The demand for recliners has been increasing over the last few years. The reality is that there are many reasons for this trend. One of the most important ones is the fact that we tend to live a very sedentary life.
If you think about, more and more people tend to sit on a desk for 8 hours a day. However, the sedentarism doesn’t stop here. You still have the commuting time ad then, when you are finally able to relax a bit before going to bed, you just sit on your sofa or couch.
One of the things that you may not know or may not be aware of is that the human body isn’t designed to be in the same position for such a long time. Therefore, it starts to show the first signs to alert you. These signs tend to begin with back pain, especially in the lower area.
But What Is A Recliner?
Simply put, a recliner is a chair that has armrests and that tilts back. One of the things that you may not know about recliners is that they are operated differently. You may buy a recliner that uses a remote, a lever, a button, or you may need to shaft with a knob.
Another part of a recliner chair is the footrest. This can either be lifted up or extended, just like the backrest.
Notice that not all recliners are the same as you are about to discover. There are some recliners that include massage features, and some that are also rocking chairs.
The Different Types Of Recliners
If you ask someone around, most people will tell you that there is only one type of recliner chairs. However, this is not the truth. There are many different types of recliners and you need to choose the one that you prefer according to your needs and even according to your own taste. here are the most important ones:
#1: Zero Gravity Recliners:
Zero gravity recliners are the type of recliners that allows you to ease pain almost immediately.
Besides being extremely comfortable, this type of recliners allows you to position your kneed slightly above your heart level. This position will help take the pressure off your spine.
Looking for the best recliners for big and tall users?
#2: Massaging Recliners:
As you can imagine by the name, massaging recliners are recliners that include this feature.
Notice that depending on the massaging recliner that you choose, you may be able to experience different types of massages. These may include heat therapy or even other types of massages.
In case you don’t know, massage recliners improve body circulation relieve body strains, and can also be an aid for arthritis, chronic back pain, neck, or even recovering from surgery.
#3: Lifting Recliners:
The truth is that older people start experiencing difficulties in getting up from the couch or sofa. So, lifting recliners are a great option since they allow them to sit down and get up alone, without any problems.
One of the best things about lifting recliners is that they tend to come with easy to use controls. It’s also important to notice that these recliners allow you to fully recline and some may also have massage and heating options for additional pain relief.
#4: Classic Recliners:
The classic recliners are usually the type of recliners that most people think of. They tend to feature a traditional design and they tend to include a good lumbar support besides being also comfortable for your feet.
#5: Recliners With Separate Ottomans:
When you like recliners but you also want them to be as stylish as you can, then you should take a closer look at recliners with separate ottomans.
This type of recliners include two different pieces – the recliner itself and the ottoman that you can use to rest your legs and feet.
One of the things that you need to keep in mind is that this type of recliners isn’t suited for everyone. The reality is that this is probably the one that requires more adjustments. If you think about it, you won’t only decide if you want to rest your legs or not. You will need to position the ottoman at the right distance from the chair.
Nevertheless, these recliners with separate ottomans tend to be very comfortable and they deliver a good amount of support. Besides, if you have a modern home, you can be sure they will fit in there perfectly.
Best Recliners For Back Pain – Things To Consider
One of the questions that many people have in what concerns recliners is that if are recliners good for lower back pain. And the simple and straight answer to this question is yes, they are.
The reality is that even though you may have a sedentary life, when you are sitting on a recliner, you are sitting in a different position. You will be able to take advantage of the comfort of a good padding and cushioning as well as you will have the support your back needs. Besides, since recliners include a footrest, you will also be able to get some relief to your legs and feet.
As we already mentioned above, not all recliners are made the same and not all of them offer the kind of support and comfort that you need when you suffer from back pain. So, with this in mind, here are the main aspects that you should consider when you are looking for recliners for bad backs:
#1: Your Needs:
Not al back pain is the same. While some people may suffer from lower back pain, others may suffer from upper back pain. Then, you still need to consider if you have very mild back pain or acute back pain.
In case your back pain is chronic, you should definitely consider a recliner that includes different types of massage and heat therapy or a zero gravity recliner.
