Experts estimate that a staggering 80% of the population will experience back pain at some point in their lives. Considering we spend about a third of our lives asleep, finding a comfortable bed that won't keep us up all night is super important.
A good mattress can only do so much without a good mattress topper to support you. So what are the best mattress toppers for back pain? We've compiled a list of memory foam mattress toppers that can alleviate back pain for a blissful night's sleep.
What is a Mattress Topper?
A mattress topper, as the name suggests, is a removable layer that sits on top of your regular mattress to add extra cushioning and support. Available in a variety of materials, such as foam, natural fibres, gel or latex mattress toppers.
They can be a less expensive alternative to buying a new mattress to provide extra support for the back.
Advantages of Mattress Toppers for Back Pain
A high-quality mattress topper can help those who suffer from chronic back and hip pain - instantly offering some pressure relief. You won’t be losing any sleep over the cost of your topper either, since these are much less expensive compared to a memory foam mattress but offer many of the benefits.
Whilst mattress toppers won't replace a bad mattress, they can offer little extra support to your sleep surface. They provide a comfort layer and vary in size, thickness and density. Mattress pads and toppers also provide a general cover for your bed.
Here are some benefits of mattress toppers;
Reduce Pain
The biggest advantage to having mattress toppers is to relieve some of your pain without major lifestyle changes. Memory foam toppers are made to conform to your body and accommodate all of your pressure points. They’re great for all types of sleepers, no matter what position you’re in, but can be especially helpful if you're a stomach sleeper and need a firmer topper to keep your back from overextending.
Keep you Cool
Some types of toppers offer a gel-infused memory foam layer or come with a Coolmax cover and are specifically designed to help keep you cool at night. This cooling cover wicks away built-up heat and moisture to keep you cool throughout the night. If you’re a hot sleeper who struggles with sweating, consider a foam topper that not only helps with back pain but also keeps you cool, can drastically improve your quality of sleep.
Extend the Life of an Old Mattress
Instead of buying an expensive mattress when your old one begins to sag and wear out, in some cases, mattress toppers can buy you some more time. Toppers will add support and a new lease of life to your mattress and prevent you from hurting your back by sleeping on a worn-down mattress. It can feel like you're sleeping on a brand new mattress!
Why is High-Density Foam Recommended for Back Pain?
Mattresses with a density of 55kg and above are fairly high-density products and will last a long time with daily use, making them the best option for your main bed at home. They tend to cost a little bit more – but when you consider the length of time which your new mattress will look after you, high-density foam gives you far better value for money.
Higher-density foam mattresses can ease aches and pains by distributing weight evenly across the surface and are the best option for back pain sufferers.
Not sure which foam density is right for you? Check out our memory foam density guide.
What to Consider when buying a Mattress Topper
The following points can all play a part in an effective mattress topper for back pain;
- Contouring
A topper that contours to the body, such as a memory foam mattress, can help relieve pressure points and support spinal alignment.
- Quality materials
Certain performance materials or added technology can add extra benefits, such as temperature regulation and weight distribution.
- Firmness
It's recommended for back pain sufferers to choose a firmer topper and to consider what body weights a topper will support. High rebound mattress toppers have been found to improve deep sleep quality.
- Thickness and Density
The depth of a mattress topper can alter the amount of cushioning and contouring it provides. A thicker and more dense topper may be better for contouring, support and pressure relief.
- Sleeping position
Side sleepers may need more cushioning for hips and shoulders, whilst back and front sleepers may need a slightly firmer surface to prevent sinking.
- Price
A cheaper topper may provide a quick fix, but more expensive ones may be a better investment. It's best to look for toppers that use durable materials with no sagging and provide long-lasting comfort and support
Memory Foam Warehouse’s Mattress Topper Run-Down
Our top 5 memory foam mattress toppers for back pain sufferers;
1. Coolmax 7.5cm 70kg Memory Foam Mattress Topper
Our Coolmax 7.5cm memory foam mattress topper is a thick, extra firm mattress topper with a cooling cover. For a deep layer of memory foam luxury that keeps you cool and fresh during the night whilst giving you maximum support. Memory foam also provides relief for your pressure points, which encourages healthy blood circulation, as well as reducing the need to toss and turn during the night, meaning a deeper and more restful sleep.
Pair with an orthopaedic memory foam mattress for ultimate back pain relief.
Main Features;
Specifications;
- Coolmax
- 7.5cm depth
- 70kg density
- Memory foam
2. Zen Kooltop 7.5cm 70kg Foam Mattress Topper
At 7.5cm thick, this Zen Kooltops Foam Mattress Topper offers a deep layer of additional comfort and a dense layer of support to enhance the pain-relieving qualities of your mattress. This excellent mattress topper features ultra-high-density Memory Foam for the highest level of durability to reduce pressure and relieve back pain.
The Zen Kooltops 7.5cm 70kg Foam Mattress Topper comes complete with a temperature-sensitive Coolmax cover.
Main Features;
Specifications;
- Zen
- 7.5cm depth
- 70kg density
- Memory foam
3. 4G Aircool 5cm Memory Foam Mattress Topper
The 4G Aircool 5cm Memory Foam Mattress Topper is our most popular mattress topper. This innovative foam offers all of the benefits of memory foam - superior pressure-relief, maximum comfort and full-body support. So if you’re looking to transform your existing mattress into something luxuriously comfortable but firm and supportive, look no further.
Main Features;
Specifications;
- 4G Aircool
- 5cm depth
- 60kg density
- Memory foam
4. Coolmax 5cm 50kg Memory Foam Mattress Topper
The Coolmax® 5cm Memory Foam Mattress Topper is your ticket to a blissful and pain-free night’s sleep at a quality price, with a high-density foam core and a cooling mattress cover. This topper minimises pressure points and reduces the aches and pains which come with sleeping on an uncomfortable or unsuitable mattress.
Main Features;
Specifications;
- Coolmax
- 5cm depth
- 50kg density
- Memory foam
5. Zen Kooltop 5cm 50kg Memory Foam Mattress Topper
At 5cm thick this medium-firm memory foam topper provides comfort for your whole body during the night, meaning you can wake up feeling refreshed and free of any minor aches and pains. The Zen Kooltop 5cm 50kg/m³ Memory Foam Mattress Topper comes complete with a machine washable Coolmax cover.
Main Features;
Specifications;
- Zen
- 5cm depth
- 50kg density
- Memory foam
Looking for a mattress to pair with your topper? Browse our full collection of supportive memory foam mattresses for a pain-free night’s sleep.