Back pain can be a debilitating experience. Many Australians wake up during the night as a result of back ache, often with pain lingering well into the day that disrupts their life and impacts their overall wellbeing.
If you experience nightly back ache, you are not alone. According to our Sleep Census, 3 in 5 people have woken up with back pain at some point. A common question amongst sufferers is “Can a bad mattress cause back pain?”
In this article, we explore the correlation between back pain and mattresses, explaining what makes a bed ‘bad’ or ‘good’. We describe the types of mattresses that are ideal for those with aches and pains, before diving into tips on shopping for an appropriate mattress. Finally, we offer a series of mattress recommendations with orthopaedic design.
The link between back pain and your mattress
Back problems have a range of causes outside of our control, from genetic diseases to injuries; those that are within our control include our choice of mattress and pillow. Studies have found that when subjects with back pain tried sleeping on a new, quality mattress, they slept better and their back pain was reduced. So, why does it make a difference?
Your spine has a natural curvature that should be maintained while you sleep. This is the same neutral posture that you have when standing upright without slouching. Whether you sleep on your back or on your side, your mattress should maintain this posture, allowing your shoulders, hips and ankles to be in a straight line.
Without this support, your muscles strain to correct your posture throughout the night, causing aches and pains.
A mattress that facilitates correct spinal alignment provides orthopaedic support for optimal health and comfort.
When your spine is not neutral, the muscles become strained, causing tossing, turning and discomfort.
The difference between a good and bad mattress
A good mattress features technology purposefully designed to provide the right amount of support in the right places. It should maintain the natural alignment of your spine, allowing the surrounding muscles to relax.
It should also provide targeted pressure relief in order to prevent tossing and turning throughout the night. The durability of your mattress is equally important — a well-made and long-lasting mattress is likely to remain supportive for many years.
Sealy's Posturepedic Difference
These three measurements form the foundation of Sealy’s Posturepedic catchphrase — a specific set of benchmarks or standards to which we design, produce and test our products.
A Sealy mattress is one that combines comfort, support and durability.
Is your mattress causing back pain?
There is no simple test for whether your mattress is ‘bad’, but a clear indication is if you’re experiencing back pain throughout the night or during the following day. There are several questions you can ask to determine whether your mattress is in need of replacing.
- How old is your current mattress? An old mattress can cause back pain, especially if it was not designed to provide adequate support. It can also cause pain if it has degenerated over time; it may no longer support you properly, even if it used to.
- Is your mattress suited to your sleep position? A mattress that is too firm or too soft may not support all types of sleepers. If your mattress is overly soft and you sleep on your back, you may find that your hips dip too low, resulting in back ache.
- Does the manufacturer prioritise proper support and comfort? Not all mattresses are made equal. If your mattress was not designed with orthopaedic support in mind, it may cause aches and pains. If it was not made to be durable, your mattress may sag and contribute to discomfort. At Sealy, our products undergo rigorous quality testing to ensure your mattress is supportive and long-lasting.
- Could your pillow be contributing to back pain? In some cases, a pillow is the sole cause of aches and pains, or it could be compounding the issue by adding to a poorly suited mattress. The right pillow for you depends on your sleeping position and general comfort preferences.
Answering these questions may help you decide if it’s time for a replacement.
What type of mattress is best for back pain?
Finding a mattress to help with back pain can be a confusing journey. Your sleep needs are unique, with your own sleep position, body shape and comfort requirements. However, there are some things to keep in mind when finding an ideal mattress to assist with or prevent back pain.
Understanding different mattress types
Your first consideration in finding the right mattress for back pain is the type of mattress that is best suited to you. Most mattresses have an internal structure beneath the top quilt layer that is either some form of foam or some form of spring, sometimes with a mixture of both.
Foam mattresses – including memory foam and latex – tend to mould to the body, with a soft feel and cloud-like comfort. Depending on the quality and density of the foam, such mattresses are often insufficient in terms of orthopaedic support, lacking an internal system designed to support the spine.
Spring mattresses also come in various forms, with some spring types performing better than others. Typically speaking, a spring mattress is a superior choice and better than foam-only mattresses when it comes to back support and orthopaedic benefits.
If you are experiencing back pain, it may be the case that you require a mattress with a sturdier construction and internal support system. Sealy mattresses are hybrids, including patented, industry-leading support coils that respond to the way your body moves as you sleep. These are paired with layers of foam to combine the best of orthopaedic support with optimal pressure relief.
How to choose a mattress for back pain
- Check for spinal support — ensure your mattress is designed with orthopaedic support, or made to support your spine’s natural alignment. For many, an innerspring or hybrid mattress is likely to offer better support than a foam bed.
- Choose the right comfort level — targeted pressure relief can help to mitigate aches and pains, preventing tossing and turning. The right comfort for you depends on your sleep position.