#2: The Features:
There’s no question that no matter the type of recliner that you choose to buy needs to be able to recline. So, you should look for a recliner that allows you to choose the reclining positions that you prefer.
In addition, you should make sure that the one that you pick has a good lumbar support.
If you’re a big user, you need to check out these recliners.
#3: The Materials:
When you are buying a new recliner, you want to ensure that it lasts for a very long time. It doesn’t matter if you pay $200, $300 or even $1,000 for it, it needs to be durable. So, you need to take a look at the materials that it is made with.
As a rule of thumb, you should look for a recliner that includes a sturdy frame that may be made of wood or steel, for example. Besides, it is also important to look at the upholstery. While PU leather tends to be more affordable, the truth is that it is also less resistant to tears.
#4: The Size:
When you are looking to buy a recliner chair, you want to take a closer look at its dimensions as well as at its maximum weight capacity.
As a rule of thumb, most recliner chairs on the market are made for the average user. So, if you are a big and tall person or a short and slim person, you will need to pay even more attention to these details.
The reality is that if you are too big for the recliner chair, you won’t be able to take advantage of the footrest since your feet will be hanging.
Finally, you also need to take a look at the overall dimensions of the recliner and make sure that you have enough room for it at your home. Keep in mind that you need to look at the dimensions of the recliner when it is fully reclined.
Now that you already know the answer to the question if are recliners good for lower back pain as well as you already know what to look for when you are looking to buy a good recliner for back pain, let’s tale a look at the best options on the market.
Top 11 Best Recliners For Back Pain In 2020
#1: Zero Gravity Full-Body Kahuna Massage Chair Recliner LM6800 with Yoga & Heating Therapy (Brown)
Click to Check Price on Amazon
When you are searching for the best recliners for back pain, we have no doubts that the Zero Gravity Full-Body Kahuna Massage Chair Recliner LM6800 with Yoga & Heating Therapy (Brown) is one of the best options that you have in 2010.
Featuring a hybrid design, the Zero Gravity Full-Body Kahuna Massage Chair Recliner LM6800 with Yoga & Heating Therapy (Brown) includes an ergonomic S-track that follows the natural curve of your spine and an L-track which prolongs it up until your glutes and hamstrings.
While this design may seem a bit strange for you, the truth is that this is the best design if you suffer from sciatica, for example.
One of the things that we like about the Zero Gravity Full-Body Kahuna Massage Chair Recliner LM6800 with Yoga & Heating Therapy (Brown) is that while it is quite big, it only needs to be about 3 to 4 inches from the wall.
With the Zero Gravity Full-Body Kahuna Massage Chair Recliner LM6800 with Yoga & Heating Therapy (Brown), you will be able to enjoy the 3 zero-gravity sitting positions as well as you can also enjoy a good massage while you relax.
Considered by many as one of the best recliners for back pain, the Zero Gravity Full-Body Kahuna Massage Chair Recliner LM6800 with Yoga & Heating Therapy (Brown) allows you to enjoy the airbag massage at 3 intensity levels.
In what concerns the heat therapy, even though you can take advantage of it, you don’t have the possibility of either adjusting it or selecting the body area where you need it.
Ultimately, the Zero Gravity Full-Body Kahuna Massage Chair Recliner LM6800 with Yoga & Heating Therapy (Brown) is one of the best recliners for bad backs.
Pros:
- Extendable ottoman
- Heat therapy
- L-track for sciatica
- Zone massage
- Space-saving
- Great foot massage
- Easy to use remote
- Adjustable speed and intensity
Cons:
- Can’t adjust heat area
- Can’t adjust heat intensity.
Discover the top rated recliners for big man.
#2: Full Body Electric Shiatsu Massage Chair Recliner
Click to Check Price on Amazon
Another great option that you have when you are searching for the best recliners for lower back pain is the Full Body Electric Shiatsu Massage Chair Recliner.
One of the things that you’re going to love about the Full Body Electric Shiatsu Massage Chair Recliner is the fact that you can take advantage of the Shiatsu massage. In case you don’t know, this kind of massage is vigorous and the recliner comes with power rollers that will allow you to relax tense muscles.
