Best Mattress for Side Sleepers with Shoulder Pain

Discover the best mattress for side sleepers with shoulder pain. Find optimal support and pressure relief to wake up pain-free and refreshed!

That morning shoulder pain isn’t normal. Yet it affects 18-26% of adults, especially side sleepers.

Side sleeping puts intense pressure on your shoulders. The wrong mattress intensifies this pressure. The right mattress eliminates it.

We tested hundreds of mattresses to find the ones that actually work. This guide shows you how to choose the best mattress for shoulder pain relief.

Ready to sleep better tonight?

Best Mattress for Side Sleepers with Shoulder Pain

We tested our mattresses to find the five best options for side sleepers with shoulder pain. Each mattress below excels at pressure relief, proper support, and pain reduction.

Find your perfect match based on your specific needs and budget.

1. TEMPUR-ProAdapt Medium Hybrid – Best Mattress Overall

This ProAdapt Medium Hybrid mattress combines TEMPUR foam contouring with responsive pocketed coils. The design offers adaptive support and pressure relief. It’s the best memory foam mattress on our list for targeting shoulder pain.

Price	$2,699.00 – $5,698.00
Firmness	Medium
Height	12 inches
Size Options	Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Cal King, Split
Trial Period	120 Night Comfort Guarantee
Warranty	10-year

Choose Your Match

2. TEMPUR-ActiveBreeze Smart – Best Luxury Mattress

This TEMPUR-ActiveBreeze Smart mattress combines luxury comfort with advanced temperature control. The adjustable design targets shoulder pain through customized positioning and cooling technology.

Price	$9,298.00 – $19,196.00
Firmness	Medium-Firm
Height	14 inches
Size Options	Twin XL, Queen, King, Cal King, Split
Trial Period	120 Night Comfort Guarantee
Warranty	10-year

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3. BedTech Escape 500 – Best Value Mattress

This BedTech Escape 500 memory foam mattress offers premium comfort at an accessible price. The gel-infused design targets shoulder pain through adaptive support and cooling comfort.

Price	$649.95 – $1,599.90
Firmness	Medium-Firm
Height	10 inches
Size Options	RV Queen, Twin, XL Twin, Full, Queen, King, Cal King
Trial Period	120 Night Comfort Guarantee
Warranty	10-year

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4. Qube Immerse – Best Cooling Mattress

The Immerse mattress features innovative QUBE technology and zoned support. The advanced cooling design targets shoulder pain through adaptive comfort and temperature regulation.

Price	$7,999.00 – $9,999.00
Firmness	Medium-Soft
Height	15 inches
Size Options	XL Twin, Queen, King
Trial Period	120 Night Comfort Guarantee
Warranty	20-year

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5. TEMPUR-LUXEbreeze Medium Hybrid – Best Mattress for Couples

This premium TEMPUR-LUXEbreeze Hybrid combines advanced cooling with superior motion isolation. The balanced design targets shoulder pain through adaptive support and temperature regulation.

Price	$4,799.00 – $9,898.00
Firmness	Medium
Height	13 inches
Size Options	XL Twin, Queen, King, Cal King, Split
Trial Period	120 Night Comfort Guarantee
Warranty	10-year

Choose Your Match

Can a Mattress Cause Shoulder Pain?

Yes, a mattress can cause shoulder pain if you sleep on your side. A bad mattress creates pressure points, provides poor support, and has worn-out materials. These issues can misalign your spine during sleep.

What Type of Mattress Is Best for Shoulder Pain?

Memory foam mattresses provide the best relief for shoulder pain. The foam contours to your body and distributes pressure across your shoulders.

Here’s how different mattress types rank for shoulder pain relief:

Memory Foam Mattresses	Superior pressure relief Balances contouring and support Reduces strain on pressure points Maintains spinal alignment
Hybrid Mattresses	Combines foam comfort with coil support Good pressure relief Enhanced edge support Better airflow than an all-foam mattress
Latex Mattresses	Natural pressure relief Responsive support Sleeps cooler than memory foam Durable materials
Innerspring Mattresses	Limited pressure relief Minimal contouring Creates pressure points Not recommended for shoulder pain

What Is the Best Mattress Firmness for Shoulder Pain?

A medium-firm (5-7 out of 10) mattress firmness level is best for side sleepers with shoulder pain. It balances support and pressure relief while maintaining proper spinal alignment.

Opt for a softer option if you need more cushioning for your shoulders.

How your body weight affects the ideal firmness:

Weight	Firmness Level
Under 130 lbs	Medium-soft (5-6)
130-230 lbs	Medium (6-7)
Over 230 lbs	Medium-firm (7)

Signs You Need New Mattress

Your mattress affects your shoulder pain more than you realize. These warning signs reveal when your mattress needs replacement.

