The Best Mattress for Arthritis UK
Our top picks
Before we get into all of the different factors that make some mattresses better for people suffering from arthritis than others, let's go over a few of our recommendations! But if you're interested in our reasoning, don't worry, we'll cover that later on as well.
Mattresses
1
Best Overall
Mattresses
2
Best Memory Foam
Mattresses
3
Best Value
Mattresses
4
Best Latex
Mattresses
5
Best for Lower Back Pain
Mattresses
6
Best Pressure Relief
Best Overall: Simba Hybrid Mattress
To ease arthritis symptoms, you need good support, and no other mattress can offer as much support as the Simba Hybrid! So, it wasn't difficult to give it the crown.
Best Overall
There are three main factors that make the Simba Hybrid perfect for people with arthritis. For one, it has unparalleled support. This is because Simba uses something called zoned support – clusters of springs strategically placed to support different parts of your body. And while most mattresses have five to seven zones, Simba has a whopping thirteen! So, you know that each inch of your body is accounted for.
Secondly, this is still a hybrid mattress, meaning that you're getting high-quality memory foam. And as you'll see later on, memory foam is among the best materials for dealing with arthritis. This is because it helps take the pressure off your joints and ease some of the pain.
But Simba doesn't just use any foam. In fact, their foam is specifically designed to be as breathable as possible. And while this does mean that you don't get simulated heat therapy, it does mean that you'll be able to fall asleep more easily. And a good night's sleep is among the best pain relievers there is.
Click here to read our full review of the Simba Hybrid mattress.
KEY FEATURES:
- Material: Hybrid
- Size: Single, Small Double, Double, King, Super King, EU Single, EU Double, EU Queen
- Removable cover: Yes
- Warranty: 10 years
- Trial: 200 nights
Advantages
Amazing zoned support
With 13 support zones, every part of your body is accounted for.
Pressure relief
The high-quality foam will offer significant pain and pressure relief.
High breathability
The mattress is unlikely to cause overheating.
Disadvantages
A bit pricey
While not the most expensive hybrid on the UK market, it's pricey.
Might not fit all sleepers
Heavier stomach and back sleepers might need a firmer than average mattress.
Best Memory Foam: Nectar Memory Foam
For a lot of people, memory foam is the #1 answer to arthritis. And this is likely the best memory foam mattress you're going to find!
Best Memory Foam
Unlike our previous recommendation, the Nectar Memory Foam mattress is 100% foam. This means that the entire mattress is going to be hugging you and keeping you comfortable all night long. Plus, the foam itself is top-notch quality, with an impressive 2.5cm of pure memory foam on top.
The Nectar Memory Foam mattress is also sporting a cooling quilted cover, so you shouldn't get too hot during the night. And it does also have zoned support, so your joints will benefit from pressure relief. But the most interesting fact about the Nectar Memory Foam mattress is the coverage you get with it!
Not only do you have free named-day delivery but the mattress also comes with a forever warranty and a 1-year trial. So, if you're on the fence or unsure whether this mattress will help with your arthritis, you get plenty of time to check it out! For a small extra fee, they will even get rid of your old mattress for you.
Click here to read our full review of the Nectar Memory Foam mattress.
KEY FEATURES:
- Material: Foam
- Size: Single, Small Double, Double, King, Super King
- Removable cover: Yes
- Warranty: 10 years
- Trial: 200 nights
Advantages
All-foam
This is a five-layer mattress that doesn't use any springs.
Extra comfort
The 2.5cm of memory foam is sure to keep you comfortable.
Amazing coverage
You get a 1-year trial and a forever warranty.
Disadvantages
Might not be for everyone
Slightly heavier people might find the mattress too soft.
Not the cheapest
While it can technically last a lifetime, the upfront cost is higher than similar models.
Best Value: Emma Original Mattress
If you want to dampen your arthritis pains but don't want to break the bank while doing so, the Emma Original Mattress should be your go-to pick!
Best Value
While the Emma Original Mattress isn't nearly as expensive as some high-end models, it can definitely keep up in terms of quality. It's also a bit softer than most of the mattresses so far (at a 5.5 firmness), meaning that it's ideal for arthritis sufferers who are on the lighted side. Not only will this foam mattress keep them comfortable but their spine will also be kept in a healthy and supported position.
The bottom layer is also HRX, which means High Resiliency Extra, and it will help support your body weight during the night. And, just like in previous examples, this support is also zoned in a way where your joints are given extra attention! So, it should ease at least some of the arthritis pain.
