Is a Firm or Soft Mattress Better for Shoulder Pain? Expert Reviewed

Shoulder pain can make it hard to get a good night’s sleep. Tossing and turning, trying to find a comfortable position, can leave you tired and sore in the morning.

After spending countless nights as a human pincushion on everything from rock-hard slabs to marshmallow-soft cloud imitations, I’ve become something of a reluctant connoisseur in the art of sleep surfaces. Moreover, I’ve become well-versed in how they can fail you, providing too little of what you need for a good night’s sleep

Save $450 On Any Mattress

Plus free shipping

Get $450 OFF Mattresses

I’ve had the more-than-occasional night of a shoulder throbbing in agony, flopping around like a fish out of water on yet another mattress that promised “revolutionary comfort.” I’ve tested so many of these sleep rectangles that I’m pretty sure I could build a fortress out of rejected mattresses. A very cushiony, if slightly odd-smelling, fortress.

Now, enough of my attempts to improve upon the idea of a pillow fort with mattress forts. You’re here wondering if the path to pain-free slumber is paved with unyielding firmness or pillowy softness? It’s a question that puzzles many people dealing with shoulder issues.

And the answer, my friends, is about as straightforward as assembling flat-pack furniture in the dark. Simply put, it depends on various factors.

But don’t worry — by the end of this, you’ll be armed with the knowledge to choose a mattress that doesn’t make your shoulder feel like it’s been through a meat grinder. My countless hours of tossing, turning, and muttering curses at innocent bedding have not been in vain!

For I’ve emerged from this odyssey of discomfort with hard-won wisdom about the great mattress debate: firm vs. soft for those of us cursed with cranky shoulders. With expert guidance on how to choose the right way for your needs.

Soft or Firm? Easing Shoulder Pain

When it comes to shoulder pain, the firmness of your mattress can make all the difference between waking up feeling refreshed or like you’ve gone ten rounds with a heavyweight champion.

But here’s the rub: there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to whether a firm or soft mattress is better for shoulder pain. Each one has its places, and the right fit for you will depend on personal characteristics, sleeping style, and the nature of your shoulder pain.

Also, keep in mind that mattress firmness is subjective. What feels firm to me might feel like sleeping on a cloud to you, or like lying on a slightly yielding rock to someone else. This is why a sleep trial is essential, so you can return a mattress if it’s not right for you.

“Choosing between a firm or soft mattress can significantly impact shoulder pain management,” says Dr. Jordan Burns. “ Research indicates Verified Source National Library of Medicine (NIH) World’s largest medical library, making biomedical data and information more accessible. View source that a mattress needs to strike a balance between support and conformability.”

“A mattress that is too firm may not adequately contour to the shoulder, potentially exacerbating pain by increasing pressure points. Conversely, a mattress that is too soft may lack the necessary support, leading the shoulder to sink too deeply and misaligning the spine and joints.”

The Softer Side

A soft mattress can make sense for shoulder pain in certain situations. Remember, “soft” doesn’t mean “lacking support.” We’re not talking about sleeping on a pile of marshmallows here (although… no, focus!).

A good soft mattress should still offer enough support to keep your spine aligned. It’s a delicate balance, like trying to eat soup with a fork – challenging, but not impossible.

Let me break this down for you with a dash of my hard-earned wisdom (and a sprinkle of humor):

• Side Sleepers Unite: If you’re a die-hard side sleeper like me, a softer mattress can be your shoulder’s new best friend. Picture this: you’re lying on your side, and your shoulder is basically the unfortunate soul at the bottom of a dog pile. A soft mattress allows that shoulder to sink in a bit, reducing pressure and potentially easing pain. I once slept on a mattress so firm, I woke up convinced my shoulder had been replaced with a slab of concrete overnight.
• Lightweight Loungers: If you’re on the lighter side of the scale, a soft mattress might be just the ticket. Why? Because you need less resistance to achieve that sweet spot of pressure relief. I have a friend who’s as light as a feather, and she swears by her cloud-like mattress. Meanwhile, I sink into it like I’m auditioning for a quicksand scene in an adventure movie.
• Acute Injuries: When you’re dealing with a fresh shoulder injury, a softer surface can provide a gentler landing pad. It’s like the difference between falling onto a pile of pillows versus a stack of dictionaries. Your poor, traumatized shoulder will thank you.
• Broad-Shouldered Individuals: If you’ve got shoulders like a linebacker (whether you want them or not), a softer mattress can help accommodate that extra width. It’s all about filling in those gaps and maintaining spinal alignment.
• Combination Sleepers with a Side Preference: If you’re a sleep acrobat who ends up in all sorts of positions but favors your side, a slightly softer mattress can be a good compromise.
• Pressure Point Sufferers: If you find that firmer mattresses create painful pressure points, particularly around your shoulder, hip, or other bony areas, a softer mattress might provide the relief you need.

