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In this article we shall focus on the best recliner for back pain, hopefully this will help you narrow down on your choices.
Before we get into it…
A while back, we had to take my grandma to the store to buy a new recliner. For years she has suffered lumbar spinal stenosis and other age related spinal issues, and as a result has had several back surgeries.
However, at the store the recliners were just too many, before long granny, my mom and I were simply overwhelmed. It also did not help that we felt the store assistant was just trying to make a sale and her face showed some frustration after a while.
After about 50 chair trials, we were exhausted. We ended up not making a purchase and instead went out for lunch.
When my dad came back from work that same evening, my mom told him how hard it was making a decision on the recliner at the store. He quickly jumped on his laptop and within no time he was reading recliner chair reviews on Amazon. Based on the reviews he saw, he was able to buy a sturdy recliner that granny has used and loved for the last 4 years.
The purchase from Amazon was so simple. The reviewers were honest and the recliner was delivered in a few short days. It was also cheaper compared to the chairs at the store.
Unlike the traditional chairs which force you to support your own weight, recliners remove that task from you ensuring your back gets some good rest, as well as alleviating pressure and pain.
However, to be frank, not all recliners are made to cater for those suffering from any form of back pain.
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What is a recliner?
A recliner is also called the lounger or the armchair. It is a specially designed chair which comes with:
- Head rest
- Back/ Lumbar support
- Heat massage
- Motor
- Footrest/ Ottoman
All these features ensure that your muscles are supported, body tension is relieved and most of all you get relief from your back pain.
Top 5 Best Recliners for Back Pain
Deciding on which reclining chair to purchase can be a challenge for sure. We put together these reviews to help you come to a decision.
Our top 5 are reviewed below:
#1. La-Z-Boy Anderson Reclina Rocker
The La-Z-Boy brand is a strong American brand with great heritage. This company has been in existence for over 90 years delivering quality furniture.
The Anderson Reclina Rocker model is very effective and is made up of padded back which helps to give you lumbar support as well as neck and back pain relief. It can also be used to rocking you or a baby to sleep.
Being a traditional, you get to enjoy the manual controlling of either lowering or raising you to the required angle for comfort. This prevents it from adjusting faster which may cause problems.
If you are into a recliner for comfort yet giving you a classy and traditional look, this should be on your list for sure.
Features
- checkPadded back
- checkLeg rests
- check21’wide and 20’deep
- checkControl handle
Advantages
- Effective and comfortable
- Relieves you of back and neck pain
- Affordable
- thumbs-o-upWashable and treatable
Disadvantages
- Not very durable due to the material used
- thumbs-downNot very effective for severe back pain
#2. Mac Motion Oslo Collection Recliner
This is a good looking contemporary recliner.The Oslo collection is not just about elegance, this is a comfortable chair too.
The sloping ottoman, gives your legs good support and for those with either short or long legs the ottoman can be moved to suit them.
If you need a recliner that can be used at home, in the office or even in an RV, this is the model for you.
Features
- checkAdjustable head and backrest
- checkGrain leather and polish finish
- checkOttoman foam
- checkPersonalized reclining feature
Advantages
- Very compact, occupies little space
- Very durable and sturdy because of its leather material
- Effective and convenient for home and office use
- thumbs-o-upRelieves you back pain and strains
Disadvantages
#3. Cozzia Dual Power Recliner
The zero gravity features on this chair, ensures you position yourself into a comfortable angle to get off all the pressure and weight from your back.
This recliner is not bulky; it will not take up much space. It is also has a good height off the floor. Not many people like recliners that are too close to the floor.
Even if you do not suffer from any back related problems, you will still enjoy this chair especially the gentle heat massage.
Features
- checkAdjustable footrest
- checkHeadrests
- checkVibrating massage function
- checkHeat therapy
- checkZero gravity feature
Advantages
- Relieves stress as well as alleviates back pain
- Durable and sturdy due to the material used
- Very comfortable for both sleeping and office therapy
Disadvantages
- Very expensive
- thumbs-downNot very comfortable for sitting for long hours due to less padding
#4. Homelegance Glider Reclining chair
This chair has the great and classy American design.
The 9668BRW Glider is among the best models in the market known for its durability and high performance.
You will get all the comfort and relaxation you need for your back.
Features
- checkBack and headrests
- checkLumbar support
- checkGliding option
- checkLever Reclining adjustments
- checkAmerican design
- checkVinyl/faux leather body
Advantages
- Comfortable
- Relieves back pain as well as sore joints
- Easy to assemble and disassemble
- very affordable
Disadvantages
- Easy to wear out as the material used is not very durable
#5. Electric Shiatsu Massage Chair Recliner Stretched Foot Rest
Shiatsu massage chairs are very effective and popular recliners for all your massage needs.
If you are into style as well as a high end recliner to take care of all your back pain, spine tensions as well as stiffness in the knees, look no further.
