Best Mattress for Fibromyalgia

Are you one of the millions of people in the UK who now suffer from fibromyalgia? If so, you’re probably all too familiar with the aches and pains that can make it difficult to sleep at night. Finding a comfortable and supportive mattress is a key (but often overlooked) consideration when searching for a way to get the restorative sleep your body needs to feel its best.

But with so many different types of mattresses on the market, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. That’s why I and my team of sleep experts have done the research for you: we’ve put together a list of the best mattresses for fibromyalgia based on a range of factors, from cushioning and support to breathability and value.

So whether you’re a side sleeper, back sleeper, or stomach sleeper, my mattress picks are designed to help alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with fibromyalgia. So sit back, relax, and let me  guide you through the world of mattresses.

️‍Best Mattresses for Fibro

Best overall

Nectar Memory Foam

4.8

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Best hybrid

Simba Hybrid Pro

4.7

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Best cooling

Emma Premium

4.3

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1. Nectar Memory Foam – Best Overall

The Nectar Memory Foam mattress is my number 1 choice for anyone with fibromyalgia – simply because it is designed to provide comfort and support for a wide range of sleeping positions, including back, side, and stomach sleeping. The mattress is made with several layers of memory foam that conform to the body and evenly distribute weight, which can help to reduce pressure points and minimise pain.

The memory foam layers are also designed to be breathable, which can help to regulate temperature and prevent overheating, another common issue for people with fibromyalgia. And the 7-zone support layer in the Nectar Memory Foam mattress specifically works to alleviate pressure on the hips and shoulders; people with fibromyalgia, who often experience pain in their backs and necks, will find this helpful because it’ll help prevent spinal mis-alignment and reduce strain.

Another advantage of the Nectar Memory Foam mattress for fibromyalgia sufferers is its long trial period and lifetime warranty. With a 365-night trial period, individuals with fibromyalgia can take their time to test out the mattress and determine whether it provides the necessary support and comfort they need. The lifetime warranty also provides peace of mind, knowing that the mattress is protected against manufacturing defects and other issues.

Overall, folk with fibromyalgia who are looking for a UK mattress that combines comfort, support, and temperature regulation will find the Nectar Memory Foam mattress to be an excellent option. The mattress design and benefits make it a great choice for those in search of a comfortable, restful sleep -which is of course essential for those living with fibromyalgia.

2. Simba Hybrid Pro – Best Hybrid

In my testing, I noted that the Simba Hybrid Pro’s multiple comfort layers make it a decent option for anyone with generalised pain – but also with fibromyalgia. This is because the springs provide superior support and pressure alleviation, and in testing I foudn that the memory foam supplements that, while also aiding in the reduction of motion transfer.

The wool layer’s superior breathability and temperature regulation are additional advantages, especially for people who have trouble maintaining a comfortable temperature during the night. One of the most infamous problems with traditional memory foams is how hot it can get; hybrids share this problem to some extent, but the Hybrid Pro’s wool layer may make a difference.

Fibromyalgia sufferers who need a firmer mattress to support their bodies and reduce pain I suspect will find the Simba Hybrid Pro to be an appropriate choice. Fibro sufferers may find relief from pressure spots and pain thanks to the targeted support. There’s also a 10-year guarantee on the mattress, so buyers can rest easy knowing they’re not making a short-term decision.

The price of the Hybrid Pro may be a negative for some, with the king size mattress retailing for a minimum of £1,199 (before any applicable discounts – which can often by up to 50%). Note that, last but not least, the mattress’s top cover isn’t removable, but a Simba-branded mattress protector is included at no cost with every order. If you suffer from fibromyalgia and need a firm, supportive, and breathable mattress and are happy spending a bit more, the Simba Hybrid Pro is one of the most well-rated UK mattresses around.

3. Emma Premium – Best for hot sleepers

For those with fibromyalgia, finding a mattress that provides the right level of support and pressure relief is crucial. But then there’s the heat – if you’re a hot sleeper with fibromyalgia then you know what I mean. The Emma Premium mattress is a hybrid I’d suggest you consider, with its five-layer design aimed at providing spinal alignment, pressure relief, and body support – but it’s the cover that makes things that much cooler.

Why? Because the top cover of the Emma Premium mattress is made of UltraDry fabric, which is designed to regulate temperature and wick away sweat for a comfortable sleep. The five layers of foam and springs work together to provide a sleeping environment that is both pleasant and healthy for the spine, with the Halo Memory Foam layer adapting to the body shape to provide targeted support and pressure relief.

While the mattress does have its drawbacks, such as a slight off-gassing smell and still being slightly warm on very hot nights, its 200-night trial with a full refund, machine-washable cover, and affordability make it a worthwhile option to consider for those with fibromayalgia.