And here’s a pro tip from someone who’s spent more nights than I care to count playing mattress roulette: If you love everything about your current mattress except for the fact that it’s too firm for your achy shoulder, consider a soft mattress topper. It’s like giving your bed a comfort makeover without the full commitment.

The Firmer Path

Ah, the firm mattress, sometimes characterized as the tough love master of the bedding world. While it might seem counterintuitive to choose a firmer surface when you’re dealing with shoulder pain, there are indeed situations where it can be beneficial.

Remember, “firm” doesn’t mean “hard as a rock.” A good firm mattress should still have enough give to accommodate the curves of your body. Think of it as supportive, not punitive.

Let me break it down for you, drawing from my extensive experience as a human pincushion (er, I mean, mattress tester):

• Back Sleepers’ Delight: If you’re a dedicated back sleeper, a firmer mattress can be your shoulder’s secret weapon. It helps maintain proper spinal alignment, which in turn can reduce strain on your shoulders. I once spent a week sleeping on my back on a firm mattress and felt like I’d grown an inch taller – turns out, I was just finally standing up straight!
• Heavyweight Champions: For those blessed (or cursed) with a more substantial physique, a firm mattress can provide the necessary support to prevent excessive sinking. Trust me, as someone who’s felt like they were being slowly consumed by a too-soft mattress, having a firm surface to push back against can be a game-changer.
• Chronic Conditions: If your shoulder pain is due to a chronic condition rather than an acute injury, a firmer mattress might offer the consistent support needed for long-term comfort. It’s like having a reliable friend who’s always there to prop you up (literally).
• Stomach Sleepers (Who Refuse to Change): While stomach sleeping isn’t generally recommended for shoulder pain, I know some of you are committed to the cause. If you must sleep on your stomach, a firmer mattress can help keep your spine in a more neutral position, potentially reducing strain on your shoulders.
• Lower Back Pain Comrades: If you’re dealing with lower back pain alongside your shoulder issues, a firmer mattress might help address both concerns. It’s like killing two birds with one stone, except no birds are harmed, and the stone is really comfortable.
• Active Sleepers: If you toss and turn more than a rotisserie chicken, a firmer mattress can make it easier to move around without feeling like you’re fighting quicksand.
• Hot Sleepers: Firmer mattresses often allow for better airflow, which can be a blessing if you tend to sleep hot. After all, it’s hard to focus on relieving shoulder pain when you feel like you’re sleeping in a sauna.

You can also do as I previously recommended and try a mattress topper instead of a new mattress, this time using a firm one for a too-soft bed. It’s like giving your bed a support makeover without committing to a whole mattress purchase.

The Middle Ground

Now, here’s where things get interesting. Often, the answer lies not in the extremes, but center of the spectrum.

A medium mattress, typically ranging from 5 to 7 on the firmness scale, can offer the balanced needed for good sleep. It can contour to your body without letting you sink too deeply, maintaining that crucial spinal alignment while cradling your poor, beleaguered shoulder.

Think of it as the Switzerland of mattresses. It’s neutral, accommodating, and surprisingly good at solving conflicts (in this case, between comfort and support).

How the Pain Disrupts Your Sleep

So, you’re drifting off, dreaming of pain-free days and effortless arm circles. Then BAM! Your shoulder decides to throw a midnight tantrum that would put any toddler to shame. It’s like your body has its own late-night comedy show, and your shoulder is the insensitive heckler.

Shoulder pain is like a sneaky troublemaker that waits until you’re asleep to cause problems. You might not feel it right away, but after a few hours, your body starts to complain.

Why does this happen? Let’s dive into the anatomy of this nocturnal nemesis, shall we?

