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Back pain can make even the simplest daily tasks feel uncomfortable, and sitting for long periods in the wrong chair often makes it worse. That's why finding the best chair for back pain can make a meaningful difference in comfort, posture, and quality of life.
And that's exactly what this guide was written for. Here, we explain what to look for when choosing a riser recliner chair for back pain, from understanding different types of pain to exploring adjustable chair features like lumbar support, seat height, and recline settings.
Whether you’re looking for a solution for yourself or someone close to you, we want you to feel confident in choosing the right chair - one that supports your spine and fits your everyday needs.
What are the different types of back pain?
Back pain isn’t one-size-fits-all. Understanding the type of pain you or your loved one experiences is an important first step in choosing the best chair for back problems. Different types of pain may require different levels of support or specific ergonomic features.
Lower back pain
The most common form of back discomfort, often linked to poor posture, prolonged sitting, or lack of lumbar support. A good chair for back pain should offer adjustable lower back support and encourage a more upright, natural spine curvature.
Upper back pain
This pain is usually connected to shoulder tension, neck strain, or unsupported posture. A chair with neck support and good upper body alignment can help relieve pressure and prevent slouching.
Chronic or medical-related back pain
Conditions like arthritis, sciatica, or osteoporosis may require more tailored seating options. In these cases, orthopaedic chairs or ergonomic chairs for back pain with high adjustability can provide the suitable support needed for comfort and pressure relief.
Understanding where the discomfort is and when it occurs can help you identify what features to prioritise when comparing chairs for back pain.
How can your choice of chair affect back pain?
The wrong chair can silently contribute to daily discomfort. Slouching, uneven weight distribution, and lack of back support can all increase strain on the spine, especially if you're sitting for long periods.
A well-designed chair for back pain helps maintain good posture, encourages spinal alignment, and supports your body in a comfortable position. This doesn’t just improve comfort in the moment; it can also reduce the risk of pain becoming a long-term issue.
Here’s how the right chair can make a real difference:
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Lumbar support – without proper support for the lower back, the spine loses its natural curve. Chairs with built-in or adjustable lumbar support help maintain the spine’s shape and reduce muscle tension.
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Promoting movement and flexibility – chairs that recline or adjust allow for small, healthy shifts in position throughout the day. This reduces pressure build-up and improves circulation.
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Aligning the neck and shoulders – when your chair supports your upper body, especially the neck and shoulder area, it reduces the risk of tension headaches and upper back strain.
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Improving sitting habits – the most ergonomic chair encourages an open hip angle and upright posture, both of which can ease stress on the back and hips.
While most chairs may seem similar at first glance, their long-term effects on comfort and health can vary greatly. Investing in a good chair for back pain is more than a convenience; it’s a step toward daily relief and lasting well-being.
How to pick the right size of chair
When it comes to relieving back pain, comfort isn’t just about cushioning; size matters, too. An adjustable chair that’s too big or too small may actually worsen posture and lead to additional strain.
That's why the best chairs for lower back pain fit your body properly and adjust to your needs. Here are a few things to consider:
Seat height
Your feet should rest flat on the floor (or footrest) with knees at a 90-degree angle. A chair that’s too tall can cause your legs to dangle, pulling on your lower back. One that’s too low can force your spine into a hunched position.
Seat depth
Aim for a chair where you can sit back fully while leaving a small gap (roughly two to three fingers) between the edge of the seat and the back of your knees. This helps support the lumbar region without cutting off circulation.
Backrest height and width
Choose a backrest that supports the full natural curvature of your spine, especially the lower back. A chair that’s too narrow or short can leave key areas unsupported.
User weight capacity
Always check the weight rating. Proper support relies on the chair's design to comfortably hold the user’s weight without losing structure or shape over time.
Chairs designed with adjustability in mind, particularly ergonomic and orthopaedic chairs, tend to offer the most flexibility in fit, which is essential for reducing discomfort and improving posture.
At Opera Beds, we offer our riser recliner chairs in three sizes - petite, standard and large. These chairs are available in the following dimensions:
Petite
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Seat height - 46cm (18')
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Seat width - 46cm (18')
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Seat depth - 46cm (18')
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Backrest height - 77cm (30.5')
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Armrest height - 64.5cm (25.25')
Standard
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Seat height - 48cm (19')
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Seat width - 51cm (20')
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Seat depth - 50cm (19.5')
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Backrest height - 77cm (30.5')
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Armrest height - 66.5cm (26.75')
Large
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Seat height - 51cm (20')
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Seat width - 56cm (22')
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Seat depth - 53cm (20.75')
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Backrest height - 79.5cm (31.75')
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Armrest height - 69.5cm (27.25')
How many motors does your riser recliner chair need?
