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Twenty-five years ago, I acquired a bulging disc in my back, and it was one of the most painful experiences I've ever had.
It took months of physical therapy and rehab to gain my mobility back, and as a result, I made many lifestyle changes, including using pillows and cushions for driving and sleeping.
Once your back goes out like that, you realize how important it is to ensure it never happens again.
If you are looking for the best lumbar support for car use, back support pillows, or lumbar pillows for driving, check out our reviews below:
1. Duro-Med Industries Relax-a-Bac Lumbar Cushion - Top #1 Pick
If you suffer from back pain or have arthritis, bad posture, or an injury, Duro-Med Industries® Relax-A-Bac Lumbar Back Support Cushion Pillow is our top pick for reducing pain and maintaining daily posture therapy.
This adjustable lumbar support cushion is lightweight, portable, and easy to use anywhere you go. You can take it with you down the road or across the globe, and use it anywhere, from your car to a plane, to any home or office chair.
It's made of orthopedic foam, so it keeps its shape not only as you're sitting against it but over years of use. It's shaped perfectly to keep your back aligned, supported, and upright, and to reduce your propensity to slouch.
My favorite feature is its wooden board (that you can remove if you want) for extra support of the lumbar region of your lower back and a strap that helps ensure it stays in place, exactly where you want it on your chair. You can also remove the cover for easy washing.
2. ComfiLife Back Pillow Office Chair and Car Seats Cushion
An excellent second choice is the ComfiLife, as it's one of the best auto seat support cushions you can buy. Also made of memory foam, this one is contoured to fit snugly against your memory foam lumbar and follow the shape of your lower back.
I especially like the mesh fabric on the face of the pillow because it's breathable, and a lot of memory foam cushions can trap heat and get too hot. The mesh makes a nice cooling difference.
This one also comes highly recommended by many chiropractors because it's effective as an orthopedic back pillow for cars, homes, or offices. It has a strap to maintain its position on your chair, and it's a good stabilizer for your posture.
It doesn't have the extra support provided by the wooden board that you get with the Duro-Med however, which can be a deal-breaker if you have severe lower back pain that needs correction.
3. Lower Back Pain Support Cushion - Clinical Grade Memory Foam Orthopedic Pillow for Car Driving & Office Chairs
This great back pillow from Desk Jockey has smart support that keeps your whole body in alignment from head to hips, relieving back pain and improving your posture.
It is perfectly contoured to support the curve in the lower back, which is recommended by back health experts.
The memory foam is high quality, maintains its shape, and doesn't have a chemical smell that you often find in lower-quality foam cushions. It's an excellent lower back support pillow that is versatile.
Take it with you when you travel, and you'll never have an uncomfortable flight again. (Well, unless the person in front of you insists on reclining. The cushion won't help with having your knees smashed in, unfortunately. But at least your back will feel good!)
Runners Up
SimplePosture Lower Back Pain Cushion
The Blackguard from SimplePosture is a good if basic, lower back cushion. It provides gentle support, has two adjustable straps, and the back is made of anti-slip fabric so that it won't slide around on you.
They also throw in a couple of extra-long straps, so it's very versatile. It can fit just about any sized chair you want to use.
It's tiny and lightweight, so what it lacks in super firm support and memory foam, it makes up for in portability. One of the best features is that SimplePosture offers an unlimited lifetime guarantee. Try it out for yourself because if you don't love it, you can return it for a full refund.
Sweet Relief 100% Pure Memory Foam Back Cushion
Not in the top tier due to the construction, but this is still a great back cushion if you don't mind a little setup every time you want to use it. The cushion is made of orthopedic memory foam, which I prefer, and has an adjustable strap, of course.
It's firm, breathable, and provides excellent lumbar and posture support. Like the SimplePosture, it comes fully guaranteed, so if you don't like it, you can send it back for a full refund.
The downside is that it comes in two pieces, the mesh backing frame, and the memory foam cushion. So, while it's very effective, it's not quite as easy to transport or use. It takes a bit of work and is a little more cumbersome than a single piece.
How Do I Choose a Lumbar Support?
Your ligament needs to be healthy and strong to allow you to sit properly in a chair. Your lumbar muscles, however, work well when they are weak, stressed, or under stress. If you need a long-term solution to your lumbar problems, you need to try dynamic lumbar support with breathable mesh (dynamic meaning it moves and adjusts to give you the correct angle, balance, and support). Other things that could be the cause of your lumbar problems: Poor posture, Lumbar disc degeneration, Deformity, Poor posture.
Poor posture is the most common cause of low back pain. The nature of the way that you sit in a chair directly affects your posture. This can include the type of chair you use, how you sit in a car or plane, and how you sit at work. You may have good posture in the morning, but as the day progresses your body will change to align itself with your body when you sit.
Do You Need Lumbar Support in a Car?