• Rotator cuff: Or as I call it, prima donna of the shoulder world! It’s supposed to be your loyal protector, guarding your shoulder joint like a tiny, overzealous bouncer. But put a little pressure on it when you sleep in a bad position, and suddenly it’s staging a full-scale protest.
• Muscles and tendons: These are like the ropes and pulleys in an old-timey theater, making the magic happen behind the scenes. But oh boy, when they’re unhappy, the show grinds to a halt. And too much twisting or pressure can make them sore and weak for days.
• Blood flow: When your rotator cuff gets pinched, it’s like stepping on a garden hose. The blood can’t flow freely, which is why you might feel those annoying pins and needles. I’ve spent more time than I’d like to admit windmilling my arm at 3 AM, trying to get the flow started again.
• Bursae: Those tiny fluid-filled sacs that act like nature’s bubble wrap for your joints. When these little cushions get inflamed, it’s called bursitis, and let me tell you, it’s about as fun as it sounds. Imagine trying to sleep with a angry porcupine lodged in your shoulder. That’s bursitis for you.
• Labrum: Before you need to ask, it’s that ring of cartilage that helps keep your shoulder joint in place. When this gets torn (which, fun fact, can happen from repetitive overhead motions), it’s like trying to drive a car with a wobbly steering wheel. Good luck finding a comfortable sleep position with that going on!

The real kicker? Your body needs quality sleep to heal. It’s like being stuck in a paradox—you need to sleep to fix your shoulder, but your shoulder won’t let you sleep well.

It’s enough to make you want to trade in your arms for a pair of tentacles. (Do octopuses get shoulder pain? Asking for a friend.)

So, what’s a shoulder pain sufferer to do? Well, besides considering a career change to “professional statue” or “T-rex impersonator,” it might be time to reassess your sleep setup.

Your mattress, your pillow, your sleeping position—they’re all suspects in the case of the “Mysteriously Aching Shoulder.” Now detective, let’s get to cracking that case wide open!

Finding Your Perfect Firmness

We’ve all been in Goldilocks’ place at some point, no? Getting up from one bed, declaring it to be too soft or too hard, moving on to the next one to see if it’s our “just right.”

Too firm, and you might as well be sleeping on a medieval torture device. Too soft, and you’ll feel like you’re being slowly devoured by a marshmallow monster. But no one wants to go through a queue of beds when they’re already sore from stiff, tight shoulders.

The truth is, the ideal mattress firmness for shoulder pain isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. It’s more like a choose-your-own-adventure book, where your personal characteristics and preferences determine the best ending (or in this case, the best night’s sleep).

What To Consider

So, firm, plush or something in between, which is the path to take? Welp, here are some things to keep in mind as you browse:

• Body Weight: If you’re on the lighter side, you might find that a softer mattress allows you to sink in just enough to relieve pressure on your shoulder. Conversely, those carrying more weight might need a firmer surface to prevent excessive sinking and maintain proper spinal alignment.
• Sleeping Position: Side sleepers, unite! You’ll likely prefer a softer mattress that allows your shoulder to sink in comfortably. Back and stomach sleepers, on the other hand, might need a firmer surface to keep their spine in a neutral position.
• Type of Shoulder Pain: Acute injuries might benefit from a softer surface that puts less pressure on the affected area, while chronic conditions could require more support from a firmer mattress.
• Personal Preference: Some people simply sleep better on a firmer surface, while others crave the cloud-like embrace of a plush mattress. Your comfort is key!
• Other Health Conditions: If you’re dealing with back pain in addition to shoulder issues, you might need to find a balance that addresses both concerns.

Which Mattress Helps the Most?

After countless nights spent tossing and turning on everything from cloud-like plush to unyielding slabs, I’ve gained some hard-earned wisdom about which types of mattresses truly shine for those of us cursed with cranky shoulders.

Memory Foam

Memory foam—that’s where the magic happens for many shoulder pain sufferers. Imagine sinking into a marshmallow that’s somehow supportive.

These mattresses use special foam that gets softer when it’s warm. They mold to the body and cradle your shoulder like a gentle hug, distributing pressure and allowing that trouble spot to relax.

But beware the “quick-sand effect”—some sleepers feel like they’re being slowly devoured by their bed, especially if the mattress model softens over time.

And let’s not forget the heat factor. Some nights lying on a cheap foam bed (I’m talking like $100 cheap, not great), I felt like I was starring in my own personal sauna infomercial.

