Seat Cushion for Back Pain – 2023 Chiropractors Guide | Good Top Lumbar Seat Cushions

If you’re like most people, you spend a lot of time sitting. And if you suffer from back issues, that can be a significant issue. But don’t worry, there is a solution: I will show you what to look for when shopping for the best seat cushion for back pain.  I will give you vital advice about seat cushions that will change your life. Here are my secrets, and they’re not just any old tips but the key ingredients for comfort and support in both work AND leisure time!

As a general rule, the best seat cushion for back pain should have a natural latex foam top and a high-density foam base designed to provide spinal stability and comfort. Using an ergonomic seat cushion will help you distribute your weight evenly, and you won’t overload your spine. 

Back pain is a common ailment that affects millions of people worldwide. It is classified into two types: acute and chronic. Acute back pain is typically short-term and lasts for a few days to several weeks before subsiding. Chronic spine issues, on the other hand, lasts for 12 weeks or longer.

Potential Reasons for Back Pain

Lower back pain is the most common type of back issue, and it can be caused by a variety of factors. These include:

• congenital skeletal abnormalities such as scoliosis, lordosis, and kyphosis
• degenerative conditions like arthritis, spondylosis, and disc degeneration. 
• Other potential causes of low spine symptoms include spinal problems like sciatica, ruptured discs, spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis, and osteoporosis. 
• Additionally, conditions like piriformis syndrome, fibromyalgia, endometriosis, pregnancy, and tumors can also contribute to back pain.

Every year, Americans allocate approximately $90 billion in their pursuit of relief from back and neck pain, engaging in various methods such as surgery, doctor’s appointments, X-rays, MRI scans, and medications.

Certain lifestyle factors can also increase the risk of developing back pain. Overweight and elderly individuals are more prone to back issues, as are those who lead sedentary lifestyles or have poor posture. Individuals who sit for prolonged periods of time, especially with inadequate back support, are at an increased risk of developing spine issues. Stress, anxiety, and depression have also been linked to an increased risk of back pain.

If you’re struggling with back pain, I wrote an article on how to manage your pain and why you should do these important steps and I encourage you to read it!

As a chiropractor, I usually recommend that individuals maintain regular movement and exercise, along with using proper seat cushions that may help prevent back pain. A healthy spine also depends on getting enough quality sleep, as poor sleep can contribute to spine issues and impact overall well-being. Therefore, having a good sitting posture during the day and a proper sleeping position at night can help individuals maintain a healthy spine and minimize the risk of developing back pain.

Why You Should Read This:

I have been treating patients with back pain for decades. My philosophy has always been that if you get your sitting, standing, and sleeping posture correct, you will be in a much better place. And chances are, you won’t need chiropractors or physical therapists. Saying that I am not against chiropractors or physical therapists. They both have their place in helping people who need extra care.

The point is that I have treated hundreds of patients with neck, mid-back, low back, shoulder, hip, arm, and leg pain. The vast majority of these patients had poor posture. Once I got them in proper alignment, their issues would typically fall by the wayside.

Chiropractic Adjustments Were Not Enough…

As a chiropractor, I often see patients complaining of pain in their backs, necks, or joints. After unknotting their muscles and aligning their bones, I always emphasize the importance of maintaining good posture and keeping their bodies in alignment. However, even after getting relief from their chiropractic adjustments, many patients return to their old sitting, standing, and sleeping in poor alignment. This weakening of their core can eventually lead to another breakdown and another round of pain. I always stress the importance of proactive care to my patients, but it can be frustrating to see them relapse into old patterns that will only cause them more pain in the long run. (source)

Education Didn’t Work Either…

I tried education, giving prescribed exercises, to my patients so that they too would be proactive themselves and take more responsibility in maintaining their core and balanced posture. However, unfortunately, I found education and exercise to be pointless because they rarely worked for anybody.

I would explain the importance of having a strong core and good posture, showing them how to do specific exercises that would help them achieve this. Many times they would leave my office feeling motivated and confident that they could finally overcome years of pain by doing these exercises on their own.

