What Are Pressure Points & How Do They Affect Your Sleep?

Written by Nectarsleep Editorial Team

Last updated on Apr 10, 2025

Better Sleep Blog
What Are Pressure Points & How Do They Affect Your Sleep?

In this article:

Ever wake up with sore shoulders, aching hips, or a stiff back? That discomfort might be due to pressure points—specific areas of your body that bear the brunt of your weight while you sleep. If your mattress isn’t providing the right support, these points can become painful, causing tossing, turning, and restless nights.

Let’s break down what pressure points are, why they matter, and how the right mattress can make all the difference.

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What Are Pressure Points?

Pressure points are the spots where your body presses against the mattress the most—usually the shoulders, hips, knees, and lower back. If your mattress is too firm, these areas can take on too much pressure, leading to discomfort and pain. If it’s too soft, your body may sink in too much, causing misalignment in your spine.

The goal? A mattress that evenly distributes your weight and supports your natural sleep posture.

Why Do Pressure Points Matter?

When a mattress doesn’t properly relieve pressure, you may experience:

✅ Numbness & Tingling – Poor circulation can make your arms or legs fall asleep before you do.
 ✅ Aches & Pains – Too much pressure leads to sore muscles and stiff joints in the morning.
 ✅ Frequent Tossing & Turning – Your body instinctively moves to find relief, disrupting your sleep.
 ✅ Poor Sleep Quality – If you’re waking up sore or uncomfortable, you’re not getting the deep, restorative sleep you need.

How the Right Mattress Can Help

Not all mattresses are created equal when it comes to pressure relief. The best ones offer:

🔹 Memory Foam Comfort – Molds to your body, reducing pressure points and providing a cloud-like feel.
 🔹 Hybrid Support – A combination of memory foam and springs offers both pressure relief and stability.
 🔹 Zoned Support – Some high-quality mattresses feature targeted support zones to cradle your shoulders and hips while keeping your spine aligned.

Finding Your Perfect Fit

If you’re waking up sore or struggling with restless nights, it may be time to rethink your mattress. A pressure-relieving mattress can make all the difference, helping you wake up feeling refreshed and pain-free.

Want to experience the difference for yourself? Try a mattress designed to support you in all the right places. Your body will thank you.

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