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Best Adjustable Beds for Arthritis (2026 Buyer's Guide)
If you live with arthritis, you know that getting a good night's sleep isn't always easy. Joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and pressure can make it difficult to find a comfortable sleeping position—and waking up sore can make the rest of your day even more challenging.
Fortunately, an adjustable bed can make a significant difference. By allowing you to elevate your head, legs, or both, an adjustable bed helps reduce pressure on painful joints, improve circulation, and make getting in and out of bed much easier.
In this guide, we'll explain why adjustable beds are one of the best investments for people living with arthritis, the features you should look for, and our top recommendations for 2026.
Can an Adjustable Bed Help Arthritis?
For many people, the answer is yes.
While an adjustable bed isn't a cure for arthritis, it can help manage many of the symptoms associated with both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Benefits may include:
- Reduced pressure on painful joints
- Improved circulation
- Less morning stiffness
- Easier movement in and out of bed
- Better spinal alignment
- More restful sleep
The ability to customize your sleeping position often provides significantly more comfort than a traditional flat mattress.
Why Arthritis Makes Sleeping Difficult
Arthritis affects more than 50 million adults in the United States and is one of the leading causes of chronic pain.
Common nighttime symptoms include:
- Hip pain
- Knee pain
- Shoulder pain
- Lower back pain
- Neck stiffness
- Swollen joints
- Difficulty changing positions during the night
Lying flat for several hours can increase pressure on inflamed joints, making sleep uncomfortable and causing stiffness the following morning.
How Adjustable Beds Help Relieve Arthritis Pain
1. Reduce Pressure on Painful Joints
One of the biggest advantages of an adjustable bed is the ability to reposition your body.
By slightly elevating your upper body, lower body, or both, pressure can be redistributed away from painful joints like the hips, knees, shoulders, and lower back.
Many arthritis sufferers find that even small adjustments make a noticeable difference.
2. Improve Blood Circulation
Elevating your legs may help encourage healthy blood flow and reduce swelling in the feet, ankles, and lower legs.
Better circulation often contributes to greater comfort throughout the night.
3. Zero Gravity Position
One of the most popular adjustable bed features is the Zero Gravity position.
Originally inspired by NASA research, Zero Gravity slightly elevates both the head and legs to help distribute body weight more evenly.
Benefits may include:
- Reduced spinal pressure
- Less stress on hips
- Improved circulation
- Greater overall comfort
- Reduced pressure points
For many arthritis sufferers, this becomes their favorite sleeping position.
4. Easier to Get In and Out of Bed
Many people with arthritis struggle most during transitions.
Getting out of a flat bed can place significant strain on painful knees, hips, and shoulders.
An adjustable base allows you to raise the head section before standing, making it much easier to sit upright and safely get out of bed.
5. Better Spinal Alignment
Proper alignment helps reduce unnecessary stress on the joints throughout your body.
Sleeping with your head or legs slightly elevated often allows your spine to maintain a more natural position than lying completely flat.
Features to Look for in an Adjustable Bed for Arthritis
Not all adjustable beds offer the same level of comfort.
Here are the features we recommend prioritizing.
Zero Gravity Preset
Perhaps the single most valuable feature for arthritis sufferers.
Head & Foot Elevation
Independent adjustment allows you to personalize your sleeping position throughout the night.
Programmable Memory Positions
Save your favorite positions with the push of a button.
Perfect if you frequently return to the same comfortable setting.
Massage Functions
Many premium adjustable bases include vibration massage.
While massage won't treat arthritis itself, gentle vibration may help relax surrounding muscles before bed.
Adjustable Lumbar Support
Some premium models include lumbar adjustment to provide additional lower back support.
Under-Bed Lighting
Helpful for nighttime trips to the bathroom while reducing fall risk.
USB Charging Ports
A convenient feature that keeps your phone or tablet within easy reach.
Best Adjustable Bed Brands for Arthritis
At BedPlanet, we carry many of the industry's leading adjustable bed manufacturers.