Lastly, as we've mentioned already, it's just a great bang for your buck. The mattress has won multiple awards, so you know it's high-quality, and you even get really good coverage to seal the deal.
Click here to read our full review of the Emma Original Mattress.
KEY FEATURES:
- Material: Foam
- Size: Single, Small Double, Double, King, Super King, EU Single, EU Double, EU Queen
- Removable cover: Yes
- Warranty: 10 years
- Trial: 200 nights
Advantages
Great value
This is an award-winning mattress with a more-than-reasonable price tag.
Decent support
The 7-zone HRX layer offers decent support.
Disadvantages
Not for everyone
Heavier sleepers, especially if they sleep on their stomach/back, might need a firmer mattress.
Slight off-gassing
Since the mattress is all foam and compressed, expect a bit of off-gassing the first night.
Best Latex: Dunlopillo Royal Sovereign Mattress
If you think that foam alone won't help ease your arthritis aches, then latex is your best bet. And when it comes to latex mattresses, the Dunlopillo Royal Sovereign Mattress is a tough competitor to beat!
Best Latex
Sporting 100% pure latex, the Dunlopillo Royal Sovereign Mattress stands out as quite a unique mattress. After all, pure latex is considered a premium material. This is because it offers a similar hugging sensation as memory foam while also being a bit more firm and bouncy. On top of that, you might just find that the pressure relief it offers is even greater than that of most memory foam mattresses.
And don't worry, just because latex can make for a better supportive surface than memory foam doesn't mean they took the easy way out. The mattress still has zoned support that's going to take it easy on your joints while also supporting your spine while you sleep.
And if you were worried about overheating, there's more good news. The open-cell construction of this mattress is sure to keep things nice and cool all night long. Not to mention that latex is also hypoallergenic, so it can help ward off some allergies as well.
Click here to read our full review of the Dunlopillo Royal Sovereign Mattress.
KEY FEATURES:
- Material: Latex
- Size: Single, Small Double, Double, King, Super King, EU Small Single, EU Single
- Removable cover: No
- Warranty: 8 years
- Trial: 60 nights
Advantages
Premium quality
Pure latex is a high-end and sought-after material.
Excellent support
Latex is a bit firmer and more supportive than memory foam.
Very breathable
The open-cell structure keeps things cool.
Disadvantages
Latex allergies
Some people are allergic to latex.
Not the best coverage
While not bad, the coverage is low compared to our other picks.
Best for Lower Back Pain: Inofia Mattress
If your arthritis tends to flare up in your lower back most of the time, then this mattress from Inofia might just be what you've been looking for!
Best for Lower Back Pain
The thing that makes the Inofia Mattress stand out is that it's a Euro Top. This means that there's an extra plush layer atop the mattress that can keep you even more comfortable. It's like getting a thin mattress topper for free! But that doesn't mean that the mattress underneath is any less impressive.
By using both high-elasticity and high-density foam, the Inofia Mattress strikes that sweet spot between support and comfort. This is then emphasised even further with the bottom layer of pocket springs that can adapt to your body weight as you toss and turn at night. And the knitted cover makes sure you don't wake up covered in sweat the following morning.
Plus, we have to take into account for approachable the price is. This mattress comes at a fraction of the cost compared to most of the mattresses so far. And while sure, it doesn't sport luxury materials, it's a decent choice for arthritis sufferers who have lower back pain and want to keep the price relatively low.
KEY FEATURES:
- Material: Hybrid
- Size: Single, Small Double, Double, King
- Removable cover: No
- Warranty: 10 years
- Trial: 100 nights
Advantages
Affordable
The mattress is relatively cheap.
Extra comfort
The Euro Top adds some extra plushness to the mattress.
Decent support
Having high-density foam combined with pocket springs makes for excellent support.
Disadvantages
Not the best coverage
While far from bad, higher-end mattresses will get you better coverage.
Not the highest-quality
While excellent for the price, it's not a high-end mattress.
Limited size options
Not as many size options as with other mattresses.
Best Pressure Relief: The Origin Hybrid Mattress
If you want less intense arthritis aches, you need a mattress with good pressure-relieving properties. And we think we just found the perfect one!
Best Pressure Relief
The Origin Hybrid Mattress is rather unique in terms of how it approaches pressure relief. Instead of going with a typical zoned system like most other mattresses, they created their HexaGrid layer. In short, the HexaGrid layer is made in a way where the mattress can offer leeway to smaller surfaces, such as your hip, while also remaining firm over larger areas, such as your midsection.
