Back pain is one of the most common complaints in the world today. It is estimated that up to 80% of people will experience back pain at some point in their lives. While there are many different causes of back pain, one question that often arises is whether or not sitting in a recliner can cause back pain. In this blog post, we will explore the relationship between recliners and back pain.
Recliners have become increasingly popular over the years, with many people opting for these comfortable chairs over traditional sofas and armchairs. However, some individuals have reported experiencing back pain after sitting in a recliner for a prolonged period. This has led to speculation about whether recliners are the cause of such discomfort.
In this blog post, we will delve into the science behind sitting in a recliner and analyze the potential causes of back pain. We will also provide practical tips for preventing and alleviating back pain while sitting in a recliner. Whether you are a long-time recliner user
Why Your Recliner May Hurt Your Back
Without adequate lumbar support, sitting in a recliner could potentially hurt your lower back.
You will slouch, for instance, if you recline in a chair with a space between your lower back and the chair.
Your lower back’s ligaments and muscles will experience strain from slouching, which will result in their lengthening, tightening, and pain.
How to Check Your Recliner For Lumbar Support
If no one is seated in the chair, fully recline it to inspect the lumbar support.
Check for a large gap where the seat and back of your recliner meet so that your body won’t sink into it.
This recliner may eventually cause lower back pain if there is an abnormally wide gap between the seat and the back.
It’s crucial to spend at least five minutes fully reclined in the chair, observing how it affects your lower back.
Where to Find Recliners With Good Lumbar Support
When you raise your legs in a recliner, there shouldn’t be a space between your lower back and the chair.
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Additionally, our recliners have seven patented features that are exclusive to La-Z-Boy products.
A reclining system created and patented by La-Z-Boy provides total lower back and body support in every position.
Your lower back is always supported when you recline in a La-Z-Boy Recliner because the back and seat move together rather than separately.
How to Find a Recliner That Fits Your Body
Inappropriate recliners can result in unneeded leg, back, and neck pain.
Similar to getting fitted for shoes, choosing a recliner involves focusing on your entire body rather than just your feet.
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Having a recliner fitted for your height and body type will reduce pain and make you feel much more comfortable.
The Additional Benefits of Elevating Your Feet
Blood will rush to your legs and feet after a long day of standing, sitting, and walking.
But by raising your feet above the level of your heart, you can provide some relief for your lower body.
When your legs are elevated above the level of your heart, blood can flow more easily from your lower to upper body.
This enables gravity to effectively lessen the strain and swelling in your legs.
Placing your feet up will also help your back because it will allow your upper muscles and tendons to receive healing blood.
To maintain balance between our upper and lower bodies, our back and core muscles are constantly in use.
Your back and nervous system will benefit greatly from some much-needed downtime from daily activities if you elevate your feet above heart level.
Are Recliners Bad For Your Back?
As long as the chair has adequate lumbar support, reclining is good for your back.
There are numerous additional health advantages if your recliner comfortably fits your body and raises your feet above heart level.
Be aware that some recliners provide significantly better lumbar support than others.
Your back may ache if you sit in a chair that doesn’t fit you for an extended period of time.
Check Out These Additional Resources
Sadly, most people will experience lower back pain at some point in their lives.
Inside La-Z-Boy Home Furnishings
Our opinion is that your recliner should provide back pain relief. Not a cause of it.
Here are a few more online resources you might want to look at:
At any of our locations in NC, SC, or GA, we would be delighted to realize your dreams.
FAQ
Why does my back hurt after sitting in a recliner?
Stress is placed on the surrounding soft tissues when the low back sags into a slouch due to overstuffed furniture and recliners. Additionally, these furniture designs frequently have pillows at the head that force the head and neck forward and cause the same issue as the low back.
Is it unhealthy to sit in a recliner?
Short-term use of a recliner won’t have any significant or long-lasting effects on your body. However, long-term use of a recliner for sleeping can lead to knee and hip contractures. Your muscles may contract over your joints as a result, limiting your ability to stand or sit up straight.
Is reclining good for lower back pain?
Many people believe they must sit up straight, but studies show that reclining your chair may actually be better for your spine because it relieves pressure. Researchers in Canada and Scotland discovered that back pain could be effectively relieved by reclining by at least 135 degrees in 2006.
Do recliners mess up your back?
Without adequate lumbar support, sitting in a recliner could potentially hurt your lower back. You will slouch, for instance, if you recline in a chair with a space between your lower back and the chair.
Why Your Back Hurts From Sitting in Your Recliner.
Reference:
https://furnitureacademy.com/recliners-bad-back/
https://healthbeat.corewellhealth.org/is-your-recliner-hurting-you/