However, in follow-up appointments, it became clear that very few of them were actually doing the exercises or seeing any improvement. Some patients would sheepishly admit that they had only done the exercises a few times, while others would insist that they had been doing them religiously but still weren’t seeing any results.

It was frustrating to see so many people struggling with pain that could potentially be alleviated if they only adopted a few simple lifestyle changes. In the end, I came to the conclusion that education and exercise prescription were simply not enough to make lasting changes.

Life-Changing Event…

The unthinkable happened 11 years ago when I was in a car accident that left me with severe damage to my neck and left arm. I was devastated! I had always been so active and physically fit, and now I was the one making rounds to chiropractors, doctors, and pain management specialists. I tried everything to get better, but nothing worked. My surgical colleagues consulted with me and told me that I had exhausted all my options and that surgery was my only hope.

As I was going through my tough times, I felt like my story was unique and that no one could relate to what I was going through. As I reflect, I realize that everyone has their setbacks and challenges. Sometimes, when everything seems to be falling apart, the best thing you can do is simply let things be. Answers will come to you. It was certainly the case for me when I realized that things would improve if I rebooted my system and focused on my structure.

I’ve written a complete hands-on review about the best sitting position for sciatica, and here is what I tested best with my sciatica patients.

Best Seat Cushion for Back Pain

 All Day Comfort & Support

 

Product Name	Axial Designs™ Seat Cushion
Price	$149
Warranty	1 Year
Type	Posture Wedge
Top Layer	100% Natural Latex (Molded)
Bottom Layer	High-Density Foam
Top Material	Isometric Grippy Vegan Leather
Bottom Material	Non-Slip Material
Side Material	3D Breathable Fabric

Understanding How the Body Works…

I have always been interested in body mechanics and how the body moves. Ever since I was a child, I have been fascinated by how the body moves and works together. I started to look deeper into it and found that I needed to focus on developing a stronger core. Once I developed a strong core, everything else should start falling into place.

When dealing with my injuries, I wanted to ensure that I was doing everything possible to help my body heal. I knew that part meant getting my body mechanics right all day. I didn’t want my body to get used to the injuries and adapt to them in a way that would make it harder for them to heal. Instead, I needed to actively adapt by getting my sitting, standing, and sleeping in perfect alignment. This would help my body heal more quickly and effectively. And, over time, it would also help prevent further injuries from occurring.

Getting Spinal Alignment Right…

Regarding spinal alignment, a few things are more important than comfort and core muscle engagement. I found in my practice that a weak and imbalanced CORE is almost always the CORE cause of back problems. The best way to achieve a strong and balanced core while sitting is to ensure that all of your foundational muscles are engaged. This means engaging your abdominals, hips, glutes, spine, and leg muscles. You should feel a sense of stability and support throughout your entire trunk. (source)

My Research…

I used sEMG technology to study the effects of back pain on people (sEMG scans measure muscle imbalances). I obtained objective data about what makes these individuals more comfortable when seated by testing various materials, designs, and angles to find a combination that worked for most patients suffering from pain. The key was finding enough cushioning without being too soft or firm. It needs to support the spine and evenly distribute weight throughout your body with an angled design that helps alleviate discomfort when sitting.

The Rabbit Hole…

I was surprised at how cheap the similar seat cushions were on Aliexpress from the listing on Amazon!

After struggling to find the perfect solution online, I went down a rabbit hole and purchased many different products. The price was much less on many Aliexpress. Nothing felt right or helped stabilize my spinal injuries or, more importantly, my patients! There were so many price options to cover that all looked similar with cheap materials like memory foam – it’s no wonder people have such a poor understanding of basic human body sitting mechanics!

I was shocked by how little attention is paid to design for something meant to be used daily. I couldn’t find one single product that could withstand even close inspection. Why do we accept such poor quality when it comes to something we use daily? Our bodies are incredible machines and deserve the best care and support. It’s time to demand more from the producers of these products! Design better products that take into account the needs of our bodies and don’t cut corners, not based on price and cheap materials. We deserve better!

