What's the Best Mattress for Restless Leg Syndrome?

September 7, 2023 | Casper Editorial Team

Fact checked by Jonathan Eilenberg, CPE

Navigating the sleepy world can be a tricky journey, especially when you’re facing conditions like Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS). This sleep disorder doesn’t just mess with your nightly ZZZs but can also throw your overall well-being out of whack. With plenty of mattress options out there, the quest is finding one that handles the unique challenges of RLS like a pro. In this guide, we’ll dive deep into understanding RLS, how it zaps your sleep, and how the right mattress from Casper can be a total game-changer for scoring restful nights.

What is Restless Leg Syndrome?

Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) is a sleep disorder characterized by an uncontrollable urge to move your legs, usually because of an uncomfortable sensation. This feeling typically pops up in the evening or nighttime when you’re sitting or lying down. It can lead to restless sleep, frequent wakeups, and generally poor sleep quality.


Symptoms of Restless Leg Syndrome

The main symptom of RLS is feeling compelled to move your legs. This urge often comes with sensations described as:

  • Itching
  • Crawling
  • Pulling
  • Throbbing
  • Aching
  • Electric shocks

These symptoms can range from mildly annoying to severely debilitating, messing with your daily activities and sleep patterns. They can also cause secondary issues like sleep apnea, where breathing temporarily stops during sleep. Be sure to learn about the best and worst sleeping positions for sleep apnea to help manage your quality of rest.

Impact on Sleep Quality

For a restless sleeper, the constant urge to move your legs can majorly disrupt sleep. The leg movements and tossing and turning associated with RLS can cause frequent wakeups, making it tough to get a full night’s snooze. Over time, this can lead to chronic sleep deprivation, affecting your overall health and well-being.

The Role of the Right Mattress

Finding the best mattress for restless leg syndrome can be a total game-changer. Types of bed mattresses that offer pressure relief can ease some of the discomfort associated with RLS. Memory foam mattresses, for example, contour to your body, providing relief at pressure points. On the other hand, purely innerspring mattresses might not offer the same level of coziness for some folks with RLS.

Hybrid mattresses combine the best of both worlds, with layers of memory foam or latex mattress material on top of innerspring coils. This combo can provide both support and pressure relief, catering to different sleep positions. Whether you’re a stomach sleeper needing a firmer mattress or someone who wants an adjustable bed frame to elevate your legs, the right mattress can make a huge difference.

The foundation of good sleep starts with the perfect mattress, especially for those battling restless leg syndrome.

What to Look for In a Mattress for RLS

Choosing the right mattress can be a transformative experience, especially for those dealing with Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS). The specifics of this sleep disorder demand particular considerations when shopping for a mattress. Here’s a handy guide on what to prioritize when searching for the best mattress for restless leg syndrome.

Material Composition

Different materials offer varied levels of support and comfort:

  • Memory Foam: Renowned for its pressure relief superpowers, a memory foam mattress contours to your body, alleviating discomfort at pressure points. They’re a top choice for RLS sufferers.
  • Latex Mattress: Natural latex offers a blend of responsive support and cushioning. It’s also hypoallergenic and mold and mildew-resistant, making it suitable for those with allergies or sensitivities.
  • Innerspring Mattresses: While they offer good support, innerspring mattresses might not provide the same level of pressure relief as memory foam or latex. However, modern innerspring designs have continuously improved over time.
  • Hybrid Mattresses: A fusion of innerspring coils and layers of memory foam or latex, a hybrid mattress delivers both support and comfort, catering to a wide range of sleep preferences, and is a great mattress for back pain sufferers.

Firmness Level

The firmness of a mattress is subjective and varies based on individual preference:

  • Soft: Suitable for side sleepers and those who like a plush sleeping surface.
  • Medium: Offers a balance of support and cushioning, ideal for back sleepers and those with RLS symptoms.
  • Firm: Preferred by stomach sleepers, a firmer mattress ensures optimal spinal alignment — especially when sleeping in this position.

Adjustability

For restless sleepers, adjustable bed frames can be a total game-changer. Having the ability to elevate your legs or tweak your sleep position can significantly reduce RLS symptoms. Paired with the perfect mattress, it can optimize sleep quality.

Pressure Point Relief

Given the leg discomfort associated with RLS, a mattress that ensures pressure point relief is essential. Memory foam, hybrid, and latex mattresses are particularly skilled at distributing body weight evenly, minimizing strain on any specific area.

Breathability

Sleeping hot can make restless sleep even worse. Opt for a mattress with stellar airflow and moisture-wicking properties. Hybrid mattresses, with their coil base, often provide better ventilation than full-foam options.

While the journey to find the perfect mattress for RLS might seem daunting, understanding the key considerations can simplify the process. Prioritizing pressure relief, material composition, and adjustability can pave the way for better sleep and improved well-being.

Casper Mattress Recommendations for Restless Leg Syndrome

At Casper, we have consistently been at the leading edge of innovation, ensuring sleepers get the rest they deserve. For those battling Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS), we offer a range of mattresses tailored to address the unique challenges posed by this sleep disorder.

