Back pain can be unforgiving, and it's no secret that sitting for extended periods of time can worsen the situation. Sometimes, it can be unavoidable. For those who work from home, sitting at the kitchen table or in the office chair you've had for years can certainly take its toll on your back.
If you've been propping yourself up with a pillow for extra lumbar support, it might be time to consider another option. While consulting a chiropractor or physical therapist might be the best option, investing in a seat cushion could help provide temporary relief, especially for those currently working and learning from home.
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There is an overwhelming amount of cushions for back support available online, so we asked an expert for their thoughts.
"It's important to understand that cushions are not the first go-to to treat or prevent back pain," said Dr. Eric Robertson, a physical therapist and Adjunct Associate Professor of Clinical Physical Therapy at USC. "That said, a cushion should work to help support your body, and not push it into new positions that themselves might be uncomfortable."
If you're looking for a comfortable cushion that's backed by rave reviews, the ComfiLife Premium Comfort Seat Cushion has amassed over 14,000 verified five-star ratings on Amazon. It is meant to contour to the natural shape of the body and promote healthy posture while sitting, according to its product description.
ComfiLife Premium Comfort Seat Cushion
The brand says the cushion is ergonomically designed to provide support and comfort by taking pressure off the tailbone while sitting on hard surfaces. Other features, such as the non-slip bottom, keep the cushion from sliding so you can rest comfortably all day.
"I’ve only been using this for three days so far and I already feel relief," one verified purchaser wrote. "I sit at a desk all day for work and this cushion has helped to reduce the numbness feeling around my tailbone."
The soft removable cover on the cushion features an attached handle for easy transport, so you can take it with you on long road trips or even to sporting events to help prevent back pain. This was useful for another reviewer who noted that the cushion "helped a lot for longer sitting times."
For optimal ways of promoting back relief, Robertson suggests coupling the use of a cushion with several other lifestyle changes.
"I would recommend taking frequent breaks, changing positions often, like trial standing and sitting, using different chairs, and taking small stretch and walk breaks in addition to the possibility of trying out a cushion," Robertson said.