This means that your joints are kept nice and comfortable, with minimal pressure, while your spine is supported and kept in place. And, as you could probably tell by now, this is quite a big deal! Plus, the Origin Hybrid Mattress comes with a few more tricks that you don't see too often.
The upper layer is made from natural Tencel, which is incredibly durable and easy to clean. The mattress also sports a wool layer, which adds some breathability and reinforces stability all in one go. And there's even some natural bamboo foam, which is more breathable and eco-friendly than regular foam! Add to all of this the fact that the mattress has quite a competitive price, and you might have just found the perfect mattress for arthritis.
KEY FEATURES:
- Material: Foam, wool, Tencel
- Size: Single, Small Double, Double, King, Super King
- Removable cover: No
- Warranty: 15 years
- Trial: 200 days
Advantages
Extra pressure relief
The HexaGrid layer offers exceptional pressure relief for your entire body.
High-quality materials
Bamboo foam, wool, and Tencel are all top-quality materials.
Reasonable price
The mattress isn't nearly as expensive as it could be given the materials used.
Disadvantages
A bit of a wait
Since the pillowtop is hand-crafted, you might have to wait on the mattress a bit.
Not for everyone
The mattress does have a weight capacity and it likely won't suit people who are on the heavier side.
What to consider when buying the best mattress for arthritis UK
Now that we've gone over our favourite picks, we'd like to talk about what makes them great. Sure, we've mentioned how these mattresses help with arthritis pain but that was just a general overview. Now, we'd like to go more in-depth and see all the different factors and features that can lead to pain-free sleep!
We'll start off with strictly talking about mattresses and how different mattresses can make your arthritis pain more bearable and then move on to a few tips for living with arthritis in general. So, if you or your loved ones are arthritis sufferers, this could potentially save you a lot of chronic pain!
Which mattress type is best for dealing with arthritis?
Firstly, let's talk about mattress types. While any good mattress can help with arthritis to a degree, some mattress types are definitely more likely to dampen the pain than others! And as you'll see in the following sections, determining whether you need a softer mattress or a slightly firmer model can make quite a difference! So, let's briefly go over the main mattress types and discuss what makes each one good for lessening arthritis.
Memory foam mattresses
As you might have noticed, most of the mattresses we picked to deal with arthritis have memory foam in some way. This isn't a coincidence, as memory foam is famous for its high level of pressure relief. To oversimplify, memory foam basically hugs your joints from all sides, spreading out the pressure from your weight. This means that your pressure points aren't handling the full brunt of your weight, thus hopefully lessening your joint pain!
And that's not all. As we'll discuss in detail a bit later on, memory foam mattresses also allow your spine to stay healthy – especially if you're a side sleeper. This is because your hip and shoulder can sink into the foam layers slightly, thus keeping your spine alignment straight and healthy. However, as we'll discuss later on, a healthy sleep posture doesn't always require a memory foam mattress.
Hybrid mattresses
Since hybrid mattresses typically come with one or more memory foam layers, it only makes sense that they're quite a good pick for arthritis sufferers. Plus, a hybrid mattress will typically offer more variability. This is because hybrid mattresses come in different firmness options and with different builds. Therefore, you could potentially find a hybrid that fits your needs perfectly!
And with the addition of a spring layer, you will get a bit more support than with a typical memory foam mattress. However, do note that hybrid mattresses also tend to be a bit more expensive.
Latex mattresses
Latex offers a lot of the same benefits as memory foam with a few key differences. Namely, natural latex is a bit firmer and more bouncy than memory foam. So, if you're looking for a firm mattress that can still provide that hugging sensation and alleviate joint pain, the right mattress might just have latex.
And if you're looking for the best latex mattresses, give our list a glance. But be warned, there aren't nearly as many options to choose from when compared to memory foam or hybrid mattresses.
Pocket-sprung mattresses
We won't spend too much time on pocket springs as they're typically not the best for arthritis. At least not if you're on the lighted side in terms of build. But, as you'll see a bit later on, spring models came come in handy for slightly heavier individuals.
This is because springs make for a much better choice when looking for a firmer mattress. Not only are they typically firm but there are usually more than a few models to choose from. Although, again, memory foam is typically better suited for arthritis pain.
Waterbed mattresses
Although waterbed mattresses aren't nearly as popular as the previous 4 mattress types, they are worth mentioning. This is because, in terms of pressure relief, they're hailed as one of the best. In fact, waterbed mattresses were initially used in hospitals for this exact purpose!