Summary of top 3 mattresses:

Here’s the side-by-side comparison of the above mattresses:

4. OTTY Hybrid – Best Budget

While the OTTY Original Hybrid mattress may not have the same level of premium features as some of its more expensive competitors, it is a budget-friendly option that provides good value for money. The mattress is CertiPUR and Europur approved, ensuring that the foam used in the mattress meets high standards of quality and toxicity. Additionally, the mattress has been FIRA certified for fire hazard testing, ensuring it complies with UK fire regulations.

If you suffer from fibromyalgia  – and I’m assuming you do since you’re reading this! – and are in the market for an affordable mattress that offers good support, comfort, and temperature regulation, go no further than the OTTY Original Hybrid. This mattress comes with a 100-night sleep trial, a 10-year warranty, and the option to pay monthly at 0%. Even though it’s cheaper than the others, it’s still a viable choice. One reason for the cheaper price is that unfortunately, it’s not made in the UK.

Why is a mattress SO important to fibro sufferers?

The quality of your mattress plays a major, but underrated, role in how well you sleep each night. Choosing the correct mattress is important for everyone of course, but it is especially so for those of you who suffer from fibromyalgia. The extensive physical pain associated with this condition often will make it hard to relax and enjoy a good night’s sleep.

Examining the causes of your sleep problems is crucial if you have fibromyalgia. You should think about your individual symptoms when shopping for a mattress, in addition to your sleep position and weight.

I’m going to be honest here: given the importance of sleep to one’s health and general well-being, it’s critical to find a mattress that facilitates decent quality sleep. Fibromyalgia sufferers might find relief from their pain and better temperature regulation with the help of a supportive and comfy mattress – and the best mattresses can help with spinal alignment and pressure reduction too.

Frankly, when it comes to enhancing your quality of life while living with fibromyalgia, little is more important than purchasing a high-quality mattress that caters to your specific needs. Let me know in the comments below how you find this article and the suggestions in it.

How does fibromyalgia affect sleep?

The extensive musculoskeletal pain and temperature sensitivity commonly associated with fibromyalgia makes it hard to fall or stay asleep – but I’m sure you knew that already.

Frankly, sleep disturbances, poor quality of sleep, and insomnia are all possible for those with fibromyalgia and I’m sure you recognise some of these. Further sleep disruption and daytime fatigue can often  result from the condition’s potential link to sleep apnea and restless leg syndrome. 

While seeing a doctor is the first step in managing fibromyalgia, a supportive and comfortable mattress can help anyone get a better night’s rest, no matter what their health situation.

A note about budgets/prices

“Expensive does not always mean better” my mother told me. But frankly you spend one-third of your life in bed, so a supportive and comfy mattress is essential. Spending more initially on a high-quality mattress may end up saving you money because you won’t have to buy a new one as often.

There’s a load of excellent mattresses for fibromyalgia in the uK now, but it doesn’t mean it’ll have to cost a fortune. Plenty of reasonably priced choices are avaialble in the shops or online, each providing the ideal balance of support and cushioning.

Do keep in mind that you can enhance your sleeping experience without spending a lot of money. How? By purchasing cheap sleep items such as a mattress topper, pillows, or even cooling sleepwear. The key is to strike a balance between luxury and practicalty without breaking the bank. 🙂

If you’re on a budget of, say, less than £250 then check my special article here.

What about sleeping position?

The position you sleep in WILL impact the amount of pain you feel, quite simply. Each position has potential advantages and disadvantages, and people with fibromyalgia often choose their sleep position based on their current aches and pains. However, this sleep position could have unintended effects. It’s essential for all sleepers, particularly those with fibromyalgia, to choose a mattress that promotes healthy sleep posture.

Back sleepers

Many individuals with fibromyalgia may find sleeping on their backs to be comfortable. The right mattress can maintain proper spinal alignment and reduce spinal strain by allowing the sleeper’s hips to sink in just the right amount. While opinions differ between individuals, some sleepers feel that sleeping on their backs decreases lower back pain. Fibromyalgia patients who experience more back pain when sleeping in the position might consider using a pillow under their knees.

Back sleeping may be more problematic for people with fibromyalgia who also snore or have sleep apnea, as this position can often exacerbate symptoms . However, propping up the upper body with a wedge pillow may help.

Front Sleepers

Sleeping on your stomach or front is generally considered to be the least desirable position for people with fibromyalgia according to experts. This position can strain the neck and lower back and make it harder to breathe – scary. However, I’ve noticed that some people find this position comfortable, and it may help alleviate snoring or sleep apnea – if your whinging partner isn’t happy with your snoring, for example.

