7 Best Mattresses for Spondylolisthesis: (Tested & Doctor Reviewed)
Spondylolisthesis is a spinal condition that can make it challenging to find a comfortable sleeping position. If you or a loved one is suffering from this condition, it’s important to find a mattress that provides the necessary support and comfort.
In this article, we’ll explore what Spondylolisthesis is, why it can make sleep difficult, and what to look for in a mattress to ensure a good night’s rest, as well as our tester’s top picks for the 7 best mattresses for Spondylolisthesis relief.
Each of the mattresses in this article have been personally tested by our team (as seen in the included images) and are ones we recommended for Spondylolisthesis relief. These options all provide industry leading pressure relief and have enough support to ensure proper alignment.
Quick Pick:
#1 Most Purchased Spondylolisthesis Sleep Set Up
- Unbeatable value
- Heavy duty support from wrapped coil system
- Luxury pressure relief
- Removable and washable cover
- Made in the USA
“We highly recommend using an adjustable bed frame and to use the zero gravity feature for pain and pressure relief”
- Adjustable height options
- UBS ports
- LED lighting
- "Zero Gravity" position for back pain relief
- Vibrating massage feature
- Much More
Sleeping with Spondylolisthesis: Background Info
Understanding Spondylolisthesis
Spondylolisthesis is a spinal condition in which one of the vertebrae slips forward over the one below it. This can occur due to various reasons, including congenital defects, trauma, or degenerative changes in the spine. The condition can lead to back pain, stiffness, and nerve compression, which can cause numbness, tingling, or weakness in the lower extremities.
The Challenge of Sleeping with Spondylolisthesis
Sleeping with Spondylolisthesis can be difficult because the condition often causes discomfort and pain. Pressure on the spine and surrounding muscles can make it challenging to find a comfortable position, and the resulting discomfort can lead to sleepless nights and exacerbate existing symptoms.
Important Mattress Features to Consider for Spondylolisthesis
When selecting a mattress for someone with Spondylolisthesis, it’s important to consider the following features:
1. Support:
A mattress should provide adequate support for the spine, helping to maintain its natural curvature and alignment. This can help reduce pressure on the vertebrae and alleviate pain associated with Spondylolisthesis.
2. Firmness:
A medium-firm mattress is often recommended for individuals with Spondylolisthesis, as it provides a balance of support and comfort. A mattress that is too soft may not provide enough support, while a mattress that is too firm can cause discomfort and pressure points.
3. Pressure Relief:
A mattress with good pressure-relieving properties can help alleviate pain and discomfort by distributing body weight evenly and minimizing pressure on the spine and joints.
4. Motion Isolation:
If you share your bed with a partner, motion isolation is important to ensure that their movements don’t disturb your sleep. A mattress with good motion isolation can help you sleep more peacefully, even with Spondylolisthesis.
7 Best Mattresses for Spondylolisthesis:
Personally Tested by Our Experts
Quick Picks (7 Best Spondylolisthesis Mattress Picks)
- BEST OVERALL (EDITOR’S PICK) – Puffy LUX
- BEST LUXURY HYBRID – Bear Elite Hybrid
- BEST PRESSURE RELIEF – Dusk LUXE
- BEST VALUE – Brooklyn Signature
- BEST FIRM OPTION – Plank LUXE
- BEST NATURAL OPTION – Birch Natural
- BEST FOR SIDE SLEEPERS – Midnight LUXE
1. The Puffy LUX Hybrid
LUXURY HYBRID MEMORY FOAM MATTRESS
The Puffy Lux Hybrid Mattress measures 12″ in thickness and is a great all around hybrid mattress for any sleeper. The combination of wrapped coils and memory foam offer superior adaptability and pressure relief for side, back and stomach sleepers. If you are looking for a quality mattress at a great price that will be your every-night mattress, the Puffy Lux is hard to beat.