Casper’s Memory Foam Mattresses

Memory foam is celebrated for its pressure-relieving prowess, making it an excellent choice for those with RLS. Casper’s memory foam mattresses:

  • Conform to Your Body: The adaptive nature of memory foam ensures even weight distribution, alleviating pressure points, especially in your legs.
  • Optimal Firmness: Casper’s memory foam mattresses strike the perfect balance between softness and support, catering to a wide range of sleep positions.

The Hybrid Advantage with Casper

Our hybrid mattresses combine the best of innerspring and foam technologies:

  • Supportive Coils: The innerspring layer offers robust support, ensuring spinal alignment and reducing the risk of back-related issues.
  • Pressure Relief: The top layers, made of memory foam or latex, provide the cushioning and pressure relief essential for restless sleepers.
  • Breathability: The coil layer promotes airflow, keeping the mattress cool — a major bonus for those who sleep hot.

Casper’s Adjustable Bed Frames

For those seeking the flexibility to tweak their sleep position, our adjustable bed frames are a total game-changer:

  • Elevate Your Legs: Raising your legs can provide relief from RLS symptoms, and Casper’s adjustable frames make this a breeze.
  • Customizable Positions: Whether you want to elevate your head, legs, or both, Casper’s frames offer multiple adjustment options for optimal comfort.

Recommendations for people with RLS

  • The Casper One: A memory foam mattress that offers breathability, support, and deep pressure relief. It’s an excellent choice for those with mild to moderate RLS symptoms.
  • The Casper Dream Max: This plush hybrid mattress features Zone Support™Max technology to provide additional support to the lower back, hips, and waist. Its hybrid design ensures the ultimate pressure relief with Casper Signature Foam while delivering support from individually pocketed Flex Coils.
  • Casper Adjustable Base Pro Frame: Paired with any of Casper’s mattresses, this frame offers full adjustability, including a zero-gravity position that can alleviate leg discomfort.

Whether you’re drawn to the plush coziness of memory foam, the dual benefits of a hybrid mattress, or the flexibility of an adjustable bed frame, our sleep solutions are designed to usher in nights of better sleep for restless sleepers.

Tips for Sleeping with RLS

Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) can be a tough sleep disorder to navigate, but selecting the perfect mattress for restless leg syndrome is a huge step. Here are some expert-recommended tips to enhance sleep quality for those with RLS.

Stick to a Sleep Routine

Consistency is key. Hitting the hay and waking up at the same time every day, even on weekends, can help regulate your body’s internal clock and improve sleep quality. Learn how to fix your sleep schedule if you don’t have a consistent bedtime routine.

Optimize Your Sleep Environment

  • Temperature Control: A cooler room often equals better sleep. Learn how to stay cool at night, and consider cooling sheets.
  • Dim the Lights: Ensure your bedroom is dark. Blackout curtains or an eye mask can help.
  • Quiet Please: Minimize noise disruptions with earplugs or a white noise machine.

Mind Your Diet

  • Limit Caffeine: Consuming caffeine, especially late in the day, can worsen RLS symptoms.
  • Take It Easy on Alcohol: While alcohol might make you drowsy, it can mess with your sleep cycle and intensify RLS symptoms.
  • Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can sometimes trigger RLS. Drink plenty of water throughout the day.

Exercise Regularly

Moderate exercise can reduce RLS symptoms. But timing matters — exercising too close to bedtime can backfire.

Practice Relaxation Techniques

Deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or meditation can help relax your body and mind, potentially easing RLS symptoms.

Consider Sleep Position

Try different sleep positions. Some RLS sufferers find relief sleeping on their side with a pillow between their knees.

Use a Weighted Blanket

A weighted blanket can provide a sense of security and calm, potentially reducing leg movements associated with RLS.

Talk to Your Doctor

If RLS symptoms persist or get worse, it’s important to see your healthcare provider for guidance on potential treatments.

Limit Screen Time Before Bed

The blue light from phones, tablets, and computers can disrupt melatonin production, a hormone that regulates sleep. Consider a digital curfew an hour before bed.

Keep a Sleep Diary

Documenting your sleep patterns, diet, and daily activities can identify potential RLS triggers or patterns.

While RLS can be tough to handle, the right mattress and these expert tips can pave the way for better sleep. Remember, everyone is unique, so find what combination of strategies works best for you.

Achieve Restful Nights with Casper

At Casper, we understand the huge impact quality sleep has on your overall well-being. Every mattress we design reflects our commitment to quality, innovation, and your comfort. For those battling Restless Leg Syndrome, or simply seeking a sanctuary of rest, our range promises not just a mattress but a transformative sleep experience. Trust Casper to be your partner in scoring restful nights and refreshed mornings.

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  10. PainScale. Alternative and Complementary Treatments for Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS). www.painscale.com. Accessed August 24, 2023. https://www.painscale.com/article/alternative-and-complementary-treatments-for-restless-legs-syndrome-rls 
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Casper Editorial Policy

Casper blog articles are written by skilled authors and periodically reviewed by our team of sleep experts at Casper Labs. Driven by comprehensive research and evidence-based practices, we ensure that the content we publish is reliable, actionable, and practical for enhancing sleep quality and wellness.

Our articles incorporate trusted third-party sources, cited within the content and listed at the end for easy reference. At Casper we strive to be an authority and trusted resource for all things sleep.