6 Best Mattresses For Neck Pain
Neck pain is a distressing and debilitating condition that can affect your quality of life. It can be caused by many things including aging, posture, and occupation. The mattress that you sleep on can also play a role and you may be surprised to learn that the best mattress for neck pain is not necessarily a soft one.
Some people need to take long-term medication to control their back and neck pain. However, prevention is always better than cure and many people find that by choosing the best mattress, they can eliminate their pain and get a good night s sleep. Mattresses for neck pain need to align the spine as you sleep so that your head is not held in an awkward position that causes strain. For this, you need the appropriate level of support at the shoulders and other pressure points to lift the neck into a straight line. The position in which you sleep is also important. To help you choose the best mattress for neck pain, and find out how to eliminate pain at night, check out this comprehensive guide.
For a wider range of mattresses, make sure you take a look at our reviews of the best mattress for back pain and the best cooling mattress.
The Best Mattress For Neck Pain
1. Saatva Loom & Leaf Memory Foam Mattress
HIGHLIGHTS:
Memory foam mattress for sufferers of neck pain
Customer chooses which firmness level they require
Organic cotton hypoallergenic top cover for freshness
Made with 5-pound high-density memory foam
Stable base made from multiple layers
180-night sleep trial for your peace of mind
1.
Saatva Loom & Leaf Memory Foam Mattress – Best Choice
The Saatva Loom & Leaf Mattress is a memory foam mattress that is perfect for those suffering from neck pain or lower back pain. It is available as a relaxed firm mattress that balances comfort with support to provide pressure relief. This mattress would suit all sleeping positions and is one of the best for couples who have different sleeping styles. A firm version of this model makes you feel like you are floating on top of the mattress and may be better for back and stomach sleepers who require more support as they are resting.
Each mattress consists of four layers to give pain sufferers the support they need as they rest. The top layer is a soft and breathable 100% organic cotton cover that is hypoallergenic and has been treated with a Guardin® botanical treatment. This makes it antimicrobial to keep the mattress feeling fresh and to prevent stale odors.
The next layer is the gel layer that helps with spinal alignment by providing spinal support and also keeps you cool as you sleep. The memory foam layer uses 5-pound high-density foam to give you support and relief at pressure points. Finally, the base is made up of multiple layers so that the mattress is durable and offers stability as you rest.
This eco-friendly mattress is made from renewable oils and is delivered for free – it comes with a 180-night sleep trial and a 15-year warranty for your peace of mind.
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Learn more about Saatva Loom & Leaf Memory Foam Mattress
2. Casper Nova Hybrid Mattress
HIGHLIGHTS:
Hybrid mattress combining memory foam and resilient springs
Airscape™ top layer with small perforations to keep you cool
Pressure relief under the shoulders to help with alignment
Ergonomic support zones for neck pain sufferers
Resilient springs for support and durability
Edge support so it is easy to get out of bed
2.
Casper Nova Hybrid Mattress – Premium Pick
The Nova Hybrid Mattress from Casper is perfect for people who like to sleep on a plush layer but who also like a medium-firm mattress and the support that it offers. This hybrid mattress has a luxurious feel but also offers targeted support for pressure relieving and spinal alignment as you rest. It also keeps you cool, ensuring that you get the best night’s sleep at the right temperature.
This mattress to help with neck pain has four layers to secure your comfort. The top layer is a special Airscape™ material with small perforations to increase airflow and keep you cool but that also has a velvety and soft feel. It helps heat to dissipate from the body. The second AirScape™ layer has ergonomic zones of support which are especially beneficial for side sleepers. It provides pressure relief as it is softer under the shoulders but firmer at the hip, waist and lower back level. The Zoned Support™ Pro layer also relieves pressure at the area where your shoulders rest but provide more support elsewhere so that your hips are aligned. In all, there are 7 support zones and this is very important for supporting the spine and maintaining alignment. Finally, the resilient springs in pocketed coils offer lift and support as well as facilitating airflow. This is the part of the mattress that provides a firmer border of edge support making it easier to get off the bed.
