense like memory foam, it doesn’t provide as much spinal support, and it’s also not as durable. However, polyfoam mattress toppers can be helpful for occasional support. You may want to get one if you use a cot or air mattress while camping.
When Should You Buy A Mattress Topper For Pain?
If you wake up every morning with backaches or notice that back pain is keeping you from sleeping soundly, it’s a good sign that your mattress isn’t doing its job very well. This is a great time to purchase a mattress topper. Before you commit to spending a lot of money on a new mattress, try adding a mattress topper first.
Mattress toppers are much more affordable than buying a new mattress. You can easily find an affordable mattress topper on Amazon or another popular online retailer. Mattress toppers can solve various sleep comfort problems, ranging from back and neck pain to anxiety or hot flashes. Once you identify the sleep issue you need to address, you can narrow down your mattress topper options in terms of material, firmness, and special features to get a great night's sleep.
You don’t have to wait until you are in pain from a bad mattress to get a mattress topper. You may decide to get one to put on a brand new mattress. Toppers can make a good mattress even more comfortable, and they can help reduce motion transfer, which is very useful for partners who share a bed. Additionally, a mattress topper can protect your mattress from stains and wear and tear. Placing a topper on a new mattress can ensure that it stays clean and lasts as long as possible.
Does a Mattress Topper Work for Back Pain?
A mattress topper might be the solution you've been yearning for, especially if your back discomfort keeps you up late at night.
A mattress topper should ease several problems causing poor sleep quality, irrespective of the kind of back pain or injury you have.
Mattress toppers, available in various sizes and shapes, add a layer of comfort to your current mattress by adding a soft surface to a firm mattress or support to a saggy mattress.
The proper thickness of your mattress topper will drastically improve your general sleeping position and spine alignment and ease pressure spots.
You can use mattress toppers for shoulder pain, lower back pain, hip pain, or neck pain. By promoting alignment and reducing pressure, a mattress topper can protect against existing injuries or chronic pain problems. If you have a specific condition causing your pain, you may want to search consumer reviews to find the best mattress topper for your unique needs. The nature of your condition can determine the mattress topper material and firmness that would work best for you.
Because everyone sleeps differently, it's crucial to understand that mattress toppers are not exactly a one-size-fits-all solution.
It's vital to keep this in mind while choosing the correct mattress topper because, for instance, one that works for a side sleeper won't always fit anybody who rests on their stomach.
How to Use a Mattress Topper Properly
Before slipping beneath the covers, make your bed with a mattress topper.
Put Your Topper in Place.
Start by taking off the bed sheets and your mattress cover if you use one. Then, place the mattress topper directly on top of your mattress, centering it where you want it to be.
Include a Mattress Protector
While the moisture resistance offered by your mattress topper could be adequate, you might want an additional moisture resistance layer with a mattress protector.
A mattress protector prevents spills from permeating your mattress or topper and lessens the regular wear and tear your mattress will experience over its lifetime.
Stretch on top of your mattress topper if you have a mattress protector, then put on your sheets.
You can skip this step if you aren't utilizing a second mattress protector.
Make Your Fitted Sheet Work
You can now replace the sheets after the topper is in place. However, you may find that your sheets don’t fit quite the same way as before. Instead, use deep-pocket fitted sheets.
While regular sheets can cease as low as 11 inches, wide deep-pocket varieties can support mattresses up to 22 inches tall. Measure the depth of your mattress with the mattress topper on to order the correct depth.
Finish Up
Finish making your bed by tucking the flat sheet in at the bottom of the bed and laying it smooth on top of the fitted sheet. Finally, put on your comforter or top blankets.
What Purpose Does a Mattress Topper Serve?
Without needing to install a new bed, mattress toppers are an easy method to improve the quality of your sleep. Plus, purchasing a mattress topper rather than a new one can be extremely cost-effective.
For several reasons, it makes sense to include a mattress topper in your bedding assortment.
Refashion an Extra-Firm Mattress
If your mattress is overly hard, you could experience severe back discomfort that keeps you up all night and makes you feel achy the next day.
Fortunately, you don't have to abandon your mattress and purchase a mattress topper. By doing this, you can preserve your current mattress while softening and improving its comfort for sleeping, giving you a better night's rest.
Fix a Weary Mattress
Has your mattress outlived its usefulness? Perhaps it's time to purchase its replacement! You can test a mattress topper instead if you're not yet willing to make that choice, though.
A mattress topper is an ideal option to give an old mattress new life at a much lower price because it offers a consistent layer of comfort. You can even add a mattress topper to dorm mattresses.
Supply Skeletal Support
Nearly 90% of people will complain of back pain at some point. Your mattress topper can ease some of this discomfort.
Many models feature carefully positioned cushions that can both give outstanding support and ease pressure on your hip and shoulder bones.
Conclusion
Your spine will take on the proper shape, and your back discomfort will go away if you choose a suitable mattress topper. A good night's sleep is necessary to recover from various illnesses, and if you choose the proper mattress topper, it could be a blessing in disguise.
