A Practical Guide to Finding the Best Mattress for Restless Leg Syndrome

09/10/2024

Ben Trapskin

I have carefully studied and evaluated many mattresses, sheets, pillows, duvet inserts, comforters, sleep gadgets, and adjustable beds for over a deca... Full Bio

Best Mattress for Restless Leg Syndrome: Top 5 Picks 2024

Finding the Best Mattress for Restless Leg Syndrome is crucial for anyone struggling with this condition. If you’re dealing with uncomfortable sensations and an uncontrollable urge to move your legs, a good mattress can make a world of difference. Here are our top picks for the Best Mattress for Restless Leg Syndrome:

Saatva Classic
Nectar Memory Foam Mattress
Bear Elite Hybrid
Helix Midnight Luxe
Purple Mattress

Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) is a neurological disorder that leads to an irresistible urge to move your legs, especially at night. This can significantly impact your sleep quality and result in daytime fatigue. Investing in the right mattress can help mitigate these symptoms by providing essential support and comfort, allowing for better sleep.

I’m Ben Trapskin, the creator of Yawnder. After years of struggling with poor sleep myself, I know how important it is to find the right mattress, especially if you have specific conditions like RLS. Below, I dig into what makes these mattresses great choices for anyone suffering from Restless Leg Syndrome.

Best Mattress for Restless Leg Syndrome word list:

What is Restless Legs Syndrome?

Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) is a neurological disorder that causes an overwhelming urge to move your legs, particularly when you’re at rest. This condition can make it hard to get a good night’s sleep, leading to daytime fatigue and impacting your overall quality of life.

Neurological Disorder

RLS is classified as a neurological disorder because it affects the nervous system. The exact cause is not well understood, but it is believed to involve a chemical imbalance in the brain, particularly with dopamine. Dopamine is crucial for controlling muscle movements, and an imbalance can lead to the uncontrollable urge to move your legs.

Uncontrollable Urge

One of the hallmark symptoms of RLS is an uncontrollable urge to move the legs. This urge is often accompanied by uncomfortable sensations such as tingling, burning, or itching. These sensations usually occur when you are lying down or sitting for extended periods, making it difficult to relax or fall asleep.

Leg Discomfort

The discomfort in the legs can vary from mild to severe. People often describe it as a creeping, crawling, or throbbing sensation. These sensations can also extend to other parts of the body, including the arms and torso, although this is less common.

Sleep Disruption

RLS is most active in the evening and at night, which can severely disrupt sleep. The need to move your legs to relieve discomfort can wake you up multiple times during the night, preventing you from reaching deep, restorative sleep stages. This can lead to chronic sleep deprivation, affecting your daily activities and overall health.

Dopamine Imbalance

Research suggests that RLS may be linked to a dopamine imbalance in the brain. Dopamine helps regulate muscle movements, and a deficiency can lead to the symptoms associated with RLS. This is why some treatments for RLS focus on increasing dopamine levels in the brain.

Iron Deficiency

Iron deficiency is another factor that can contribute to RLS. Iron is essential for dopamine production, and low levels can disrupt this process. Some people with RLS have found relief through iron supplements, although it’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment.

Understanding these aspects of RLS can help you manage the condition more effectively. A good mattress can provide the support and comfort needed to alleviate some of the symptoms, making it easier to get a restful night’s sleep.

Next, we’ll dig into the key features to look for in a mattress to help manage Restless Legs Syndrome.

Key Features of Mattresses for Restless Leg Syndrome

When shopping for the Best Mattress for Restless Leg Syndrome, there are several key features to consider. These features can help alleviate symptoms and improve your overall sleep quality.

Support and Pressure Relief

A mattress that offers excellent support and pressure relief is crucial for those with RLS. Memory foam and hybrid mattresses are often recommended because they can distribute your body weight evenly, reducing pressure on sensitive areas. This helps in minimizing discomfort and pain, making it easier to stay asleep.

Blood Circulation

Good blood circulation can help alleviate RLS symptoms. A mattress that adjusts to your body shape, like the Luxury Orthopaedic Memory Mattress, can improve circulation. This mattress features a combination of memory foam and orthopaedic layers, providing the right balance of comfort and support.

High-Density Foam

High-density foam is another important feature. This type of foam offers better support and durability compared to low-density foam. It can also help in maintaining proper spinal alignment, which is essential for reducing aches and pains associated with RLS. The 10 Inch Cloud Memory Foam Mattress is an excellent example, providing a luxurious cloudlike feel and excellent motion isolation.

