Chair for Back Pain

There are many things that can be considered back pain factors and what we sit on is no exception. However, selecting the best ergonomic chair for back pain can be a difficult task. But one certainly worth the effort, since lower back pain can often be avoided by using a properly designed chair.

How do you define ergonomics?

Merriam-Webster OnLine defines ergonomics in two ways.

1. The design characteristics of an object resulting from the application of the science of ergonomics.

2. The science, which concerns itself with designing and arranging things people use so that people and things interact efficiently and safely.

Thus, the importance of ergonomics in selecting a chair for back pain.

Chair Ergonomics in the Workplace

When considering ergonomics in the workplace one of the most important aspects is the selection of ergonomic desk chairs.

Regardless of what the advertisements say, I am a firm believer that the best ergonomic office chair is the ONE that is most comfortable and supportive for YOU!

Yes, there are some basic guidelines to be considered when selecting a chair, such as making sure that it...

• has adequate lumbar support
• is height adjustable
• has adjustable arm positioning
• can be tilted forward or backward

However, what feels good to YOU may well be what is most important.

Are you looking to get away from the traditional task chairs or executive ergonomic chairs? If so, as you shop you may want to consider...

• an ergonomic knee chair
• an fitness ergonomic ball chair, or
• an ergonomic stool

...as alternative options.

A suggestion when buying your chair for back pain...

Don't equate price with adequate support. Although a more expensive chair may be made of superior materials and have finer detailing, it doesn't necessarily make it the best back pain chair. An inexpensive office chair may provide all of the support you are looking for.

The Office Max leather chair that I use in my home office, and sit in nearly all day, cost me $99.00. It is still extremely supportive and comfortable after a couple of years of use.

You may also be interested in:
Back Pain Products, Office Chair Exercise, Posture Exercises, Sitting Posture

Back Pain Chair Ergonomics at Home

Using a good chair for back pain should not stop at the office. What we sit on at home can be equally as important.

I use the term sit on versus sit in. Why? The word in implies a sinking down into the chair's cushions, which is NOT good for low back pain, nor for sitting posture.

When selecting a chair for home use, the optimal chair would most likely be one very similar to the best ergonomic office chair. Is that practical? 

Probably not. People usually want a bit more comfort in their living room.

The key is to find a chair that provides good lumbar support. And, so that your back does not sag, a firm but comfortable seating surface.

Since your biggest obstacle in finding the right chair for home use may be finding one with adequate lumbar support, keep in mind that ordinary throw pillows or even a rolled towel can easily add additional padding where needed. Or, you may want to purchase a memory foam lumbar support pillow, great for turning any chair into a chair for back pain!