Best Mattress Topper for Shoulder Pain

Last Updated January 5, 2024

kaneesha allen Fact checked by Kaneesha Allen

Shoulder pain is no joke. If something goes wrong with your shoulder, you might experience a lot of pain and discomfort. It can keep you up all night and make it difficult to concentrate during the day. You might not be able to move as freely as you want, and even doing simple acts like brushing and drying your hair or grabbing something overhead might seem like a monumental task.

natural and organic latex mattress topper

Key Takeaways:

  • Investing in the best latex mattress topper for shoulder pain is a cost-effective solution to get rid of shoulder pain issues caused by a bad mattress.
  • A mattress topper can work effectively to make a soft mattress firm and a firm mattress soft.
  • The quality of the material, mattress thickness, firmness, and sleeping position are a few factors that you must keep in mind before buying a mattress topper for shoulder pain.
  • Latex and memory foam are the two common types of mattress toppers known for providing shoulder pain relief.
  • Mattress toppers made from natural latex foam are the healthiest option, as they don't off-gas, are free of toxic levels of chemicals, and attract fewer pests or dust mites.

Is a bad mattress the culprit? Well, in the majority of cases, YES! If you sleep on a mattress that is too soft, your shoulders can sink down, causing tension and pain. A firm mattress, on the other hand, becomes too hard and uncomfortable to sleep on.

So, what do you do about it?

Most people invest in an all-new mattress for relief. But what if there was another easy-peasy cost-effective solution? What if we told you that a mattress topper could help you get relief from shoulder pain? Yes, you read it right!

A mattress topper is a simple and affordable way to add an extra layer of comfort to your bed, helping you to get a good night's sleep and wake up feeling refreshed. It's also an effective way to reduce pressure on your joints, which can lead to pain relief. But what is the best mattress topper for shoulder pain? We're here to help you find out!

best mattress topper for shoulder pain

Find out everything you need to know about the types of toppers, the best mattress topper for shoulder pain, and the causes of shoulder pain in this blog article. Keep reading ;)

Causes of shoulder pain

A common cause of shoulder pain can be linked to poor posture. When we hunch over, whether it's at a desk or on our smartphone, we put unnecessary strain on our shoulders and neck. This can lead to tension headaches, as well as pain and stiffness in the shoulders.

Apart from poor posture, certain medical conditions may also lead to severe shoulder pain. This includes rotator cuff injuries, glenohumeral disorders, bursitis, and acromioclavicular joint disorders. All of these conditions can be quite painful, but there are many effective treatments available. If you have persistent pain in your shoulder or think that the pain is due to any of these medical conditions, never hesitate to seek the help of a doctor or medical practitioner.

Another cause of shoulder pain is sleeping on a mattress that's too soft or too hard. A mattress that's too soft can cause the spine to curve, which puts pressure on the shoulders. On the other hand, a mattress that's too hard can cause the muscles in the shoulders and neck to tense up overnight. Also, a mattress that is old or worn out may have lost its ability to provide adequate support. As a result, people who are struggling with shoulder pain may find relief by investing in a quality mattress topper.

What should you look for when buying a mattress topper for shoulder pain?

There are a few things you need to know before you buy a mattress topper for shoulder pain. First, you need to understand what is important to you when it comes to the topper. There is a lot of marketing jargon in the bedding industry, but only a few factors will actually influence how satisfied you are with your new mattress topper.

Have a look at some of the most important factors to consider when choosing a mattress topper for shoulder pain and discomfort.

High-quality materials

    You know that feeling when you finally find the perfect mattress topper for shoulder pain, but it's made of cheap materials and falls apart after a few months? It's the worst. Not only is your shoulder pain back with a vengeance, but you're also out a hundred bucks. That's why it's important to invest in quality materials when you're shopping for a mattress topper.

    A good mattress topper should be made of durable materials that will withstand years of use. It should also be comfortable and supportive, so you can get a good night's sleep without waking up in pain. And finally, it should be affordable, so you don't have to break the bank to get relief from your shoulder pain.

    When buying a mattress topper for shoulder pain, look for the one with the highest quality materials

    Firmness

      A mattress topper that is too firm can cause your shoulders to ache, while a mattress topper that is too soft won't provide the support your shoulders need.

      The right mattress topper is the one that can help you find the perfect balance of firmness and support, so you can get a good night's sleep without shoulder pain. People with shoulder pain often go for a medium or medium-firm mattress topper,as it allows the shoulder to sink into the mattress topper comfortably.

      When buying a mattress topper for shoulder pain, find the perfect balance of firmness and support

      Thickness

        Firmness is important, but it's not the only factor to consider when choosing a mattress topper for shoulder pain. You also need to make sure the topper is thick enough to provide support without being too bulky.

        A mattress topper that is too thin won't provide enough support for your shoulders, while a mattress topper that is too thick can actually make your pain worse by putting pressure on your joints. The ideal thickness for a mattress topper depends on your individual body type and sleep habits, but if you are having shoulder pain, a good rule of thumb is to choose a topper that is three inches thick.

