7 Best Mattresses for Migraines (According to Sleep Experts & Doctors)
Migraine sufferers understand the challenges of getting a good night’s sleep during an episode. A comfortable sleeping environment, proper sleep habits, and the right mattress can make a significant difference in managing migraines and improving sleep quality. This guide will help you understand how to sleep better with migraines and identify the best mattress types for migraine relief.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Mattress for Migraine Relief
When choosing a mattress for migraine relief, consider the following factors to ensure you find a suitable option that helps reduce migraine triggers and promotes better sleep quality:
Support:
A mattress that provides proper spinal alignment is crucial for reducing pressure points and preventing pain that could contribute to migraines. Consider your preferred sleep position (side, back, or stomach) and choose a mattress with the right firmness level to support your spine and maintain its natural curve.
Pressure relief:
A mattress that conforms to your body’s shape and distributes weight evenly can help alleviate pressure on the neck, shoulders, and hips, reducing potential migraine triggers. Memory foam and latex mattresses are known for their pressure-relieving properties.
Temperature regulation:
Temperature fluctuations can trigger migraines for some people. Look for a mattress with breathable materials and cooling technologies, such as gel-infused memory foam or latex, to help maintain a comfortable sleeping temperature.
Motion isolation:
Sharing a bed with a partner can be problematic if their movements disturb your sleep. A mattress with good motion isolation, such as memory foam or a hybrid with pocketed coils, can minimize disturbances and help you sleep more soundly during a migraine episode.
Hypoallergenic properties:
For those with allergies or sensitivities that may contribute to migraines, consider a mattress made from hypoallergenic materials, like natural latex. These materials are resistant to dust mites and mold, which can help create a healthier sleep environment.
Adjustable firmness:
Some mattresses offer adjustable firmness levels or have dual-sided designs with different firmness options, allowing you to customize the feel according to your needs and preferences. This flexibility can be beneficial for migraine sufferers, as their comfort needs may change during or between migraine episodes.
Compatibility with adjustable bases:
Adjustable bed bases can provide additional comfort and relief for migraine sufferers by allowing you to elevate your head and legs to alleviate pressure and promote relaxation. Make sure the mattress you choose is compatible with an adjustable base if you plan to use one.
Trial period and return policy:
Since individual preferences and needs vary, it’s essential to choose a mattress with a generous trial period and a hassle-free return policy. This allows you to test the mattress in your own home and ensure it provides the migraine relief you need.
Budget:
Finally, consider your budget when selecting a mattress for migraine relief. While investing in a high-quality mattress is essential, there are options available at various price points to accommodate different budgets. Don’t sacrifice quality for cost, but also be mindful of your financial constraints.
Quick Picks: Our Tester’s Favorite Sleep Set Up for Migraines
“The best mattress for migraines should offer support and spinal alignment while also giving pressure relief, keeping your joints and muscles relaxed and helping them to release tension.”
- Unbeatable value
- Heavy duty support from wrapped coil system
- Luxury pressure relief
- Removable and washable cover
- Made in the USA
“Add an adjustable bed frame to provide additional comfort and relief for migraines by allowing you to elevate your head and legs to alleviate pressure. “
- Adjustable height options
- UBS ports
- LED lighting
- "Zero Gravity" position for back pain relief
- Vibrating massage feature
- Much More
“Make sure your pillow is the right height so that your neck is aligned with your spine and not causing additional strain and pressure. An adjustable pillow is a great universal option”
7 Best Mattresses for Migraines
Each of these mattresses has been tested by our team and is highly recommended by doctors and experts we spoke with in the field. These mattresses each provide industry leading support, pressure relief and all are compatible with adjustable bases.
Quick Picks (7 Best Mattresses for Migraines)
- 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 hybrid memory foam mattress that incorporates the use of a very supportive pocketed coil innerspring unit with luxury memory foam top layers. The pocketed coil innerspring base in the LUX offers heavy duty support that doesn’t give or sag under pressure and leaves you feeling very supported even on the edge of the mattress. The memory foam top layers allow for pressure relief when sleeping on your side 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 for back and side sleepers who want support and some give.