When you are simply trying to relax using the Full Body Electric Shiatsu Massage Chair Recliner, then you should try the Recovery Program since others may be a bit rougher.
One of the things that we really like about the Full Body Electric Shiatsu Massage Chair Recliner is the fact that it has an intelligent roller system. So, you will be able to benefit from their flexibility to reach your sore spots.
In case you decide to buy the Full Body Electric Shiatsu Massage Chair Recliner, you need to know that you will also be able to take advantage of the heat therapy on both your back and feet. With this, you will see an improvement in your blood circulation.
A unique feature that the Full Body Electric Shiatsu Massage Chair Recliner includes is that it will perform an 11 signal test to determine the massage intensity according to your weight.
Pros:
- Relieves stress
- Corrects posture
- Good air massage
- Alleviates pain in a neck
- Heat therapy
Cons:
- The functions are minimal
- Not many adjustments allowed
- Minimal heat
- Very deep massages.
#3: RELAXONCHAIR [MK-II Plus] Full Body Zero Gravity Shiatsu Massage Chair with Built-in Heat and Air Massage System – Charcoal
Click to Check Price on Amazon
As you probably already know, it can be quite hard to choose the best recliners for back pain. However, you need to consider the RELAXONCHAIR [MK-II Plus] Full Body Zero Gravity Shiatsu Massage Chair with Built-in Heat and Air Massage System – Charcoal.
Featuring a new design and upgraded remote controller, the RELAXONCHAIR [MK-II Plus] Full Body Zero Gravity Shiatsu Massage Chair with Built-in Heat and Air Massage System – Charcoal is better than ever.
With this recent upgrade, the RELAXONCHAIR [MK-II Plus] Full Body Zero Gravity Shiatsu Massage Chair with Built-in Heat and Air Massage System – Charcoal comes with a reduced airbag pressure for both calves and arms, and the massage rollers and gentle but firm. Besides, the RELAXONCHAIR [MK-II Plus] Full Body Zero Gravity Shiatsu Massage Chair with Built-in Heat and Air Massage System – Charcoal allows you to choose between 4 automatic massage programs and 3 manual that are specifically targeted.
With the RELAXONCHAIR [MK-II Plus] Full Body Zero Gravity Shiatsu Massage Chair with Built-in Heat and Air Massage System – Charcoal, you can be sure that you will find the best way to relax. After all, it has a wide range of options.
In case you prefer to relax using the zero gravity position, you’ll be glad to know that you will be able to choose between three different positions according to your preferences. However, this is not all that you can do. In case you prefer to use the air massage technology, you will be happy to know that the airbags are uniquely designed for this chair as well as they were specifically positioned to add you more comfort, support, and relief. In case you are looking to get some relief in your lumbar back area, then you may want to try out the heating.
Pros:
- Upgraded design
- Heat therapy
- 3 different zero-gravity positions
- Air massage technology
- Comfortable and supportive
Cons:
- A bit bulky.
These are the top big man recliners in 2019.
#4: Flash Furniture Plush Brown Leather Lever Rocker Recliner with Padded Arms
Click to Check Price on Amazon
There’s no question that when you are searching for the best recliners for bad backs, you will find the Flash Furniture Plush Brown Leather Lever Rocker Recliner with Padded Arms.
The Flash Furniture Plush Brown Leather Lever Rocker Recliner with Padded Arms is a plush recliner that was designed thinking about tall users. Covered with LeatherSoft (a mixture of polyurethane and leather), the Flash Furniture Plush Brown Leather Lever Rocker Recliner with Padded Arms is incredibly comfortable and supportive. In fact, the Flash Furniture Plush Brown Leather Lever Rocker Recliner with Padded Arms comes with a great padding in the seat, back, and armrests.
One of the things that we really like about the Flash Furniture Plush Brown Leather Lever Rocker Recliner with Padded Arms is that besides being a recliner, you can also rock it. So, this is a versatile recliner chair that will look great in your living room. So, you can be sure that when you want to relax, the Flash Furniture Plush Brown Leather Lever Rocker Recliner with Padded Arms will be a great choice.
