Suffering From Herniated Disc? Here Are 6 Best Mattresses To Fix Your Problem!

A herniated disc is a spinal condition that occurs in the ratio of 2 males : 1 female. This shows that it is more prevalent in males than in females. The occurrence of a herniated disc is estimated to range from 5 to 20 cases per 1000 adults each year, primarily affecting individuals in their thirties to fifties.

This condition, also called as slipped disc, causes discomfort at night, causing a deficit in daily sleeping hours. It’s essential to recognize that adults should aim for at least seven hours of sleep each night to maintain their overall well-being.

Fortunately, selecting the right mattress can relieve discomfort and pain, facilitating restful sleep. So, let’s explore the key factors that make a bed suitable for herniated discs and how to choose one that caters to your specific requirements.

Some essential factors are mattress type, firmness, pressure relief, and sleeping position. So, join us as we guide you to make an informed decision and choose the right mattress for your needs. Keep reading!

What Is Herniated Disc?

A herniated disc is characterized by damage to the annulus fibrosus, which allows the nucleus pulposus, typically situated at the center of the disc, to protrude. This protrusion can exert pressure on the nerves or spinal cord, resulting in pain and impaired spinal cord function.

A harder, rubbery outer layer (annulus) covers the spinal disc’s nucleus, a soft, jelly-like center. A herniated disc, also known as a slipped or ruptured disc, occurs when a tear in the annulus allows some of the nucleus to protrude.

A neighboring nerve can be irritated by a herniated disc, which can occur in any area of the spine. Pain, numbness, or weakness in an arm or leg can occur depending on the location of the slipped disc.

6 Best Mattresses for Herniated Disc – Curated Just For You!

Explore the thoughtfully selected compilation of the 5 best mattresses for relieving slipped disc pain.

1. Saatva Classic – Best for Low Back Pain (Slipped disc) – Editor’s Pick!
2. Casper  Wave – Best in Pressure Relief
3. DreamCloud Premier – Best Hybrid Mattress for Herniated Disc
4. Purple Restore – Best in Lumbar Support (All Sleeping Position)
5. Amerisleep AS3 – Best in Memory Foam
6. Avocado Green – Best Eco Friendly Mattress (Herniated Disc)

What is the best mattress for herniated disc? Here is a guide tailored to your unique requirements.

Our Top Recommendation – Editor’s Pick!

1. Saatva Classic – Best for Low Back Pain (Slipped disc)

Herniated discs often lead to discomfort in the lower back, and having proper support is crucial. The Saatva Classic mattress stands out as an excellent choice for those dealing with herniated disc-related lower back pain.

Why?

The Saatva Classic excels in pressure relief and in alleviating pain from slipped disc in back. It has two innerspring systems that excel in providing lumbar support. Its coil-on-coil structure offers both a luxurious feel and exceptional versatility.

What Are The Features?

The Saatva Classic boasts a range of features designed for superior comfort and support:

• Targeted Memory Foam: A layer of high-density memory foam is strategically positioned beneath the lumbar spine area to provide targeted support to the lower back region.
• Height and Firmness Options: You have the choice of two heights (11.5 or 14.5 inches) and three firmness levels: Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, or Firm.
• Luxurious Euro Pillow Top: The top layer consists of a plush 3-inch Euro pillow top with foam for a comfortable and inviting sleep surface. Even at this level, back support is prioritized, as the cover is quilted to offer added support for the lower back.
• Dual Coil Systems: The Saatva Classic features two coil systems. The first consists of thinner pocketed springs that conform to your body’s contours and offer extra support to the lumbar region. Below these coils is the second set of interconnected springs, known for their durability. It incorporates a Lumbar Zone® Active Spinal Wire, encircling the lumbar area to provide vital support to this region.
• Edge Support: The mattress is equipped with a high-density foam perimeter that ensures edge support, preventing excessive sinking when you move closer to the mattress’s sides.

For More Information Read Our Complete Review Of The Saatva Mattress. Grab The Best Deals At The Earliest!