Body Shape Adjustment

A mattress that adjusts to your body shape can significantly reduce pressure points. This is particularly beneficial for those with RLS, as it helps in minimizing the uncomfortable sensations that trigger the urge to move your legs. Mattresses like the Saatva Classic offer multiple firmness options and a coil-on-coil structure that adapts to different body shapes and sizes.

Breathability

Breathability is another key feature to look for. A breathable mattress helps regulate temperature, preventing overheating, which can worsen RLS symptoms. Gel memory foam mattresses are a great option as they often come with moisture-wicking materials that reduce humidity buildup. This helps create a cooler sleeping environment, making it easier to stay comfortable throughout the night.

By focusing on these features, you can find a mattress that not only helps manage RLS symptoms but also provides a better overall sleep experience.

Next, we’ll explore some of the top mattress options specifically designed to help those with Restless Leg Syndrome.

Top 5 Best Mattresses for Restless Leg Syndrome

1. Saatva Classic

Why it’s great: The Saatva Classic is a hybrid mattress that combines the support of innerspring coils with the comfort of memory foam. This mattress offers multiple firmness options, making it versatile for different sleepers. The coil-on-coil structure adapts to various body shapes, providing excellent support and pressure relief, which is crucial for those with RLS.

2. Nectar Memory Foam Mattress

Why it’s great: The Nectar Memory Foam Mattress is known for its affordability and excellent motion isolation. The memory foam layers provide outstanding pressure relief, making it easier to stay comfortable throughout the night. This mattress is particularly beneficial for couples, as it minimizes motion transfer, ensuring that one partner’s movements don’t disturb the other.

Key Features:

Firmness: Medium-firm (6.5/10)
Material: Memory foam
Trial Period: 365 nights
Warranty: Lifetime
Best For: Back Sleepers, Side Sleepers, Hip Pain, Joint Pain

Customer Review: “I’ve tried several mattresses, but the Nectar Memory Foam Mattress is the only one that helps me sleep through my RLS symptoms. It’s incredibly comfortable and supportive.”

3. Bear Elite Hybrid

Why it’s great: The Bear Elite Hybrid combines the benefits of foam and coils, offering excellent edge support and ease of movement. The mattress is designed to keep you cool with its breathable materials, which is essential for those whose RLS symptoms worsen in higher temperatures.

Key Features:

Firmness: Medium-firm (6/10)
Material: Hybrid (foam + coils)
Trial Period: 120 nights
Warranty: Lifetime
Best For: Joint Pain, Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Hot Sleepers

Customer Review: “The Bear Elite Hybrid has been fantastic for my restless legs. The edge support is great, and I don’t feel hot at night anymore.”

4. Helix Midnight Luxe

Why it’s great: The Helix Midnight Luxe is custom for side sleepers, offering a plush yet supportive feel. It features multiple layers of foam and a pocketed coil base, providing excellent pressure relief and support. This mattress also excels in motion isolation, making it a great choice for couples.

Key Features:

Firmness: Medium-firm (6/10)
Material: Hybrid (foam + coils)
Trial Period: 100 nights
Warranty: 15 years
Best For: Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Side Sleepers, Hip Pain, Seniors

Customer Review: “As a side sleeper with RLS, the Helix Midnight Luxe has been perfect. The pressure relief is outstanding, and I don’t wake up my partner with my leg movements anymore.”

5. Purple Mattress

Why it’s great: The Purple Mattress uses unique technology to provide pressure relief and breathability. Its hyper-elastic polymer grid adapts to your body shape, offering support where you need it most. This mattress is also highly breathable, helping to regulate temperature and prevent overheating.

Key Features:

Firmness: Medium-firm (6.5/10)
Material: Hyper-elastic polymer grid
Trial Period: 100 nights
Warranty: 10 years
Best For: Couples, Back Sleepers, Hip Pain

Customer Review: “The Purple Mattress has been amazing for my RLS. The unique grid technology provides excellent support and keeps me cool throughout the night.”

Next, we’ll look at additional tips for managing Restless Legs Syndrome.

1. Saatva Classic

The Saatva Classic is a standout hybrid mattress that combines the best of both worlds: luxurious innerspring support and top-notch pressure relief. This mattress features a coil-on-coil structure, which means it has two layers of coils for added durability and support. The top layer of individually wrapped coils provides targeted pressure relief, while the bottom layer of steel coils ensures long-lasting support.

Why it’s great:

Pressure Relief: The Saatva Classic excels in pressure relief, which is crucial for those with Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS). The mattress contours to your body, alleviating pressure points and allowing for a more restful sleep.