The mattress comes with a 100-night commitment-free trial, free delivery and a 10-year limited warranty for your complete peace of mind.
Learn more about Casper Nova Hybrid Mattress
3. Purple Mattress
HIGHLIGHTS:
Combines support with flexibility for neck pain sufferers
Top breathable layer to keep you fresh as you rest
More dynamic flexing than memory foam
Mattress for back pain and neck pain
Hypoallergenic and non-toxic for allergy sufferers
Free shipping and returns for complete peace of mind
3.
Purple Mattress – Best Value
The Purple Mattress combines support with flexibility making it one of the best options if you suffer from neck pain. The top comfort layer is a soft knit fabric that flexes and stretches readily with movement. It’s also breathable and helps to keep you cool as you sleep – dissipating heat with over 1,800 air channels. The 2-inch thick purple grid layer is made from a temperature-neutral gel that is hyper-elastic for comfort. The grid flexes under the pressure points at your shoulders and hips so it relieves neck pain for side sleepers by maintaining alignment and cutting down on strain on the soft tissue. The cushioning layer is soft but firm so it is highly supportive. It includes a combination of two higher density foams to give a base that is durable and amongst the best choices for lasting for several years.
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The grid dynamically flexes every time you change position and does not sink when it gets hot or break down which memory foam can do. It is also hypoallergenic and non-toxic. It comes with a limited one year warranty, free shipping, and returns, and a 21 night trial period.
Learn more about Purple Mattress
4. Bear Mattress
HIGHLIGHTS:
Cool and supportive mattress for helping with neck pain
Top breathable layer to keep the mattress fresh
Cooling graphite memory foam gel to spread heat and provide support
Transition foam offering pressure relief and balanced support
Higher-density foam bottom layer for durability
Made with eco-friendly water-based bonding solution
The Bear Mattress is a holder of the Best Mattress for Back Pain award from The Mattress Advisor and is one of the best options for neck pain. As you sleep, it keeps you cool, and the supportive foam contours to your body shape so you are always supported which puts less strain on muscles and connective tissue.
The top layer is breathable and keeps the mattress fresh. The second layer is made from cooling graphite memory foam gel that keeps you cool. Then, there is the transition foam that offers pressure relief and balanced support. Finally, there is a higher density foam for durability which helps support the structure of the mattress and makes sure that it lasts longer.
The mattress is made with an eco-friendly water-based bonding solution and comes with a 10-year limited warranty, free shipping, and a 100 day commitment-free trial for your peace of mind.
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Learn more about Bear Mattress
5. Layla Memory Foam Mattress
HIGHLIGHTS:
Mattress made from memory foam for people with neck pain
Flippable with a soft and firm side to suit your needs
Soft and firm copper gel memory foam layers
Rapid cooling and antimicrobial odor control to keep you fresh
2-inch thick support foam that is zoned for custom support
120 day free trial for complete peace of mind when you purchase
The Layla Memory Foam Mattress features copper-infused foam to keep you cooler and is the holder of the Forbes Best Memory Foam Mattress for 2019. The mattress is flippable so that you can choose the top side that is best for your neck pain. It comes with two free Layla Memory foam pillows that will also be beneficial for neck pain by offering just the right level of support and will cradle your head in the right position as you sleep.
There are multiple layers starting with either a soft or firm thermo-gel reactive foam with a hexagon pattern and a zipper so that it can be removed for washing. It is up to you to choose if the firmer or softer side suits you best. Within the mattress, there are also soft and firm copper gel memory foam layers that offer rapid cooling and antimicrobial odor control. At the center of the mattress, there is a 2-inch thick support foam that is zoned for custom support and a 4-inch thick foam core that does not transfer motion and prevents bounce when two people are sleeping on the mattress. This ensures that you can both get some rest without disturbing each other.