Best Mattresses For Herniated Disc – Shopping Guide!

2. Casper Wave – Best in Pressure Relief

• Mattress Type: Hybrid / Innerspring
• Firmness: Medium Firm
• Mattress Size: King, Cal King, Full, Twin XL, Queen, Twin

Smart Mattress Buy’s Review

The Casper Wave mattress is an excellent choice for individuals dealing with back pain, particularly those with herniated discs in back. This mattress offers a neutral, generally comfortable sleeping surface that provides a unique combination of bounce and responsiveness, akin to memory foam’s pressure-relieving qualities, making it a valuable investment for those seeking comfort and relief.

Features

The firmness of the third transitional layer is separated into three zones to keep hips level with shoulders and knees. This leads to additional pressure reduction. This mattress is a great choice for individuals with larger midsections seeking improved spinal alignment to alleviate herniated disc pain. While it comes in king size, it’s also available in various other sizes, including twin, twin XL, queen, Cal king, and full.

With a CertiPUR-US Certification, Casper offers a 100-Night Trial and a 10-Year Warranty. Casper is designed and Assembled in the USA.

Feel

This brand aspires for a feel that adapts to and accommodates a wide range of body shapes, and the addition of Zoned Support to their all-foam spine alignment system has brought them closer to their goal.

The layering approach used by Casper increases temperature regulation and bed adaptability. The top layer is soft for pleasant body conformity and simple repositioning, while the stiffness gradually rises with each following layer. For varying body weights, this strategy seeks to provide a balance of pressure point alleviation and support.

Are You Eager To Learn More? Read Our Detailed Casper Mattress Review.

3. DreamCloud Premier – Best Hybrid Mattress for Herniated Disc

• Mattress Type: Hybrid / Innerspring
• Firmness: Medium
• Mattress Size: Twin XL, Queen, Cal King, Full, King, Twin

Smart Mattress Buy’s Review

The DreamCloud Premier mattress is known for its combination of soft materials and supportive coils. It’s a fantastic alternative for people who have back problems. You should get a comfortable balance of pressure point alleviation and support whether you’re lying on your side or back. This makes DreamCloud as one of the best mattress in king size, twin, twin xl, queen, full and Cal king sizes.

Features

This bed’s foundation is made up of individually wrapped coils with a transitional layer of foam on top to ease you into the personalized support. This function aims to keep the body level and improve spine alignment, both of which alleviate herniated disc in lower back.

DreamCloud Premier not only performs admirably, but it also looks high-end and luxurious, and its structure was carefully planned for long-term use. The Euro Top is constructed of two layers of foam quilted into the outer cover, which is made of a Cashmere blend.

It is CertiPUR-US Certified, comes with 365-Night Trial and Forever Warranty.

Feel

The DreamCloud mattress is a promising choice for individuals grappling with slipped disc in lower back issues. Its thoughtfully engineered blend of coils and foams offers a dual benefit. Despite its initial plush feel, the mattress incorporates a sturdy support system beneath its soft cover, actively elevating your body to encourage optimal spinal alignment.

Read Our Full DreamCloud Mattress Review.

4. Purple Restore Mattress – Best in Lumbar Support

• Mattress Type: Hybrid
• Firmness: Medium Firm
• Mattress Size: Twin XL, Queen, Cal King, Full, King

Smart Mattress Buy’s Review

The Purple Restore mattress collection is an excellent choice for individuals dealing with a slipped disc. It provides targeted support to the central-third of your body, with special emphasis on the lower and middle back regions. This mattress has a gel-like polymer grid that is extremely elastic and responsive to weight changes. This helps to provide better spine alignment and pressure point relief.

Features

The Hyper-Elastic Polymer comfort system responds and wraps around any shape, collapsing under higher concentrations of weight while contouring to your lumbar or waist region. This precise body conformance help alleviate lumbar disc herniation. Thus it prevents back pain by keeping your hips in level with your shoulders and knees. If you’re careful about committing to a material you’ve never felt before, Purple’s sleep trial is 100 nights. They’ll give you 100 nights to sleep on their mattress and see if it fits your needs; just be sure to give yourself ample time to get used to the novel feel of the comfort layer.