Most of the ‘Ergonomic’ seat cushions had this same design with FAKE REVIEWS. I  had countless patients complaining about how these cushions had almost no support or comfort. The only apparent difference was the cover or branding, as seen in the pictures above and below:

If It’s to Be, Then It’s Up to Me?

My research into the perfect seat cushion led me down a path of discovery, where I found that it’s not just about providing support for your spine but also making sure you’re comfortable all around. Testing various materials and designs on patients helped me arrive at an optimal combination to ensure optimum spinal alignment without discomfort! Here are some findings explicitly related to the best way to sit pain-free:

I explain the concept of my ergonomic design on a TV show HERE

The Best Way to Sit Pain-Free

Here is an interesting tip that may be helpful for those dealing with back pain: instead of sitting up straight in their seats, they should consider adjusting the angle of their seat so that the trunk-to-thigh ratio increases. This could potentially be beneficial as it may reduce spinal disc pressure by as much as 35 percent when the angle is changed to a maximum of 110 degrees. It’s important to note that this technique is not just beneficial for those who suffer from chronic back pain, but could also be useful for people who only experience occasional discomfort.

The picture below shows how slouching and hunching forward can cause serious spine problems. Stooping and slouching forward should be avoided if you suffer from back pain. When you adopt this posture, your spinal cord is compressed and you are putting substantial stress on your back.

I found with my patients that the ideal recline angle for reducing disc pressure was 135 degrees. However, working in that position is impossible. As a result of using sEMG scans with my patients at various seating angles and by having them sit on an ergonomic seat cushion or office chair (with adjustable height), I found out that most people felt comfortable when their hip height was 3-4 inches higher than the knee block they’re sitting down against–the easiest way is achieved through using a well designed ergonomic seat cushion. However, there can be flaws here, so let me guide you through any potential landmines/dead ends.

I’ve written a complete hands-on review about the best sitting position for sciatica, and here is what I tested best with my sciatica patients.

Best Seat Cushion for Back Pain

 All Day Comfort & Support

 

Product Name	Axial Designs™ Seat Cushion
Price	$149
Warranty	1 Year
Type	Posture Wedge
Top Layer	100% Natural Latex (Molded)
Bottom Layer	High-Density Foam
Top Material	Isometric Grippy Vegan Leather
Bottom Material	Non-Slip Material
Side Material	3D Breathable Fabric

Ergonomic Seat Cushions

Here is a TV video of me explaining my findings on the correct angle of seat ergonomics for back pain sufferers:

How Can You Tell if the Seat Cushion Is Ergonomic?

Ergonomic cushions are designed to provide support and comfort, and they often come with various features.  However, I believe that there are key features that all ergonomic seat cushions must have to be effective:

• multiple foam layers
• proper types of foam
• pressure point relief
• resiliency
• ergonomic design

Multiple Foam Seat Layers for Office Chair

Most back support seat cushions are made of one piece of foam. I believe that high-end back support seat cushions should come with two main types of comfort layers. I recommend purchasing a cushion with at least two layers of comfort. The ergonomic seat cushion in the picture below is my latest design. 

What are the differences between these layers?  Put simply; they can make all the difference between being comfortable and uncomfortable while sitting.

The main criteria for the layers of a seat support cushion for a lumbar foam seat:

• Your chair’s seat base is made of foam, which provides the chair with a high-quality foundation. The foam can support up to 96kg per square meter.
• Cover. A soft, comfortable layer cover for the seat top, keeping you cool and protected. Constructed to be comfortable (56-68 kg/m3) cover.
• Ideally, I found that natural latex foam is a better choice. I also discovered that other types of synthetic latex did not match the comfort, resilience, and alignment of natural latex since they do not have the same properties as human skin!
• When choosing a cushion, multiple layers of comfort and support can help to reduce pressure on certain points of the body. It is important to find a cushion that is consistent in its support and does not sag excessively when weight is concentrated.