Catching these issues before they worsen prevents chronic pain and sleepless nights.

Your Mattress is Over 7-10 Years Old

Most mattresses last 7-10 years with proper care. The materials inside break down over time. For example, the foam loses density, springs weaken, and support layers compress.

A mattress past its prime creates pressure points and misalignment. Your shoulders feel this deterioration first.

We recommend replacing your mattress after 7 years. This will keep it supportive for your shoulders.

Waking Up with Pain or Stiffness

Morning shoulder pain points to your mattress and sleeping position. Your body repairs itself during sleep. A supportive mattress helps this healing process.

Stiffness or discomfort upon waking signals a failing mattress. The pain starts mild in the morning and intensifies throughout the day.

A new mattress breaks this pain cycle by providing proper shoulder support.

Loss of Support and Comfort

Your mattress feels nothing like it did new. The comfort layers compress, and the support weakens. Your body notices immediately.

This loss of support causes your shoulders to sink into worn spots. Pressure points form, and your spine twists out of alignment.

A new mattress will provide better spine alignment and reduce shoulder pain.

Noticeable Sagging or Lumps

Your mattress surface shows visible sagging, lumps, and edge support loss. These deformities create uneven support zones and pressure points that stress your shoulders.

Deep mattress indentations can put your body in awkward positions. They cause your spine to curve in an unnatural way.

A new mattress provides a level sleep surface. It maintains proper alignment and prevents shoulder compression.

Visible Wear and Tear

Rips, tears, and damaged areas compromise your mattress structure. The internal support system also deteriorates behind these visible flaws. It results in poor shoulder support.

Exposed foam, loose threads, and broken seams also indicate deeper structural problems. These issues worsen over time and create pressure points that aggravate shoulder pain.

You Can Feel Springs or Increased Noise

Protruding springs and squeaking coils reveal severe mattress deterioration. The internal components break down, creating painful pressure points on your shoulders.

Metal springs should remain hidden and silent. Feeling them through your mattress means the comfort layers have failed.

Poor Sleep Quality and Tossing All Night

Constant position changes signal a mattress problem. How? Your body seeks comfort by shifting positions at night. But this disrupts vital sleep cycles.

Lack of support can also tense your shoulders and cause fatigue. Quality sleep becomes impossible when your body fights against an unsupportive mattress.

You Sleep Better on Other Beds

Do you sleep better in hotel beds or at friends’ homes? Your body knows proper support when it finds it, and the difference is obvious.

This comparison provides clear evidence your mattress needs replacement. Your sleep quality should remain consistent regardless of where you rest.

Worsening Allergies or Asthma Symptoms

Old mattresses collect dust mites, dead skin cells, and allergens over time. These particles build up in your mattress and trigger respiratory issues during sleep.

Do your breathing problems worsen at night and improve when away from your bed? A new mattress creates a cleaner sleep environment and reduces these allergy symptoms.

Unpleasant Odors or Stains Smells

Persistent odors signal bacterial growth and moisture problems in your mattress. Stains, skin oils, and bacteria can break down mattress materials faster.

These issues create an unhealthy sleep environment and speed up mattress deterioration. Fresh, clean materials support better sleep and proper shoulder alignment.

Sleeping Hot or Temperature Issues

Old mattresses lose their cooling properties over time. The materials compact and trap body heat. It can cause you to overheat and sweat throughout the night.

This temperature discomfort also forces constant position changes and muscle tension. Your shoulders bear the strain of restless sleep, creating a cycle of pain and poor rest.

A new mattress with proper cooling technology promotes deeper, more restorative sleep.

How to Choose a Mattress for Shoulder Pain

Your mattress choice determines your shoulder pain relief. Consider these key factors when selecting the right mattress for pain-free sleep.

Match the Mattress Firmness to Your Body Type

Side sleepers should look at medium-soft to medium-firm mattresses. This range cushions pressure points while supporting spinal alignment.

Your body weight affects ideal firmness:

• Under 130 lbs: Medium-soft (5-6)
• 130-230 lbs: Medium (6-7)
• Over 230 lbs: Medium-firm (7)

Pick the Right Mattress Material for Pain Relief

Memory foam excels and providing shoulder pain relief and support for side sleepers. It conforms to your body and distributes weight across the surface of the mattress.

These mattress materials offer different benefits:

• Memory Foam Mattress: Best pressure relief and contouring
• Hybrid Mattress: Balanced support with cooling properties
• Latex Mattress: Natural bounce and durability
• Innerspring Mattress: Avoid for shoulder pain

Support Your Sleeping Position

Side sleeping puts direct pressure on your shoulders. Your mattress must accommodate this position to prevent pain.