If you or your loved one is considering a riser recliner chair, the number of motors directly affects the level of control and customisation available, which may determine how well it can relieve back pain.
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Single motor chairs control the backrest and footrest together. These are simple to operate but offer fewer positioning options. They're suitable for light use or occasional relaxation.
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Dual motor riser recliner chairs allow you to independently move the backrest and footrest, giving you the option of fully reclining. This gives greater flexibility to find the most comfortable position and is particularly helpful for targeting lower back support or raising the legs to ease circulation.
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Four-motor chairs often include adjustable headrests and lumbar zones – ideal for those with more complex care needs or long periods of sitting. These chairs offer highly personalised support to the upper body, neck, and spine.
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Massage riser recliner chairs include the neck tilt and lumbar support of a four-motor chair, as well as an additional massage function
If back pain is a daily concern, a dual or four-motor recliner may provide the ample support needed to stay comfortable throughout the day, while a massage recliner may help ease chronic pain.
Meet our range of riser recliner chairs
To improve your comfort of life and help you relax, we created our range of riser recliner chairs.
All of our chairs can be bought with single, dual, quad, or quad + massage motors, and they're available in our petite, standard, and large.
Another benefit of these chairs is that if you find standing up out of a regular armchair difficult, each is designed to smoothly transition from reclined to raised, making getting up and sitting down less challenging.
Our riser recliner chairs include:
To make sure your chair fits in with your home's design, we offer various colour choices and fabric recliner chairs, including linen, soft weave and leather riser recliner chairs.
What to look out for when buying an adjustable chair
Not all chairs for bad backs are created equal. Whether you’re looking for something stylish and supportive for the living room or a chair that helps with mobility and pain management, certain features can make a world of difference.
Here’s what you should look out for when shopping for the best chair for back pain at home:
Lumbar support
Proper lumbar support is essential for maintaining the spine’s natural curvature. Look for a chair that either contours to the shape of your lower back or offers adjustable lumbar padding. Without it, the lower spine tends to collapse, putting pressure on muscles and discs, especially when sitting for long periods.
Zero-gravity position
Some ergonomic chairs for back pain include a 'zero-gravity' setting, where your legs are raised above heart level and body weight is evenly distributed.
Zero-gravity riser recliner chairs can reduce pressure on the lumbar region, improve circulation, and help the body fully relax. They’re especially beneficial for people with chronic pain or inflammation.
Discover more about this NASA-created position in our guide, How Zero Gravity Can Help Your Sleep.
Neck support
Neck strain can quickly lead to upper back and shoulder tension. A chair with neck support ensures your head rests comfortably and aligns with your spine, even when reclining.
Adjustable headrests or high-back designs can help reduce aches in the upper body and shoulders.
Adjustable controls
The more control you have, the easier it is to find a comfortable position that supports your unique needs. Look for chairs with intuitive handsets or buttons that adjust height, recline angle, footrest position, and (on premium models) lumbar zones and headrests.
Whether you’re reading, napping, or just watching TV, having a good level of customisation can ease discomfort and encourage good posture.
Reclining
A quality reclining chair for back pain allows you to shift positions throughout the day, relieving pressure and reducing muscle fatigue. Some ergonomic chairs recline in stages, while others move fluidly.
Reclining isn’t just about relaxation; it helps redistribute weight and reduce strain, especially if you spend long hours seated.
Footrest
Integrated footrests or leg elevation options help improve circulation and relieve lower body pressure. Keeping your feet supported prevents the pelvis from tilting forward or backward, both of which can worsen lower back pain. A well-positioned footrest complements the spine’s alignment and adds to your overall comfort.
Choose your next riser recliner from Opera Beds
Choosing the right chair for back pain can feel overwhelming, but Opera Beds is here to help you make an informed, confident decision. To do this, we created our product finder to help you choose the perfect seat for you and your needs.
Simply answer a few questions about what you need in terms of reclining options, sizing, etc., and we'll recommend a chair for you. It's that easy.
To add the finishing touches to your riser recliner, explore our premium chair accessories. Our collection includes fabric care kits, arm protectors, and headrest covers to keep your chair in excellent condition.