Latex

Latex mattresses are the sprightly cousins of memory foam. These are made from rubber, either natural or man-made. They offer a buoyant support that’s responsive without the sinking feeling, bouncing back quickly and lasting a long time.

For those who want pressure relief without feeling “stuck,” latex can be the answer. However, if your shoulder pain is severe, you might find latex a tad too bouncy for comfort. They don’t mold to your body as much as memory foam.

Still, that doesn’t mean its unresponsive and too stiff to adapt. “Recent advancements in mattress technology suggest that materials like memory foam or latex offer better contouring capabilities, which can be crucial for those suffering from shoulder pain,” explains Dr. Burns.

“These materials distribute weight evenly, reducing the load on any single point, such as the shoulder. This distribution can help maintain proper alignment of the spine and joints, which is critical for pain relief and recovery.”

Hybrid

Hybrid mattresses are the overachievers of the mattress world, combining the pressure relief of foam with the support of wrapped springs. Many of my fellow shoulder pain warriors swear by these Frankenstein-esque creations.

They offer a “best of both worlds” scenario, though be prepared for a workout if you ever need to move one. These models are heavy!

Airbed

Ah airbeds, the chameleons of the mattress world. With their adjustable firmness, they’re like having a personalized sleep laboratory.

Woke up with extra shoulder grumpiness? Soften that side up! Feeling more aligned? Firm it up!

The downside? You might spend more time fiddling with settings than actually sleeping. You also have to be willing to invest in an expensive model, as the average air mattress for camping won’t provide this kind of custom support.

Innerspring

Oh, traditional spring mattresses. How I wanted to love them! The nostalgia, the familiar bounce… But for side sleepers with shoulder pain, they’re about as comfortable as snoozing on a pile of coat hangers.

The uniform pressure can turn your poor shoulder into a complaints department, filing pain reports all night long. Innerspring mattresses may be fine for back sleepers, but even they can benefit from the extra cushion of a hybrid or foam mattress.

Mattress Hunting Tips

When searching for the ideal mattress to support your shoulders, several crucial elements come into play. Let’s explore these factors in depth, considering how they impact your sleep quality and shoulder comfort.

Material Composition

The effectiveness of any mattress lies in its materials. Think of mattress materials as the cast of a show. You’ve got your stars (the support layer) and your supporting actors (the comfort layers).

For those grappling with shoulder pain, hybrid or innerspring mattresses often emerge as top contenders. Why? These designs offer a delicate yet versatile balance of support and pressure relief. The coil systems provide the backbone for your backbone and ensure spine alignment, while the comfort layers add the jazz hands (figuratively) and cushion sensitive areas.

But don’t count out the all-foam mattresses! Some of these mattresses, particularly those with targeted support zones, can be surprisingly effective. It’s like they’ve studied the map of your body and know exactly where to provide support.

The key is finding a material that contours to your body without making you feel like you’re sinking too deeply and being slowly devoured by a marshmallow monster.

Pressure Relief

This factor is paramount for shoulder pain sufferers. A mattress that excels in pressure relief distributes your body weight evenly like it’s butter on toast, preventing stress on specific points – especially your shoulders.

See, when a mattress creates pressure points (those spots where you feel like you’re being poked by an overzealous acupuncturist), it can restrict blood flow to those areas.

And what does restricted blood flow mean? Pain, stiffness, and a grumpy shoulder that’ll complain louder than a toddler denied ice cream. Good pressure relief, on the other hand, helps maintain proper circulation.

When I’m testing a mattress for pressure relief (and yes, I’ve tested more than I care to admit), I look for that sweet spot where my shoulder sinks in just enough to feel cradled, but not so much that I feel like I’m falling into a bottomless pit. It’s a delicate balance, like trying to eat soup with a spork—challenging, but not impossible.

Remember, good pressure relief doesn’t just help you sleep better. It can actually contribute to healing and recovery. It’s like giving your shoulder a nightly spa treatment, minus the cucumber slices and fancy robes.

Firmness Level

Contrary to popular belief, firmer isn’t always better for pain relief. For shoulder pain, we often recommend mattresses on the softer side of medium-firm, typically around 5.5-6.5 on our 10-point firmness scale.

This range usually provides enough give to accommodate shoulder contours without compromising overall support. However, firmness preference can vary.