It is comes with 100-Night Trial. The mattress is made in the US and has a 10-Year Warranty.

Feel

Utilizing Purple’s innovative GelFlex® Grid, this mattress places a strong focus on maintaining lumbar support consistently while you sleep, ensuring relief from persistent back pain, regardless of your preferred sleeping position.

Read our Full Purple Mattress Review to Obtain Detailed Information!

5. Amerisleep AS3 – Best in Memory Foam

• Mattress Type: Foam
• Firmness: Medium
• Mattress Size: Twin XL, Queen, Cal King, Full, King, Twin

Smart Mattress Buy’s Review

There are several reasons why it is one of the finest mattresses for herniated discs in neck and back. The Amerisleep AS3, positioned as the middle firmness option in their product line, is a 12-inch mattress that skillfully combines support and pressure relief. We highly recommend this mattress for individuals with herniated disc concerns.

Features

This mattress is constructed of breathable, environmentally friendly plant-based memory foam that adapts to the body and relieves pressure. This makes it the best mattress for cooling sleep. The middle layer provides focused back support. The mattress’s lifetime is increased by the sturdy foundation layer.

It comes with 100-Night Trial and 20-Year Warranty. The mattress is made in the USA.

Feel

This mattress is particularly ideal if you fall into the following sleeper categories:

• Back Sleepers: Ideal for average-weight back sleepers
• Side Sleepers: Perfect for average-weight side sleepers
• Stomach Sleepers: Best mattress for stomach sleeping

So, if you’re in search of the best mattress to alleviate herniated disc pain without causing discomfort from overheating, the AS3 could be the ideal choice. In our assessment of this all-foam mattress, we discovered that its foam offers better breathability and cooling compared to traditional foam due to its open-cell structure.

Additionally, the AS3 incorporates a transition layer designed with a beehive-like construction, creating additional space between the layers and ensuring unobstructed airflow for a cooler and more comfortable sleep experience.

Read our Full Amerisleep Mattress Review!

6. Avocado Green Mattress – Best Eco Friendly Mattress

• Mattress Type: Organic Latex
• Firmness: Medium Firm
• Mattress Size: Twin XL, Queen, Cal King, Full, King, Twin

Smart Mattress Buy’s Review

This is an environmentally friendly mattress for people who have herniated discs. Avocado Mattress prides itself on being a “non-toxic organic mattress.” There are several reasons why it is the best mattress for low back pain especially suitable for herniated discs.

Features

Avocado’s flagship Green Mattress is a premium organic latex hybrid mattress that truly prioritizes quality. This mattress is especially beneficial for individuals dealing with herniated discs or those who have chemical sensitivities and airborne allergies. Avocado goes the extra mile by achieving GOTS organic certification for their source materials, manufacturing facility, and products.

It’s also an environmentally friendly mattress for people who have herniated discs. Avocado Mattress prides itself on being a “non-toxic organic mattress.”

Feel

There are several reasons why it is one of the finest mattresses for herniated discs. Avocado mattresses come with a 25-year guarantee. When it comes to warranty claims, Avocado is primarily interested in whether the foam has developed a 1-inch sag or indentation. You are eligible for a total replacement if this sag develops within the first 10 years.

Read our Comprehensive Mattress Review Here!

How To Identify The Symptoms?

Herniated discs are most common in the lower back or lumbar portion of the spine. However, slipped disc in neck is also common. Herniated disc symptoms vary depending on the location of the disc and whether it is putting pressure on a nerve.

These slipped disc symptoms are discussed below:

• Herniated disc in lower back (the buttocks, thigh, or calf)

Herniated disc in lower back causes pain in your buttocks, thigh, and calf. You may also experience discomfort in a portion of your foot.

• Herniated disc in neck symptoms

In the neck what does a herniated disc feel like?

