Finding The Perfect Sofa Or Armchair For Your Back

Back pain affects many people in the UK, and there are a variety of reasons why it may occur. While there are several lifestyle changes you can make to improve your back health, did you know that the very place where you relax in the evenings or at the weekends could actually be making things worse?

That's right; when you wind down by watching TV on your sofa or reading the newspaper in your favourite armchair, you may actually be doing more harm than good.

Choosing the right armchair or sofa for your needs can help to ensure that your back is protected from damage.

What Causes Back Pain?

Doing strenuous activity, heavy lifting or even sitting in one place in front of a computer and desk all day at work can all contribute to a bad back. Stress and anxiety can also contribute to back discomfort.

In fact, posture is one of the most common causes of back pain. Whether it's sleeping, standing or sitting, your posture is so important in maintaining the natural curve of your spine and reducing the chances of back pain.

In particular, your posture is a key factor in the health of your back. It's important to try and consider your posture in everything you do, as this directly affects the spine and the back.

When sitting, try not to slouch and slump in your seat. Changing your position every few minutes is a useful way to prevent back pain, and using a footstool while in your chair can help to ensure your posture supports your back.

How Can Your Sofa Or Chair Help?

If you suffer from backache, there are several ways that you can reduce your pain. These can include taking regular exercise, not sitting, standing or laying in the same position for too long, and ensuring you relax effectively to reduce muscle tension.

You can also help yourself by finding a comfortable sofa or chair for back pain relief. By supporting your spine, a good quality sofa or armchair is important in helping to alleviate pain or prevent it from getting worse. It might also be worth using a pillow or cushion, such as an orthopaedic pillow, in order to offer some additional support while you relax. This can help to keep the neck and back straight.

An old suite, sofa or chair may be worn, with parts being loose or unable to support you effectively. For this reason, it might be worth considering whether your back is properly supported when you relax in your living room. Could you benefit from a new sofa or suite?

For those who struggle to get in and out of an armchair, there are options available to assist. You may suffer from joint or back pain, making it difficult to rise from your seat, or if you are elderly you may have weaker muscles and joints which can make it a challenge to get up.

Some of the most effective chairs for back pain sufferers or those who struggle to get up are lift and rise options. These chairs are not only comfortable, offering excellent support, but also come with the ability to raise up to a level which makes it much easier to stand from.

Choosing The Sofa Or Armchair For You

When it comes to picking an armchair, recliner or sofa that helps to support your back, it can often be a matter of personal preference. Comfort is the main factor, so you need to select something that not only offers support to your back, but that also provides a comfortable sitting experience and doesn't cause further damage.

If you enjoy relaxing and winding down by spending time on a sofa or armchair, it can sometimes be worth the extra investment to find something that is ideal for your needs. For example, a La-Z-Boy recliner may be the best option if you like to get really comfortable, while a large sofa or futon would be more beneficial for a family who enjoy spending time together.

Whatever you choose, remember that your suite or sofa should not only be a comfortable and inviting place, but should also offer protection and support to prevent back pain.

View our range of chairs and recliners to find the perfect one for you.