Find the Right Medical Mattress
Medical mattresses range from non-powered foam surfaces to advanced powered air systems. If you already know the technology you need, you can go directly to the appropriate mattress collection. If you're not sure, we'll help you understand the differences and narrow your options.
I Know What I Need
Already familiar with medical mattress technologies? Go directly to the type of mattress you're looking for.
Help Me Choose
Not sure what alternating pressure, low air loss or lateral rotation means? Start with our simple technology guide below.
We'll explain what each type does, how the technologies differ and the relative level of investment so you can compare your options with more confidence.
Help Me Understand My OptionsUnderstand Medical Mattress Technologies
Medical mattresses use different methods to provide support and redistribute pressure. Some require no power, while others use pumps, air cells or blowers to provide additional features. Here's a quick explanation of the major technologies you'll encounter while shopping.
Foam
A non-powered support surface made from layers of specialized foam. Different foam densities, shapes and construction methods help distribute the user's weight across the mattress surface.
Power required: No
Technology level: Basic
Relative investment: $
Alternating Pressure
A powered pump changes the pressure within groups of air cells on a repeating cycle. This changes which areas of the mattress are providing the greatest support at a given time.
Power required: Yes
Technology level: Powered
Relative investment: $$
Low Air Loss
Low air loss systems incorporate airflow into the mattress design. Depending on the system, small amounts of air may move through or around the support surface while the mattress remains inflated.
Power required: Yes
Technology level: Advanced
Relative investment: $$–$$$
True Low Air Loss
True low air loss systems use a higher-volume airflow design, typically powered by a blower. Air is continuously supplied through the support surface rather than relying only on periodic inflation and deflation of air cells.
Power required: Yes
Technology level: Advanced
Relative investment: $$$
Lateral Rotation & Combination Systems
Some advanced systems can gradually change the support surface from side to side. Combination systems may include lateral rotation, alternating pressure, low air loss and other operating modes in a single mattress system.
Power required: Yes
Technology level: Advanced
Relative investment: $$$$
Compare Medical Mattress Technologies
Use this quick comparison to see how the major mattress technologies differ before exploring individual systems.
| Technology | Powered? | What Changes? | Investment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Foam | No | Foam construction and support layers | $ |
| Alternating Pressure | Yes | Air pressure cycles between groups of cells | $$ |
| Low Air Loss | Yes | Airflow is incorporated into the support surface | $$–$$$ |
| True Low Air Loss | Yes | Continuous higher-volume airflow through the system | $$$ |
| Lateral Rotation & Combination | Yes | Support changes from side to side and may combine multiple modes | $$$$ |
Investment levels are relative and are intended only to show the general progression between technologies. Features and pricing vary by manufacturer and model.
Ready to Shop Medical Mattresses?
Browse by mattress type or view all of our medical mattress options.