- Clarify quality and warranty periods — your mattress should be made of high-quality materials, designed to last for many years. Ensure your mattress will stand the test of time, so it does not sag or lose shape too quickly. We also recommend ensuring your mattress is covered by warranty for the expected lifetime of the mattress. At Sealy, we offer a standard 10-year warranty for all our mattresses.
- Consider an adjustable bed — an electric or adjustable bed can distribute your weight more evenly across the mattress, helping to alleviate pressure and pain.
Is a firm mattress really the best?
Studies show that a firmer mattress is not always the best choice for those suffering from back pain. At Sealy, we work with the Orthopaedic Advisory Board to ensure our mattresses are backed by real and ongoing orthopaedic research. As a result, we know that the ideal mattress firmness is closely linked to sleep positions.
A firm mattress may not be the best option for back pain, especially if you’re a side sleeper, as it may lack the conformance needed to offer support and appropriate cushioning. However, mattresses that are too soft can be equally problematic as they allow you to sink in, a quality typically unsuitable for back and stomach sleepers.
To find the right balance, it is important to find a mattress suited to your unique needs. At Sealy, we have a Mattress Selector to aid you in this process. Otherwise, please read on for advice on shopping for a mattress for back pain.
Things to consider when shopping for a mattress for back pain
Because there is no one-size-fits-all approach to finding the right mattress, especially if you’re suffering back pain, it is vital that you try your mattress in-store. This allows you to check that your spine can rest in its neutral position, with your ankles, hips and shoulders forming a straight line. We recommend wearing comfortable clothes and spending at least 10–15 minutes trying each mattress, lying down in your typical sleep position.
While shopping, set a realistic budget to narrow down your choices. However, try not to sacrifice support or quality to save on costs. Sealy mattresses are designed to provide support, comfort and long-lasting quality regardless of the price range.
You should also know your ideal mattress size. If you will be sharing your bed with a partner, try a mattress together and test the same size you intend to purchase if possible. It’s important that you will not feel too cramped or confined while you sleep, contributing to poor posture and soreness throughout the night.
If you’ve previously enjoyed a comfortable, pain-free and restful night’s sleep at somebody else’s home, or at a hotel, we recommend asking about the mattress brand, the model and its comfort rating. This information may provide you with an idea about the kind of mattress that suits your body and your sleep style, and can be a substitute for trying a mattress in a shop in some cases.
If you’ve decided on a Sealy, you can try using our Mattress Selector before heading in-store. This tool will ask you a series of questions about your sleep position and preferences before offering a tailored solution.
Tips for sleeping with back pain
While an appropriate mattress can certainly assist with back pain, it is not always a complete solution, especially if your back pain is attributed to another cause. There are some additional ways you can improve your sleep and alleviate aches and pains.
- Try engaging in some simple lower back stretches before bed. We have a guide that you may find useful with 8 Lower Back Stretches Before Bed.
- Ensure you have the appropriate pillow for your sleep position, as a poorly suited pillow can contribute to bodily aches. Read our guide on How to Choose a Pillow.
- Assess your sleeping position and consider whether it’s appropriate to learn to Sleep on Your Back.
- Try relaxation techniques before bed designed to aid with pain, such as breathing techniques, gentle yoga, or a warm bath or shower.
- Avoid heavy meals, spicy food, caffeine and alcohol before bed. These can disrupt your sleep cycle and prevent you from enjoying deep, refreshing sleep.
Our recommendations for back pain
The Sealy Posturepedic range features excellent orthopaedic support, optimal comfort and long-lasting quality. Each of these mattresses are designed to prevent back aches and pains, and provide a restorative night’s sleep. We’ve broken down some of our mattresses to help you find an appropriate mattress to relieve back pain.
Best mattress for back pain
Having aches and pains, we recommend a mattress that features our most advanced Support System. The RestSUPPORT system has three stages of support to help maintain your body’s natural alignment for a deep, restorative sleep.
| Support | Revolutionary three-stage RestSUPPORT® coil system reacts to your contours, senses your weight and responds. This deep down support helps to maintain your body’s natural alignment and assists in ensuring a deep, restorative sleep. |
| Comfort | Exotic natural fibres combined with layer upon layer of deep, pressure relieving materials allow tired muscles to relax and recover. An exclusive ComfortBridge is embedded with hundreds of micro-coils for enhanced pressure relief. Incorporated air vents for enhance breathability. |
| Edge | UniCased®XT provides a fuller sleep surface, increased stability and support to the very edge of the mattress. |
| Fabric | Opulent fibres, with SmarTex® to cool and regulate temperature, are hand-tufted with lavish comfort layers, bringing a bespoke elegance and ensuring lasting comfort with a signature feel. |
| Mark H ★★★★★ May 2022 I’ve always enjoyed a great night sleep that comes from a good bed however this new bed is so supportive and lux in comfort that ensures a beautiful night sleep ! |
| Jo, South East QLD ★★★★★ January 2022 We have had a Sealy Crown Jewel amazing product -for many years, it has stood the test of time. Comfort and luxury all at once, no back issues – a comfortable sleep every single night. Well Done Sealy, you have a premium product. |
Heather, Greater Melbourne VIC |
Best mattress for back sleepers
As you like some space when sleeping, we recommend a mattress that features UniCased® XT Edge Support. UniCased® XT is our most advanced edge support system. It is designed to provide a strong and durable edge-to-edge comfort so you can maximise the sleep surface.