Support: With multiple firmness options (Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, and Firm), you can choose the level of support that best suits your needs. This mattress is particularly beneficial for back sleepers, stomach sleepers, and those with back pain.

Luxury Innerspring: The coil-on-coil design gives this mattress a luxurious feel, making it a great choice for those who prefer the traditional bounce of an innerspring mattress. The added layer of memory foam improves comfort without sacrificing support.

Key Features:

Firmness: Multiple firmness options
Material: Hybrid (innerspring + memory foam)
Trial Period: 365 nights
Warranty: Lifetime
Best For: Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Hot Sleepers, Seniors

Customer Review:

“The Saatva Classic has been a game-changer for my RLS. The pressure relief is fantastic, and I love how it adapts to my body shape. I sleep through the night without waking up in discomfort.”

For more details, check out our Saatva Classic Mattress Review.

Next, we’ll look at the Nectar Memory Foam Mattress.

2. Nectar Memory Foam Mattress

The Nectar Memory Foam Mattress is a popular choice for those dealing with Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS). This mattress offers a unique combination of pressure relief, affordability, and motion isolation, making it a standout option for a restful night’s sleep.

Why it’s great:

Memory Foam: The Nectar mattress is made entirely of memory foam, which is known for its ability to contour to the body. This feature is particularly beneficial for RLS sufferers, as it helps to alleviate pressure points and reduce the urge to move the legs.

Pressure Relief: One of the standout features of the Nectar mattress is its exceptional pressure relief. The foam layers distribute body weight evenly, which can help to ease muscle tension and reduce leg discomfort. This makes it ideal for side sleepers and back sleepers who need extra support.

Affordability: Despite its high-quality materials and construction, the Nectar mattress is more affordable than many other memory foam options on the market. This makes it a great choice for those looking for a budget-friendly solution to improve their sleep quality.

Motion Isolation: If you share your bed with a partner, motion isolation is crucial. The Nectar mattress excels in this area, minimizing the movement you feel when your partner shifts positions. This ensures that both you and your partner can enjoy an undisturbed night’s sleep.

Key Features:

Firmness: Medium-firm (6.5/10)
Material: Memory foam
Trial Period: 365 nights
Warranty: Lifetime
Best For: Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Couples, Budget-Conscious Shoppers

Customer Review:

“The Nectar mattress has been a lifesaver for my RLS. The memory foam provides just the right amount of support and pressure relief. Plus, I love that it doesn’t break the bank. I can finally sleep through the night without constantly waking up.”

For more details, check out our Nectar Mattress Review.

3. Bear Elite Hybrid

The Bear Elite Hybrid is a top contender for the Best Mattress for Restless Leg Syndrome. This hybrid mattress combines the benefits of both foam and coils to deliver excellent support, edge stability, and motion isolation.

Why it’s great:

Hybrid Construction: The Bear Elite Hybrid mattress features a mix of memory foam and individually wrapped coils. This combination provides a balance of comfort and support, which can help alleviate the symptoms of RLS.

Edge Support: One standout feature of this mattress is its reinforced perimeter. Firmer foam around the edges prevents sagging and offers a solid foundation for sitting or sleeping near the edge. This is particularly useful for those who need extra support when getting in and out of bed.

Motion Isolation: If you share your bed with a partner, motion isolation is crucial. The Bear Elite Hybrid excels in this area. The individually wrapped coils help to minimize the movement you feel when your partner shifts positions, ensuring an undisturbed night’s sleep.

Ease of Movement: The responsive foam and springy coils make it easy to change positions during the night. This is especially beneficial for those with RLS, who may need to move frequently to find a comfortable position.

Key Features:

Firmness: Available in Soft, Medium, and Firm
Material: Hybrid (memory foam and coils)
Trial Period: 120 nights
Warranty: Lifetime
Best For: Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Couples, Active Sleepers

Customer Review:

“The Bear Elite Hybrid has been fantastic for my RLS. The edge support is great, and I love how easy it is to move around on this mattress. Plus, my partner and I no longer wake each other up during the night. Highly recommend!”

For more details, check out our Bear Elite Hybrid Review.

Next, we’ll dive into the Helix Midnight Luxe.

4. Helix Midnight Luxe

The Helix Midnight Luxe is a standout choice for the Best Mattress for Restless Leg Syndrome, especially for side sleepers. This mattress offers a luxurious feel, excellent pressure relief, and robust support.

Why it’s great:

Side Sleepers: The Helix Midnight Luxe is designed with side sleepers in mind. Its multiple foam layers cradle your hips and shoulders, reducing pressure points and enhancing comfort. This is crucial for those with RLS, as it helps alleviate leg discomfort during the night.