The mattress comes with free shipping, a 120-day free trial, and a lifetime warranty for your peace of mind.
Learn more about Layla Memory Foam Mattress
6. DreamFoam Copper Dreams Mattress
HIGHLIGHTS:
Multi-layer foam mattress for comfort and pain alleviation
Copper and graphite layer to keep you cool as you sleep
Pressure point relief to help with alignment
6-inch base that has a higher density for durability
Smooth weave top layer for comfort and to keep you fresh
120 night trial period for complete peace of mind
6.
DreamFoam Copper Dreams Mattress – Budget Pick
The DreamFoam Copper Dreams Mattress from Brooklyn Bedding is a multi-layered foam mattress to provide comfort and support for people who suffer from pain in their neck, shoulders, and backs. This mattress cools, has deep contouring, and offers one of the best sleeping experiences you can have.
The layers of the mattress are: a top layer of smooth weave then a 1.5-inch thick foam layer infused with copper and graphite and that draws heat away from the body to keep you cool. After this comes a 2.5-inch thick memory foam layer that offers pressure point relief making it one of the best options for neck pain. The next layer is 2 inches of transition foam and finally a 6-inch layer of foam that has a higher density.
The mattress comes with a 120 night trial period and a 10-year limited warranty.
Learn more about DreamFoam Copper Dreams Mattress
Features To Consider With Mattresses For Neck Pain
Here are the best features that you should look out for when you are looking for the best mattress for neck pain to help you sleep comfortably.
Pressure Relief
The best option will offer pressure relief at the main pressure points of the body i.e. the shoulders and hips. A lack of appropriate support at these points is the underlying cause of a lot of pain. Often, one of the foam layers offers specific support at these points and that maintains the alignment of the spine as you sleep.
Support & Spine Alignment
By providing the right level of support at the pressure points of the body as you sleep, your mattress can maintain alignment of the neck and lower back. This is especially important if you sleep on your side but is also useful if you sleep on your back or stomach. It will stop you from being in pain when you wake up in the morning.
Temperature Regulation
Refreshing sleep is very much related to body temperature. Obviously, you cannot get to sleep if you are too cold. However, there is also a problem associated with overheating. If your body temperature rises too high as you sleep, you will become restless and wake up. Therefore, look for a mattress that has elements to keep you cool. The very top layer that is in contact with your skin should have a wicking effect that keeps you cool. Also, the other layers should have a copper-infused foam or a gel layer (also some have perforations) that draw the heat away from the body and keep you comfortable.
Motion Isolation
There is nothing more annoying than being woken up by your sleeping partner moving around and a wave of movement traveling to your side of the mattress. Some people accept this as an inevitable part of sleeping with another person but it does not have to be the case. If you have a model that offers motion isolation, you will be able to get undisturbed rest. These models have a foam layer that isolates movement and stops it from being transmitted. It is very useful if you have a restless partner!
Durability
No one wants to purchase a mattress that does not last. Foam mattresses are a significant investment and should be made from quality materials that last for several years. Often, the bottom layer adds extra strength and durability. If you have concerns about durability, it would be best to choose one that has a warranty for 10 or 15 years. You should be changing it after this time anyway.
Types Of Mattresses For Neck Pain
Neck pain is a very distressing condition and can seriously affect your quality of life. It can be a particular problem for side sleepers but it can also affect back sleepers. The correct mattress can help. Mattresses can be made out of any of the following materials.
Memory Foam
Memory foam is amongst the best materials for a mattress if you suffer from aches and pains. Often, a mattress that is made from memory foam will be made out of several layers of foam that serve different functions. There will be pressure relief layers that help to maintain neck alignment and cooling layers that regulate your temperature as you sleep.
Latex
A latex mattress is also one of the best options if you have neck pain. A latex mattress will provide a lot of support but will not create too much pressure at the shoulders or hips. Latex is also often hypoallergenic, eco-friendly and good for people who suffer from allergies.