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 extra-firm option is the most luxurious and high end extra-firm mattress in the industry. If you want a well made luxury mattress feel then you can’t go wrong with the Bear Elite Hybrid.
WHAT CUSTOMERS LOVE: Luxury firm feel and 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. 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 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 migraines 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 back pain we recommend a 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 who needs extra support. 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 back pain. 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
How to Create a Comfortable Sleep Environment for Migraines
Keep the bedroom dark:
Light sensitivity is common during a migraine, so make sure your bedroom is as dark as possible. Use blackout curtains, shades, or an eye mask to block out light.
Minimize noise:
Sound can exacerbate migraines, so try to create a quiet environment. Use earplugs, a white noise machine, or a fan to help drown out any disruptive noises.
Regulate temperature:
Extreme temperatures can trigger migraines or make them worse. Maintain a comfortable room temperature, ideally between 60 and 67 degrees Fahrenheit (15-19 degrees Celsius).
Create a relaxing bedtime routine:
Develop a soothing pre-sleep ritual, such as taking a warm bath, practicing relaxation techniques, or reading a book to help signal to your body that it’s time for sleep.
Best Sleep Habits for Migraine Sufferers
Maintain a consistent sleep schedule:
Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends, to help regulate your body’s internal clock and reduce migraine frequency.
Limit caffeine and alcohol intake:
Both caffeine and alcohol can trigger migraines or disrupt sleep. Limit your intake, especially in the hours leading up to bedtime.
Avoid screen time before bed:
The blue light emitted from screens can interfere with your sleep and potentially exacerbate migraines. Turn off electronic devices at least an hour before bed.
Practice relaxation techniques:
Incorporate deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or meditation into your bedtime routine to help reduce stress and promote relaxation.
Best Types of Mattresses for Migraine Relief
- Memory foam: Memory foam mattresses conform to the body and provide excellent pressure relief, reducing potential migraine triggers caused by pressure points. They also minimize motion transfer, making them an excellent option for those who share a bed.
- Latex: Latex mattresses offer a combination of support and pressure relief, making them suitable for migraine sufferers. Natural latex is also hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites, which can be beneficial for those with allergies or sensitivities that may contribute to migraines.
- Hybrid: Hybrid mattresses combine innerspring support with foam or latex layers for pressure relief and support. These mattresses can offer a balanced feel that’s suitable for migraine sufferers, especially those who prefer a more responsive sleeping surface.
- Adjustable beds: Adjustable beds can be beneficial for migraine sufferers, as they allow for customized elevation of the head and legs, which can help alleviate pressure and promote relaxation during a migraine episode.
What to Do to Get Rid of a Migraine at Night
While it’s challenging to eliminate a migraine once it starts, there are several strategies you can try to alleviate the pain and discomfort at night:
- Create a quiet, dark environment: Light and sound sensitivity are common during migraines, so make your bedroom as dark and quiet as possible. Use blackout curtains, an eye mask, and earplugs or a white noise machine if necessary.
- Use cold or warm compresses: Applying a cold or warm compress to your forehead, temples, or the back of your neck can help provide relief. Experiment with both cold and warm compresses to see which works best for you.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers: Non-prescription pain relievers like ibuprofen, naproxen, or aspirin can help reduce migraine pain. Be sure to follow the recommended dosage on the package and consult your healthcare provider if you have any concerns.
- Maintain a consistent sleep schedule: Going to bed and waking up at the same time each day can help regulate your body’s internal clock and potentially reduce migraine frequency. Keep a consistent sleep schedule, even during a migraine episode.
- Practice relaxation techniques: Deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, or meditation can help reduce stress and promote relaxation, which may help alleviate migraine symptoms.
