What is Lumbar Support and Why is it Important?

In today's work environment, spending long hours sitting at your desk has become more common. However, this can start to take its toll on your body, causing back pain and discomfort. Lumbar support is crucial to providing you more comfort, better posture and support to the natural curve of your spine. 

Whether you are looking to rescue your current back pain or reduce future discomfort, lumbar support is the best place to start. 

What is Lumbar Support? 

Lumbar support is anything that provides support to your lower back. This support is essential for maintaining the natural curve of your spine. As well as this, it can prevent strain on the muscles and ligaments in your lower back. 

When you are sitting at your desk all day, having the correct lumbar support is important. These supports typically come in the form of cushions, they can be either built into your office chair or attached separately. 

How Does it Work?

Lumbar support works by filling the gap between your lower spine and your seat. This promotes a more natural and healthy sitting posture. Lumbar support can come in various ways including ergonomic chairs, lumbar cushions and adjustable lumbar pads. The supports help:

• Maintain natural spinal alignment: Your spine has a natural S-curve. Lumbar support maintains this curve and reduces stress on your spine. 

• Distribute weight evenly: Having the correct lumbar support helps distribute weight across your lower back. This can reduce pressure points and the risk of discomfort or injury. 

• Reduce muscle fatigue: By providing the necessary support, lumbar support can minimise the need for your muscles to work harder to maintain posture. This can help reduce muscle fatigue in your back. 

Why is Lumbar Support Important?

Proper lumbar support can prevent back pain. It does this by supporting your spine's natural curve and reducing strain. As well as this, lumbar support can improve your comfort during long periods of time of sitting. 

Having lumbar support encourages you to have the correct posture. This can reduce the amount of problems to your spine and muscles. 

When you are able to sit comfortably and pain-free, you can focus better on your work. This can help increase your productivity and work more effectively.   

How to Sit Correctly With Lumbar Support

• Adjust your chair: Ensure your chair is adjusted so your feet are flat on the floor and your knees are at a right angle. The lumbar support should align with the natural curve of your spine. 

• Use a lumbar cushion: If your chair doesn't have a built-in lumbar support, you can use a lumbar cushion. Place it at the small of your back to fill the gap between your lower spine and your chair.

• Sit back in your chair: Avoid sitting on the edge of your chair. Sit back so the lumbar support can properly support your lower back.

• Maintain neutral spine position: Keep your back straight and your shoulders relaxed. You should avoid slouching or leaning forwards. 

• Take regular breaks: Even with good lumbar support, it is important to take regular breaks. This allows you to stretch and move around, reducing stiffness and promotes circulation.

Ergonomic Office Chairs at Lakeland Furniture

Your body will experience subtle pressure from everyday activities such as driving and sitting. Lumbar support is essential for anyone using an office chair regularly. Most ergonomic chairs come with built-in lumbar support, ensuring your comfort and support for long work days.

Discover our full range of ergonomic chairs or get in touch for more information and questions.