When you are looking to recline the Flash Furniture Plush Brown Leather Lever Rocker Recliner with Padded Arms, you need to know that you won’t push a button but use a lever instead. However, you just need to push it.
Pros:
- Rocking recliner
- Breathable upholstery that is easy to clean and maintain
- Comfortable padded
- Can sit upright
- Perfect for tall and heavy users
- Easy assembly
Cons:
- The backrest and footrest don’t recline independently
- Some users believe the headrest has a lot of padding
- It doesn’t include any type of massage.
#5: Homelegance Center Hill 42″ Bonded Leather Glider Reclining Chair, Brown
Click to Check Price on Amazon
In case you are searching for the best recliners for lower back pain, then you need to check out the Homelegance Center Hill 42″ Bonded Leather Glider Reclining Chair, Brown.
Featuring a traditional design the Homelegance Center Hill 42″ Bonded Leather Glider Reclining Chair, Brown comes with traditional rolled arms and channel-tufted design, the Homelegance Center Hill 42″ Bonded Leather Glider Reclining Chair, Brown is covered with a beautiful and soft bonded leather. So, no matter where you are thinking of placing it, the Homelegance Center Hill 42″ Bonded Leather Glider Reclining Chair, Brown will definitely stand out.
One of the things that we really like about the Homelegance Center Hill 42″ Bonded Leather Glider Reclining Chair, Brown is the fact that you can easily recline it by simply using the lever. Besides, you will see how it glides smoothly. While you won’t be able to fully recline with the Homelegance Center Hill 42″ Bonded Leather Glider Reclining Chair, Brown, you won’t be too far, which is great considering the price of this recliner chair.
In terms of comfort, the Homelegance Center Hill 42″ Bonded Leather Glider Reclining Chair, Brown is amazing. However, you may not like the fact that the wobbly back cushions aren’t attached together. So, while you may want to simply relax, you may end up spending the entire time putting them in their place.
Pros:
- Beautiful design
- High-quality bonded leather
- Very comfortable
- Easy to assemble
- Almost fully reclines
Cons:
- Difficult to get in the upright position
- No head support
- The wobbly back cushions aren’t attached together.
#6: La-Z-Boy Anderson Reclina-Rocker Recliner, Sand
Click to Check Price on Amazon
There are no questions that a lot of people tend to associate the La-Z-Boy brand to the best recliners for back pain. While we can’t say this is true for all recliners, it is definitely true for the La-Z-Boy Anderson Reclina-Rocker Recliner, Sand.
Featuring a traditional design, the La-Z-Boy Anderson Reclina-Rocker Recliner, Sand is covered with a natural Sand fabric. This recliner chair is very comfortable since it include a plush seat as well as the armrests are well padded.
One of the things that we really like about the La-Z-Boy Anderson Reclina-Rocker Recliner, Sand is the reclining adjustments. The reality is that you can adjust the back angle and the footrest independently making it perfect to get to some positions where you may experience better comfort and even support. Besides, we also love the fact that the La-Z-Boy Anderson Reclina-Rocker Recliner, Sand already uses the patented La-Z-Boy technology that allows the seat and back to move at the same time or independently depending on what you prefer.
In case you are thinking about buying the La-Z-Boy Anderson Reclina-Rocker Recliner, Sand, you need to know that there are 3 reclining chair positions for the leg rest. Besides, in case you want, you can simply use this recliner chair as a rocking chair.
Notice that the La-Z-Boy Anderson Reclina-Rocker Recliner, Sand is quite small and it was designed specifically for petite users.
Pros:
- Good back support
- Comfortable
- Stylish
- Rocking chair
- Backrest and leg rest recline independently
Cons:
- Only suits petite users
- The backrest could recline more.
#7: Relaxzen Massage Rocker Recliner with Heat and USB, Beige Microfiber
Click to Check Price on Amazon
Considered by many as one of the best recliners for lower back pain, the Relaxzen Massage Rocker Recliner with Heat and USB, Beige Microfiber has a lot of positive feedback from users.