When you have a herniated disc in neck, the pain usually starts in your shoulder and arm. When you cough, sneeze, or move into certain postures, this pain may shoot into your arm or leg. Sharp or searing pain is a common description of pain.

• Radiating numbness or tingling

It occurs in the body portion serviced by the damaged nerves is common in people who have a herniated disc.

• Muscle weakness

Muscles serviced by the damaged nerves weaken. This can make you stutter or make it difficult for you to lift or grip weight.

Depending on the type of herniation and where it’s placed, the severity of the condition and the symptoms vary.

Despite the fact that it is a serious illness, many people can recover without medical intervention or surgery. Sleeping on a bad mattress, on the other hand, might prevent your body from healing properly, resulting in a pain-inducing and insomnia-inducing cycle.

How Can You Treat Herniated Disc?

Conservative treatments, aimed at relieving symptoms, are typically effective in most cases of herniated discs within a few weeks. Medications, physical therapy, and, in severe cases, surgery may be recommended.

1. Therapy

Physical therapy is recommended to minimize herniated disc pain. Therapists can demonstrate exercises and positions tailored to your condition. This is one of the most effective measures on how to heal a herniated disc quickly and without surgery.

2. Exercises

Surgery is rarely necessary for individuals with a herniated disc. Typically, doctors suggest physiotherapy as an effective treatment approach for herniated disc symptoms. Herniated discs can occur anywhere in the spine, with the lower back being the most common site.

Some effective exercises for herniated disc are discussed below.

• Hamstring exercises
• Neck stretching
• Back flexion stretching
• Calf muscle stretching and strengthening exercises
• Piriformis stretch
• Gentle routine activities – walking, swimming, cycling and yoga

These tailored exercises with herniated disc can assist in symptom management based on the disc’s location.

3. Medications

•  Neuropathic Drugs: These medications reduce nerve-related pain and include options like gabapentin (Gralise, Neurontin), pregabalin (Lyrica), duloxetine (Cymbalta), or venlafaxine (Effexor XR).
• Muscle Relaxers: Prescribed to ease muscle spasms, they may cause sedation and dizziness.
• Opioids: Reserved for severe cases due to side effects and addiction risks. Options include codeine or oxycodone-acetaminophen (Percocet). They are best painkiller for herniated disc.
• Cortisone Injections: If oral medications prove ineffective, corticosteroids may be injected near spinal nerves, guided by imaging.
• Nonprescription Pain Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil), or naproxen sodium (Aleve) can alleviate mild to moderate pain.

4. Surgery

Surgery on herniated disc is seldom required. This is considered necessary if conservative treatments fail after six weeks, especially with:

• Poorly managed pain
• Numbness or weakness
• Difficulty standing or walking
• Loss of bladder or bowel control

Most surgery for a herniated disc involves removing the protruding part of the disc, while rare cases necessitate complete disc removal. Fusion with bone grafts may be needed in such instances. In exceptional cases, artificial disc implantation may be considered.

Further, the right mattress can complement the above treatment for herniated disc by providing proper support, pressure relief, and spinal alignment during sleep, promoting comfort and aiding in pain reduction.

What Mattress Type Is Ideal For Herniated Disc?

Selecting the right mattress for a herniated disc can be a subjective choice, as comfort preferences vary. However, it’s essential to consider certain factors when making your decision. Let’s explore different mattress types and their suitability for individuals with herniated discs:

1. Memory Foam

Is memory foam the best mattress for herniated disc?

Memory foam is known for its adaptability, contouring closely to your body’s shape and alleviating pressure points, which can be beneficial for herniated disc pain relief. However, it tends to retain body heat, potentially causing discomfort, especially for those who experience night sweats.

Opting for a memory foam mattress with gel-infused layers or open-cell foam technology can help improve airflow and temperature regulation.

2. Latex

Latex mattresses are known for their responsiveness and bounce. This quality can be advantageous for individuals with herniated discs who may find it challenging to change positions during the night due to muscle weakness. Latex provides effective pressure relief without excessive envelopment.