Density of Foams

Getting the foam right is essential for seat cushion comfort. Depending on the level of firmness and support you require, the weight (density) of a foam determines both its longevity and quality: lightweight, medium weight, or heavyweight:

• Low Density – Unlike other types of seats, these don’t take up a lot of space and offer very little support.
• Medium-Density – This type of foam is average and cheap.
• High-Density – Designed to last longer and handle heavier usage.

Choose a high-resilience foam seat if you’re looking for a comfortable seat. This material is durable and expensive, but if money isn’t a concern, it will provide you with unparalleled comfort!

When purchasing a cushion, it can be frustrating when it doesn’t live up to expectations. When searching for the best seat cushion, it’s important to look for characteristics such as durability and longevity. A quality seat cushion is made from materials that provide comfort, support, and resilience. A well-designed cushion can make sitting more comfortable, whether you’re travelling on airplanes or working at a desk. A cushion that is ergonomically designed can potentially provide benefits to your comfort and overall sitting experience.

High-Density Foams Pillow

High-density foam seat cushions are so popular other than their price. While these seats provide comfort without giving off a sense of luxury as more expensive types of materials would; however, they lack any kind of resiliency, so they are best for short trips rather than long ones where you might need support against bumps on the road or noises coming from outside your car!

Memory Foams Top

Memory foam is a denser, more expensive material than polyurethane. I don’t recommend memory foam for a seat cushion because they’re difficult to clean and may cause pressure points under your weight if you sit on them too long!

I was surprised how similar cheap memory foam seat cushions were on Aliexpress from the listing on Amazon!

A memory foam cushion may not be ideal and could have some potential downsides. They are typically made from petrochemicals and may not provide the best support for ergonomics or pressure points. They can be uncomfortable and may not provide enough support. They may also be too flimsy and not recover quickly enough. Additionally, memory foam cushion may not have good airflow and can potentially release toxic chemicals called VOCs. Their lifespan may also be shorter than other types of cushion.

Natural Latex

Due to its exceptionally soft feel and springy quality, I feel that natural latex foam is one of the best materials for a seat cushion. They are ideal to use all day long since continuous movement means healthy discs.

Benefits of natural latex foam:

• Great for spinal support
• Comfortable
• Dust mite-proof and anti-microbial properties
• made from natural sources
• Great aeration
• perpetual movement
• may last longer

Pressure Support Relief

Natural latex

Natural latex is a great material for providing support for seating. Its density and supportive properties make it suitable for an ergonomic seat cushion, providing support while still being comfortable. Additionally, it is very durable and can last for many years with proper care. Natural latex is naturally hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites, making it a good choice for people with allergies or sensitivities. If you are looking for a material that can provide excellent support, natural latex is a great option to consider.  (source)

Memory foam

A memory foam seat cushion is often advertised as being very comfortable, but some people may find that they cause more discomfort than they relieve. One issue with memory foam is that it may not provide enough support for the body, particularly for those who experience discomfort in their back. The way memory foam conforms to the shape of the body can result in the spine being out of alignment. Additionally, memory foam may not have the same level of bounce as other natural foams, which can make it difficult to change positions and find a comfortable position. Some people may find that for chronic discomfort, a memory foam seat cushion may exacerbate pressure points.

Gel foam

A gel-infused seat cushion is a little firmer than your average memory foam cushion because they have been infused with silicone gel. This makes the surface of a seat cushion feel cooler to the touch. I was surprised how similar cheap memory foam seat cushions were on Aliexpress from the listing on Amazon!

Resiliency (for Enhanced Seat)

Foam is unique because it returns to its original shape after being compressed. The open-cell structure also allows for elasticity and durability, so even though the material slowly decays over time, this type of mattress padding will still offer some support!

Ergonomic Seat Cushion Design

An ergonomic seat cushion (with a 4-way stretch cover) can potentially improve comfort by providing support and enhancing sitting posture. When used properly, a well-designed cushion may help to reduce the curve in the lower spine and tilt the pelvis forward, potentially improving sitting posture and reducing seat discomfort. An orthopedic cushion may also offer additional comfort by providing a more supportive seating surface.