Position considerations:

• Side sleepers need softer shoulder zones
• Back and stomach sleepers need a firm mattress
• Side and combination sleepers need responsive materials
• Avoid stomach sleeping if you have shoulder pain

Factor In Your Body Weight

Your weight determines how deep you sink into your mattress. The right support prevents shoulder compression and maintains proper alignment.

Weight considerations for shoulder pain:

• Lightweight (under 130 lbs): Softer mattress materials prevent pressure points
• Average (130-230 lbs): Medium mattress support balances comfort and alignment
• Heavy (over 230 lbs): Firmer mattress support stops excessive sinking

Get the Right Body Contouring

Your mattress should mold to your shoulder curves without creating pressure. The right contouring depth maintains proper spinal alignment while cushioning joints.

Contouring needs for side sleepers:

• Deep enough to cradle shoulders
• Not so deep you feel stuck
• Responsive bounce-back
• Even weight distribution

Ensure Proper Pressure Relief

Pressure points cause shoulder pain and disturb sleep. Your mattress must distribute weight across the surface without creating pressure points.

Look for these pressure-relief features:

• Multiple foam layers
• Zoned support systems
• Targeted shoulder comfort
• No firm spots under pressure areas

Keep Your Spine Aligned

Your spine affects shoulder comfort. A straight spine reduces muscle tension and joint stress during sleep.

Check for proper alignment:

• Your shoulders and hip should sink slightly
• Hips should stay level with your shoulders
• No gap between your waist and mattress
• Natural spine curve maintained

Consider Motion Transfer

Partner movement shouldn’t disturb your sleep. Motion isolation prevents sleep disruption and maintains proper shoulder positioning.

Best motion isolation options:

• Memory foam absorbs movement
• Split mattress designs
• Individual coil systems
• Minimal bounce materials like dense foam

Manage Your Sleep Temperature

Hot sleeping disrupts recovery and increases shoulder tension. Your mattress should regulate temperature for comfortable sleep.

Best cooling features:

• Gel-infused memory foam
• Open-cell foam structure
• Breathable hybrid designs
• Cooling cover materials
• Air channels or ventilation
• Phase-change technology

Set Your Budget Range

Quality mattresses for shoulder pain cost between $800 and $2,000. Higher prices often mean better materials and longer-lasting support.

Mattress shopping tips:

• Compare warranties
• Check return policies
• Consider financing options
• Avoid cheap materials that break down fast

Review Warranty and Sleep Trial

Test mattresses before committing. BedMart’s 120-Night Comfort Guarantee ensures you find the RIGHT mattress.

Look for these guarantees:

• Minimum 100-night trial
• Free returns
• 10-year warranty
• Clear return process
• Full refund policy
• Warranty assistance

Tips to Reduce Shoulder Pain From Sleeping

Small changes make big differences in shoulder pain relief. Side sleepers typically benefit from these simple tips.

Choose the Right Mattress Firmness

Match firmness to your body type and sleep position. Medium-soft to medium-firm support is ideal for side sleepers. Your hips and shoulders should sink slightly without losing alignment.

Mattress firmness tips:

• Test different firmness levels
• Pay attention to pressure points
• Check your spine alignment
• Consider your body weight

Support Your Arm While Sleeping

Proper arm support reduces shoulder strain. Position your arms to maintain natural shoulder alignment during sleep.

Effective arm support methods:

• Use a small pillow under your arm
• Keep arms parallel to your body
• Avoid tucking your hands under the pillow
• Support both forearm and elbow

Keep Your Arms Below Head Level

Raising your arms above your head strains shoulder muscles. This position cuts off circulation and pinches nerves during sleep.

Correct arm positioning:

• Keep your elbows at or below shoulder height
• Position your arms slightly forward
• Maintain natural shoulder blade position
• Use pillows to prevent arm raising

Use a Pillow Wall for Support

A pillow wall stabilizes your sleeping position and reduces shoulder pressure. Strategic pillow placement also maintains proper alignment throughout the night.

How to build your pillow support:

1. Place one pillow behind your back
2. Add another between your knees
3. Support your top arm with a small pillow
4. Use a body pillow for full-length support

Apply Temperature Therapy Before Bed

Heat or cold therapy prepares your shoulders for sleep. The proper temperature treatment can reduce pain and relax tense muscles.