This is because a waterbed has more adaptability than even memory foam. And, with certain higher-end models, you can even control the temperature of the mattress, which is a big help when dealing with arthritis pain. Sure, waterbeds to also come with some downfalls and are a lot harder to find but they could be the right mattress for some arthritis sufferers.
Adjustable beds
Lastly, let's talk about adjustable beds. While an adjustable bed isn't necessarily its own mattress type, it is specific enough to warrant a separate section. This is because not every mattress can be bent and moulded at a moment's notice.
And adjustable beds are quite handy when it comes to arthritis and similar forms of joint pain as you can fine-tune your bed to suit your needs. Be it by raising the upper part of the mattress or having your feet slightly up, it can help take some of the pressure off your lower back. So, while not a must-buy, getting a good mattress for your adjustable bed is a valid option for some.
What is causing your arthritis pain?
Now that we know the types of mattresses for arthritis, let's talk about the types of arthritis and answer what is arthritis in the first place. As a brief overview, arthritis is a swelling of one or more joints and it covers a wide range of other conditions. Some of which, like fibromyalgia, we've even covered before! Other arthritis types include:
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Childhood arthritis
- Gout
- Lupus
And you can also narrow it down by body parts, such as knee arthritis or thumb arthritis. Plus you can differentiate inflammatory arthritis as a separate subset. This is because it describes conditions where your immune system is causing your arthritis pain as opposed to worn-out joints or the grinding of bones.
But for our purposes, here's what you need to remember. Arthritis pain is concentrated in your joints, such as your knees, fingers, shoulders, and hips. And it's normal for those spots to be rather tender. So, getting a mattress that can cushion the affected joints can help out quite a bit.
Secondly, if you wondered “Why is arthritis pain worse at night?” – it's due to inactivity. Not only are you more focused on your pain at night but your joints are also stationary and extra sensitive. So, doing some light stretching before bed can help out significantly.
How does mattress firmness affect arthritis pain?
Something that we've briefly mentioned is mattress firmness and its importance for proper spinal alignment. The science behind it is rather straightforward however, understanding which mattress firmness is right for you can do a lot of good! Namely, depending on your sleeping position and your weight, you might need a firmer or a softer mattress.
For example, if you're a side sleeper and have a smaller build, a soft mattress will likely dampen your arthritis pain the most. This is because your hips can dip into the mattress just enough to keep your spine straight and healthy. However, if you're of a slightly larger build and sleep on your stomach, the same principle doesn't apply. This is because your stomach will sink into the foam a bit more, leading to your midsection being curved and applying pressure on your hips.
So, while a medium-firmness mattress will serve most people well enough, that's not always the case. But don't worry! We have a nice table that should point you in the right direction when it comes to mattress firmness.
How does your sleeping position affect arthritis pain?
As mentioned in the previous section, your sleeping position, alongside your body weight, also plays a role. However, your sleeping position is important in more ways than just determining your sleeping position. Namely, for side sleepers, besides just a medium firm mattress, strategically-placed pillows can also dull arthritis pain!
Arthritis sufferers typically find that a wedge pillow between their knees takes some of the pressure off. Alternatively, for back and stomach sleepers, a flat pillow can be a very good choice. Furthermore, back sleepers can also place a smaller pillow under their neck for even more added support.
So, depending on your sleeping position, different tricks can lead to a good night's sleep. Just figure out the problem area and observe how your body is positioned. If it feels like any joint is under a lot of pressure, try utilising a pillow for some pain relief.
How does temperature affect arthritis pain?
While it might seem like a tangent to talk about temperature when discussing the best mattress for arthritis sufferers, it's actually more relevant than you'd think. This is because both warmer and colder temperatures can directly or indirectly help with arthritis pain. And, as you'll quickly see, which tactic you'd like to use depends a lot on the end result you want.
How hotter temperatures help with arthritis
Hotter temperatures have been shown to help dull some of the pain that comes from arthritis. This is because heat encourages tissue repair as well as decreases joint stiffness. Now, you might be wondering, what does this have to do with mattresses? Well, while the temperature of your room will play a more significant role, your mattress does affect the temperature at night.
For example, most memory foam mattresses will trap heat. So, if you tend to sleep hot and have a memory foam mattress, you might feel like a burrito under the covers! And while it's admittedly a roundabout way of implementing heat therapy, it could help a bit.
How colder temperatures help with arthritis
While warmer temperatures help the joint themselves, colder temperatures help the rest of your body. This is because sleeping in a cold room can increase your sleep quality and allow you to fall asleep more quickly. What does this have to do with arthritis?