        When buying a mattress topper for shoulder pain, look for the one with the right thickness

        Pressure relief

          When you're lying down, the weight of your body presses down on your shoulder blades, causing them to protrude and putting pressure on the nerves in your neck. This can lead to pain and discomfort. A good mattress topper can help to minimize this pressure by evenly distributing your weight and providing support for your shoulders. This will help reduce pain and improve your quality of sleep.

          So if you're looking for a new mattress topper, be sure to look for one that offers pressure point relief for your shoulders. It could make all the difference in your comfort level.

          Cooling properties

            When you sleep, your body temperature naturally decreases. This allows your muscles to relax and heal. However, studies show that maintaining a constant body temperature and sleeping on a quality mattress can improve sleep efficiency.

            Cooling mattress toppers help to keep your body temperature at a comfortable level throughout the night, so you can wake up feeling refreshed and pain-free. And that's why cooling properties matter when buying a mattress topper for shoulder pain!

            When buying a mattress topper for shoulder pain, look for the one with the best cooling properties

            Can your sleeping position cause shoulder pain?

            We spend a lot of time in bed. In fact, most of us spend around one-third of our lives asleep. That means that the position we sleep in can have a major impact on our health. Unfortunately, many people tend to sleep in the same position night after night, which can lead to pain and discomfort.

            If you spend six to eight hours every night sleeping in the same position, that can add up to a lot of wear and tear on your joints. And if you're constantly putting pressure on your shoulder joint, it can lead to discomfort and even structural damage. So if you want to avoid pain and keep your joints healthy, it's important to switch up your sleeping position from time to time. Otherwise, you might just end up being a stiff old person someday, and who would want that, right?

            Side sleeping position

            When you sleep on your side, your arm is often resting in an awkward position. This can put a strain on the muscles and ligaments around the shoulder joint, leading to discomfort. Also, side sleeping can cause the rotator cuff tendons to become irritated. Over time, this can lead to inflammation and significant pain. So if you are a side sleeper experiencing shoulder pain, it might be worth trying a different sleep position.

            side sleeping position

            Back sleeping position

            It's a fact that when you sleep on your back, your shoulder is in an awkward position, and gravity can pull your arm downward, exacerbating the pain. On the other hand, when you sleep on your side, you can at least use a pillow to support your arm, preventing it from hanging and causing further pain.

            So why do doctors still recommend back sleeping for shoulder pain? The answer may have more to do with psychology than with physiology. When you're in pain, it's natural to want to curl up in a ball and protect the injured area. But this position can actually make the pain worse. By sleeping on your back, you're keeping your shoulder immobilized and allowing it to heal. So while back sleeping may not be the most comfortable position, it may be the best position for healing a sore shoulder.

            back sleeping position

            Stomach sleeping position

            When you sleep on your stomach, you tend to twist your head to one side, which can put a strain on your neck and shoulders. This can cause the muscles and ligaments in those areas to become irritated and inflamed, leading to pain.

            latex mattress

            In addition, stomach sleeping puts pressure on your spine, causing discomfort in your neck, back, and shoulders. If you often wake up with soreness in your neck or shoulders, it might be time to start sleeping on your back or side instead. You should also try experimenting with different pillow types and positions to see if that helps reduce any discomfort.

            stomach sleeping position

            Types of mattress toppers for shoulder pain

            To make your search easier, we've compiled a list of some of the most common types of mattress toppers for shoulder pain. From latex to wool, there's sure to be a topper that's perfect for you. Keep reading!

            Latex mattress topper

            For those who have ever wondered what it would be like to float on a cloud, sleeping on a latex mattress topper may be the next best thing. Made from natural or synthetic rubber, latex cradles the sleeper's body, relieving pressure on the shoulders and allowing you to get a good night's sleep.

            Additionally, latex toppers help to distribute weight evenly, taking some of the strain off of your shoulders and giving you the support you need to heal. It has low point elasticity, which means it compresses over a wider surface area than most mattress toppers.

            In addition to its unique feel, latex is a highly durable and sustainable choice for those seeking an eco-friendly option. So if you're looking for an out-of-this-world sleeping experience, latex may be just what you need.

            Latex foam is naturally breathable, thanks to the countless tiny pinholes that run throughout the material. This allows air to circulate freely, regulating body temperature and keeping you naturally cool and comfy all night long – No more waking up in a pool of your own sweat!

            However, on the downside, latex toppers can be quite expensive. Thankfully, its benefits outweigh the heavy price tag. With a latex foam topper, you're sure to wake up feeling refreshed and pain-free, ready to tackle whatever the day throws at you.

            Traditional memory foam topper

            Memory foam is a type of polyurethane foam that is made up of cells that are close together and absorb pressure. These toppers can actually help relieve shoulder pain by providing support and cushioning for the body. The foam deeply contours to the shape of your body, which helps to distribute weight evenly and reduce pressure points.

