What Are The Best Recliners For Back Pain Relief? [Complete Product Guide And Review]
Are you struggling with back pain on your “supposedly” comfortable recliner? Often times, you may find that you experience lower to mid-back main after getting off the one and only chair that’s supposed to make your life easier, not harder.
Luckily, I have had years of experience in the reclining industry in the past. Working with both low-end and high-end brands in previous years, I learned what to look for when it comes to choosing the best recliners for back pain, and today, I will share that knowledge with you so that you can finally get comfortable.
Recliners are an investment and not a cheap one for that matter, which is why we also found and reviewed some of the best reclining chairs on the market that will help you and not break you. Expanding your knowledge on how to buy a good recliner will not only prevent back problems, but will help you avoid costly mistakes.
Reviewing The Best Recliners For Back Pain
OUR TOP PICK
La-Z-Boy Anderson Powered Rocker Recliner
- Quality
- Price
- Our Rating
The Anderson La-Z-Boy power rocker recliner is a high-quality chair made out of the most durable materials on the market, including steel, and super-struct, a highly durable form of wood that is commonly used to build the frame of high-end luxury homes.
This recliner provides complete body and lumbar support and doesn’t have a gap where the seat and the back meets. La-Z-Boy specifically designed it this way to prevent lower back pain. In addition, you get total lumbar support, which also acts as an additional benefit to preventing pain in the lumbar region of your back.
Unique features of the Anderson power rocker recliner include an independent power back and leg rest, along with a quiet motor. The leg rest safety feature allows the footrest to unlock in case your pet or an infant manages to get in between while closing. Lastly, if you are worried about a power outage, the recliner has a backup power supply that will allow the recliner to go back into its original and upright position.
Overall, this is an excellent option for anyone that is looking for a good quality recliner that they won’t have to replace for a while. Besides, La-Z-Boy invented the recliner, making them a highly credible and reputable brand for well over 50 years in the making.
Pros
- Made in USA
- Power and Non-Power option available
- Patented independent power back
- Lifetime Warranty
- La-Z-Boy furniture is endorsed by the American Chioropractic Association.
- Quiet Motor
- Legrest safety release feature protects pets and children from injury
Cons
- Warranty only covers parts and not labour.
Zero Gravity Full-Body Kahuna Massage Chair Recliner
- Quality
- Price
- Our Rating
This 3-stage zero gravity massage chair has the most features on our list. The recliner is the complete therapeutic massage experience with 6 auto programs, including yoga stretching, full-body stretching and dual foot rollers.
The massage chair includes 4 rollers and massage air cells which are programmed to inflate separately, which cause your body to twist and stretch to help enhance blood circulation and muscle relaxation. In addition, the chair can provide heat therapy to your arms and legs. You can also control the massage roller speed for up to 3 levels.
The L-track system is a unique feature, which is a long roller trail that is built-in, going from your neck to your buttocks. This long track decompresses each, increasing the effects of your massage.
Another feature I love was the ability to scan your body. This chair is capable of creating a calculation to determine the best-suited massage for your weight, and body figure based on data picked up by sensors, located all along with the chair
The design of this massage recliner includes extra foot padding and double-layer shoulder airbags to ensure it hits every muscle while keeping you comfortable. If you are looking for the full package deal, this chair has it all!
Pros
- Remote control included
- 3 stages of zero gravity
- Smart body scan features measures the appropriate massage settings for your particular body type.
- FDA Medical registered device
- 6 different auto programming modes to control heat, massage and vibration.
- Removable and washable foot lining inserts
- L-track system decompresses spine from neck to buttocks.
- Only required 3 inches of distance from the wall.
Cons
- Very expensive
- Only 3 year limited warranty
- Noisy according to some reviews
La-Z-Boy Niagara Reclina-Rocker Recliner
- Quality
- Price
- Our Rating
Everyone has heard of a La-Z-Boy recliner at one point or another. The company has been well known for their comfort and patented features, making this recliner unique.
The Niagra La-Z-Boy Rocker Recliner provides total body and lumbar support, which helps prevent lower back pain. You also won’t find a gap between the seat and the back, which is a common problem in most chairs contributing to lower back pain.
This chair has 3 reclining positions with a patented independent reclining back feature. The chair also has a highly durable frame which is made out of a material called super-struct. This is the same material used to build the structure of most high-end luxury homes. The mechanism is also made out of 100% steel for durability.
Overall, this recliner is perfect for both light and more burdensome individuals, as it can support up to 300 pounds. With a lifetime warranty on the frame, there is no doubt in mind that this is the best bang for your buck.
Pros
- Made in USA
- Supports larger individuals
- 3 reclining lock positions
- complete lumbar and back support
- Patented independent reclining back
- Adjustable reclining tension
- Convenient reclining handle
Cons
- Warranty on parts only
ComHoma Leather Recliner Chair
- Quality
- Price
- Our Rating
The ComHoma leather recliner is a rocker push back recliner, which includes heat, an 8 point massage system along the back, and 4 vibrating modes. All these features can be controlled using a wireless remote that comes included.
