Have you ever stood up from your recliner, only to feel a kink in your neck or a strain in your lower back? If so, you might have thought, “Is my recliner bad for my back?” The truth is, it could be contributing to your discomfort—but it doesn’t have to! With the right fit, a recliner can be beneficial for your health.
In this blog post, we’ll explore finding a recliner that fits you perfectly and the health benefits of using the right recliner. Stick around to learn more!
How to Find the Right Recliner
Think of a recliner like a pair of shoes. While style is important, the fit matters even more. Just as ill-fitting shoes can lead to blisters and foot pain, an ill-fitting recliner could be the hidden cause of your back and neck aches. Follow this simple checklist to make sure your recliner fits you properly:
Step 1: Check Seat Depth
When you sit back into the recliner, your knees should be bent at a 90-degree angle, and your feet should rest comfortably on the floor. If your legs are hanging or scrunched up, the chair may not be the right size.
Step 2: Shoulder Support
As you sit back, your shoulders should naturally align with the seam where the two back cushions meet. This helps ensure that your back is well-supported and avoids any strain.
Step 3: Lumbar Support
Your recliner should have a cushion that provides good lumbar support for your lower back. This cushion should match the natural curve of your spine, ensuring your back doesn’t cave inwards, which could lead to tension and discomfort.
Step 4: Neck Alignment
Rest your head on the headrest cushion. It should support your head and neck without causing your neck to extend forward. A well-designed headrest will keep your neck aligned with your spine, helping you avoid neck strain.
Step 5: Footrest Fit
In a reclining position, your feet should not dangle too far over the edge of the chair. The heels of your feet should just reach the end of the footrest, providing support and comfort.
Health Benefits of a Properly Fitted Recliner
Now that you’ve found the perfect recliner, it’s time to enjoy the health benefits! A properly fitted recliner doesn’t just reduce discomfort—it can actually help you feel better in many ways.
Relieve Back and Muscle Pain
One of the most significant health benefits of a recliner is pain relief. When in a zero-gravity position, your muscles fully relax. This reduces tension in your back, neck, and abdominal muscles, giving your body a true chance to recover, especially after a long day. If you suffer from back pain, resting in a recliner can be a great way to relieve lower back pain.
Improve Circulation
In a zero-gravity reclined position, your blood circulation improves. This optimal circulation helps blood return to your heart more efficiently, reducing strain on your body’s systems. Better circulation also promotes faster healing, which is particularly beneficial if you’re recovering from an injury or surgery.
Enhance Lung Function
Believe it or not, reclining can even improve your lung function. When you lean back in a relaxed position, your diaphragm expands to its full capacity, allowing for deeper breaths. Over time, this leads to overall better lung function and healthier breathing patterns.
Aid Digestion
After a big meal, sitting back in your recliner can actually promote better digestion. The relaxed position gives your digestive system the time and space it needs to process food fully, helping you feel more comfortable and sleep better.
Conclusion: Get the Perfect Fit for Comfort and Health
Choosing the right recliner is about more than just aesthetics—it’s about comfort, health, and well-being. A recliner that fits your body correctly can help relieve back pain, improve circulation, enhance lung function, and even aid digestion.
For more information on how to choose the right recliner, check out my other blog for more tips.