Well, proper sleep helps in all facets of health! And since arthritis tends to keep people awake at night, you might notice quite a big difference after getting proper sleep. However, in these cases, the perfect mattress will either avoid memory foam or have higher-end, tempered foam.
After all, in order to keep things cool, you need a breathable sleep surface. This works out great if you also need a supportive mattress, as spring models are generally very breathable. But if not, a higher-end hybrid or even a latex mattress can do the job.
Which sleep accessories can help with arthritis?
Aside from just getting one of the best mattresses, you can also look into different sleep accessories in order to make falling asleep a bit easier. So, let's go over your options.
Mattress toppers
Getting a mattress topper is a great option as it's a lot cheaper than getting a new mattress. And, if you're existing mattress is already pretty good, throwing a memory foam topper into the mix can give you a bit of cushioning and pressure relief.
Mattress toppers are especially good for hip pain, as the memory foam layer will give your hips that little bit of leeway they likely need. And when it comes to picking one out, the same rules apply as with mattresses. But do note that even the best topper can't completely override your current mattress – it needs to be at least decent.
Mattress pads
Getting a good mattress pad can also be a viable option as it offers similar qualities to a mattress topper along with some bonus features. For our purposes, the most important added feature is heating. While not all mattress pads are heating pads, it shouldn't be too difficult to find one. And, as we've already discussed, heat can help your joints relax and ease some of the arthritis aches!
Electric blankets
Just like a heating pad, getting the best electric blanket can help raise the temperature. This will then in turn help with some of the joint pain you might experience at night. Some people have even suggested using both the electric blanket and the heating pads but that might be a bit excessive. Also, when it comes to any sort of heating element, especially ones that are on during the night, make sure it's high-quality as any defects can be rather dangerous.
Dehumidifiers
While it might seem like an odd choice to throw a dehumidifier into this list, research does suggest that drier climates tend to trigger fewer arthritis flare-ups. And if you live in the UK, you know that humidity is inescapable! So, while it won't work 100% of the time, getting a decent dehumidifier could potentially help make your arthritis more bearable.
Tips for buying and using the best mattress for arthritis UK
Now that we've gone over everything you need to consider, let's go through a few general tips. While they're mostly based on factors we've already discussed, these tips should make it clear what types of mattresses you should look for if you have arthritis. And we'll briefly mention other useful practices as well.
So, the number one tip is to get a mattress that's suitable for your build and sleeping position. Ideally, it should also have deep foam layers for added pain relief. Secondly, don't forget about your pillows. Whether you need more neck support or a flat pillow to reduce existing neck pain, don't skimp out on the pillows!
Thirdly, ask your doctor whether a raised temperature can help with your joint pain. If you get the thumbs up, look into heating pads or electric blankets. Certain ointments and creams can further boost the effect. Plus, if you can, do some light stretches before bed so that your muscles are nice and warm. This will prevent joint stiffness when you go to bed.
Lastly, try to make an optimal sleeping environment. This means using the best practices for sleep hygiene, such as letting light into the room, destressing before bed, keeping the room a bit cool, and so on.
- Get an appropriate mattress for your build and sleep position
- Utilise pillows for neck, knee, and hip support
- Use heat therapy if advised by your doctor
- Practice good sleep hygiene
The advantages of owning the best mattress for arthritis UK
Finding the best mattress for arthritis UK has to offer might sound like quite a task at this point. However, we'd say it's still more than worth it! After all, the differences between standard mattresses and those with the correct features to help with arthritis are rather noticeable.
For one, having adequate support and pressure relief is invaluable. Not only can this ease existing pain but it can potentially lead to fewer flare-ups in general. And this in turn can lead to better quality sleep, which is something everyone should strive for! Plus, depending on whether you want to keep things cool or create a sleep oven, the correct mattress can help you get there.
Lastly, features such as adjustable mattresses or waterbeds with temperature controls can be total game-changers. After all, they directly influence triggers for the more painful arthritis symptoms. And while a good mattress can't cure arthritis or make it go away, a supportive surface and added comfort can allow you to have a restful night's sleep once again.
- Fewer or less intense flare-ups due to pain relief
- Full-body support
- Temperature regulation
- Adjustability
- Comfort
- Better sleep quality overall
Conclusion
In conclusion, joint pain can cause a lot of discomfort. Of course, your best course of action is to talk to your GP and make lifestyle changes that can lessen the pressure on your joints. And if you want to have a bit more peace at night, getting the best mattress for arthritis UK has to offer is likely going to make falling asleep a lot easier.
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