This Massage chair is well equipped to ensure you have the best massage to relieve your back pain and also improve your blood circulation. It takes the curve of your body to focus on the key areas on the body to get you relaxed.
The heat function does an amazing job of relieving all soreness and stiffness from your body.
Features
- checkIn-built massage options (kneading, rolling, compression, shiatsu, vibration)
- checkHeating options
- checkAir ottoman system
- checkControl panel
- checkIn-built LED Digital display
- checkHead and footrests
Advantages
- Very comfortable
- Study
- Relaxes your joints and also relieves your back and spine of tension and pain
- Effective for whole body health as it relieves you of both mentally and physical pain
Disadvantages
- Premium pricing
- thumbs-downNot easy to assemble because of the heavy weight
How does a recliner work?
Unlike the ordinary chair which puts more stress on your spine, a recliner chair ensures your back gets rest and comfort.
Once you lay or sit in the recliner chair, gravity is distributed evenly around the body by lifting the entire from the ground.
When this happens, the process pushes the weight of your upper body into the seat instead of your lower back. The weight is distributed evenly allowing the back muscles to relax.
What are the benefits of a recliner?
Recliners are a must have. Besides the comfort, you are able to enjoy many other benefits such as:
- They may alleviate all the strains and pains on your back. This is because, they ensure all the tension and pressure is relieved from the spine.
- They ensure you get the most comfortable and relaxing angle to position your body.
- The design of the chair ensures you have the correct posture as well as positioning hence relieves you of bad posture problems like neck and spinal pains.
- Some recliners come with massage and heat features which help improve blood circulation and relieving pain in the lower and upper body. This also helps relieve stiffness and reduce feet swelling.
- Help relieve back pain related to pregnancy. They align the back of the pregnant woman by taking off some weight.
What are the available types of recliners for back pain?
Depending on your back situation, there are various types of recliners for your needs.
They are made uniquely to control any situation in both the young and seniors, with medical problems or your normal back related issues.
They are all made differently to regularly deal with back related issues and they surely work. They include the following:
Zero Gravity Recliners
These recliners are very unique and are designed to make you get a lot of comfort.
They incorporate a spacious technology which makes them stand out.
Their zero gravity ensures you have the best rest for your back.
They can mimic your body shape and recline according to your need and relieves stress from your back and hips. They are recommended for any type of back pains either temporary or permanent. They ensure you have a more relaxed and soothed back.
They ensure your body is positioned in the best way to avoid stress and pressure on your spine and your back. This is very possible because of the lumbar support which further cushions the back.
Massaging Recliners
If all you need is soothing and relaxation, this chair is the one for you.
This armchair incorporates rollers, motors, heating and vibrating features. All these features ensure your muscles are warmed giving you the soothing sensation as well as get rid of stiffness in your joints and knees.
They are unique in that, they can mimic the feeling of getting massage from a professional therapist, great right?
Besides that, they come with various reclining features such as the cushioned recliners to give you lots of comfort. They can handle all the body strains from the head to the feet.
They also ensure your blood circulation is improved as well as relieving stress, which is key for good health.
Additionally, they are designed for those suffering from arthritis and general neck and back pain.
Lifting Recliners
This is an amazing recliner for the elderly people or those suffering from chronic back pain.
With arthritis, most seniors are faced with standing and even sitting difficulties.
Additionally, these chairs come with controls which help the user control the chair from their sitting position. This controls help you decide whether you need to lower or raise the chair as per your convenience. Their massage and heating feature also relax your spine.
If you are into style, this is a recliner to consider. They come in many colors that you could match with your home décor.
Classic Recliners
These chairs are the traditional styled recliners.
This is the basic recliner on the market which offers the lumbar support as well as feet comfort which are the main elements of a good one.
They are designed for those people who have basic back and neck pain that can be corrected easily.
Additionally, it comes with padded back for more support as well as the remote control for you to set your required sitting position. This is very convenient for those who need not only a working but also a classy and traditional seat.
Recliners with separate Ottomans
Getting a position that works best for you on a recliner is an important issue.
This type is for you if you are not very comfortable with the normal position of footrests or neck rests on most recliners or you have an unusual height; either too tall or too short than the normal person. They come with separate ottomans which can be positioned differently according to the user’s needs.
If you need a classy, elegant and unique chair for your limited space, consider this type of recliner. Besides that, they have the lumbar support which ensures your back is relaxed.
What are the factors to consider when selecting recliner for back pain?
As there are very may varieties of recliners to choose from on the market, it can be a challenge getting a good chair that meets your specific needs.
Here are a few things you might want to consider:
User needs
This is a very vital factor as it ensures your needs are put into consideration. Since back pain is categorized into two categories: acute and chronic, you have to ensure you know what you are suffering from. Acute back pains may be because of heavy lifting, strenuous exercises or sitting and normal standing. In this case, other treatments may be very effective. However, when you have chronic back pain, mostly associated with pregnancy, depression or health ailments, a good recliner will work magic for you. It is very effective and recommended for intense back pain.
