Back pain, especially in the lower back, is so common that it is the biggest reason people have for visiting a doctor. Many cases resolve by themselves, while a minority require medical assistance or home treatments. Below we look at frequent causes of lower back pain and how to choose supportive furniture.
Causes of Lower Back Pain
Humans spend more time seated than what the body was intended for. So even if we avoid hunching over a desktop, pressure still builds up and can create pain.
The lower back is particularly vulnerable. It only has five vertebrae compared to the middle back and neck and must carry the upper body weight. These five vertebrae take most of the strain when lifting heavy objects. A torn ligament or muscle is the number one back injury. It can occur from constant, repetitive movements or a sudden action that stretches connective tissue and muscles.
Arthritis that affects the spine is also responsible for most back pain as adults age. The joints and cartilage deteriorate over time, causing inflammation and friction. A herniated disc occurs when a part of the nucleus of a spinal disc pushes outwards. Falls and accidents may lead to back pain. Certain athletes, such as golfers, are more prone to back injuries.
The Best Beds for Back Pain
Surveys have shown that hard mattresses lead to the worst quality of sleep. While they give great support, they do not adapt to the body shape, resulting in pressure points and pain. On the other hand, soft mattresses shape themselves to the body but do not provide adequate support, and the body tends to sink in and develop painful joints. The ideal is a medium-firm mattress. This has been confirmed by research.
These bed frames double size are better for someone with wider hips, extra weight, or that is taller. It would help if you still had good posture while asleep and should be able to stretch out during the night.
Finally, most people surveyed have been using the same bed for nine-and-a-half years. Simply getting a new mattress has improved sleep quality and less pain.
The Best Sofas for Lower Back Pain
Most people spend hours a day watching television, straining their backs and decreasing their mobility. A recliner or stand up recliners is good for someone with mobility issues as it helps them stand up when they need to get off the chair. A recliner can be a sofa or an armchair. It allows the individual to assume a prone position by tilting the backrest and extending the footrest. A recliner supports the lumbar region or lower back. You can purchase a recliner as a single chair for a sufferer or a sofa for the whole family. Along with its benefits for lower back pain, it can relieve the muscles and tendons of the neck.
When you have guests over, it may be useful to use a swivel chair. This will allow you to rotate to face the person speaking and then turn to the next conversationalist. A corner sofa can achieve the same benefit.
Always test a product before you buy it. For example, make sure that you purchase the best bed and sofa to alleviate your back pain.