Car seat ergonomic lumbar support refers to the support placed around the lower back area. This will provide additional support for those suffering from certain back problems. It also enables you to enjoy long drives comfortably. So, this is something that can be highly beneficial in certain situations. For instance, it can help you to improve posture, relieve your lower back pain, and also improve your flexibility. In case of your anxiety, this can also help you to feel better.
Just the act of sitting or standing for a long period of time can also cause your spine to arch. Thus, this can result in many health issues. In fact, it is one of the main reasons why you get back pain relief. But, thanks to lumbar support, you can stay comfortable while driving. You can also listen to your favorite music comfortably and enjoy a relaxed drive.
How Should You Sit in a Car With Lower Back Pain?
When dealing with lower back pain, adopting the correct sitting posture in a car is crucial to minimize discomfort and prevent exacerbation of the condition. Scientifically informed strategies can significantly alleviate strain on the lower back and promote spinal alignment during travel.
Start by adjusting the car seat's position. Ensure that the seat is at a height where your hips are slightly higher than your knees. This posture encourages a natural lumbar curve, reducing stress on the lower spine. Additionally, tilt the seat backward slightly, between 100 to 110 degrees, to distribute weight evenly and lessen pressure on the lumbar region.
Proper lumbar support is essential. If the car seat lacks built-in support, place a rolled-up towel or a lumbar cushion behind your lower back to maintain the natural curvature of the spine. This assists in reducing the load on the lumbar discs.
Distribute your weight evenly across the seat by keeping your feet flat on the floor. Utilize the car's built-in adjustable features, such as the steering wheel and mirrors, to accommodate your adjusted seat position while ensuring you maintain proper control of the vehicle.
During longer trips, take regular breaks to stretch and walk around. These breaks alleviate muscle stiffness and enhance blood circulation to the lower back.
Furthermore, ensure that the headrest is appropriately positioned. The top of the headrest should align with the top of your head to reduce the risk of neck and upper back strain in case of sudden stops.
Lastly, maintain a relaxed grip on the steering wheel, avoiding excessive tension in the upper body.
In summary, sitting in a car with lower back pain involves adjusting the seat height, tilt, and lumbar support to promote a natural spine curve. Pay attention to weight distribution, utilize adjustable features, and take breaks to stretch during longer journeys. By implementing these scientifically supported strategies, you can travel with reduced lower back discomfort and enhanced spinal alignment.
What is the Healthiest Way to Sit in Car?
The healthiest way to sit in a car involves adopting a posture that promotes optimal spinal alignment, minimizes musculoskeletal strain, and supports overall comfort. Scientifically guided seating practices can significantly contribute to your well-being during car travel.
Start by adjusting the car seat's position to ensure your hips are slightly higher than your knees. This arrangement encourages the natural curvature of the lumbar spine, reducing stress on the lower back. Maintain a seat angle between 100 to 110 degrees to distribute your weight evenly and minimize pressure on the lumbar discs.
Proper lumbar support is essential for a healthy sitting posture. If your car seat lacks built-in support, consider using a lumbar cushion or a rolled-up towel to maintain the natural curve of the lower back. This mitigates the risk of slouching and associated discomfort.
Position your feet flat on the floor, distributing your weight evenly across the seat. Adjust the steering wheel and mirrors to accommodate your seat position, ensuring you can control the vehicle effectively while maintaining a relaxed posture.
During extended drives, take regular breaks to stretch your muscles and improve circulation. These breaks alleviate muscle stiffness and contribute to overall comfort.
Ensure that the headrest is positioned correctly to support the natural curvature of the neck and reduce the risk of neck strain during sudden stops.
Maintain a relaxed grip on the steering wheel to prevent unnecessary tension in the upper body and shoulders.
In summary, the healthiest way to sit in a car involves adjusting the seat height, angle, and lumbar support for your car seat to encourage proper spinal alignment. Keep your feet flat on the floor, utilize adjustable features for optimal control, and take breaks during longer journeys. By following these scientifically supported guidelines, you can create a comfortable and ergonomic seating arrangement that promotes your well-being while driving.
Everlasting Comfort 100% Pure Memory Foam Back Cushion
What I like about this back cushion is its extreme versatility. You can use it anywhere along your back-upper, middle, or low.
So, it's not for the lumbar only. If you suffer from any back pain, the quality memory foam is firm and supportive, and it relieves pain and discomfort.
The dual strap system makes it easy and quick to strap this on to any chair you use. It's lightweight and portable. Excellent all-around travel, home, or office back cushion that provides many options for use. And if you sense a trend, you're right.
Lifetime warranty. If it doesn't work for you, return it for a refund. No hassles.
Useful Video from Famous" Physical Therapists:
Lumbar pillows are a good choice if you want to reduce or ease your lower back pain, even if you don't have an injury or medical condition.
Supporting your back while you sit, drive, and travel is a healthy way to keep your posture straight and your spine supported and aligned. A good, high-quality lumbar support cushion or lumbar support pillow is a wise investment in your long-term back and spine health and the overall reduction of pain.