Get a soft mattress topper if your mattress is too firm. You should use contoured memory foam if you move about a lot.
Selecting the right mattress topper can significantly alleviate back pain, providing the support and comfort necessary for a restful night's sleep. Just as incorporating the best greens supplements into one's diet can enhance overall health, choosing an appropriate mattress topper is a key step in managing back discomfort. It's essential to consider factors such as material, thickness, and firmness to ensure the topper addresses individual needs. By doing so, individuals can enjoy improved spinal alignment and pressure relief, paving the way for a more comfortable and pain-free sleep experience.
Commonly Asked Questions About Mattress Toppers for Back Pain
Get answers to the top questions about back pain and mattress toppers.
What is a mattress topper?
A mattress topper sits on top of a mattress to modify the firmness of the sleeping surface. Toppers come in a wide range of materials, firmness options, and styles, so it’s easy to find one that fits your needs.
In general, you should look for a topper that is the opposite of your mattress. You would add a soft topper to a mattress that is too firm and use a firm topper to create support on a soft mattress. However, there are also medium-firm mattress toppers that are very versatile. These can go on top of almost any mattress to add contoured support and more cushioning.
Which type of mattress topper is best for lower back pain?
You need to consider the cause of your low back pain. If it’s from poor sleep posture and inadequate spinal support, you should look for a topper that’s firm enough to add support. If you are feeling pain from pressure points on your lower back and hips, you may need something softer to counteract a super firm mattress.
Generally, side sleepers are more comfortable on softer toppers. This is because sleeping on your side tends to place a lot of weight on your shoulders and hips. With a soft mattress topper, that pressure gets distributed over a larger area, helping to reduce painful pressure points. A soft topper also helps keep the spine properly aligned.
If you sleep on your back, you may prefer a medium or firm mattress topper to provide more support to your whole back. Most stomach sleepers need a firm or extra firm mattress topper. Without enough support, the body tends to cave inwards, which creates a lot of tension in the spine and leads to chronic pain.
Can mattress toppers help with back pain?
Yes! Many people purchase mattress toppers for this very reason. Mattress toppers are designed to create a soft sleeping surface that also supports a healthy sleep posture. The right mattress topper relieves pressure points and pain from joint tension and spinal misalignment.
What’s the difference between a mattress pad and a mattress topper?
A mattress topper isn’t the same as a mattress pad. A mattress pad is generally made of a thin fabric designed to protect the mattress from dust, moisture, stains, and odor. Some mattress pads are also waterproof or made of sweat-wicking, cooling material.
A mattress topper is much bigger: usually a few inches thick. Its purpose is to change how the bed feels when you lie on it. Although a mattress topper isn’t the same as a mattress pad, it also protects the mattress from stains and odors, so it can be an excellent alternative to a simple mattress pad.
Can mattress toppers cause back pain?
While mattress toppers often help alleviate back pain from a bad mattress, they can also cause discomfort. You may experience back pain if you choose a topper that is too firm (creating pressure points and bad alignment) or too soft (providing inadequate support).
What’s the purpose of a mattress topper?
The point of a mattress topper is to change how your mattress feels by adding more cushioning, support, or both. Mattress toppers can help relieve pressure points and support your back to keep your spine aligned properly.
Do you need both a mattress topper and a mattress pad?
Generally, no. A mattress topper covers your entire mattress, helping to keep it clean and reducing wear and tear. With this type of coverage, you don’t usually need to add a mattress pad, though you can certainly use one if you want another layer of protection for your mattress.
What thickness of mattress topper should I get?
The answer depends on your unique needs, preferences, and sleeping position. Thin mattress toppers are usually about 1 inch tall, whereas extra-thick styles can be up to 4 inches. Most mattress toppers are 2 inches or 3 inches thick.
Thicker toppers will provide more cushioning, giving you more of a feeling of sinking into or being surrounded by the material. This works well for people who want a cozy, encompassing feeling when they sleep. However, thicker toppers may also retain more heat, so they may not be ideal for warm climates or people who sleep hot.
Thinner mattress toppers don’t change the feeling of the mattress as much. They can be a good choice for people who just want a little additional cushioning or support. However, they aren’t able to distribute as much pressure as thicker styles. Generally, taller and/or heavier individuals should look for a topper that is at least 3 inches thick. If this still doesn't make sleeping any more comfortable for you, then consider throwing in a weighted blanket in the mix. There are even varieties that are perfect even for hot sleepers.
How do you clean a mattress topper?
You should always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning your mattress topper. However, there are some general rules to follow. If the mattress topper has a removable cover, wash and dry it (according to the instructions) when you launder your sheets.
If your topper doesn’t have a removable cover, you can vacuum and spot clean it. Vacuuming can remove dust and debris particles. You can then use an enzyme cleaner to get rid of any spots or stains. If you want to reduce odors, you can sprinkle baking soda on the cover and vacuum it up after allowing it to sit for a few hours. Cleaning your mattress topper regularly can help prevent stains and smells and improve longevity by removing things that can break down the material.