Hybrid
If you sleep on a hybrid mattress, you get the benefit of both springs and foam. You get the contouring effect and pressure relief from the foam. You also get the edge support and structure as the springs that make it easy to get off the bed. However, you may not need this if your main concern is to control your neck pain.
Innerspring
If you sleep on an innerspring mattress, you will have the structure and support of springs. However, you are less likely to get zonal support and you may suffer from pressure at certain points of your body such as the shoulders and hips. This may not be the best option for neck pain.
What Causes Neck Soreness at Night?
Neck pain at night or first thing in the morning is often caused by the way in which you sleep. It could be a problem with your sleeping position, your mattress, your pillow or some other issue relating to the way in which you sleep. As this condition can have a real impact on your quality of life and affect how you function during the day, it is important that you try to find the cause and do something about it. You may need to do this through a process of elimination and it can take a few weeks to sort it out. This is why many mattresses come with a risk-free trial period during which you can try out the mattress and see if it is helping the problem.
Firstly, both back and neck pain is common amongst stomach sleepers and less common amongst side and back sleepers. When you sleep on your stomach, the neck is twisted to the side for long periods of time and this causes strain, tension and pain. As you will be asleep, you will not realize that this is happening until you wake up. However, this sleeping position also puts a lot of strain on the back, especially if the mattress is not very supportive. For some people, neck pain is accompanied by lower back pain and this is especially debilitating. This is why the best mattress for stomach sleepers is firmer and provides more support.
Head and neck pain can also be caused by an incorrect pillow and this is true for side and back sleepers also. The best pillow supports both the head and the neck in a 'cradled' position that keeps the spine and neck in a neutral position. If the head is help at a steep angle, it can cause the muscles to go into spasm and this causes pain when you wake up.
Your mattress can also make a contribution by being unsupportive. It needs to provide appropriate pressure relief at the shoulders so that there is a straight alignment of the spine just below the head level.
Finally, there are other factors that can be involved and some of these require medical intervention. Neck pain can be caused by poor posture during the day such as that caused by being hunched over a computer screen. You may need an ergonomic assessment of your work station. It can also be caused by sitting for too long in front of a television or gaming screen without getting up to move around and have a stretch. There are several medical conditions that can cause neck pain including osteoarthritis and herniated discs causing compression of the spinal cord and other nerves. These need to be investigated and treated by a doctor.
By taking these simple steps, you should be able to prevent neck pain. If you still have neck pain after following these steps, you should speak to a doctor about your condition and have a medical investigation.
Try to sleep on your back or side rather than on your stomach as this will exert less strain on the spine.
Side sleepers can help their neck pain by placing a firm pillow in between their legs to make sure that the neck alignment with the spine is maintained.
For side sleepers, the pillow under your head must not place your skull at a higher level than your neck. If it is higher, it will tilt the head and cause strain to muscles, this will give you neck pain by the time you wake up as the muscles are likely to have gone into spasm.
Some people find that feather pillows conform more readily to the natural alignment of the spine and head. However, they also lose their shape as they are used more and should therefore be replaced every two years. It can take a few tries to find the right pillow for you.
You may find that a memory foam pillow follows the contours of your neck better - and this keeps the neck supported and prevents pain. Foam pillows are sometimes offered for free with a new mattress or may be offered on a special deal. This is a cost-effective way of tackling two possible causes of your pain.
Pillows that are stiff and/or deep should be avoided. It will cause over-flexion of the neck muscles. This puts the muscles under stress and causes pain. You may need to get another person to look at you as you sleep on your side to check the alignment of your spine when you are using different pillows.
A mattress that is sagging in the middle is not the best sleeping option. It would be advisable to replace it with a medium-firm mattress. This will provide much more support to your back and neck. Without this support, your muscles are constantly struggling to keep the body in a straight line. They become fatigued and strained and this results in pain in the morning.