- Unbeatable value
- Heavy duty support from wrapped coil system
- Luxury pressure relief
- Removable and washable cover
- Made in the USA
What our testers are saying:
The Puffy Lux mattress is a great option for Spondylolisthesis. Its hybrid memory foam design incorporates the use of a very supportive pocketed coil innerspring unit with luxury memory foam top layers. The coil innerspring base in the LUX offers heavy duty support that doesn’t give or sag under pressure and leaves your body and spine very supported even on the edge of the mattress. The memory foam top layers allow for pressure relief when sleeping on your side, back or stomach and hug the hips and shoulders. The medium-firm feel is a great comfort level for the vast majority of sleepers and is a comfortable mix of support and comfort.
What Customers love: Luxury memory foam mattress. Fits majority of sleep preferences. Over 6000 5-star reviews.
2. Bear Elite Hybrid
The Bear Elite Hybrid is a luxury hybrid mattress with a supportive wrapped coil innerspring unit and pressure relieving comfort layers. This mattress is available in a variety of firmness levels from luxury-plush to Extra-Firm. Bear is known for their memory foam mattresses and this mattress combines their memory foam design with the support of a traditional mattress. The mattress sleeps very cool and is built to last for years.
- Luxury materials and build
- Choose firmness level: Luxury-Plush to Extra-Firm
- Made in the USA
- Sleeps Cool
- Supportive Wrapped Coils System
What our testers are saying:
Bear has taken their original memory foam mattress to the next level and provided a luxury Hybrid mattress that incorporates heavy duty pocketed coils for a traditional mattress feel with extra support. Their mattress comes in a variety of firmnesses, with their extra-firm option being the most luxurious and high end extra-firm mattress in the industry. If you want a well made luxury mattress then you can’t go wrong with the Bear Elite Hybrid.
WHAT CUSTOMERS LOVE: Luxury heavy duty support.
3. The Helix Dusk LUXE
The Helix Dusk is a quality hybrid mattress with a medium-firm comfort level that is great for the vast majority of sleep preferences and styles. The Dusk utilizes zoned support within its pocketed coil system to adapt to pressure points and offer spinal alignment for combination sleepers. This mattress was awarded best mattress for sciatica by Medical News and is a great all around option for pressure and pain relief. Helix is a trusted brand within the mattress industry and makes all of their mattresses 100% in the USA.
- Spinal alignment with zoned support system
- Pressure Relief
- Made in the USA
- Sleeps Cool
- Great for combination sleepers or couples
- Pain relief benefits
What our testers are saying:
The Helix Dusk is a great all around mattress if you are suffering from back pain of any kind, especially for those with Spondylolisthesis. It offers quality comfort and support with a medium feel that allows for the natural curvature of your spine whether you sleep on your back, side or stomach. The pocketed coil support system has zoned layers that support the hips and shoulders differently than the legs, head and torso in order to keep your spine aligned properly. This mattress is also compatible with an adjustable base.
High quality pressure relief and support
Luxurious tufted cover with quality stitching
Great all-around hybrid design
4. Brooklyn Signature Hybrid
GREAT ALL AROUND VALUE
TRADITIONAL INNERSPRING FEEL
An all around hybrid mattress that combines the benefits of a traditional innerspring mattress with Brooklyn Bedding's patented “Titan foam” comfort layers (combining the best properties of latex and memory foam to appeal to all sleeping and comfort preferences). Brooklyn Bedding has been in the mattress industry for years and makes each mattress at their own factory, meaning they can cut out the middle man and provide a great price. This mattress has thousands of 5-star reviews from customers who rave about its value and universal comfort.
- Unbeatable comfort for the price
- Luxury hybrid innerspring design
- High quality support and pressure relief
- Choose soft, medium or firm
- Over 2,000 5-star reviews.
- Made in the USA
What our testers are saying:
The Signature Mattress is Brooklyn’s most popular mattress. It utilizes a pocketed coil innerspring support system with Titan foam comfort layers on top (combines the best properties of latex and memory foam into one foam). This mattress is great for anyone with Spondylolisthesis who is looking for a quality mattress at a value friendly price point. The Signature has thousands of 5 star reviews from customers who love the quality. This mattress is available in a soft, medium or firm option. For anyone with Spondylolisthesis we recommend a medium or firm level of comfort for this specific mattress.