The ergonomic double seat cushion in the picture above is my latest design. 

When you sit upright, you essentially allow gravity to do its job and keep your joints, discs, and ligaments in alignment. This increases blood flow because there is less pressure on these areas, which improves circulation. Additionally, sitting upright helps strengthen the muscles because they are used against gravity.

**The cover of the ergonomic seat cushion should have a washable 4D stretch and a non-slip bottom. It should also have a handle so you can easily carry it wherever you go. This will help ensure that you always have an optimal posture, even when sitting for long periods. The cushion should also be comfortable enough to use for extended periods and easy to clean. Overall, the perfect ergonomic seat cushion will provide support and comfort while helping to improve your posture.

When selecting an ergonomic cushion, it is important to consider the level of support it provides. The angle of the seat may vary between different products, and it’s important to find one that feels comfortable for you. Some people may prefer a cushion that is firm to provide support, while others may prefer a softer cushion. Using an ergonomic cushion for short periods of time may help with posture and comfort. 

Will a Double Seat Orthopedic Pillow Work for Office Chair?

As a general rule, orthopedic seat pillows may support the spine and relieve pressure on the lower back. Many people who suffer from chronic lower back pain find that these pillows can help to reduce or eliminate their pain. In addition, orthopedic seat pillows can also help to prevent the development of chronic lower back pain.

*This is my opinion as a seat designer and chiropractor.

There are many different types of orthopedic seat pillows available on the market, and choosing one that is right for you is important. If you are unsure about which type of pillow to choose, you may want to consult with a chiropractor or physical therapist. Ultimately, however, the best way to determine whether an orthopedic seat pillow is to educate yourself on what your body needs.

When choosing a chair cushion, there are many options to consider. One option that may improve posture and comfort is a well-designed seat wedge cushion. A wedge cushion can create an angle between the torso and legs that may improve positioning. Additionally, sitting upright with straight legs may improve circulation and can potentially reduce pressure on joints. If you are looking to improve posture and comfort, a wedge cushion may be worth considering.

Benefits of a Top Ergonomic Seat Cushion for Lumbar Support:

• Improves posture *
• Support for the low back *
• May relieve sciatica *
• Support Your Tailbone 
• Core muscles engaged.
• Helps with Hamstring Tendinopathy *
• Arthritis patients may find this a great option
• Enjoy your travels in comfort
• After Childbirth: Aids Recovering
• Circulate better

I’ve written a complete hands-on review about why your stomach is flat until you sit down, and here are some of the shocking issues I ran into in this post!

How Do You Use a Posture Cushion?

To use a wedge cushion, simply place the sloped side facing forward and sit up straight. The wedge will help correct your posture and support your back. Additionally, a wedge cushion is perfect for hard surfaces such as wood floors or tiles. They can also be used with soft seating, such as sofas or chairs. When using a wedge cushion with soft seating, frequently adjust your position to ensure that the weight of your body is evenly distributed. This will help to prevent the formation of pressure points and maintain proper alignment.

If you are into super easy and inexpensive alternatives to office chairs, I wrote a fantastic article on how and why you should consider these options for back pain, and I encourage you to read it!

Back Pain Warning Signs

Indicators of Severe Back Pain Even though several instances of back pain can be remedied with self-care, some require the expertise of medical professionals. There are particular warning signals that necessitate prompt medical intervention:

• If your back pain is accompanied by a fever.
• If your groin region feels numb.
• If you abruptly encounter weakness in your legs.
• If you’re encountering a lack of control over your bladder or bowel movements.
• If you can’t sit or stand in a comfortable position.
• If your pain is progressively worsening instead of subsiding.

Takeaway

As a chiropractor, I often see patients who are looking for ways to alleviate back pain and discomfort while sitting. Seat cushions have been a popular solution for many, and I have seen some patients find relief with the use of these products. However, when it comes to a specific condition, the scientific evidence for the effectiveness of seat cushions is limited.

