Spinal Alignment & Curve Support
Shown below on the Flexabed Hi-Low SL, elevating the head and slightly raising knees helps maintain the natural curve in the lumbar spine. This reduces undue tension on discs, ligaments, and muscles.
Reduced Pressure on Lower Back & Hips
Adjustable beds redistribute body weight, relieving pressure on commonly painful areas. Elevating the legs helps reduce pressure and swelling.
Better Comfort for Specific Back Issues
Conditions like osteoarthritis, spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, or spondylolisthesis often improve when sleeping in a slightly reclined or inclined position (instead of fully flat).
Improved Sleep Quality & Reduced Night Disruption
With customizable positions, people are less likely to toss & turn, wake up in pain, or have disrupted sleep. More restful sleep aids healing.
Enhanced Transition and Mobility
The ability to adjust height or angle can reduce strain when getting in or out of bed, making transfers safer and less painful, shown here on the StarSleep Orin Rotating Sit to Stand Hospital Bed.
Best Bed Settings & Positions for Lower Back Pain Relief
To get the most benefit, these are the positions and features users report being most helpful:
Reclined (head up ~30-45°) with slight knee elevation: This reduces stretch/compression in the lumbar area, shown here on the Med-Mizer Active Care Rotating Lift Assist Bed.
Zero-Gravity or near zero-gravity position: Legs raised above or slightly above heart level eases pressure.
Lumbar support adjustment: Some beds have a built-in lumbar area that can be adjusted or bumped out to fill the gap under your lower back.
Alternate between positions: Changing positions during the night or before going to sleep helps avoid stiffness.
Avoid fully flat if that worsens pain — many people feel pain relief in even a small incline.
What Features to Look for in an Adjustable Bed
- Not all adjustable beds perform equally. To relieve lower back pain, prioritize:
- Dual or multi-motor systems so you can adjust head and foot independently
- Strong lumbar support (either built-in frame support or matching mattress contour)
- Smooth and quiet motors/actuators
- Preset positions (“zero gravity”, “flat”, “TV watching”, etc.) for ease
- Mattress flexibility & compatibility — memory foam, latex, hybrids often work best; avoid stiff innerspring that can’t flex well.
- Adequate weight capacity and durable construction so the bed doesn't sag or fail under regular use.
When Adjustable Beds May Be Less Helpful
- If your lower back pain is aggravated by certain reclined positions. Sometimes slight bending forward is better, depending on condition.
- If your mattress is not compatible or is worn out — even an adjustable base can’t fully fix a poor mattress.
- People who prefer or must sleep on their stomachs often find adjustable beds less helpful, because it’s harder to maintain neutral spine in that position.
- Always consult a medical professional if you have severe, chronic, or worsening pain. Adjustable beds are a tool — not a medical cure.