“When selecting a mattress Verified Source National Library of Medicine (NIH) World’s largest medical library, making biomedical data and information more accessible. View source for shoulder pain, consider your usual sleep position,” says Dr. Burns. “Side sleepers typically require a softer mattress to reduce pressure on the hips and shoulders, whereas back sleepers may benefit from a firmer surface to ensure proper lumbar support.”

Softer options for side sleepers prevent compression and maintain proper spinal alignment. Back and stomach sleepers, you can handle a bit more firmness, but don’t go overboard. Verified Source National Library of Medicine (NIH) World’s largest medical library, making biomedical data and information more accessible. View source Your shoulders still need some TLC with a mattress that offers adequate give.

Cooling Properties

Though not directly related to shoulder pain, temperature regulation plays a vital role in overall sleep quality. Pain can often lead to restless nights and increased body heat, so you need that extra shot of coolness where you can get it.

Trust me, trying to find a comfortable position for your shoulder is hard enough without feeling like you’re sleeping in a sauna. It’s like the air conditioning at a packed concert—you don’t notice it when it’s working, but boy do you notice when it’s not.

Look for mattresses with cooling technologies that work, such as gel-infused foams, phase-change materials, or breathable coil systems.

Edge Support and Ease of Movement

For those with shoulder pain, getting in and out of bed can be challenging. Sometimes it feel like escaping quicksand with a joint complaining as you move.

Strong edge support provides a stable surface to push off from, while responsive materials prevent the feeling of being “stuck” in the mattress. Think of it as having a personal trainer for your mattress, always there to give you a helping hand.

Mattress Quality and Longevity

A good mattress should be in it for the long haul, like that friend who sticks with you through thick and thin. You want a marathon runner, not a sprinter, to ensure your mattress won’t sag.

When a mattress is durable and built well, it stays supportive and comfy for many years. This means it won’t get saggy or lumpy, which could make your shoulder hurt more.

Try After You Buy

Listen up, because I’m about to let you in on a little secret that changed my mattress-shopping life: the glorious, game-changing concept of the sleep trial. I’m talking about weeks, even months, of sleeping in your own home on a mattress you can return if it doesn’t work out.

Sure, it can be helpful to try a mattress in store if you can. “The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends trying out mattresses in-store, if possible, to gauge the comfort and support provided to the shoulder area specifically,” notes Dr. Burns.

But not all mattresses are available in stores for you to poke and prod. Besides, awkward 10-minute showroom tests under a salesperson’s eye may not be for you anyway.

As someone who’s returned more mattresses than I care to admit (my UPS guy and I are on a first-name basis at this point), I can’t stress enough how crucial a good sleep trial is.

Here’s what to look for:

• Long Sleep Trials: We’re talking 100 nights minimum, people. Rome wasn’t built in a day, and your perfect sleep setup won’t be either. Some companies even offer a full year! It’s like the extended warranty of the mattress world, but actually useful.
• Hassle-Free Returns: If that mattress turns out to be more foe than friend, you should be able to send it packing without jumping through hoops. No “restocking fees,” no “must be in original packaging” nonsense. A good company will arrange pickup and give you a full refund.
• Break-In Period: Some companies require you to sleep on the mattress for a minimum period (usually 30 days) before returning. Don’t roll your eyes, this is actually a good thing. It takes time for your body to adjust to a new mattress and for the mattress to break in. It’s like a new pair of shoes — uncomfortable at first, but give it time.

Now, why am I so passionate about sleep trials? Because, my friends, buying a mattress without one is like agreeing to marry someone after one speed date. Sure, it might work out, but do you really want to take that chance with something you’ll be spending a third of your life on?

I once bought a mattress that felt like a dream in the store. Fast forward two weeks, and my shoulder was screaming louder than a heavy metal concert. Thanks to the sleep trial, I was able to swap it out for one that actually worked for me.

Remember, what feels comfortable for a few minutes in a showroom might turn into a nightmare after a full night’s sleep. Your shoulder has sneaky ways of letting you know it’s unhappy, and sometimes it takes a while for those complaints to surface.

So, when you’re mattress shopping, don’t just focus on the specs and the price. Look for that golden ticket, a generous sleep trial. It’s your insurance policy against nights of tossing and turning, your escape hatch from shoulder pain purgatory.

FAQs

How does sleeping position affect shoulder pain?

Different positions can either alleviate or exacerbate discomfort. Side sleeping, while popular, can put direct pressure on the shoulder joint. This added pressure can potentially lead to increased pain, especially if the mattress doesn’t provide adequate support. However, if you only have one sore shoulder, sleeping on your pain-free side may work just fine.