| Support | Revolutionary three-stage RestSUPPORT® coil system reacts to your contours, senses your weight and responds. This deep down support helps to maintain your body’s natural alignment and assists in ensuring a deep, restorative sleep. |
| Comfort | ComfortCore® Plus and Gel Infused Visco Elastic provide maximum comfort and enhanced pressure relief on your lower back. |
| Edge | UniCased®XT provides a fuller sleep surface, increased stability and support to the very edge of the mattress. |
| Fabric | Features premium stretch knit fabric with a Wool Fibre blend quilt. SmarTex® fabrics cool and regulate your sleep climate while HealthShield® maintains a clean and hygienic surface. |
| Emma, Perth WA ★★★★★ February 2022 We tried a lot a mattresses before settling on the Sealy Exquisite in King size and it hasn’t disappointed! It’s the perfect combination of support for myself and soft comfort for my husband. My husband and I are both sleeping better. Highly recommend! |
| Janeen, South East QLD ★★★★★ December 2021 This bed is deliciously comfortable! I have the medium mattress and wake up rested with no aches or pains. Just loving it, every night I feel like I’m in a luxury hotel! |
| Liz, South East QLD ★★★★★ July 2021 We have always bought Sealy because they are great quality and made in Australia. This mattress is beyond comfortable, support is amazing. My husband said he’s always loved really good hotel beds, he thinks this is the best mattress he’s ever slept on – anywhere. 10/10 from us. |
ORTHOPAEDIC SUPPORT ON A BUDGET
For a combination of orthopaedic support and affordability, we recommend a mattress that features our intuitive ReactSupport™ system. It has two stages of support to help maintain your body’s natural alignment for a deep, restorative sleep.
| Support | The two-stage ReactSupport® coil offers up to 14% better conformance, delivering additional pressure relief and ultimately a better feeling product. |
| Comfort | An enhanced centre third ComfortCore® layer with SenseGel Material reduces pressure on your back. |
| Edge | Dynamic FlexiCased® reinforces the mattress walls for edge-to-edge support. It also features BasePlank, which absorb shock and reinforces the underside of the mattress for use on slat bases. |
| Fabric | Sealy foam and quilt treated with antimicrobial HealthShield® that maintains a clean and hygienic surface. SmarTex® draws away moisture to cool and regulate your sleep climate. |
| Blanche H ★★★★★ October 2025 Love, love, love this mattress! I thought it may have been too soft when I decided on a plush but it’s perfect. So comfortable and I’m definitely sleeping better. |
| Joy ★★★★★ September 2025 I bought 2 of these mattresses – 1 for my son & 1 for myself. Both of us can’t remember when we slept so well. They’re beautiful! |
| Sue ★★★★★ October 2025 We love the spinal support but comfy factor this mattress provides for our ‘heavier’ bodies. We are side and back sleepers, so this suits us perfectly. We can’t fit in a king-sized bed into our bedroom so the strong sides enable us to utilise the whole bed without ‘slipping off’ at the edge. Our last Sealy Posturepedic lasted 15 years – 5 years longer than the 10 year guarantee. I have confidence that this one will do the same. |
MATTRESS SELECTOR
Not sure which mattress is right for you?
Discover your perfect Sealy by using our personalised mattress selector tool.
FAQs about mattresses and back pain
What is a good mattress for back pain?
A good mattress for back pain is one that supports your back, preserving the neutral posture of your spine. Opt for an orthopaedic design, usually an innerspring or hybrid mattress. The right firmness for you depends on your sleep position and comfort needs.
What is the best rated mattress for back pain?
The Sealy Posturepedic range features patented, industry-leading support backed by the Orthopaedic Advisory Board. Our innovative coils sense your weight and respond, maintaining your natural alignment while you sleep so you to wake up refreshed and ready to take on the day.
Will a new mattress help with back pain?
A new mattress may ease your back pain if your current bed is contributing to the problem. Ensure your new mattress offers spinal support and pressure relief, and is made with durable, quality materials.
Is a firm mattress good for back pain?
A firm mattress is not necessarily best for back pain. The right comfort level for you depends on your sleep position and unique needs. Side sleepers tend to suit softer mattresses, while back sleepers typically prefer medium to firm mattresses.
Are foam mattresses good for back pain?
Foam mattresses typically lack an internal support system that maintains the neutral alignment of your spine. Without this support, your muscles strain to correct your posture, causing aches and pains. To combat back pain, opt for an innerspring or hybrid mattress designed with orthopaedic support.