Temperature therapy tips:

• Use heat for chronic stiffness
• Apply a cold compress for acute inflammation
• Wrap ice packs in cloth to avoid skin irritation
• 15-20 minutes per session
• Never sleep with a heating pad (risks)
• Stop the therapy if discomfort increases

Avoid Stomach Sleeping

Stomach sleeping twists your neck and compresses your shoulders. This position strains joints and muscles throughout the night.

Train yourself to avoid stomach sleeping:

• Start on your side
• Use pillow barriers
• Place pillows under your torso
• Return to your side if you roll over
• Try a body pillow for support

Stretch Before Going to Bed

Gentle stretching releases shoulder tension before bed. These movements improve flexibility and reduce morning stiffness.

Simple shoulder stretches:

• Shoulder rolls forward and back
• Cross-body arm stretch
• Doorway chest stretch
• Neck tilts and rotations
• Hold each stretch for 30 seconds
• Stop if pain increases

Sleep in a Reclined Position

Sleep reclined to take pressure off your shoulders and align your spine. It can relieve pain by distributing body weight and keeping your shoulders neutral.

Ways to sleep reclined:

• Use an adjustable bed base
• Elevate your head 15-30 degrees
• Place a small pillow in your lower back curve
• Add wedges to raise the head of your mattress

Use a Shoulder-Friendly Pillow

Your pillow height affects shoulder alignment. The wrong pillow firmness or loft can create neck strain and increase shoulder pain.

Pillow selection tips:

• Choose a 4-6 inch height for side sleeping
• Fill gaps between head and mattress
• Replace flat or lumpy pillows
• Consider memory foam or latex
• Test different loft heights
• Look for adjustable fills

Consider a Shoulder Brace

A shoulder brace limits harmful movement during sleep. The support can help muscles and joints heal.

Shoulder brace considerations:

• Consider your doctor’s advice first
• Use the brace as recommended
• Remove if uncomfortable
• Keep your skin clean and dry
• Check the fit each night
• Replace when stretched out

Avoid Sleeping on Your Affected Shoulder

Pressure on your injured shoulder delays healing. Switch sides or adjust positions to relieve the painful area.

Sleep position tips:

• Sleep on the opposite side
• Use pillow barriers
• Try back sleeping
• Change positions gradually
• Support your good shoulder with a pillow
• Avoid positions that increase pain

Maintain Good Sleep Hygiene

Quality sleep supports your overall health. A consistent routine promotes better rest and may speed up shoulder recovery.

Sleep hygiene basics:

• Set a regular sleep schedule
• Keep your room cool and dark
• Replace old pillows every 1-2 years
• Wash bedding weekly
• Remove electronic devices
• Create a relaxing bedtime routine

Consult a Healthcare Professional

Persistent shoulder pain needs medical attention. Your doctor can identify underlying issues and recommend specific sleep positions.

When to seek help:

• Pain lasts over two weeks
• Sleep disruption continues
• Pain increases over time
• Limited range of motion
• Numbness or tingling
• Morning stiffness persists

Shop Mattresses for Shoulder Pain at BedMart

BedMart offers premium mattresses designed to relieve shoulder pain. Our sleep experts will find the best mattress to match your sleep style and comfort needs.

Find Your Perfect Mattress

 

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Best Mattress for Shoulder Pain FAQs

Answers to common questions about side sleeping with shoulder pain.

Why Does Side Sleeping Cause Shoulder Pain?

Side sleeping causes pain because this position concentrates body weight on your shoulder. This pressure compresses joints and muscles.
A mattress without proper pressure relief increases this compression and causes pain.

Is a Firm or Soft Mattress Better for Shoulder Pain?

A medium-firm mattress is often better for side sleepers with shoulder pain. Too firm creates pressure points, and too soft causes misalignment.

The ideal firmness for side sleepers:

• Soft enough to cushion your shoulder
• Firm enough to keep your hips level
• Contours your body without sinking
• Supports your natural spine curve

What Is the Best Sleeping Position for Shoulder Pain?

The best sleeping position for shoulder pain is on your back. This position reduces pressure on your shoulders and promotes proper spinal alignment.

If you prefer side sleeping, sleep on the unaffected shoulder and use a pillow to support your arm. Avoid sleeping on your stomach. This position can worsen shoulder pain.

Will a Mattress Topper Help Shoulder Pain?

Mattress toppers provide temporary shoulder pain relief but won’t fix a lousy mattress. Memory foam toppers are a good option for side sleepers. This material offers the best pressure relief for mild shoulder discomfort.

How to Sleep on My Side without Shoulder Pain?

Position your body to minimize shoulder pressure. Sleep on your unaffected side with your bottom arm at waist level. Place a pillow between your knees and another under your top arm. Keep your spine straight and neck aligned with your shoulders.