3. Polyurethane Foam

Poly foam is denser and more responsive than memory foam, offering a balance between support and pressure relief. It’s a good choice for sleepers who want to avoid feeling trapped in their mattress and may work well for individuals with herniated discs.

4. Hybrid

Hybrid mattresses combine a coil base with foam or latex comfort layers, offering a balanced feel. Many hybrids feature zoned spinal support, making them suitable for lumbar herniated disc support. They are the best mattress for side sleepers. However, they tend to come with a higher price tag.

5. Innerspring

Innerspring mattresses provide consistent support and a responsive, bouncy feel. They typically offer good temperature regulation and freedom of movement during sleep. However, they may fall short in terms of pressure relief, which can be a concern for those with herniated discs. Some individuals address this issue by adding a memory foam topper for a more balanced feel.

Ultimately, the best mattress for herniated disc depends on your specific preferences and needs, so it’s essential to consider factors like support, pressure relief, responsiveness, and temperature regulation when making your choice.

What Are The Factors To Consider While Choosing The Right Mattress?

When it comes to selecting the right mattress for managing herniated disc discomfort, it’s essential to consider specific mattress characteristics that play a crucial role. Here are the key factors to focus on:

1. Support: Maintaining proper spinal alignment is paramount when dealing with lumbar herniation. Your mattress should evenly support the three main curves of your spine: cervical, thoracic, and lumbar. Whether you have a herniated disc in your neck or lower back, the mattress must provide comprehensive support to ensure correct posture and a healthy spine.
2. Firmness: Your choice of mattress firmness should align with your preferred sleeping position. Soft to medium-firm mattresses are suitable for average side sleepers, while back sleepers benefit from medium to medium-firm support.
   Stomach sleepers typically require a firm mattress. Your body weight is another consideration; individuals with a larger body type (over 230 pounds) may need an extra supportive and firmer mattress. Generally, a rule of thumb is that lighter individuals often prefer a firmer mattress. For example, one of the best mattress heavy people is the Plank Firm mattress.
3. Pressure Relief: Excessive pressure on your spine or muscles can exacerbate back pain, especially if you have a herniated disc. Your mattress should excel in reducing this pressure. Look for a mattress that offers adequate cushioning for the protruding areas of your body, providing relief and comfort. This helps to help alleviate discomfort and pain associated with herniated discs.
4. Quality Materials: Longevity matters, especially when dealing with a herniated disc. Opt for reputable brands and generous warranties to ensure peace of mind for years to come. When choosing a foam mattress, prioritize denser foam, as it tends to be more durable.
   In hybrid models, look for a lower coil gauge, as lower numbers indicate thicker and sturdier coils. Latex mattresses, known for their extended lifespan, often rank among the most durable options available.
5. Cooling: While not directly linked to herniated discs, sleeping hot can disrupt your sleep quality and overall comfort. If you’re prone to overheating at night, consider mattresses with cooling features such as gel-infused memory foam, designs that facilitate air circulation (common in hybrid and innerspring mattresses), or latex, which naturally doesn’t trap body heat.
6. Motion Isolation: People with herniated discs may struggle to find a comfortable sleeping position, leading to tossing and turning in bed. If the mattress has excessive bounce, this motion can disturb a partner who is a light sleeper.
   Memory foam mattresses are often an excellent choice for shared sleep, particularly when one partner suffers from chronic pain. Alternatively, a hybrid model with extra-thick comfort layers can suffice, provided there isn’t a significant weight difference between partners.

Which Is The Best Sleeping Position – Herniated Disc?

When it comes to managing the discomfort of a herniated disc, choosing the right sleeping position is an essential consideration. Each sleeping position has its unique benefits and implications for individuals dealing with this condition. Let’s explore the options:

1. Back Sleeping Position: Sleeping on your back is generally considered the healthiest position for most people, particularly those with a herniated disc. This position helps maintain proper spinal alignment. Back sleepers typically require a mattress with medium firmness and adequate cushioning for their hips and buttocks.
   If you have a herniated disc in your neck, consider using an orthopedic pillow with a central dent for proper neck support.

