Best Mattress Topper for Arthritis

Last Updated May 17, 2023

When you're dealing with arthritis, every day can be a bit of a challenge. From basic tasks like getting out of bed in the morning to trying to get comfortable enough to sleep at night, everything is just a little bit harder.

While there is no complete cure for this condition, there are things you can do to make your life more comfortable. One of those things is investing in a good mattress topper specifically designed to ease the symptoms of arthritis.

natural and organic latex mattress topper

Well, arthritis can make sleeping on a traditional mattress very difficult, but with the right mattress topper, you can get the comfort and support you need. So what's the best mattress topper for arthritis pain relief? And how do you know which one is right for you? Keep reading to find out!

best mattress topper for arthritis

What is arthritis?

Arthritis is a medical condition that causes pain, inflammation, and stiffness in the joints. The pain can range from mild to severe and may be worse when the weather is cold or damp.

Arthritis can be caused by a number of reasons, from genetics to lifestyle choices. In some cases, it's caused by trauma to the joints, such as from a fall or an injury. It can also be caused by overuse, such as repetitive motions at work or during sports. Obesity can also contribute to arthritis, as the extra weight puts added strain on the joints. And in some cases, arthritis is simply the result of aging, as the cartilage begins to break down over time.

Yes, arthritis can be a debilitating condition, but there are treatments available that can help to improve symptoms. Physical therapy, medications, and surgery are all options that may be considered for treating arthritis.

Types of arthritis

There are many different types of arthritis, each with its own set of symptoms and causes.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most common type, affecting millions of people worldwide. It results from the deterioration of the cartilage in the joints, causing the bones to rub against each other. This can lead to pain, stiffness, and inflammation.

Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is another type of arthritis characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain and fatigue.

Rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is a more serious form of the disease, which can lead to joint deformity and disability.

Gout

A gout is a form of arthritis that develops when uric acid crystals build up in the joints. It typically affects the big toe and causes severe pain, swelling, and redness.

How does arthritis affect sleep?

Sleep is crucial for our overall health and well-being, but it can be especially important for people with arthritis.

Arthritis can make it tough to get a good night's sleep. This is because it's harder to fall asleep and stay asleep when you're in pain. As a result, you might find yourself tossing and turning all night long, which can leave you feeling exhausted the next day.

how does arthritis affect sleep

According to a study conducted on people with knee osteoarthritis, around 31% of patients report problems falling asleep, and 81% have problems staying asleep. The study also concluded that poor sleep in osteoarthritis patients is linked to depressed mood and functional disability.

In a 2018 study, around 57% of patients with rheumatoid arthritis reported having sleep problems associated with severe pain and functional disability.

Well, in fact, poor sleep and arthritis pain often have a two-way relationship. When you don't get enough rest, your hormonal balance may be off. That can lead to more pain, fatigue, and other symptoms. Those symptoms, in turn, can further disrupt sleep.

But there is hope. If you can find ways to improve the quality of your sleep, you can usually reduce your day-to-day pain. So how do you do that?

Here are a few ideas:

  • Exercise during the day

This can help to reduce pain and increase energy levels. Just be sure to avoid strenuous activity close to bedtime, as it can make it difficult to fall asleep.

exercise during the day to reduce arthritis pain and sleep comfortably

  • Try relaxation techniques

Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing and visualization can help to ease pain and promote sleep.

  • Limit caffeine and alcohol

Caffeine and alcohol can interfere with sleep, so limit your intake before bedtime.

  • Create a relaxing bedtime routine

Make it a habit to take a warm bath or read a book before you go to sleep.

  • Make your bedroom comfortable

A comfortable mattress and pillows can make a big difference. Consider investing in a highly supportive mattress topper made from quality materials if you suffer from chronic pain.

However, if the pain is persistent even after following the techniques mentioned above, consider seeking the help of an expert doctor or medical practitioner about options for treatment.

How can a good mattress topper relieve symptoms of arthritis?

When you have arthritis, every ache and pain feels magnified. You may wake up feeling stiff and sore and find it difficult to get out of bed in the morning. Even lying down can be uncomfortable as pressure points begin to throb.

how can a good mattress topper relieve arthritis symptoms

A high-quality mattress topper will contour to the shape of your body, providing support and evenly distributing weight. Apart from that, a good mattress topper will keep you warm in winter and cool in summer, helping you maintain a comfortable body temperature throughout the night.

You'll want to look for a mattress topper that's specifically designed to relieve arthritis pain, as not all mattress toppers are created equal. With so many options on the market, it's important to do your research to find the best one for you.

 look for a mattress topper that's designed to relieve arthritis pain

How to choose the best mattress toppers for arthritis?