- Use essential oils: Some essential oils, such as lavender, peppermint, or eucalyptus, may help provide relief during a migraine. You can diffuse the oils in your bedroom, apply a diluted blend to your temples or wrists, or use an aromatherapy inhaler.
- Stay hydrated: Dehydration can worsen migraines, so ensure you’re drinking enough water throughout the day and night.
- Try caffeine: In moderation, caffeine can help relieve migraine pain for some people. You can consume a small amount of caffeine, like a cup of coffee or tea, but avoid consuming too much, especially close to bedtime, as it may disrupt your sleep.
- Elevate your head: Propping your head up on pillows or using an adjustable bed base can help alleviate pressure and promote relaxation during a migraine episode.
Remember, it’s crucial to consult your healthcare provider if you experience frequent migraines, as they can recommend appropriate treatments and medications tailored to your specific needs.
FAQs
Q: What types of mattresses are best for migraine sufferers?
A: Memory foam, latex, and hybrid mattresses are popular choices for migraine sufferers due to their pressure-relieving properties, support, and motion isolation. Adjustable beds can also be beneficial for providing customized comfort during a migraine episode.
Q: How does mattress firmness affect migraine relief?
A: The ideal firmness level depends on your preferred sleep position and body type. A mattress that is too firm or too soft can cause improper spinal alignment and exacerbate pressure points, potentially contributing to migraines. Choose a mattress that supports your spine’s natural curve to minimize pressure and discomfort.
Q: Can a mattress with cooling features help with migraines?
A: Yes, temperature fluctuations can trigger migraines for some people. A mattress with breathable materials and cooling technologies, such as gel-infused memory foam or natural latex, can help maintain a comfortable sleeping temperature and potentially reduce migraine triggers.
Q: Are there specific brands that are recommended for migraine sufferers?
A: While there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer, look for reputable brands that offer mattresses with the key features mentioned earlier, such as pressure relief, support, temperature regulation, and motion isolation. Reading reviews from other migraine sufferers can also provide insights into which brands and models have worked well for them.
Q: How important is a trial period when choosing a mattress for migraine relief?
A: A trial period is crucial when selecting a mattress for migraine relief because individual preferences and needs vary. A generous trial period allows you to test the mattress in your own home and ensure it provides the migraine relief you need. Look for companies that offer at least a 100-night trial period and a hassle-free return policy.
Q: Can an adjustable bed base help with migraines?
A: Yes, adjustable bed bases can provide additional comfort and relief for migraine sufferers by allowing you to elevate your head and legs to alleviate pressure and promote relaxation. Ensure the mattress you choose is compatible with an adjustable base if you plan to use one.
Q: Are organic or eco-friendly mattresses better for migraine relief?
A: Organic and eco-friendly mattresses can be beneficial for migraine sufferers, especially those with allergies or sensitivities that may contribute to migraines. These mattresses often use natural materials, such as organic cotton, wool, or natural latex, which are hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites and mold.
Q: How do I know if my current mattress is contributing to my migraines?
A: If you notice an increase in migraine frequency or intensity and suspect your mattress may be the cause, consider whether it provides proper support and pressure relief. If you’re experiencing discomfort or pain while sleeping, it may be worth exploring other mattress options to improve your sleep quality and potentially reduce migraines.
Q: Can a mattress topper help with migraines?
A: A mattress topper can be a temporary solution for improving the comfort of your existing mattress. Memory foam or latex toppers can add pressure relief and support, which may help reduce migraine triggers. However, if your current mattress is old or unsupportive, it’s best to invest in a new mattress designed for migraine relief.
Conclusion:
Sleeping with migraines can be challenging, but creating a comfortable sleep environment, maintaining good sleep habits, and choosing the right mattress can make a significant difference in managing migraines and improving sleep quality. Consider your personal preferences and needs when selecting a mattress, and don’t hesitate to consult with a healthcare professional for additional guidance on managing migraines and sleep.