            However, traditional memory foam toppers can be quite hot to sleep on, and they are not as breathable when compared to a latex mattress topper that comes with natural cooling properties. Memory foam toppers can also often have strong odors when first unpacked, and they can be heavy and difficult to move. Furthermore, memory foam toppers are not waterproof, so if you spill anything on them, you're out of luck.

            Gel memory foam mattress topper

            Gel toppers are nothing but memory foam toppers infused with gel beads. These toppers are specially designed to contour to your body and regulate body temperature, providing support and pressure relief and keeping you cool at night.

            While there is no guarantee that a gel memory foam topper will completely eliminate your pain, it can definitely help to reduce inflammation and provide some sort of soothing relief.

            Egg crate mattress topper

            Egg crate toppers are often used by people who suffer from back or shoulder pain. They are made from foam material, like latex or memory foam, and look similar to egg cartons.

            egg crate latex mattress topper

            The additional support provided by the raised surface of the egg crate can help to reduce pressure on the muscles and joints, providing relief from pain. In addition, the egg crate design helps to promote airflow, keeping the body cool and comfortable during sleep.

            Wool mattress topper

            Wool mattress toppers do not provide the same level of support and pain relief as foam toppers. However, they are still quite soft and cozy, so you can rest assured that your shoulders will be comfortable while you sleep.

            Best mattress toppers for shoulder pain

            The best mattress topper for shoulder pain is the one that provides the perfect support and cushioning without being too soft or too firm. It's also the one that is made with the highest quality materials, the right thickness, pressure relief, durability, and outstanding cooling properties. Taking all these factors into consideration, it's pretty much clear that mattress toppers made with latex are the best! This means you can count both natural latex mattress toppers as well as egg crate mattress toppers made with latex on the list.

            woman sleeping comfortably on a latex topper

            Latex foam toppers and egg crate toppers made with natural latex are more durable than memory foam, gel, and wool toppers - so they will provide long-lasting support for your shoulders. They’re also more responsive than other types, meaning they will contour to your body and provide customized support. And finally, latex is naturally breathable, making a latex topper one of the best cooling mattress toppers.

            Oh, wait! Before you finalize buying a latex mattress topper, make sure it is Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS) certified or OEKO-TEX certified. Why, you ask? Because these certifications mean that the latex has been sourced sustainably and ethically, without the use of harmful levels of chemicals or pesticides. Plus, they're just better for the environment.

            FAQs

            1. Do latex mattress toppers relieve pressure points?

            Latex is a highly resilient material that contours to the body, providing support where it's needed most. As a result, latex mattress toppers can help reduce tossing and turning, and they can also provide relief for those who suffer from shoulder pain.

            2. Thicker mattress topper or thinner mattress toppers - Which one is the best for shoulder pain?

            If you're looking for the best possible option for shoulder pain, thicker toppers are the way to go. Not only will they provide additional support and cushioning for your shoulders, but they'll also help to distribute your weight more evenly. As a result, you'll be less likely to experience pain in your shoulders, even if you tend to sleep on your side. Plus, thicker toppers will also last longer, so you won't have to replace them as often.

            3. What are the best mattress toppers for side sleepers with shoulder pain?

            Side sleepers often suffer from shoulder pain due to the pressure put on the joints while sleeping. The best mattress toppers for side sleepers with shoulder pain are natural latex toppers and egg crate toppers with latex. Both of these toppers provide excellent support and cushioning for the shoulders, alleviating pressure and pain.

            In addition, both latex and egg crate toppers are highly breathable, ensuring that side sleepers stay cool and comfortable throughout the night.

            4. What is the difference between mattress toppers and mattress pads?

            Mattress toppers and mattress pads serve different purposes. A mattress topper is a thick layer of material that is placed on top of a mattress. It is usually made from memory foam, latex, or down. A mattress pad is thinner than a mattress topper and typically has a quilted surface. It is designed to protect the mattress from spills and stains.

            Mattress toppers are generally more expensive than mattress pads, but they offer more support and comfort.

            5. Is a soft mattress topper any good for shoulder pain?

            While a soft mattress topper may make your bed more comfortable, it will do nothing to support your neck and shoulders. The reason is that a soft surface doesn't provide the same level of support as a firm one. As a result, your shoulders can sink into the topper, causing your spine to become misaligned. This can lead to increased pressure on your shoulders and neck, resulting in more pain.

            natural and organic pillows

            So if you're looking for relief from shoulder pain, a firm or medium-firm mattress topper is often considered the better option.

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            3. Best Mattress Topper for Hip Pain Relief

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            4. Best Mattress Topper for Back Pain Relief

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            5. How To Care For Your Latex Mattress Topper

            How To Care For Your Latex Mattress Topper

            If you are currently struggling with shoulder pain, give latex a try – you may be surprised at how much better you feel after sleeping on a latex mattress topper.

            Do you have any other questions about choosing the best mattress topper for shoulder pain? Let us know in the comments!

            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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