We answer the question, is sitting in a recliner bad for your back, why is it bad and what you can do to make it less so while still being able to kick up your feet and relax.
Sitting in a recliner is often seen as a chance to relax and take the weight off our feet. After all, recliners are designed for comfort, so it’s easy to assume that they are good for our backs. However, recent research suggests that sitting in a recliner may not be ideal for those suffering from chronic back pain. In fact, the wrong kind of chair may actually do more harm than good.
So why is sitting in a recliner bad for your back? Well, reclining chairs can cause your spine to curve unnaturally due to their lower and higher seat heights. This places extra strain on your back muscles by forcing them to work harder and makes it difficult to maintain an upright posture while seated. Additionally, the lack of lumbar support found in some recliners puts additional pressure on your spine, which can lead to soreness and tension over time.
Furthermore, although it is tempting to sink into the soft cushions of a recliner when we sit down there is no evidence that this makes us any more comfortable than if we chose another kind of chair. Instead, it can make us vulnerable to slouching and poor posture due to the inability to keep our spine straight and support ourselves properly when we are seated in such positions for extended periods of time.
As well as being painful or uncomfortable at best, these kinds of poor postures can also lead to long-term health problems such as sciatica or disc degeneration if left unchecked. Therefore, it is important that those who suffer from chronic back pain discuss with their healthcare professionals what type of seating would be best suited for them before purchasing furniture or chairs for long-term use.
Why is Sitting In A Recliner Bad For Your Back??
Wondering is sitting in a recliner bad for your back has been plaguing you, you are not alone. Sitting in a recliner may seem like the perfect way to relax and get rid of back pain. After all, it offers support for your spine, neck and shoulders. But the truth is that sitting in a recliner can be just as bad for your back as sitting in an upright chair with poor posture. This is because recliners can promote bad posture, which can lead to pain and back problems over time.
When sitting in a recliner, it’s easy to slouch and let your shoulders round forward. This puts pressure on the discs of your spine, making them more vulnerable to injury. It also causes discomfort in the neck and shoulders and increases the risk of developing back and neck pain.
Recliners Encourage Slouching
The very nature of recliners encourages slouching, which puts strain on the spine. When we slouch, our head juts forward and our shoulders round. This places additional stress on the muscles and ligaments in the neck and upper back, which can lead to pain and stiffness. In addition, slouching compress the discs in the spine, which can cause or exacerbate existing back problems.
Recliners Don’t Support The Spine
Another problem with recliners is that they don’t provide any support for the spine. This lack of support allows the spine to slump, which again puts strain on the muscles and ligaments in the neck and upper back. In addition, this position can compress the discs in the spine and cause nerve impingement, leading to pain, numbness, or tingling down the arms and into the hands.
Recliners Can Worsen Existing Back Problems
If you already have back problems, reclining in a recliner will only make them worse. Any type of seating that doesn’t support the natural curve of the spine will aggravate an existing condition. So if you suffer from back pain, it’s best to avoid recliners altogether. Instead, opt for a straight-backed chair or sofa that provides adequate support for your spine. Your back will thank you!
How Do You Sit In A Recliner Without Hurting Your Back?
If you must sit in a recliner, there are a few simple adjustments you can make to protect your back. First, make sure that the recliner is upright and not too deep. If it’s too deep, your spine will not be properly supported. In addition, adjust the footrest so that your knees are slightly higher than your hips. Also, be sure to sit up straight and keep your shoulders back and down. Finally, use a cushion or lumbar support behind your lower back for added comfort. Following these simple tips can help you enjoy the comfort of a recliner without sacrificing your spine health.
Conclusion
The next time you’re tempted to sink into a comfortable recliner, think twice! While they may be cosy, recliners can actually be bad for your back. So, the next time that know-it-all says well, why is sitting in a recliner bad for your back? Remind them, that’s because they encourage slouching, which puts strain on muscles and ligaments and can compress the discs in your spine. So if you want to protect your back, stick to chairs and sofas that provide adequate support for your spine. Your back will thank you!