For front sleepers with fibromyalgia, my tip is this: a firmer mattress can help maintain spinal alignment and reduce pressure points. However, a pillow for front sleepers, placed under the stomach can also help reduce pressure on the lower back, if you’re on a budget.

Side sleepers

I’ve notiecd that many individuals with fibromyalgia tend to sleep on their sides. This is because it can alleviate pressure on the lower back and hips, two common pain points for fibromyalgia sufferers. However, side sleeping can also put extra pressure on the shoulders and arms, which can exacerbate pain in those areas in particualr.

People with fibromyalgia who sleep on their sides may benefit from a soft to medium-firm mattress that allows their hips and shoulders to sink in enough to reduce pressure points. Adding a pillow between the knees can also help reduce pressure on the lower back and hips.

In contrast, back sleepers typically prefer a slightly firmer mattress that doesn’t allow their hips to sink in too much; and be aware thata mattress that is too soft can cause strain on the lower back, while a mattress that is too firm can lead to pressure buildup.

Combination sleepers

Finding a mattress that works for combination sleepers is more critical than you might think. It’s easy to think that any mattress here will do, but because this type of sleeper frequently changes positions throughout the night,  those with fibromyalgia may benefit from a mattress that provides both strong support and gentle contouring to relieve pressure points and encourage healthy spinal alignment.

Note that sme people who suffer from fibromyalgia (who are combination sleepers) may discover that different sleeping positions alleviate different symptoms – I’ve seen that some people find it easier to sleep on their sides if they have hip pain, while others find it easier to sleep on their backs if they have lower back pain.

Generally speaking, fibromyalgia sufferers who are combination sleepers can find relief from their symptoms with a mattress that allows for a variety of sleeping positions. Those who sleep in a variety of positions may also benefit from purchasing a pillow with multiple different layers/foams and shapes.

So all in all, it’s fair to say it’s not easy to find the right sleeping position!

What should I look for in a mattress for fibro?

So it’s important to understand that, obviously, a mattress alone cannot cure your fibromyalgia.

However, it can definitely go a long way in helping. So when it comes to choosing a mattress, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• While some people may focus solely on the price, it’s important to remember that you get what you pay for. Sure, a cheap mattress may seem like a good deal, but it might not be the best value in the long run. Higher-priced mattresses often use higher-quality materials and can be more durable, which is especially important for people with fibromyalgia. And don’t forget to budget for accessories like mattress toppers, breathable sheets, and extra pillows – they can make a big difference in your sleep quality.
• Speaking of materials, the quality of the materials used in a mattress can also make a big difference. Some materials are designed to regulate temperatures and relieve pressure points, which can be especially beneficial for people with fibromyalgia. And, let’s be honest, no one wants to replace their mattress every couple of years. Higher-quality materails tend to last longer, so they’re often a smart investment in the long run.
• The firmness level is also a big factor in choosing a mattress for fibro sufferers . Too soft and you won’t get the support you need, too firm and you’ll be left with aches and pains. The ideal firmness level varies from person to person depending on weight, sleep position, and personal preference. As a general rule, lighter individuals usually prefer softer models while heavier individuals tend to like firmer mattresses. So make sure you choose a firmness level that will give you the right balance of support and comfort.
• If you sleep with a partner, it’s important to get a mattress with sufficient motion isolation so that you don’t disturb each other. This implies that you won’t be as disturbed by your partner’s tossing and turning during the night.
• Longevity: No one likes the idea of having to buy a new bed every few years. It’s important to think about the mattress’s lifespan and durability before making a purchase. A long-lasting mattress can help you save money over time.
• There is no way to tell for sure if a mattress is going to be comfortable for you, no matter how much research you do, unless you actually sleep on it. That’s why plenty of websites in the UK now sell mattresses with trial periods – during which you can send it back and get your money back if it doesn’t work. Also, look at how long the warranty is and what it protects you from.

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What are the best mattress *types* for fibromyalgia?

When it comes to mattress types, there are five main ones to know about:

1. Hybrid
2. Memory Foam
3. Innerspring
4. Latex, and
5. Airbeds

Honestly, each type has its unique features, but mattresses within the same type/category tend to share some similarities. It’s important to keep in mind that performance can vary greatly between individual models due to their unique materials, quality, and construction techniques.

Hybrid mattresses use a combination of materials, typically coils for support and memory foam, polyfoam, latex, microcoils, or other materials for the comfort layer. People with fibromyalgia may prefer a model with good contouring to help relieve pressure points, but close conforming can also trap heat. Hybrid models often offer a good balance of contouring and breathability due to their cradling comfort layers and coil cores that allow for significant airflow.