If you suffer from arthritis, there are a few key considerations that can make all the difference in finding a mattress topper that provides both comfort and support. Here's how to choose the best mattress topper for arthritis:

  • Firmness

When choosing a mattress topper for arthritis, the most important factor to consider is firmness. A mattress topper that is too firm can increase pain and stiffness, while a soft mattress topper may not provide enough support for joints. The best mattress topper for arthritis will strike a balance between these two extremes. This means, you should go for a medium-firm mattress topper.

consider firmness when choosing the best mattress topper for arthritis

  • Thickness

Another key consideration is the thickness of the mattress topper. A thinner mattress topper may offer some cushioning and contouring, but it is not likely to provide significant support or pressure relief. A thicker mattress topper, on the other hand, may alter the sleep surface more significantly, providing greater support and pressure relief. Therefore, a thicker mattress topper (preferably 3" thick) is likely to be more comfortable for people with arthritis.

a thicker mattress topper is more comfortable for people with arthritis.

  • Pressure relief

Choose a mattress topper that offers excellent pressure relief. When pressure builds up in certain areas of the body, it can lead to severe pain and make it difficult to get a good night's sleep.

Pressure relief also has a direct link to body contouring. Mattress toppers that contour to the sleeper's body can help distribute weight more evenly and reduce pressure points.

When you are looking for a mattress topper for arthritis, go for the ones that are made from materials that are known to provide good pressure relief, such as memory foam or natural latex.

Arthritis sufferers should choose mattress toppers made from materials that are known to provide good pressure relief

  • Cooling properties

Many sufferers of arthritis find that their symptoms get worse during hot weather, so a mattress topper that helps to regulate body temperature can be very beneficial. Unfortunately, not all mattress toppers are created equal in this regard.

Some materials, such as memory foam, have poor cooling properties and can actually make arthritis symptoms worse. Other materials, such as natural latex or gel-infused memory foam, are much better at regulating temperature and can help to provide relief from arthritis pain.

arthritis sufferers should choose a mattress topper with excellent cooling properties

  • Quality materials

Last but not least, consider a mattress topper that is made from high-quality materials. This will help to ensure that the topper is durable and will not deteriorate over time. Also, since the topper is particularly for arthritis sufferers, the material should be able to provide firm support for the joints and muscles while still being soft enough to provide comfort.

consider toppers made from high quality materials

Sleeping position and arthritis

When you have arthritis, finding a comfortable position to sleep in can be a challenge. The pain and stiffness of arthritis can make it difficult to get into the position you want, and once you're there, it can be hard to stay asleep.

latex mattress

The best sleep position for a person with arthritis depends on the type of arthritis they have as well as their individual symptoms. For example, people with osteoarthritis often find relief by sleeping on their side with a pillow between their knees. This position helps to take pressure off the joints and can improve spinal alignment.

  • Side sleepers

If you are a side sleeper with arthritis, there are a few things you can do to make sure you are comfortable and pain-free. Use a pillow to support your head and neck. You may also want to place a pillow between your knees to keep your hips aligned. If you have arthritis in your shoulders, you may need to prop up your arm with a pillow as well. Lastly, make sure your mattress topper is supportive and not too soft or too hard.

how to side sleep better with arthritis

  • Back sleepers

If you are a back sleeper with arthritis, try placing a pillow under your knees to take some pressure off your joints. You might also want to put a small pillow under your lower back for additional support.

how to sleep on your back with arthritis

  • Stomach sleepers

Stomach sleeping is generally not recommended if you have arthritis. The extra weight near your midsection can pull your hips too far into the mattress topper, putting a strain on your lower back. And since stomach sleepers often turn their heads to the side, they may also strain their necks. However, if you prefer to sleep on your stomach, place a pillow under your pelvis to take some of the strain off your hips and back.

stomach sleeping and arthritis

Side sleeping is generally considered to be the best position for people with arthritis. This is because it helps take pressure off the joints and allows for a more restful sleep. Sleeping on your stomach, on the other hand, can actually worsen arthritis pain. This particular sleeping position puts additional strain on the joints and can make it difficult to get comfortable. So if you're looking for a good night's sleep and want to minimize your arthritis pain, try sleeping on your side.

Types of mattress toppers for arthritis

There are many different types of mattress toppers available on the market, and it can be difficult to know which one is right for you. If you suffer from arthritis, you'll want to look for a mattress topper that will keep your spine well-aligned and cushion the joints. However, as we mentioned before, the right option will also depend on a number of other factors like firmness, thickness, temperature regulation, pressure relief, and good quality materials.

1. Latex mattress toppers

Latex is a natural material that is known for its ability to contour to the body, providing support. It provides pressure relief without the hug. This is because natural latex has low point elasticity, which means that it spreads the compression over a wider area.

Another benefit of latex toppers is that they provide pressure relief without the hug. This is because natural latex has low point elasticity, which means that it spreads the compression over a wider area. This lends to pressure relief without the hug often associated with traditional mattress toppers, so those with joint pain who have mobility issues may find a latex mattress topper easier to move on.

latex mattress toppers for arthritis

2. Memory foam mattress toppers

Like latex, memory foam mattress toppers are also known to alleviate the symptoms of arthritis by contouring your body and providing support for your joints, thereby relieving pressure points. Also, a memory foam topper offers a slow, sinking feeling that many sleepers find comfortable.

However, memory foam toppers are not without their drawbacks. One potential downside is that they can trap heat, making you sleep hot all throughout the night.

is a memory foam topper good for arthritis

3. Gel infused foam mattress topper

The next one on our list is a gel memory foam mattress topper. Unlike traditional memory foam, a gel memory foam mattress topper is infused with tiny gel beads that help regulate body temperature. In addition, the gel beads help to provide targeted relief from pain and pressure.

