Best Mattress for Shoulder Pain (2024)

While I haven’t personally suffered shoulder pain in recent years, I still know how frustrating it can be to get a good night's sleep. If it seems like no matter what position you try to sleep in, your shoulder always ends up hurting then read on. I've done the research and tested out various mattresses to find the best ones for shoulder pain relief. In the information below, I'll share my findings and give you all the information you need to find the best mattress for your shoulder pain.

Understanding the Causes of Shoulder Pain

Before we dive into the best mattresses for shoulder pain, it's important to understand what causes shoulder pain in the first place. There are several potential causes, including:

Rotator cuff injuries
Bursitis
Tendinitis
Frozen shoulder
Arthritis
Pinched nerves

No matter the cause, shoulder pain can make it difficult to get comfortable at night and can even wake you up in the middle of the night. That's why finding a mattress that can alleviate some of that pain is so important.

How a Mattress Can Alleviate Shoulder Pain

The right mattress can make a big difference when it comes to shoulder pain relief. A mattress that is too soft can cause your shoulder to sink in too much, putting pressure on your joint and exacerbating your pain. On the other hand, a mattress that is too firm can push against your shoulder, causing discomfort and pain.

The best mattresses for shoulder pain are typically those that provide a balance between support and comfort. Look for a mattress that is firm enough to keep your spine aligned, but also has enough cushioning to relieve pressure on your shoulder. Provided you sleep on your side, a medium should be ideal for this purpose. If however you sleep on your back then a medium firm should give you what you need by way of support to contour against your muscles.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Mattress for Shoulder Pain

When shopping for a mattress to relieve shoulder pain, there are several factors to keep in mind. Here are a few things to consider:

Firmness: As mentioned, you want a mattress that is firm enough to keep your spine aligned, but not so firm that it puts pressure on your shoulder.
Material: There are several types of mattresses on the market, including memory foam, latex, and pocket spring. Each material has its own pros and cons, so it's important to do your research and find the one that works best for you.
Support: Look for a mattress that provides adequate support for your body. This will not only help with shoulder pain, but can also improve your overall sleep quality.
Motion transfer: If you sleep with a partner, you'll want a mattress that minimises motion transfer. This will help you avoid being disturbed by their movements throughout the night, keeping pain at bay.

Sleep Positions That Can Help with Shoulder Pain

In addition to finding the right mattress, your sleeping position can also make a big difference when it comes to shoulder pain relief. Here are a few sleeping positions that can help:

Back sleeping: Sleeping on your back with a pillow under your knees can help keep your spine aligned and relieve pressure on your shoulder.
Side sleeping: If you prefer to sleep on your side, try placing a pillow between your legs to help keep your spine aligned. You can also try hugging a pillow to your chest to provide extra support for your shoulder.
Stomach sleeping: Sleeping on your stomach is not ideal for shoulder pain, but if you must, try using a thin pillow under your chest to help alleviate some of the pressure on your shoulder.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mattresses and Shoulder Pain

Here are a few frequently asked questions about mattresses and shoulder pain:

Can a mattress really help with shoulder pain?
Yes, the right mattress can make a big difference when it comes to shoulder pain relief. Look for a mattress that is firm enough to keep your spine aligned, but also has enough cushioning to relieve pressure on your shoulder.

What sleeping position is best for shoulder pain?
Back sleeping or side sleeping with a pillow between your legs are the best sleeping positions for shoulder pain.

How often should I replace my mattress?
Most mattresses should be replaced every 7-10 years, but this can vary depending on the quality of the mattress and how well you take care of it.

Pressure Relief: Designed to alleviate pressure on the shoulders by providing cushioning and support, which can help reduce pain.
Supportive Contouring: Features materials that conform to the body, supporting the natural curve of the spine and shoulders, helping to maintain proper alignment.
Customizable Firmness: Many of these mattresses offer adjustable firmness settings, allowing users to find a comfortable balance that reduces shoulder strain.
Improved Sleep Quality: By reducing shoulder discomfort, these mattresses can enhance overall sleep quality, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.
Durable Construction: Often built to withstand the extra demands of supporting areas prone to pain, ensuring longevity and consistent performance over time.

Reasons to Avoid

Cost: Mattresses designed for specific health issues like shoulder pain can be more expensive due to the specialized materials and technologies used.
May Not Suit Everyone: What works for one person’s shoulder pain might not be effective for another, depending on the underlying cause and personal comfort preferences.
Adaptation Period: Users might experience an adjustment period where the mattress feels uncomfortable as their body adapts to the new support system.
Effectiveness Varies: The effectiveness of a mattress in alleviating shoulder pain can vary widely among individuals, and finding the right one might require trial and error.
Limited Versatility: These mattresses are tailored for shoulder support and may not provide the same level of comfort for other types of pain or other sleepers without shoulder issues.