Memory Foam: Memory foam mattresses do honesly provide good pressure reduction and contouring for those with fibromyalgia. For those who are sensitive to noise, memory foam mattresses may be a better option than innerspring mattresses too – as they are pretty miuch silent even if you roll around a lot. But some models of memory foam may trap heat, making sleep uncomfortable for people who tend to overheat during the night. To counteract this, several modern versions of memory foam now come equipped with cooling technologies – so called cooling mattresses.

Some inner-spring mattresses have a thin comfort layer on top, but its signature feature is the mattress’s coil system. People suffering with fibromyalgia who frequently change positions due to pain may benefit from the innerspring models’ springy feel, which makes it easier to move on the bed.

Latex mattresses are made from the sap of rubber trees and can be fabricated using either the Talalay or Dunlop process. Talalay is usually springier and more breathable, while Dunlop tends to be denser and more durable. Some models also use synthetic or blended latex. Latex models offer a weightless pressure relief experience that distributes weight over a wider area when pressure is applied, leading to a floating sensation. People with fibromyalgia who want pressure relief without too much hug may find latex models ideal.

Airbeds

Finally, airbeds may seem a bit “out there”: they’re a less popular option for people with fibromyalgia in the UK but seem to be really popular in the US. The reason? They can be a good choice for those who prefer a firmer sleep surface in general.

The ability to adjust the air pressure in an airbed makes it easy to find the ideal level of support and contouring. Airbeds also tend to have good motion isolation, though they do feel a bit weird at first. On the downside, airbeds are often more expensive than other mattress types, and the constant need to adjust the air pressure can be a hassle for some people.

Methodology

To test out fibromyalgia-specific mattresses, I first did research online to identify bed-in-a-box companies that offer generous sleep trials and warranties. I narrowed down my list based on criteria like price, materials, and specifically reviews from other customers with fibromyalgia or non-diagnosed pain (you can search on Trustpilot for specific keywords like “pain”; this is what I did).

• Once I had my shortlist of mattresses, I ordered them and had them delivered to my home. I made sure to follow the instructions for setting up each mattress, which sometimes required waiting a few hours or even a day for the mattress to fully inflate.
• After each mattress was set up, I spent several nights sleeping on it and taking note of how it felt. I paid huge attention to factors like firmness, contouring, motion isolation, and temperature regulation, as well as how well the mattress alleviated any fibromyalgia-related pain or discomfort.
• Based on my personal experiences, as well as feedback from others with fibromyalgia, I was able to compile a list of top-performing mattresses that offer the right balance of support and cushioning for people with fibromyalgia.

Just to point that, for the sake of fairness: I don’t personally suffer from fibromyalgia but I have used feebdack from others who do, to arrive at these decisions.

What else do I need to know?

When it comes to finding the right mattress for people with fibromyalgia, of course there are several factors to consider a bit more than others. And since fibromyalgia causes musculoskeletal pain and temperature sensitivity, the ideal mattress should provide both comfort and cooling features.

• Firstly, the right level of firmness is important for comfort. People with a lighter body weight tend to prefer a softer mattress that offers better contouring and pressure relief. Those with an average weight prefer a medium-firm mattress for good support and reduced pressure points. For those with a heavier body weight, a firmer mattress that provides more support is usually best.
• Sleep position is another important factor. Side sleepers require a mattress that offers cushioning and support to the shoulder sand hips, while back and stomach sleepers require a mattress that offers support to the torso and hips. Finding the right balance of cushioning and support is crucial for good spinal alignment and reducing pressure points.
• For those  who experience temperature sensitivity, a cooling mattress can help keep them comfortable throughout the night. Look for mattressses with breathable materials such as foam, gel-infused layers, and latex, which can help regulate body temperature and prevent overheating.
• Lastly, taking advantage of sleep trials offered by online brands is recommended. This allows you to test out the mattress for a certain period and decide if it’s the right fit for you. Most online brands offer full refunds and cover the return shipping costs if the mattress is not suitable. By taking these factors into account, people with fibromyalgia can find a mattress that provides both comfort and support for a good night’s sleep.

Verdict

In conclusion, persons who suffer with fibromyalgia can benefit greatly from investing in a high-quality mattress. It is crucial to think about a mattress that gives both comfort and sufficient support, as this condition causes musculoskeletal pain and temperature sensitivity. Due to its capacity to contour to the body while yet offering support, memory foam and hybrid mattresses are frequently the best bets.

It’s important to think about your weight, sleeping position, and temperature preferences while shopping for a mattress. Mattresses that are softer and more conforming to the body are ideal for side sleepers, while those who sleep on their back or stomach should choose for a firmer mattress. Those who suffer from fibromyalgia and are sensitive to heat may benefit from purchasing a cooling mattress.

Additionally, many mattress companies selling online only offer long sleep trials , allowing you to put the mattress through its paces and see if it meets your needs but if not satisfied with your mattress, simply return it and receive a full refund. Easy!

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