Pressure Relief: This mattress excels in pressure relief, thanks to its zoned support system. The coils are individually wrapped and zoned to provide targeted support where you need it most. This helps keep your spine aligned and reduces strain on your legs.

Support: The Helix Midnight Luxe offers a medium-firm feel (6/10), which strikes a balance between comfort and support. The combination of memory foam and pocketed coils ensures that your body is well-supported, reducing the need to constantly shift positions—a common issue for those with RLS.

Luxury Feel: With its Ultra-Cool phase-changing cover and gel-infused foam, the Helix Midnight Luxe feels luxurious and cool. The cover helps regulate your body temperature, making it an excellent choice for hot sleepers.

Key Features:

Firmness: Medium-firm (6/10)
Material: Hybrid (memory foam and coils)
Trial Period: 100 nights
Warranty: 15 years
Best For: Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Hot Sleepers

Customer Review:

“The Helix Midnight Luxe has been a game-changer for my RLS. The pressure relief is amazing, and I no longer wake up with leg pain. Plus, it keeps me cool throughout the night. Worth every penny!”

For more details, check out our Helix Midnight Luxe Mattress Review.

Next, let’s explore the Purple Mattress.

5. Purple Mattress

The Purple Mattress is a top contender for the Best Mattress for Restless Leg Syndrome. This mattress features unique technology, excellent pressure relief, breathability, and robust support.

Unique Technology

The Purple Mattress stands out due to its innovative Purple Grid technology. This hyper-elastic polymer grid is designed to flex under pressure, offering a unique combination of support and comfort. The grid adapts to your body’s shape, providing custom support and reducing pressure points.

Pressure Relief

One of the key features of the Purple Mattress is its exceptional pressure relief. The Purple Grid cradles your body, distributing weight evenly and alleviating pressure on your legs and joints. This is particularly beneficial for those with RLS, as it helps reduce the discomfort that often leads to restless nights.

Breathability

The Purple Grid is not just supportive; it’s also highly breathable. The open-cell structure allows for excellent airflow, preventing heat buildup and keeping you cool throughout the night. This is a significant advantage for hot sleepers or those whose RLS symptoms worsen in warm conditions.

Support

The Purple Mattress provides a balanced level of support, making it suitable for various sleeping positions. The grid structure ensures that your spine stays aligned, reducing the need to shift positions frequently—an essential feature for RLS sufferers.

Key Features:

Firmness: Medium-firm
Material: Hyper-elastic polymer grid
Trial Period: 100 nights
Warranty: 10 years
Best For: Hot Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Side Sleepers

Customer Review:

“The Purple Mattress has been a lifesaver for my RLS. The pressure relief is unlike anything I’ve experienced, and I stay cool all night. I sleep so much better now!”

For more details, check out our Purple Mattress Review.

Next, let’s explore additional tips for managing Restless Legs Syndrome.

Additional Tips for Managing Restless Legs Syndrome

Managing Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) involves more than just finding the right mattress. Here are some additional tips to help you get a better night’s sleep:

Massage

Massaging your legs can help alleviate RLS symptoms by improving blood circulation and relaxing your muscles. You can use your hands, a massage roller, or even consider investing in a massage chair. The iRest 2023 Massage Chair is a great option, offering features like SL track massage and compression massage to target your legs effectively.

Hot Bath

A warm bath before bed can help relax your muscles and calm your nerves. Adding Epsom salts can improve the effect, as they are rich in magnesium, which is known to help with muscle relaxation.

Heating Pad

Applying a heating pad to your legs can also provide relief from RLS symptoms. The warmth helps to relax tense muscles and can reduce the uncomfortable sensations that make you want to move your legs. Adjust the heat to a comfortable level and use it for about 20 minutes before bedtime.

Exercise

Moderate exercise can be very beneficial for those suffering from RLS. Activities like walking, swimming, or cycling can help reduce symptoms. However, avoid intense exercise close to bedtime, as it may exacerbate symptoms. Gentle stretching exercises, like seated forward bends and standing wide leg stretches, can also help.

Sleep Hygiene

Good sleep hygiene is crucial for managing RLS. Here are some tips:

Maintain a Regular Sleep Schedule: Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day.
Create a Relaxing Bedtime Routine: This can include activities like reading, listening to calming music, or practicing mindfulness.
Limit Blue Light Exposure: Avoid screens from phones and other electronics at least an hour before bed.
Keep Your Bedroom Cool and Comfortable: A comfortable sleeping environment can make a big difference.