Featuring a stylish design, the Relaxzen Massage Rocker Recliner with Heat and USB, Beige Microfiber is covered with an easy to clean plush microfiber. Besides, the Relaxzen Massage Rocker Recliner with Heat and USB, Beige Microfiber includes a good foam density to ensure that you have all the comfort and support you need to relax.
One of the things that we really like about the Relaxzen Massage Rocker Recliner with Heat and USB, Beige Microfiber is that it also has a massage feature to help you relax even more as well as to help you get some relief of your back pain. So, in case you buy the Relaxzen Massage Rocker Recliner with Heat and USB, Beige Microfiber, you will be able to take advantage of the 8 powerful massage motors that target 4 different zones. In order to select the intensity of the massage as well as the mode, you will need to use the remote. Besides, you may still choose to use the heat therapy.
In terms of other features included, you can expect to find USB ports so that you can easily charge your smartphone or tablet for example, as well as this recliner includes a a built-in side pocket that you can use to hold your remote near you.
The Relaxzen Massage Rocker Recliner with Heat and USB, Beige Microfiber has a maximum weight capacity of 300 pounds.
Pros:
- Very comfortable
- Massage and heat therapy
- Comes with remote control
- Easy to adjust
- Easy assembly
Cons:
- Some users find it a bit bulky.
Check out tis collection of recliners for big man.
#8: Cozzia Dual Power ZG Recliner, Black
Click to Check Price on Amazon
In case you are looking for a modern approach of a good recliner for lower back pain, then you should definitely consider the Cozzia Dual Power ZG Recliner, Black.
Available in black, chocolate, and ivory colors, the Cozzia Dual Power ZG Recliner, Black features a unique and stylish design. The Cozzia Dual Power ZG Recliner, Black is covered with a high-grade bonded leather and the benchwood base is extremely sturdy and stable.
One of the things that we really like about the Cozzia Dual Power ZG Recliner, Black is the fact that it comes with a control center that allows you to simply hit a button in there to reach the zero-gravity position. So, you can be sure that you will be able to fully relax and even get a great relief to your back.
In case you are considering buying the Cozzia Dual Power ZG Recliner, Black, you will be glad to know that the Cozzia Dual Power ZG Recliner, Black allows you to adjust the headrest and the footrest independently. So, you can be sure that you will be able to put yourself in the perfect position for you.
Another feature that the Cozzia Dual Power ZG Recliner, Black includes is the back vibration massage with lumbar heat therapy.
The Cozzia Dual Power ZG Recliner, Black has a maximum weight capacity of 400 pounds.
Pros:
- Very stylish
- Zero gravity recliner chair
- Stable and sturdy
- Back vibration massage and heat therapy
- Independent back and footrest
- Easy to use
Cons:
- No massage programs.
#9: Human Touch”Novo” Full Body Coverage Zero-Gravity L-Track Massage Chair, Black
Click to Check Price on Amazon
In case you are looking for one of the best recliners for lower back pain, then you’re going to love the Human Touch”Novo” Full Body Coverage Zero-Gravity L-Track Massage Chair, Black. The truth is that the Human Touch”Novo” Full Body Coverage Zero-Gravity L-Track Massage Chair, Black is considered by many users as one of the most comfortable recliners on the market.
One of the things that we need to say is that the Human Touch”Novo” Full Body Coverage Zero-Gravity L-Track Massage Chair, Black is pricey not to mention that it is large. So, in case you don’t have a big budget or a big room, you won’t be able to get it.
Featuring a beautiful design, the Human Touch”Novo” Full Body Coverage Zero-Gravity L-Track Massage Chair, Black is covered with a durable and resistant leather material and it comes with a 5-year premium warranty.
One of the things that we really like about the Human Touch”Novo” Full Body Coverage Zero-Gravity L-Track Massage Chair, Black is that it offers a wide range of options to ensure that you get the relief that you are looking for.
In case you decide to buy the Human Touch”Novo” Full Body Coverage Zero-Gravity L-Track Massage Chair, Black, you’ll be able to take advantage of the range and intensity adjustable L-track massage system as well as of the extending foot-and-calf massager. After all, you can easily adjust the intensity tight in the LCD remote. And talking about the remote, you will love all its features. The reality is that you can control every single setting from here. You can adjust the massage intensity, the width, the speed, the focus, the user height range, the underfoot roller speed, the stretch direction, and even the massage duration.