2. Side Sleeping Position: Sleeping on your side is another viable option when managing a herniated disc, especially if it’s foraminal herniation. For this position, it’s essential to have a mattress that is soft enough to cradle your protruding shoulders and hips.
   Placing a pillow between your knees or using a full-body pillow can contribute to spinal alignment and enhanced comfort.

3. Stomach Sleeping Position: While sleeping on your stomach may work for individuals with lumbar para central disc herniation, it is generally not recommended for most cases of disc herniation. This position can cause your hips to sink, elevate the chest, and create an unhealthy arch in the spine. A firm mattress is thus the best mattress for sleeping on stomach.
   If you must sleep on your stomach, ensure that your mattress is firm and supportive to mitigate potential discomfort and strain.

Choosing the right sleeping position depends on your specific herniated disc condition and comfort preferences. It’s crucial to prioritize spinal alignment and support to alleviate pain and discomfort.

Smart-Take!

If you’re dealing with the discomfort of a herniated disc, finding the right mattress can make a significant difference. In our guide, we’ve identified six top mattresses tailored to address herniated disc-related issues. These mattresses prioritize support, firmness, pressure relief, quality materials, cooling, and motion isolation, helping you make an informed choice to improve your sleep and alleviate discomfort.

Experience a smarter way to address herniated disc discomfort with Smart Mattress Buy! Our platform offers an array of valuable features like cashback rebates, detailed mattress reviews, essential shopping tips and guides, the latest news, and updated research.

With Smart Mattress Buy as your trusted guide, embark on a sleep journey that prioritizes restfulness, safety, and health-conscious choices tailored to your unique needs. We’ve rigorously evaluated each mattress option to ensure they meet our high standards, empowering you to make an informed choice. Say goodbye to discomfort and hello to sweet dreams as you embrace a new chapter of sleep excellence!

FAQs About Herniated Disc & Sleep Mattress

Q1. What’s the ideal sleeping position for severe herniated disc relief?

• Sleeping on your back is best, with the option to place a small pillow under your knees for added relief. This position reduces nerve pressure and minimizes pain. Side sleeping is also viable, but avoiding stomach sleeping is recommended.

Q2. Is sleeping on a hard surface beneficial for herniated discs?

• No, it’s not advisable. Sleeping on a very hard surface, like the floor, lacks contouring and can increase lower back pressure. Medium to medium-firm surfaces strike a better balance, offering both pressure relief and support, which is crucial for herniated disc sufferers.

Q3. Is a soft or firm mattress better for herniated discs?

• A medium-firm mattress is generally the better choice for most people with herniated discs. It provides adequate back support, maintains spinal alignment, and offers joint pressure relief. While soft mattresses may feel cozy, they can worsen herniated disc symptoms by failing to support the spine effectively.

Q4. Can an unsupportive mattress exacerbate herniated disc symptoms?

• Yes. An unsupportive mattress can’t cause a herniated disc, but it can worsen symptoms and slow recovery.

Q5. Is a memory foam mattress advisable for herniated discs?

• Generally, yes. Memory foam’s pressure relief makes it a good choice for herniated disc sufferers, but personal preferences matter.

Q6. What’s the optimal sleeping position for herniated disc relief?

• Sleeping on your back or side is recommended. For side sleepers, placing a pillow between the knees can aid spinal alignment.

Top Research on Herniated Disc & The Best Mattresses

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8655046/
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3275148/

Please note that these sources operate independently of Smart Mattress Buy. They are here to enrich your understanding of sleep health and provide valuable mattress-related insights to improve your overall well-being.

References

1. Fjeld OR, Grøvle L, Helgeland J, Småstuen MC, Solberg TK, Zwart JA, Grotle M. Complications, reoperations, readmissions, and length of hospital stay in 34 639 surgical cases of lumbar disc herniation. Bone Joint J. 2019 Apr;101-B(4):470-477.
   Source Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30929479/
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK263383/
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1840018/