This chair also sits on a swivel base, allowing you to turn without having to get up and move the chair around. To recline, you have to push away using your arms, and cannot be controlled using power. Only the massage, vibration, and heat are power operated.
Although this chair has a significant amount of padding, Customers who purchased it said that it feels really firm at first. The footrest also doesn’t come up entirely, and the material is not great in terms of breathability.
Pros
- Swivel base allows you to rotate chair.
- Drink holders on each arm rest
- 4 mode vibration and massage feature
- Remote control included
- Affordable
Cons
- Too firm according to reviews.
- Foot rest does not come up fully.
- Material is not breathable enough.
- Reclining is non-power (manual only)
Esright Massage Recliner Chair
- Quality
- Price
- Our Rating
The Esright recliner chair is a glider recliner which can swivel 360 degrees. Key features include heated lumbar, massaging as well as vibrating to enhance muscle relaxation better. It is important to note that the reclining capability is manually operated and not powered. Included, you also get a remote control with 5 control modes, and 2 intensity levels.
This recliner is made of PU Leather, which is designed for intensive use. The armrests have extra padding, along with 2 cup holders (1 on each side), along with 4 separate storage compartments for books, magazines, and other items.
Overall this recliner is a good option if you want power massage, lumbar, and vibrating features for an affordable cost.
Pros
- 2 cup holders and 4 storage bags
- Remote control included
- 5 control modes for massage, heated lumbar and vibration, + 2 intensity level
- Easy to assemble
- 360 degree swivel
Cons
- No power option
- Not the best quality frame
- PLU leather is not ideal for the long term
Our Top Pick, And Why!
Our top pick was the Anderson Powered Rocker Recliner.Â
What we loved about this recliner was that it was specifically designed to prevent back problems. To back this up, this chair is endorsed by the American Chiropractic Association.Â
Although it doesnt contain many fancy features such as massage and heat, It was the best option that guarantees no back pain. We also loved the quality, quiet motor, safety features and lifetime warranty which makes this chair a premium product for an exceptional price.Â
F.A.Q
What Is A Recliner?
So what exactly is a recliner?
A recliner is simply a chair that includes multiple features which are designed to provide comfortable and luxurious seating.Â
All recliners have a mechanism which allows you to control different parts of the chair so that you can get into a relaxed position.
Standard functionalities can enable you to have your legs elevated, as well as declining your back. Both of these features will allow you to achieve a position that mimics laying down.
Recliners are simply luxury chairs that are designed to put you in a comfortable position that a typical chair otherwise cannot offer.
What Are The Different Types Of Recliners For Back Pain?
There are many different recliners today on the market. However, they can fall under any of the below categories:
Rocker Recliner
These types of recliners have a mechanism which allows you to rock back and forth. This can be an excellent feature for people who struggle to fall asleep or women who have babies.
Rocker recliners can come in power , as well as non-power options, and can include many features such as heat, massage, head, and lumbar support.
Power is also a great option if you want the luxury of moving the leg, or backrest, without having to use a handle or your legs to decline it back to its original position
Wall Huggers
If you want your recliner to be pushed up against the wall, or you have minimal space, then a wall-hugger is a great option. However, because these types of recliners don’t have the room to move the back portion of the chair at an angle, you may be limited to only being able to recline your legs, and not your back.
Massage Recliners
These type of recliners are the “Cadillacs” of all recliners. Not only can they distribute your body weight like a regular recliner, but they can include massaging nodes throughout various locations, including your feet, legs, back, arms, and head.
It is important to know that massage recliners are all powered, so make sure you have a wall socket nearby where you can plug it in.
Orthopedic Recliners
These recliners are specifically designed for individuals with disabilities and health issues. Most orthopedic recliners will include memory foam and are composed of materials that are durable and robust. They can also support more weight compared to regular recliners for individuals who are overweight or obese.
Orthopedic recliners can also include features such as massage, heat, and zero gravity to help sustain individuals with health issues for extended periods of time.
Rocker Glider
Recliners that glide are great if you want less distance away from the wall. The mechanism allows the chair to glide away as you recline, and may or may not rock depending on the manufacturer. Gliders can also come in power so you can avoid using force to put the recliner back in its upright position.
Push Back
Push back recliners are more intended for style, rather than maximizing comfort. They allow you to recline by pushing away using your arms and/or buttocks, rather than using buttons or a handle.
The great thing about pushback recliners is they look like regular accent chairs with legs and are usually very discreet.
Lift Chairs
These types of recliners are designed for individuals with mobility problems, or who are elderly. They contain a function which helps assist the person by raising them into a standing position if they are incapable of doing so themselves.
Lift chairs can also come with various features and options to help individuals maximize their comfort if they are dependant on it for different medical reasons. They are also powered, which require you to plug them into a wall for them to work.