High quality pressure relief and support
Luxurious tufted cover with quality stitching
Great all-around hybrid design
5. The Plank LUXE Hybrid
The flippable Plank Luxe Hybrid is designed to be the firmest mattress on the market—pairing all of the benefits of the original Plank with the additional responsiveness and pressure point relief of individually encased coils. Inspired by the minimalist approach to sleep in the Far East, the firmer, flatter, flippable surface of the Plank mattress creates a neutral spine position that’s better for your back and posture overall. The 2-sided design allows for multiple comfort preferences - The top side of the mattress feels like a traditional firm; the bottom side of the mattress is ultra-firm.
- Built specifically for people who like a firm mattress
- 2-sided (firm and extra-firm)
- Heavy duty individually encased coil support system
What our testers are saying:
The Plank Hybrid mattress is made specifically for those sleepers who prefer an extra firm sleeping surface, which is great for anyone with back pain or Spondylolisthesis. It is by far the best mattress on the market for people who love a firm mattress. If you buy mattresses and constantly are wanting them firmer then this mattress was made for you. The Plank hybrid mattress takes firm to the next level and offers a 2 sided design with a standard firm and extra firm surface. They also offer an option “cooling layer” that you can add on top to help keep you sleeping cooler during hot months. At just over 1000 for a queen size, the price point is very competitive.
6. The Birch Mattress
The Birch Natural mattress is a high quality natural mattress at a highly competitive price point. The wrapped coils provide a luxuriously supportive base that offers industry leading spinal alignment and cradles the natural curves of the body. Birch has built this mattress around optimizing pressure relief with the use of natural latex and wool comfort layers. Latex is one of the best foams on the market for providing pressure relief while still being supportive. The wool adds comfort while naturally wicking moisture and sleeping cool. Birch then has topped the mattress off with an organic cotton cover, making is naturally hypoallergenic and dust mite resistant. This mattress is a great all-around natural option for anyone looking for a medium-firm hybrid mattress that is chemical free.
- 100% Made in the USA
- Non-Toxic
- Supportive, hybrid wrapped coil design
- Luxury pressure relief
- Natural and Organic Materials (Latex, Organic Wool & Cotton)
- Universal "Medium-Firm" Feel
What our testers are saying:
Birch is a well built, medium-firm natural latex mattress that has the perfect level of support and pressure relief for Spondylolisthesis. Birch is known throughout the industry for their high quality natural latex mattress options. The Birch is their most budget friendly latex mattress and provides all the healthy benefits of a latex with the benefits of a pocketed coil innerspring unit. The Birch comes in a medium-firm comfort level to suit the vast majority of comfort levels and preferences and is perfect for a side sleeper. This mattress also has an organic cotton cove for any individuals with allergies or who are sensitive to non-organic fabrics.
What Customers love: Medium-firm, natural latex mattress at an affordable price.
7. The Midnight LUXE
The Helix Midnight LUXE is their most awarded mattress and is a great all around mattress in our opinion. This mattress is going to have a medium-firm feel which is perfect for most sleep preferences and styles. The individually wrapped coil support system provides the support and bounce of a traditional innerspring unit but has the bonus of "zoned" support which means it perfectly supports and gives to the natural curvature of your body, allowing for industry leading spinal alignment and pressure relief. Helix also offers a softer and firmer option in their LUXE lineup if you prefer something on one of the other ends of the firmness spectrum. Overall, our team loves this mattress and many of our employees choose this exact mattress in their own homes at night.
- Medium-firm feel
- Made in the USA
- Cooling/Breathable cover
- Highly awarded and reviewed
- "Zoned" lumbar support coils for luxury support and pressure relief
- Premium quilted pillow top
- Hypoallergenic cover
What our testers are saying:
The Midnight LUXE is our testers favorite all around mattress for side sleepers and is the one many of our team choose to sleep on every night. This is one of the most universally liked and recommended mattresses in the industry. It is supportive while still being comfortable and has a mix of pocketed coils and a memory foam pillow top, to give support and pressure relief. This mattress was made specifically for side sleepers who prefer a medium firmness, giving them the best of both worlds in terms of support and pressure relief. The zoned pocketed coil system works to add extra support under the hips and shoulders to keep a flat and straight spine.
