Best Mattress for Fibromyalgia in Canada: Comfort That Matters
Quick Answer: What Mattress Is Best for Fibromyalgia?
A medium to medium-soft mattress (4-6 on the firmness scale) with excellent pressure relief works best for most people with fibromyalgia. Memory foam and hybrid mattresses with thick comfort layers help reduce the tender point pain that disrupts sleep. Prioritize pressure relief over firmness, and consider a mattress with cooling features since fibromyalgia can affect temperature regulation.
4 min read
Why Mattress Choice Matters for Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia and sleep have a complicated relationship. The widespread pain and tender points make it difficult to find a comfortable sleeping position, and poor sleep makes fibromyalgia symptoms worse the next day. It becomes a cycle that is hard to break.
Research from the National Fibromyalgia Association shows that up to 90% of people with fibromyalgia report significant sleep problems. While a mattress cannot cure fibromyalgia, the right one can reduce pressure on tender points and help you get deeper, more restorative sleep.
Understanding Fibromyalgia and Sleep
Fibromyalgia affects how the central nervous system processes pain signals. During sleep, pressure from a mattress surface that would feel fine for most people can trigger pain at tender points (typically the neck, shoulders, hips, and knees). Studies published in the Journal of Clinical Rheumatology found that fibromyalgia patients who slept on medium-soft mattresses with good pressure distribution reported fewer morning pain flares and better overall sleep quality compared to those on firm mattresses.
Best Mattress Types for Fibromyalgia
Memory Foam (Top Choice)
Memory foam is often the best option for fibromyalgia because it distributes body weight evenly and eliminates pressure points. The foam conforms to your body shape, so there are no hard spots pressing against tender areas. Look for at least 3 inches of memory foam in the comfort layer.
Hybrid with Foam Top
A hybrid mattress with a thick memory foam or gel foam comfort layer gives you the pressure relief of foam with the support of coils underneath. This can be a good option if you find all-foam mattresses too warm or if you need a bit more support for your spine.
Latex (Natural)
Natural latex provides gentle pressure relief with more bounce than memory foam. Some people with fibromyalgia prefer latex because it makes changing positions easier, which matters when pain wakes you up and you need to shift.
Temperature Regulation Matters
Many people with fibromyalgia are sensitive to temperature changes, and overheating during sleep can trigger pain fla
res. If you choose memory foam, look for gel-infused or open-cell foam that sleeps cooler. A hybrid mattress with coils provides natural airflow. You might also consider cooling sheets and a breathable mattress protector to keep your sleep surface comfortable.
Firmness Level for Fibromyalgia
Most fibromyalgia specialists recommend a medium to medium-soft mattress (4-6 on a 10-point scale). Here is why:
- Too firm (7+): Creates pressure at tender points, especially hips and shoulders
- Too soft (below 3): Causes the body to sink too deeply, making it hard to move and potentially misaligning the spine
- Medium-soft (4-5): Best for side sleepers with fibromyalgia, allowing shoulders and hips to sink in
- Medium (5-6): Good for back sleepers with fibromyalgia, providing both pressure relief and support
Mattress Features to Prioritize
Pressure relief: The most important factor. Test by lying in your usual position for 10+ minutes.
Motion isolation: If you share a bed, you need a mattress that absorbs movement so your partner does not wake you.
Edge support: Helpful if you need to sit on the edge of the bed when getting up, which many fibromyalgia patients do.
Ease of repositioning: Being able to change positions without a struggle matters when pain wakes you up.
Sleep Tips for Fibromyalgia
Beyond the mattress, these strategies can help improve sleep with fibromyalgia:
- Keep a consistent sleep schedule, even on weekends
- Use a body pillow for extra support between the knees and under the arms
- Keep the bedroom cool (18-20 degrees Celsius)
- Consider a mattress topper if your current mattress is almost right but needs a bit more c
ushioning - Gentle stretching before bed can help reduce nighttime pain
Personalized Help in Brantford
We know that shopping for a mattress when you have fibromyalgia can feel exhausting. At Mattress Miracle, we create a low-pressure environment where you can take all the time you need. Bring your pillow, lie down, and rest. We have been helping Brantford families find comfortable sleep since 1987, and we understand that what works for one person may not work for another.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is memory foam or innerspring better for fibromyalgia?
Memory foam is generally better for fibromyalgia because it eliminates pressure points by conforming to your body. Innerspring mattresses can create uncomfortable pressure at tender points, though a hybrid with a thick foam top layer can work well.
How thick should a mattress be for fibromyalgia?
Look for a mattress at least 10 inches thick with a minimum 3-inch comfort layer. Thicker comfort layers provide better pressure distribution, which is essential for reducing tender point pain during sleep.
Can a mattress topper help with fibromyalgia?
Yes. A 3-4 inch memory foam topper can significantly improve an existing mattress by adding pressure relief. This is a more affordable option if your current mattress provides good support but lacks surface cushioning.
Should I get an adjustable bed for fibromyalgia?
An adjustable bed can be very helpful for fibromyalgia. Being able to elevate your head or knees can reduce pressure on tender points and make it easier to find a comfortable position. Many fibromyalgia patients find relief with a slight incline.
How often should I replace my mattress if I have fibromyalgia?
Every 6-8 years, or sooner if you notice increased pain. Mattresses lose their pressure-relieving properties over time, and a worn mattress can worsen fibromyalgia symptoms significantly.
Visit Mattress Miracle
Find us at 441 1/2 West Street, Brantford, Ontario. Rated 4.9 stars on Google. Family-owned since 1987.
Find Your Perfect Mattress at Mattress Miracle
We are a family-owned mattress store in Brantford, helping our community sleep better since 1987. Come try mattresses in person and get honest, no-pressure advice.
441 1/2 West Street, Brantford, Ontario
Call 519-770-0001