If you suffer from lower back pain, or are at risk from developing problems in that area due to your lifestyle, then a chair with suitable lumbar support offer relief from your discomfort, or prevent problems occurring in the first place.
Back pain is the second most common reason people consult their physicians for, and around 8 out of every 10 people will suffer from it. Although there is currently no conclusive scientific evidence to prove that back supports are helpful in preventing back injuries, there is a wealth of anecdotal evidence indicating their effectiveness.
If you are interested in using a back support belt, then choose a model appropriate for your needs. They vary greatly in width (how high they come up your body) and level of stiffness/support. It’s important to strike a balance between a high degree of support and freedom of movement. Some models have removable stiffeners around the belt, allowing you to customize the device to your needs. Well-ventilated belts are desirable to help reduce uncomfortable heat build-up. A few belts have come on the market which provide integrated magnetic therapy; magnets sewn into the belt are said to help improve circulation and reduce pain and inflammation. Also, you may find some inflatable belts, which you can adjust by adding or removing air.
Back support belts are just one of several tools you can use to help alleviate lower back pain. Many people suffer discomfort when they are seated. If you find your lower back hurts when you sit down for long periods, then you might want to consider using a chair which offers good, preferably adjustable, lumbar support. A cheaper option is to invest in a back pillow specially designed to nestle between your lower back and the backrest of your seat, filling in the space left by the curve of your spine. This solution offers many benefits in terms of cost and portability. An even cheaper, though less effective option, is to use something like a rolled-up towel.