Features
A good recliner worth your money should have these features:
- Lumbar support-this ensures your back is comfortable and relieves you of all the weight.
- Massage solutions-this will give your back all the relaxation as well as relieve pain and pressure on the back.
- Heating Options-heat is important as it increases blood circulation as well as gets rid of soreness in the joints.
- Reclining options-ensure the chair can be reclined at different angles for comfort.
Material
Recliners’ come in various materials and design to satisfy the users taste. Ensure you get the best at your convenience according to budget, use frequency and material. For instance:
- Leather-They are the best because of the durability. They are also the most expensive. Easy to clean. They offer the best massage because of their material and its ability to heat fast.
- Fabric-Many armchairs go for this material as they are the most common as well as affordable. This material is also washable and treatable.
- Vinyl- almost like leather but it is not stronger than the leather material. They are also durable than the fabric material and affordable. However, they do start peeling off after regular use or movement.
Warranty
This is a very important feature as it gives you the guarantee for your equipment as well as money. Ensure you get a recliner that has a warranty on it. This is to ensure that in case of any fault; you will get help or compensation.
In this case, different recliner brands offer different warranty combination as follows:
- Full warranty-most recliners offer this kind of warranty for at least 6 months to a year. This is to guarantee all parts and incase it stops working before the expiry of the warranty, you may be given a new part or the fault corrected.
- Money back Warranty-This is effective if in a period of 30 days, you find your chair ineffective for your needs you can return it and get your money back. This is mostly because it is a trial period, if the recliner is good, you can keep it. Some brands offer a shorter period of 7 days’ trial.
- Limited warranty-Since warranty guarantees for the recliner, some companies offer warranty on various parts of the chair and does not cater for the other part. This means that, once there is fault with the other parts, you will have to buy new parts or even the whole recliner.
Budget
As there are a variety of recliner to choose from, ensure you compare prices and what they have to offer to meet your needs. This will guide you in making the best decision as they also vary in prices, quality and performance.
Size
Recliners come in different sizes. Depending on your body size or your room space, consider getting the one that fits you well.
If a recliner is smaller than your body, it will do you more harm more than good.
A well-fitting chair ensures you are comfortable and you get a good experience.
If you have a small room, say an office, you might want to consider getting a smaller recliner.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Before getting the best Recliner on the market, most people ask questions to be sure of the products quality, how to use and more. Here are some questions you might have as well:
1. Does a recliner for back pain really work?
According to many user reviews and testimonials, many have found relief from their back pain with these special recliners.
The features like strong lumbar support, massage, heat, recline are all designed to decompress the pressure on your spine.
2. Where can you purchase Recliner for Back pain?
If you are looking for quality recliners, you should definitely consider making a purchase off Amazon. This online store has different variations of the product; it’s a trusted platform that ships fast. Amazon is also known for their massive discounts every so often.
3. How can I use the recliner for Back Pain more effectively?
Different recliners are tailored for different users.
Are you tall, do you have a large frame, are you short, do you prefer a chair with some distance off the ground, how heavy are you. If you have a condition with your heart or your blood flow, you might want to consider a chair that reclines more.
If it is about your back, you are looking for a strong chair with great lumbar support.
4. Are the Recliners for Back Pain safe?
If your back pain is severe, we do recommend you consult your doctor on any additional remedy for your condition.
But generally recliners are safe to use and come with manufacturer instructions on how best to use them.
5. Can Recliners be used for sleeping?
Because of the reclining feature and the absolute comfort, many users do find themselves asleep ever so often on their recliners. Some even abandon their beds all together.
Recliners have been known correct some conditions such as sleep apnea. They also help in correcting breathing complications and digestive issues such as the heartburn. The elevated position may help remedy these problems.
However, you should not sleep on the recliner for very long as regular users have reported feeling sluggish and experiencing sore joints.
6. How can I maintain a recliner for Back pains?
Like any product, recliners too require some basic care. For good maintenance, ensure you do the following:
- Avoid direct contact with water as they come with inbuilt electronic components which may be destroyed.
- Avoid using fabric softeners or chemicals on the recliner as this may cause them to wear out.
- Keep sharp objects away from the chair to avoid any cutting of seat.
7. What are the causes of Back pain?
Apart from back pain being caused by normal sofas that do not work for you, here are other causes:
- Aging
- Health conditions such as arthritis
- Bad sitting posture
- Pregnancy
- .Stressful lifestyle
- Standing for too long
- Intense exercise
- Being over weight
For some of these, there is something you can do to make your life better. You could lose a few pounds, you could choose to live a less stressful life, some of you could end up changing your jobs/ careers all together especially one that makes you stand for way too long.
Conclusion
We do hope you found this article informative and that you have found a recliner that could work for you or your loved one.
This information should not be substituted to that of a professional chiropractor or a medical doctor.