What Customers love: Luxury pillow-top comfort. Great for all sleeping types
Is an adjustable base right for someone with Spondylolisthesis?
An adjustable base can be an excellent option for someone with Spondylolisthesis, as it allows for customization of sleep positions to provide optimal support and comfort. By adjusting the angle of the head and foot sections, individuals can find a position that relieves pressure on the spine, reduces pain, and maintains proper alignment.
Some benefits of using an adjustable base for individuals with Spondylolisthesis include:
- Customized Support: An adjustable base allows you to fine-tune the position of your head, upper body, and legs, enabling you to find the most comfortable and supportive position for your specific needs.
- Improved Spinal Alignment: By raising the head and/or foot sections, you can achieve better spinal alignment, which can help reduce pain and discomfort associated with Spondylolisthesis.
- Reduced Pressure on the Spine: Elevating the legs can help take pressure off the lower back, potentially providing relief from pain and discomfort.
- Enhanced Comfort for Various Sleep Positions: An adjustable base can cater to different sleep positions, allowing side, back, and stomach sleepers to find a comfortable position that minimizes pain and pressure.
- Increased Circulation: Elevating the legs can improve blood circulation, which may help alleviate swelling and discomfort in the lower extremities.
It’s essential to consider the compatibility of your mattress with an adjustable base, as not all mattresses are suitable for use with adjustable bases. Memory foam, latex, and hybrid mattresses are generally more compatible due to their flexibility and ability to conform to different positions. Be sure to check the manufacturer’s recommendations and warranty terms before using a mattress with an adjustable base.
Coil vs Foam Mattresses for Spondylolisthesis
When choosing between a foam and coil mattress for Spondylolisthesis, it’s essential to consider the support, pressure relief, and overall comfort each type offers. Below, we compare the two types of mattresses to help you determine which might be the better choice for someone with Spondylolisthesis:
Foam Mattress:
- Support: High-quality foam mattresses, particularly those made of memory foam or latex, can provide excellent support by contouring to the body’s shape and maintaining proper spinal alignment.
- Pressure Relief: Foam mattresses excel at pressure relief, as they conform to the body and distribute weight evenly, reducing pressure points and discomfort.
- Motion Isolation: Foam mattresses generally have excellent motion isolation, which is beneficial if you share your bed with a partner, as their movements will be less likely to disturb your sleep.
- Temperature Regulation: Foam mattresses, particularly memory foam, can sometimes retain heat, which may not be ideal for those who sleep hot. However, many newer foam mattresses incorporate cooling technologies to address this issue.
Coil Mattress (Innerspring or Hybrid):
- Support: Coil mattresses, particularly hybrids that combine coils with foam layers, can offer robust support and help maintain proper spinal alignment. The coil system provides a responsive and supportive base, while the foam layers can contour to the body.
- Pressure Relief: Coil mattresses can provide good pressure relief, especially in hybrid mattresses that combine coils with memory foam or latex layers. These foam layers can contour to the body and offer additional pressure relief.
- Motion Isolation: Innerspring mattresses may have less motion isolation than foam mattresses, but hybrid mattresses with pocketed coils and foam layers can minimize motion transfer.
- Temperature Regulation: Coil mattresses generally sleep cooler than foam mattresses, as the coil system allows for better airflow and heat dissipation.
Conclusion: Both foam and coil mattresses can be suitable for individuals with Spondylolisthesis, depending on the specific features and quality of the mattress. When choosing between the two, consider factors such as support, pressure relief, motion isolation, and temperature regulation.
Latex vs Memory Foam for Spondylolisthesis
When deciding between a latex and memory foam mattress for Spondylolisthesis, it’s crucial to consider the unique properties of each material and how they may affect your comfort, support, and overall sleep experience. Here, we compare latex and memory foam mattresses to help you make an informed decision:
Latex Mattress:
- Support: Latex mattresses provide consistent support and contouring, helping maintain proper spinal alignment. They offer a more responsive and bouncy feel compared to memory foam, which some people find more comfortable.
- Pressure Relief: Latex mattresses offer good pressure relief by distributing body weight evenly across the mattress. However, they may not conform as closely to the body as memory foam, which could affect pressure relief for some individuals.