The Human Touch”Novo” Full Body Coverage Zero-Gravity L-Track Massage Chair, Black also includes Bluetooth speakers so that you can be listening to your favorite songs while you are relaxing and relieving all the accumulated tension.
The Human Touch”Novo” Full Body Coverage Zero-Gravity L-Track Massage Chair, Black has a maximum weight capacity of 300 pounds and it has a recommended user height range between 5’0 and 6’9.
Pros:
- A wide range of massages
- Zero gravity position
- Fully recline
- Very comfortable
- L-track massage
Cons:
- Very pricey.
#10: La-Z-Boy Niagara Reclina-Rocker Recliner, Fossil
Click to Check Price on Amazon
Featuring a more traditional design, the La-Z-Boy Niagara Reclina-Rocker Recliner, Fossil is not only a recliner; it’s also a rocker.
Covered with a stylish upholstery and including some detailed stitching, the La-Z-Boy Niagara Reclina-Rocker Recliner, Fossil is a beautiful recliner that will look good in almost all rooms.
If there is somethign that we like about the La-Z-Boy Niagara Reclina-Rocker Recliner, Fossil is the comfort it delivers. The truth is that it includes a wide pillow back as well as sleek pillow armrests.
In terms of the adjustments that you can make to get to your favorite position, the La-Z-Boy Niagara Reclina-Rocker Recliner, Fossil is incredible. The first thing that you need to know is that you can adjust the back and the footrest independently. So, this allows you to have a lot more options in terms of positions. In the second place, it is important to notice that since the frame is sturdy and stable, you can be sure that you get a good overall support. In the third place, we like the fact that the La-Z-Boy Niagara Reclina-Rocker Recliner, Fossil includes a three-position locking system as well as an adjustable tension feature.
One of the things that we would like to see improved on the La-Z-Boy Niagara Reclina-Rocker Recliner, Fossil is the leg rest. While it is comfortable and you can adjust its position, it’s a bit too short. So, ultimately, the La-Z-Boy Niagara Reclina-Rocker Recliner, Fossil is meant only for petite users.
Pros:
- Stylish design
- Lumbar support
- Durable and sturdy frame
- Comfortable
- Can adjust the back and the footrest independently
- Designed for petite users
Cons:
- The let rest is short
- The leg rest is noisy
- The headrest is too far back.
#11: HomCom Heated Vibrating Suede Massage Living Room Recliner Chair with Remote – Brown
Click to Check Price on Amazon
Last but not least, we want to show you the HomCom Heated Vibrating Suede Massage Living Room Recliner Chair with Remote – Brown.
With a stylish design that will look good in most rooms, the HomCom Heated Vibrating Suede Massage Living Room Recliner Chair with Remote – Brown is covered with a soft faux leather and is well padded.
The HomCom Heated Vibrating Suede Massage Living Room Recliner Chair with Remote – Brown is not only a recliner chair; it is also a rocking chair and a massage chair. So, in case you decide to buy it, you’ll get getting a very versatile recliner.
In what concerns the reclining feature, the HomCom Heated Vibrating Suede Massage Living Room Recliner Chair with Remote – Brown allows you to recline up to 150 degrees. However, when it is time to get to the upright position again, you may experience some problems.
One of the things that we like about the HomCom Heated Vibrating Suede Massage Living Room Recliner Chair with Remote – Brown is the fact that you can take advantage of the 8 vibrating massage motors as well as of the heat therapy. However, the rollers may be a bit noisy.
In order to access all the functions and settings, you can use the remote that is included with the HomCom Heated Vibrating Suede Massage Living Room Recliner Chair with Remote – Brown as well as you can also take advantage of the two cup holders on the sides.
Pros:
- Recliner, rocking, and massager chair
- Comfortable
- Reclines up to 150 degrees
- Heat therapy
- Vibration massage
- Remote
- 2 cup holders
Cons:
- Difficult to bring it an upright position
- Noisy.