That being said, I believe that properly designed seat cushions have the potential to provide relief for people with back pain. That is why, as a chiropractor and a manufacturer of seat cushions, I am committed to exploring the effects of these products on this condition through well-designed scientific studies.

In the meantime, I offer a range of seat cushions that incorporate ergonomic design principles and high-quality materials to promote proper posture and support while sitting. Whether you are dealing with back pain or simply looking for a more comfortable and healthy sitting experience, I believe that our seat cushions can help.

Of course, it is important to keep in mind that every person’s situation is unique and what works for one person may not work for another. If you are dealing with any medical conditions, I recommend consulting with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of action for you.

In conclusion, while the evidence for the effectiveness of ergonomic seat cushions in treating back pain is limited, I believe that well-designed seat cushions have the potential to provide relief for this condition. If you are looking for a comfortable and supportive seat cushion, I encourage you to explore our products and see if one of them might be right for you.

So, it is vital to have great posture and a strong core to avoid pain and injuries. I am living proof that it is possible to recover from injuries and achieve a healthy posture and pain-free life. It did take time and effort, but it was well worth it in the end. I am confident that you can do the same if willing to work. The first step is to ensure you are sitting correctly all day long. This may seem like a small change, but it can significantly affect your overall health. If you are not sure how to sit correctly, I have put out many resources on the proper way to sit:

• I wrote an Amazon book on this subject
• YouTube 10K+ subscriber channel on posture
• Personally designed:
  • orthopedic mattresses
  • ergonomic sleep pillows for neck pain
  • ergonomic seat cushions

Once you start sitting correctly, you will achieve better posture, a stronger core, and pain-free life.

When shopping for a new seat cushion, look for ones with layered foams. This will allow you to get supportive and pressure-relieving properties in one go!
-With the help of its ergonomic contours, you can improve your posture and comfort.
-The seat slope of 8-13 degrees for better muscle engagement will help you sit up straight with good posture and avoid back problems. -Natural latex foam is an environmentally friendly option that helps promote blood circulation while being durable and comfortable.
-The best seat covers are 4D and stretchy with a non-slip bottom cover to keep them in place on your chair or car seat.

I have also written extensively on sleeping in alignment; you can view it HERE.

Sources:

1. Sucheta, S. and Promila, S., Good Ergonomic Setup for Healthy Posture at Work.
2. Hibbs, A.E., Thompson, K.G., French, D., Wrigley, A. and Spears, I., 2008. Optimizing performance by improving core stability and core strength. Sports medicine, 38(12), pp.995-1008.
3. Roslim, R., Rubaizah, M.F., Shamsul, K., Mok, K.L. and Hashim, M.A., 2017. Novel natural rubber latex memory foam. J Eng Appl Sci, 12, pp.5560-5565.
4. Suzuki, Y., Sugano, T. and Kato, T., 2020. An ergonomic study of dynamic seating. In Hard Facts about Soft Machines: (pp. 347-373). CRC Press.
5. Pillastrini, P., Mugnai, R., Bertozzi, L., Costi, S., Curti, S., Guccione, A., Mattioli, S. and Violante, F.S., 2010. Effectiveness of an ergonomic intervention on work-related posture and low back pain in video display terminal operators: a 3 year cross-over trial. Applied ergonomics, 41(3), pp.436-443.
6. Woods, L., Why Hamstrings Hurt When Sitting.
7. Klotter, J., 2005. Ergonomics and pain. Townsend Letter for Doctors and Patients, (258), pp.28-29.
8. MacLennan, A., 1922. Scoliosis. The British Medical Journal, pp.864-866.

*Many of the examples are viewed or purchased from Amazon.  Examples would be the comfilife gel enhanced seat cushion; purple double seat cushion; everlasting comfort seat cushion; purple royal seat cushion; amazon best seat cushions; amazon car seats; amazon gel seat; thermalcomfort.  Seach terms used when buying were: pain, aches, wellness, rating, reviewed, stars, shop, and gifts.