Orthopedic vs. Pocket Spring

Orthopedic

Orthopedic is a term that in the context of mattresses means supporting joints, bones, and the overall body. It is commonly used for mattresses that help with spinal alignment and recovery from joint or back issues.

In this way, there is no one material that is certified orthopedic, and the term can be used my manufacturers and marketers to help sell their mattresses.

For this reason, it is important to do additional research on any bed that claims to be orthopedic to make sure that it will actually help straighten the spine and alleviate pain.

Pros: For mattresses that stand true to the name, pain alleviation and better posture are some of the benefits.

Cons: It is difficult to decipher the truth from marketing on orthopedic mattresses.

Pocket Spring

Pocket springs are individually wrapped coil systems that are stitched into mattresses below a comfort layer of foam or other material. Unlike traditional innerspring systems that are interconnected, pocket springs are entirely independent allowing for added contour and pressure point relief than older innerspring models.

The general rule on pocket coil systems is the more coils, the more responsive and motion controlled the mattress is, while still providing support. This directly translates to more comfort.

In most pocket spring beds, there is a layer of memory foam or latex foam above the pocket spring array so that the sleeper gets both the benefits of contouring foam and the comfort of the pocket springs.

Pros: Durable materials and superior comfort to traditional innerspring systems.

Cons: Sleepers should be equally as interested in the foam that is wrapped around the coil system - if that is low quality, the bed still may be uncomfortable.

Learn More About Orthopedic

Learn More About Pocket Spring

See Our Top Mattress Choices

Material Scores

Overall Score:
Orthopedic: 9/10
Pocket Spring: 9.8/10

Comfort:
Orthopedic: 9.1/10
Pocket Spring: 9.8/10

Softness:
Orthopedic: 9.1/10
Pocket Spring: 9.4/10

Cooling:
Orthopedic: 9/10
Pocket Spring: 9.8/10

Hypoallergenic:
Orthopedic: 9/10
Pocket Spring: 9.8/10

No Odor:
Orthopedic: 9/10
Pocket Spring: 9.8/10

General Support:
Orthopedic: 9.3/10
Pocket Spring: 9.6/10

Eco-Conscious:
Orthopedic: 8.9/10
Pocket Spring: 8.7/10

Price Value:
Orthopedic: 8.8/10
Pocket Spring: 8.4/10