Memory foam folds itself round your pressure points, conforming to the curve of the lower back in back sleepers, and to the main pressure points of side sleepers: the shoulders and hips. A firm base support provides the overall support needed. Too firm a mattress will result in painful pressure points – particularly the aforementioned shoulders and hips. It can also lead to back pain due to the potential flattening of the curve of your spine in the lumbar region – the lower curve in the elongated S shape of your spine. Our answer to the back pain question above explains how memory foam can be combined with a firm mattress support layer to provide a good bed for those suffering lower back pain. The same principles apply to those who find their mattress uncomfortable on their shoulders and hips, particularly with side sleepers. If you sleep on your side, memory foam will absorb the pressure at these points and improve your comfort in bed. The same is true for the shoulders and buttocks of back sleepers. You can find more about the benefits of memory foam here.