Back sleeping is also recommended for those with shoulder pain, as it allows for a more neutral spine alignment and reduces pressure on the shoulders. Conversely, stomach sleeping can worsen shoulder pain, as it can twist the neck and shoulders into unnatural positions. It isn’t recommended.

And to avoid pain in the morning, choose a fitting mattress for your position. Side sleepers often need softer mattresses, while back sleepers do better with firmer support.

Can a mattress hurt my shoulders?

Yes, a mattress can definitely cause or exacerbate shoulder pain.  A mattress that’s too firm can put extra pressure on your shoulders, causing discomfort and eventual pain. Meanwhile, a mattress that’s too soft may not provide adequate support, causing your body to sink in awkward positions and strain your shoulder joints.

It’s important to find a balance that works for your body and sleeping style.

Should my shoulders be on the pillow?

Generally, your shoulders should not be on the pillow. Instead, reserve it for your head and neck only.

When lying on your side, the bottom edge of the pillow should aligning roughly with your shoulder. This keeps your spine in a neutral position and prevents your head from tilting up or down, which can lead to neck strain.

For back sleepers, the pillow should cradle your head and neck without lifting your shoulders off the mattress. Having your shoulders on the pillow can disrupt the natural alignment of your spine and potentially lead to discomfort or pain over time.

How can I sleep without putting pressure on my shoulders?

Try sleeping on your back with a pillow that supports the natural curve of your neck. If you prefer side sleeping, use a body pillow between your arms to keep your top shoulder elevated and aligned.

Experiment with pillow placement to find what works best for you. Some people find relief by hugging a pillow or placing one behind their back for support.

Why are my shoulders so tight in bed?

Shoulder tightness during sleep can be caused by several factors, including an unsupportive mattress. However, positions that put pressure on your shoulders, such as on your side without proper support, can also cause muscle tension. Daytime stress and tension can also carry over into your sleep, causing your shoulders to remain tight even as you rest.

Try using a body pillow to support your arms and keep your shoulders in a more relaxed position. Additionally, performing gentle shoulder stretches before bed, such as shoulder rolls and arm circles, can help. For maximum relaxation, apply heat to the area before stretching.

What type of mattress is best?

Different mattress types can help with shoulder pain. Memory foam and hybrid mattresses are popular choices because they offer good pressure relief. They can contour to your body’s shape and alleviate pressure points around the shoulders. Latex mattresses can be supportive but may not conform as closely to your body.

A mattress for pain also typically falls in the medium to medium-firm range, as it provides a balance of support and pressure relief. However, it’s crucial to be prepared to test different mattresses if need be. On a new mattress, pay attention to how your shoulders feel after sleeping on it for a few nights.

When should I see a doctor?

You should consider seeing a doctor if the shoulder pain persists for more than a few weeks or if it significantly interferes with your daily activities and sleep.

It’s particularly important to seek medical attention if you experience severe pain, sudden swelling, inability to move your arm, or if the pain is accompanied by fever, redness, or warmth around the joint.

Additionally, if you’ve recently suffered an injury that’s causing shoulder pain, or if you’re unsure about the cause of your discomfort, it’s wise to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Conclusion

After countless nights of tossing, turning, and muttering curses at innocent bedding, I’ve emerged from this odyssey of discomfort with hard-won wisdom about the great mattress debate: firm or soft?

And the answer? Well, it’s about as straightforward as assembling a bed frame in the dark while wearing oven mitts.

The truth is, your perfect mattress might be my nightmare, and vice versa. It all depends. But you’re now equipped to make an informed decision.

Remember, whether you’re a side-sleeping softie or a back-sleeping firmness fanatic, the key is finding a mattress that supports your spine while cradling your poor, beleaguered shoulder.

Don’t be afraid to take advantage of those sleep trials. Your perfect match is out there, waiting to transform you from a pain-addled insomniac into the well-rested, shoulder-pain-free individual you deserve to be. It might take some experimenting, but hey, that’s what those 100-night trials are for!

So go forth, brave sleeper! May your nights be filled with sweet dreams, your mornings free of shoulder complaints, and your UPS delivery person always willing to haul away yet another mattress. Here’s to finding your perfect sleep surface and bidding those shoulder pain woes goodbye!