No – not as much as soft foam mattresses that allow your joints to sink into them, particularly your spine. This can lead to serious back pain over time. Contrary to what most people think, a Japanese mattress, also known as a Japanese futon, Shiki futon, or Shikibuton) helps relieve back pain and some other pains. If you find your futon to be too firm for you, lay it on a tatami mat - our #7.