However, gel memory foam mattress toppers are generally more expensive than traditional memory foam, and they may not be as effective at reducing pain in very severe cases of arthritis.

is a gel infused mattress topper good for arthritis

4. Egg crate mattress topper

Resembling much similar to that of an egg carton, an egg crate mattress topper is usually made of latex or memory foam. Toppers of this kind are well known for distributing body weight.

Egg crate mattress toppers are often used by people who suffer from arthritis, as the raised bumps can provide relief from pressure points.

is an egg crate topper good for arthritis

5. Zoned mattress topper

Zoned mattress toppers feature different firmness levels, providing targeted support for different body areas. For example, the shoulders and hips often need softer cushioning to prevent pain, while the lower back and legs require firmer support. As a result, these mattress toppers can help to alleviate pressure points and improve sleep quality for arthritis sufferers.

is a zoned mattress topper good for arthritis

6. Down mattress topper

A down mattress topper can provide an extra layer of softness and support, making it easier to get a restful night's sleep. Down is also very breathable, so it can help to regulate body temperature and prevent night sweats. However, down mattress toppers are not as supportive as foam toppers, so they may not be suitable for people with severe arthritis.

is a down mattress topper good for arthritis

7. Wool mattress toppers

It's true that the natural properties of wool make it extremely soft and gentle on the skin, which can help to reduce inflammation and pain. Wool is also naturally breathable, which helps to regulate body temperature and prevent night sweats. But they are not as supportive as foam mattress toppers and may not provide the same level of pressure relief.

is a wool mattress topper good for arthritis

Best mattress topper for arthritis

When it comes to finding the best mattress topper for arthritis, it's important to choose a material that will provide ample support and cushioning. This is especially important if you have joint pain or inflammation. In that case, the ones made with natural latex are an excellent choice

But why latex and not memory foam? Although all of these materials are great in providing the much-needed support and contouring required for pressure point relief, no other material can outstand latex.

Natural latex has a high level of resilience, meaning it will quickly bounce back into shape after being compressed. This will help to reduce pressure on your joints.

Not only is latex highly breathable, but it also has incredible cooling properties. This makes it ideal for those who suffer from joint pain, as the cooling effect can help to reduce inflammation. Unfortunately, while latex is known as the best cooling mattress topper, memory foam is the exact opposite. The material can make you uncomfortable by making you sleep hot in the midst of experiencing troublesome arthritis symptoms. And yeah, that's one of the main reasons why memory foam is not one of our most recommended choices.

While latex is natural environment friendly, memory foam is not. Latex is made from rubber trees, and after the latex is harvested, the trees continue to live and produce latex. On the other hand, memory foam is made from petroleum products, which are not renewable. In addition, memory foam can off-gas chemicals that are harmful to humans and the environment. While latex mattresses are more expensive than memory foam mattresses, they are a better choice for those who want to reduce their impact on the environment.

what is the best mattress topper for arthritis patients

Yes, latex is environment friendly, and memory foam is not, but what about down and wool mattress toppers? Of course, both these materials are natural, sustainable, and environment friendly, but they fail to offer the same level of support and pressure point relief as offered by a natural latex mattress topper.

In addition to all of these, latex mattress toppers are often more durable than other types of mattress toppers, so they can provide lasting support for those with arthritis. They are also naturally hypoallergenic, which means, they attract fewer pests or dust mites, making them a safe choice for people with allergies.

natural and organic pillows

There are a few different types of natural latex toppers available, so be sure to choose one that suits your needs. Apart from the natural foam mattress topper, there's the egg crate and zoned type available in the market. An egg crate latex mattress topper is a good choice for people who need extra padding, while a zoned natural latex topper is ideal for those who need targeted support for their joints.

Related blog posts:

1. Best Cooling Mattress Topper 2023

Best Cooling Mattress Topper 2022

2. Awesome Sleep Apps That Will Help Improve Sleep Quality

Awesome Sleep Apps That Will Help Improve Sleep Quality

3. Best Pressure Relieving Mattress To Get Rid Of Aches and Pains

Best Pressure Relieving Mattress To Get Rid Of Aches and Pains

4. How To Care For Your Latex Mattress Topper

How To Care For Your Latex Mattress Topper

5. How To Take Care Of Pillows - Pillow Care Tips And tricks

How To Take Care Of Pillows - Pillow Care Tips And tricks

So, if you're one of the many people out there who suffer from arthritis, we hope that this guide has been somewhat informative and helpful.

Buying a new organic mattress or a mattress topper can be a bit of a task, but with the right information, it doesn't have to be. Let us know in the comments what kind of arthritis pain you experience and which type of mattress gave you relief!

Disclaimer: What is said in this article has been referenced from multiple sources and is intended only for educational and informational purposes. Please note that no content in this article is a substitute for professional advice from a qualified doctor or healthcare provider. Always consult an experienced doctor with any concerns you may have regarding a health condition or treatment, and never disregard any medical suggestions or delay in seeking treatment because of something you read here.

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