Is it OK to sleep in a recliner every night?
Making sure you get a proper deep sleep will help your mind and body fully recover so that it is ready to take on the challenges of tomorrow.
Getting the rest that both your mind and body needs can also help to reduce stress, regulate hormone levels, and even help you prevent life-threatening diseases, such as type 2 diabetes, and heart disease.
Whether your bed is not serving you well, or your spouse is constantly waking you up at night, there are many reasons as to why you would consider sleeping in a recliner often. However, I found a few reasons why substituting a bed for a recliner may not be the best idea.
Sleeping in most recliners can result in knee and hip contractures, which is the tightening of muscles over the joint. This can be caused when the knee is slightly bent for long periods of time. As a result, this can throw off your balance and increase the risk of injury if you fall.
So to answer whether or not it’s okay to sleep in a recliner every night, I referred to an article where a writer mentioned an interview that was conducted with a Senior Ergonomics Specialist named Michael Ozamoto. He said that it all depends on the positioning of the recliner, as well as how you sleep.
Sleeping in a recliner can also increase spinal pressure due to your back being in a locked position rather than having it straight. This being said, if the recliner allows you to lay in almost a completely flat position with zero gravity, then you’re in good hands.
The best advice is to speak to a healthcare professional. Share any information that will help guide you whether or not you should sleep in a recliner, as well as picking the right one if you haven’t done so already.
Are recliners bad for your back?
Many people who own a recliner may experience lower back pain after they get up. This can cause them to ask whether or not recliners are bad for their back.
Lower back pain is caused by not having enough lower lumbar support on the recliner. Not having enough of this support can cause lower back strain and tension, which causes discomfort and tightness.
To resolve this problem, it is important to go for a recliner that provides lumbar support or additional padding in the lower region. Additionally, If a gap is formed between your lower back and the chair when reclining, it can cause a lack of lower back support.
You can also see whether or not the recliner will cause any problems without having to sit in it. To do this, simply check if there is a gap between the seat cushion and the lumbar area where they meet. If you see a space that is more than half an inch, then there is a high probability that you will experience back pain.
Lastly, make sure the recliner is able to elevate your feet to your heart level. This makes it easier for blood to travel back to your heart, which in return provides better circulation to your lower back. This will not only prevent back pain, but can reduce stress and inflammation throughout your entire body.
What Should You Look For When Shopping For A Recliner?
Support
The first and most important thing you should look out for when trying to find the best recliners for your back, is making sure it provides you with enough back support.
As mentioned earlier, check to see if there are any gaps between where the seat and the back meet when fully reclined, or when the chair is in its original position.
Also, make sure you test the recliner to see if there is any space between your lower back and the chair. Going for extra padded lumbar support will prevent any back pain that is caused due to lack of support.
Power Options
Many recliners will give you the option of having power functionality. If you struggle with strength or have mobility issues, this can be a great feature that does all the work for you.
In most cases, a power recliner can allow you to have more control as to when the reclining leg and backrest starts and stops. Non-power recliners typically have a spring-loaded mechanism.
Other features that you won’t find in non-power recliners can include adjustable headrest, lumber, heat, and massage. Also, remember to check if you have a wall socket nearby where you want to place the recliner. The last thing you want is a recliner that cant recline!
Quality
If you want your recliner to last you a long time, then going for quality is a must. As mentioned in the introduction, I had worked for a few companies that sold reclining chairs, and got to know the differences between a good recliner and a bad one.
First, make sure that your seating cushion is not composed of a cheap block of foam. You want a good quality seating cushion that is a slightly higher density so that it doesn’t sag later down the road. This sagging will ultimately form a gap, which reduces lower back support.
A good quality cushion will give you support and comfort without sinking and creating a gap between your lower back and the chair. This will help you avoid any back pain after getting up off the recliner.
Secondly, make sure the frame is constructed using quality parts. A proper mechanism will be sturdy and composed of quality parts such as steel. This will increase the longevity of the chair and will help you avoid breaks when accommodating heavier individuals.
Fabric Vs Leather
Fabric and leather can make a big difference in both comfort and resilience. Fabrics are more breathable than leathers, however, they are more likely to stain if you spill a beverage or manage to get it dirty. I recommend going for 100% polyester because it is way easier to clean and maintain. Polyester also doesn’t wear down as fast compared to other materials such as cotton.
Leathers can last 4 times longer than fabrics without any signs of wear but are much more expensive. If money isn’t an issue, I would recommend top grain leather, which is softer and tougher. Top grain leathers are also much more breathable due to the pores being closer to the top of the hide.
Warranty
An important factor when choosing a recliner is the warranty. Recliners are not cheap, especially when you are going for power features.
Keep an eye out for how long the frame is covered for, as well any electrical parts such as the motor. You can also consider going with an optional protection plan if available. These plans could save you hundreds in repairs later down the road if something was to go wrong.