- Motion Isolation: Latex mattresses have decent motion isolation, though not as excellent as memory foam. This may be a consideration if you share your bed with a partner and are sensitive to their movements.
- Temperature Regulation: Latex mattresses tend to sleep cooler than memory foam, as the material is more breathable and doesn’t retain heat as much. This may be beneficial for those who sleep hot or live in warmer climates.
- Durability: Latex mattresses are generally more durable than memory foam mattresses, which means they may last longer and provide consistent support over time.
Memory Foam Mattress:
- Support: Memory foam mattresses conform closely to the body’s shape, providing excellent support and spinal alignment. They have a slower response time and offer a more “sinking” feeling than latex mattresses, which some people find more comfortable and supportive.
- Pressure Relief: Memory foam excels at pressure relief, as it conforms to the body’s curves and distributes weight evenly, reducing pressure points and discomfort.
- Motion Isolation: Memory foam mattresses have excellent motion isolation, making them ideal for individuals who share their bed with a partner and want to minimize sleep disturbances.
- Temperature Regulation: Traditional memory foam mattresses can retain heat, which may not be ideal for hot sleepers. However, many newer memory foam mattresses incorporate cooling technologies, such as gel-infused foam or open-cell structure, to address this issue.
- Durability: Memory foam mattresses may not be as durable as latex mattresses, and they can be prone to sagging over time, which could affect support and comfort.
Both latex and memory foam mattresses can be suitable for individuals with Spondylolisthesis, depending on personal preferences and needs. Latex mattresses provide a more responsive and bouncy feel with good support, pressure relief, and temperature regulation. Memory foam mattresses offer excellent contouring support, pressure relief, and motion isolation, but they may retain heat.
FAQs
Q: What type of mattress is best for individuals with Spondylolisthesis?
A: Memory foam, latex, and hybrid mattresses are often recommended for individuals with Spondylolisthesis, as they provide a good balance of support and pressure relief. A medium-firm mattress is typically ideal, as it offers adequate support for spinal alignment while still providing comfort.
Q: How important is mattress firmness for people with Spondylolisthesis?
A: Mattress firmness is crucial for individuals with Spondylolisthesis, as it directly affects spinal alignment and support. A medium-firm mattress is usually recommended, as it provides the right balance between support and comfort, helping to maintain proper spinal alignment and alleviate pressure on the spine.
Q: Can a mattress topper help alleviate discomfort caused by Spondylolisthesis?
A: A mattress topper can help improve the comfort and support of your existing mattress, but it may not provide enough targeted support for individuals with Spondylolisthesis. A topper made of memory foam or latex can provide additional pressure relief, but it’s essential to consider the overall support and firmness of the underlying mattress to ensure proper spinal alignment.
Q: Do I need a special pillow for Spondylolisthesis?
A: While a special pillow is not necessary, using a pillow that promotes proper spinal alignment can be beneficial for individuals with Spondylolisthesis. A pillow that supports the natural curve of the neck and keeps the head in a neutral position can help alleviate discomfort and pressure in the spine.
Q: How do I know if a mattress is suitable for my specific needs with Spondylolisthesis?
A: To determine if a mattress is suitable for your needs, consider factors such as firmness, support, pressure relief, and motion isolation. Look for a medium-firm mattress that provides adequate support for spinal alignment, offers good pressure relief, and has minimal motion transfer if you share your bed with a partner. Additionally, take advantage of trial periods offered by many mattress manufacturers to test the mattress and ensure it meets your specific requirements.
Q: How often should I replace my mattress if I have Spondylolisthesis?
A: The general recommendation is to replace a mattress every 7-10 years. However, if you have Spondylolisthesis, it’s essential to monitor your mattress’s support and comfort levels more closely. If you notice a decline in support or increased discomfort, it might be time to consider a new mattress that better caters to your needs.
Conclusion
Living with Spondylolisthesis can be challenging, but finding the right mattress can significantly improve sleep quality and alleviate discomfort. By considering the essential features and factors outlined in this article, you’ll be well-equipped to make an informed decision and invest in a mattress that provides the support and comfort needed for a good night’s rest.
