Hip pain is one of those issues that can make even the simplest parts of daily life feel uncomfortable. For many people, the pain becomes most noticeable at night. That’s because when we finally slow down, the body begins to register the stress and strain from the day. Add to that the fact that lying in bed places pressure on the joints for extended periods, and it’s easy to see why sleep and hip pain are so closely connected.

If you’re searching for the best mattress for hip pain, the good news is that the right sleep surface can make a huge difference. A supportive and pressure-relieving mattress not only eases pain but also helps your body recover so you can wake feeling refreshed. Let’s explore why hip pain happens, how your mattress plays a role, and what to look for when choosing the right one.

Why Does Hip Pain Feel Worse at Night?

At night, pain can feel worse because you’re no longer distracted by daily activity. In addition, lying on an unsupportive mattress can push the hips out of alignment, aggravating the problem. 

Several other factors can contribute to hip pain, and they often overlap, such as:

• Osteoarthritis: Wear and tear in the hip joint can lead to stiffness, swelling, and discomfort that worsens when lying still.
• Bursitis: Inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs around the hip joint can create tenderness, especially when pressure is applied.
• Muscle Strain: Overuse, exercise, or awkward movements can irritate muscles around the hip.
• General Joint Degeneration: As we age, cartilage thins and joints become less cushioned, making pressure more noticeable.

The Role of Your Mattress in Supporting Your Hips

Finding the right balance of comfort and support in your mattress is crucial for reducing hip discomfort.

A mattress that feels overly hard can place pressure directly on the hips, leading to sore spots and stiffness. Alternatively, a mattress that sinks too much won’t hold the body in alignment. This can cause the hips to sag, straining the lower back and surrounding muscles.

The best mattress for hip pain offers a middle ground: it’s enough cushioning to relieve pressure, while maintaining support for spinal alignment.

Key Features to Look for in a Mattress for Hip Pain

When shopping for a mattress for hip pain, keep an eye on these essential features:

1. Pressure Relief

Mattresses designed for pressure relief contour gently around the body, reducing strain on sensitive areas like the hips and shoulders. If you’re looking for targeted solutions, a pressure relief mattress may provide the cushioning you need to sleep more comfortably.

2. Supportive Core

A supportive base layer ensures your spine stays aligned throughout the night, preventing the hips from sinking too far into the bed.

3. Adjustability

For people who struggle to find a comfortable position, an adjustable base can be life-changing. Options like a hi-lo adjustable bed allow you to raise or lower sections of the bed to relieve pressure on the hips and improve circulation.

4. Motion Isolation

If you share your bed, motion isolation reduces the transfer of movement, so you won’t be disturbed when your partner turns over.

5. Durability

A mattress that wears out quickly can lose support and worsen hip pain. Investing in a quality design ensures long-term comfort.

Sleep Positions and Hip Pain

Your sleeping position has a big influence on how your mattress supports your hips. For side sleepers, the hips bear the brunt of the body’s weight throughout the night. Without the right cushioning, this can create painful pressure points. A mattress with generous contouring is essential, and many people also find that placing a pillow between the knees helps reduce hip rotation and strain.

Back sleepers usually experience more even weight distribution, which can lessen pressure on the hips. The challenge here is avoiding a mattress that’s too soft. When the hips sink below the rest of the body, it can pull the spine out of alignment and cause discomfort in both the hips and lower back. A supportive surface that still offers a little give is the best balance.

For stomach sleepers, hip pain can be more difficult to manage. Lying face down naturally places strain on the lower back and hips, and even a firmer mattress may not fully resolve the issue. In many cases, people with hip pain are better off experimenting with side or back sleeping positions to find lasting relief.

Types of Mattresses for Hip Pain

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, but understanding the pros and cons of each mattress type can help narrow your options:

• Memory Foam: Known for excellent pressure relief, memory foam moulds to the body, cushioning the hips. However, it’s important to choose one with strong support layers to avoid sinking too deeply.
• Hybrid Mattresses: Combining foam layers with a coil system, hybrids balance contouring comfort with stable support. They’re often a good choice for those with hip pain.
• Innerspring Mattresses: Traditional innersprings can lack pressure relief unless paired with a plush top layer.

Hip Pain vs. Back Pain: Choosing the Right Mattress

Many people with hip pain also experience back discomfort. Luckily, the features that make a mattress supportive for hips (for example, pressure relief, proper alignment, and durable construction) also benefit the spine. If your pain extends beyond the hips, exploring a back pain mattress may provide comprehensive comfort.

Additional Tips for Sleeping Better with Hip Pain

While choosing the best mattress for hip pain is the first step, a few additional strategies can help:

• Use supportive pillows to keep hips and spine aligned.
• Apply heat therapy before bed to relax tight muscles.
• Stretch gently during the day to improve mobility and reduce stiffness.
• Maintain a consistent sleep routine to support overall rest and recovery.

Wake Up to Real Relief with Back to Sleep

Sometimes, the answer to hip pain isn’t just about the mattress: it’s about having the flexibility to adjust your sleeping position. At Back To Sleep, the team specialises in matching people with the best mattress for hip pain while also offering solutions that genuinely improve quality of life. From adjustable beds for seniors that add both comfort and convenience to NDIS contracted beds that make tailored support accessible, you’ll find expert guidance and products designed with your wellbeing in mind.

Don’t let hip pain keep you tossing and turning. Book your FREE one-on-one 60min bed consultation with a trained Product Specialist today. 

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