Tempur-Pedic
Known for:
- Excellent Zero Gravity positions
- Premium comfort
- Quiet operation
- Advanced ergonomic features
Tempur-Pedic adjustable bases pair exceptionally well with TEMPUR material mattresses that conform to pressure points.
Reverie
Reverie adjustable bases offer:
- Precise positioning
- Massage features
- Programmable memory settings
- Optional lumbar support on select models
Excellent for personalized comfort.
Ergomotion
Ergomotion has built a reputation for smooth operation and innovative comfort features designed for long-term use.
Rize
Rize adjustable bases provide an outstanding balance of comfort, performance, and value.
Popular features include:
- Zero Gravity
- Massage
- Wireless remotes
- USB charging
- Memory presets
Malouf
Malouf adjustable bases are known for:
- Quiet motors
- Smooth articulation
- Great value
- Easy setup
Ideal for shoppers looking for premium features at competitive prices.
Choosing the Right Mattress
Your mattress is just as important as the adjustable base itself.
The best mattress types include:
Memory Foam
Excellent pressure relief.
Contours around painful joints.
Latex
Responsive support with excellent durability.
Hybrid Mattresses
Combine pressure relief with additional support.
A popular choice for arthritis sufferers.
Adjustable Bed Positions That Help Arthritis
Zero Gravity
Best overall position for reducing joint pressure.
Head Elevation
Helpful for:
- Shoulder pain
- Neck discomfort
- Acid reflux
- Reading in bed
Leg Elevation
May reduce:
- Swelling
- Knee pressure
- Foot discomfort
- Poor circulation
Relax Position
Many adjustable beds include factory-programmed comfort positions ideal for watching TV or simply relaxing before sleep.
Tips for Sleeping Better with Arthritis
In addition to an adjustable bed, consider these habits:
- Maintain a consistent sleep schedule.
- Stretch gently before bed if approved by your healthcare provider.
- Keep your bedroom cool and comfortable.
- Use supportive pillows between the knees or under the arms if recommended.
- Stay physically active during the day within your abilities.
These habits, combined with proper sleep positioning, may improve overall sleep quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are adjustable beds good for arthritis?
Yes. Many people with arthritis find that adjustable beds reduce pressure on painful joints, improve circulation, and make sleeping more comfortable.
Is Zero Gravity good for arthritis?
Absolutely.
Zero Gravity is often one of the most comfortable sleeping positions because it distributes body weight more evenly while reducing pressure on the spine and joints.
Can adjustable beds reduce hip pain?
They may.
Elevating the legs and adjusting the upper body can help reduce pressure on the hips depending on the cause of the discomfort.
Are adjustable beds covered by HSA or FSA?
In some cases, yes.
If your physician determines that an adjustable bed is medically necessary, you may be able to use HSA or FSA funds.
Learn more in our guide:
Are Adjustable Beds Covered by HSA or FSA? (2026 Complete Guide)
Can I use my current mattress?
Many memory foam, latex, and hybrid mattresses are fully compatible with adjustable bases.
Traditional innerspring mattresses may not flex properly.
Final Thoughts
Living with arthritis doesn't mean you have to accept restless nights and painful mornings. The right adjustable bed can help relieve pressure on sore joints, improve circulation, support better spinal alignment, and make getting in and out of bed easier every day.
Whether you're looking for advanced features like Zero Gravity and massage or simply want a more comfortable sleeping position, an adjustable base can be a worthwhile investment in your long-term comfort and quality of life.
At BedPlanet, we offer a wide selection of adjustable beds from trusted brands including Tempur-Pedic, Reverie, Rize, Ergomotion, and Malouf. Our sleep experts can help you compare features and choose the adjustable base that best fits your needs, lifestyle, and budget.
If you're ready to wake up feeling more comfortable and better rested, explore our collection of adjustable beds and discover how the right sleep setup can make a difference.