Lifestyle Changes

Certain lifestyle changes can also help manage RLS symptoms:

Avoid Caffeine and Alcohol: Both can worsen RLS symptoms. Try eliminating them from your diet for a few weeks to see if there’s an improvement.
Increase Iron Intake: Low iron levels are associated with RLS. Speak with your doctor about getting your iron levels checked and consider incorporating more iron-rich foods into your diet, such as spinach, seafood, and whole grains.
Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can worsen RLS symptoms, so make sure you drink plenty of water throughout the day.

By incorporating these tips into your daily routine, you can better manage your RLS symptoms and improve your overall sleep quality.

Next, let’s address some frequently asked questions about the Best Mattress for Restless Leg Syndrome.

Frequently Asked Questions about Best Mattress for Restless Leg Syndrome

What kind of mattress is best for restless legs?

When it comes to Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS), the right mattress can make a big difference. The best mattress for restless leg syndrome should provide excellent support and pressure relief. Here are some options:

Memory Foam Mattresses: These mattresses are known for their contouring ability, which helps relieve pressure points. This can be particularly beneficial for those with RLS, as it reduces the urge to move your legs.
Hybrid Mattresses: Combining the best of both worlds, hybrid mattresses feature a mix of innerspring coils and foam layers. This design offers good support and motion isolation, which is crucial if you share your bed with a partner. The Helix Midnight Luxe is a great option for combination sleepers.
Latex Mattresses: Latex mattresses offer a bouncy feel and excellent support. They also tend to sleep cooler than memory foam mattresses, which can be a plus for hot sleepers. Latex’s responsiveness can help with ease of movement, which is beneficial for those who frequently change positions.

How do I stop restless legs immediately when I sleep?

If you’re struggling with RLS symptoms at night, here are some quick remedies:

Massaging Legs: A gentle massage can help improve blood flow and relax your muscles. You can use your hands, a massage roller, or even a massage chair.
Hot Bath: Taking a warm bath before bed can relax your muscles and calm your nervous system. Adding Epsom salts can improve the effect.
Hot Compress: Applying a heating pad to your legs can provide immediate relief. The warmth helps to relax tense muscles and reduce uncomfortable sensations.
Distraction Activities: Sometimes, distracting your mind can help reduce the urge to move your legs. Activities like reading, listening to calming music, or doing a crossword puzzle can be effective.

What is the best sleep aid for restless leg syndrome?

While non-medical interventions are often helpful, sometimes medication is necessary to manage RLS symptoms. Here are some commonly prescribed options:

Gabapentin: This medication is used to treat nerve pain and can help alleviate RLS symptoms.
Pregabalin: Similar to Gabapentin, Pregabalin is effective in reducing the sensations associated with RLS.
Muscle Relaxants: These can help ease muscle tension and improve sleep quality.
Sleep Medicines: In some cases, sleep medications may be prescribed to help you get a better night’s rest. Always consult your doctor before starting any new medication.

By addressing these FAQs, we hope to provide you with actionable insights into managing RLS and finding the best mattress for restless leg syndrome.

Conclusion

At Yawnder, we understand how crucial it is to find the perfect mattress for a good night’s sleep, especially if you suffer from Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS). Our expert evaluations focus on identifying mattresses that offer the right balance of comfort, support, and motion isolation to help alleviate the symptoms of RLS.

Why Choose Yawnder?

Expert Evaluations: Our team of sleep experts rigorously tests each mattress to ensure it meets our high standards. We consider various factors such as pressure relief, support, and cooling features to provide you with the best options available.

Perfect Mattress: We know that one size doesn’t fit all. That’s why we offer a range of mattresses custom to different needs and preferences. Whether you prefer memory foam, hybrid, or latex mattresses, we have something for everyone.

Better Sleep: The right mattress can make a world of difference. By choosing a mattress that addresses the specific needs of those with RLS, you can significantly improve your sleep quality and overall well-being.

Direct-to-Door Shipping: Convenience is key. We offer hassle-free, direct-to-door shipping so you can start enjoying your new mattress as soon as possible. Plus, many of our mattresses come with extended trial periods and warranties, giving you peace of mind with your purchase.

To explore our range of mattresses and find the perfect one for you, visit our Natural Mattresses page.

By choosing Yawnder, you’re not just investing in a mattress; you’re investing in better sleep and a better quality of life. Don’t let Restless Legs Syndrome keep you up at night. Find your perfect mattress and start enjoying restful, rejuvenating sleep today.