Yes, a recliner is suitable for some individuals with spinal stenosis. Individuals experiencing pain from degenerative disc disease or lumbar spinal stenosis usually find a reclined position with their feet elevated on a footrest to be the most comfortable.
Moreover, for these individuals, using a recliner while working may be a good option as well. Small tables are available that can attach to the reclining chair and swivel over the chair, allowing one to work comfortably on a laptop or do paperwork.
Is A Recliner Good For Spinal Stenosis? – Key Takeaways
[su_quote]A recliner is indeed suitable for individuals with spinal stenosis as it provides better lumbar support, customizable positioning, and reduced weight bearing.
It is important to maintain proper sitting posture when using a recliner, such as taking breaks regularly, using adequate lumbar support, and keeping feet flat.
When selecting a chair for stenosis, look for proper lumbar support, maximum seat depth and height, adjustable armrests, reclining function, and high-density foam.[/su_quote]
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What Exactly Is Spinal Stenosis?
According to the definition, spinal stenosis is a medical condition in which the spinal canal contracts, causing the nerves or spinal cord to compress. Well, the spinal canal is a hollow passageway running through the center of the spine, containing the spinal cord and nerve roots.
When the spinal canal narrows, it can pressure the nerve roots or spinal cord, which leads to symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness.
For your information, this can occur in any part of the spine, but it most commonly affects the neck (cervical spine) and the lower back (lumbar spine). It can be caused by various factors, including degenerative changes in the spine due to aging, herniated discs, spinal injuries, etc.
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How Is a Recliner Good For Spinal Stenosis?
Although I said earlier that a recliner is good for spinal stenosis, it’s essential to deeply understand the exact reasons why we are looking at the statement. Well, the following are some potential reasons making a recliner ideal for spinal stenosis.
You Get Better Lumbar Support, Reducing Spine Strain.
Recliners often feature built-in lumbar support, which can assist in preserving the natural curvature of the lower back and lessening the strain on the spine.
This can provide relief for individuals with spinal stenosis by promoting better spinal alignment and reducing pressure on the affected nerves.
Customizable Positioning, Adjustable Backrest & Footrest.
Recliners typically allow users to adjust the angle of the backrest and footrest, which can help them find a comfortable position that alleviates pain associated with spinal stenosis. Reclining and elevating the legs can reduce pressure on the spine and promote relaxation.
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Reduced Weight-Bearing, Distributing Weight Evenly.
Sitting in a reclined position can help distribute body weight more evenly across the backrest and footrest, reducing the pressure on the spine compared to sitting upright in a regular chair.
This can provide relief for individuals with spinal stenosis who may experience discomfort while sitting for prolonged periods.
How to Reduce Spinal Stenosis Pain When Sitting?
If you have the symptoms of spinal stenosis, it’s essential to maintain a proper sitting posture while using a recliner. The following are some suggestions that you should consider when sitting on a recliner with spinal stenosis.
- Taking breaks regularly every 20 minutes when sitting in a recliner helps prevent stiffness and pain by giving your muscles a chance to move and stretch.
- When sitting in a recliner, use it appropriately to get the maximum or at least adequate lumbar support. This way, you can maintain the natural curve of your lower back, alleviating the pressure on your spinal nerves and reducing pain.
- Ensure that your feet are flat either on the ground or the footrest of the recliner, plus your legs aren’t crossed. Taking care of these things can help maintain a proper sitting posture and reduce pressure on your lower back.
- Maintain a hip height above your knees by adjusting the footrest or the recliner angle. Doing only this can help reduce pressure on your lower back and alleviate symptoms of spinal stenosis.
Although these are just four tips, these can help you reduce too much pressure on the spinal and even alleviate the symptoms of spinal stenosis. Make sure to take care of the things we discussed to make your time a bit more enjoyable.
Read more about The truth about recliners and neck pain.
What Type of Chair Is Best for Spinal Stenosis?
No doubt, the type of chair that is best for spinal stenosis may vary depending on an individual’s specific needs and condition. Still, the following are some general guidelines to consider when selecting a chair for someone with spinal stenosis.
Start With Proper Lumbar Support.
Having a chair with proper lumbar support can sustain the lower back’s natural curve and alleviate pressure on the spine. You must look for chairs with adjustable lumbar support to ensure a customized fit.
Get Maximum Seat Depth and Height.
The seat should be deep enough to support the full length of the thighs, and the feet should be able to rest flat on the ground. The height of the seat must also be adjusted so that the hips are level with or slightly inflated compared to the knees.
Look For Adjustable Armrests.
Armrests can help reduce strain on the neck and shoulders by providing support for the upper body. Find the chairs that come with adjustable armrests to ensure a comfortable fit.
Don’t Forget the Reclining function.
A chair with a reclining function can help reduce pressure on the spine and may be more comfortable for those with spinal stenosis.
However, it’s important to ensure that the chair provides adequate support and that the head is not tilted too far forward or backward when reclined.
High-Density Foam Is Better.
Chairs made from high-density foam or memory foam can provide added comfort and support for those with spinal stenosis. Additionally, you can go for breathable materials since these can help prevent sweating and discomfort.
FAQs
Is Sleeping In a Recliner Good for Spinal Stenosis?
Sleeping in a recliner may be a good option for some individuals with spinal stenosis who have difficulty sleeping in a flat position. Sleeping in a reclined position can help alleviate pressure on the spine, which may help to reduce pain and discomfort.
How Should You Sit With Spinal Stenosis?
If you have spinal stenosis and want to sit to relieve the pain, follow the following tips to ensure proper positioning while avoiding pressure on the spine.
Take breaks every 20 minutes and move around to prevent stiffness and pain.
Make sure to utilize a chair equipped with lumbar support to retain the natural curvature of your lower back.
Ensure that your feet are either flat on the ground or on the recliner’s footrest if you’re using it, and don’t cross your legs.
Maintain a hip height above your knees by adjusting the footrest or the chair angle.
Use an ergonomic chair with adjustable depth, or consider increasing the width of your chair to ensure your knees are not closer to the edge of the seat than three fingers.
Alternating between sitting and standing may also help alleviate symptoms of spinal stenosis.
Does Sitting In a Recliner Hurt Your Back?
Sitting in a recliner may or may not hurt your back, depending on various factors such as your posture, the recliner’s design and your medical condition.
Sitting in a recliner can be comfortable and beneficial for individuals with back pain or spinal stenosis as long as it’s used appropriately and with proper posture.
For your information, properly designed and adjusted recliners that provide adequate support can be beneficial for individuals with back pain or spinal stenosis.
