Best Chairs for Upper Back Pain

Upper back pain is a common problem for people who sit for prolonged periods. Choosing an ergonomic chair that properly supports the upper back is crucial for relief and prevention. This article provides recommendations for the best office, desk, and living room chairs to manage upper back discomfort.

Causes and Symptoms of Upper Back Pain

Upper back pain often results from poor posture, lack of back support when sitting, muscle tension, injuries, or underlying spinal conditions. Common symptoms include:

• Sharp or dull pain in the upper back or neck area
• Muscle tightness creating a pulling sensation
• Stiffness and reduced range of motion
• Headaches that radiate from the base of the skull

Sitting in unsupported chairs stresses the upper back muscles, connectsive tissues, and spine, leading to fatigue, strain, and pain over time.

Choosing the Best Chair for Upper Back Support

Chairs that help align the upper spine and shoulders are ideal for upper back pain. Look for chairs with adjustable lumbar support to fit the chair to your body. Contoured backrests that adapt to the upper back’s natural curvature are also beneficial.

Other key features include:

• Adjustable armrests to support shoulders and neck
• Headrest taking pressure off upper back muscles
• Recline function for changing positions
• Cushioned seat to avoid pressure points

Getting up and stretching regularly is still important, even in an ergonomic chair. But a supportive chair reduces injury risks from prolonged sitting.

Best Office Chairs for Upper Back Pain

Office workers spend many consecutive hours sitting, making ergonomic office chairs a worthwhile investment for upper back health.

The Steelcase Gesture is an excellent ergonomic office chair choice. It has a contoured backrest supporting the spine’s natural shape and fully adjustable armrests to position as needed. The Gesture’s seat and back move together, keeping the body properly aligned.

Another exceptional option is the Herman Miller Embody Chair. Its narrow back fits close to the spine, while the backrest dynamically adapts to subtle postural shifts. The Embody reduces upper back tension and discomfort remarkably well.

For a more affordable office chair, the Sihoo Ergonomic Office Chair has good back support and adjustments. It lacks more advanced features but effectively assists proper sitting posture.

Best Desk Chairs for Upper Back and Neck

Desk chairs with enhanced upper back and neck support can alleviate computer-related upper back and neck strains.

The Steelcase Leap Desk Chair allows customizing the back height and depth for individual fit. Its Natural Glide System enables healthy spine movement. The Leap prevents upper back hunching and rounded shoulders.

Another choice is the Herman Miller Mirra 2 Chair. It has a flexible polymer backframe conforming to the spine’s shape. The Mirra 2 supports good posture, especially beneficial for the upper back and neck.

For a budget option, the DEVAISE Ergonomic Desk Chair has a tall back with lumbar and headrest cushioning. It suits long computer sessions without tensing the upper back.

Best Living Room Chairs for Upper Back Support

Living room chairs with enhanced ergonomics foster proper posture outside the office, reducing postural strains.

The Fully Desk Chair adapts to natural movements with its mesh back. The cushioned seat stays comfortable without causing pressure points. The Fully chair works well for lounging without slouching.

Another excellent choice is the Nouhaus Ergo3D Swivel Base Chair, which has adjustable lumbar support. Its dynamic back technology pivots to match the spine’s movement. The Nouhaus chair prevents upper back discomfort when used for extended periods.

For a simpler living room chair, the BestOffice Accent Chair has a contoured back with built-in lumbar support. It maintains the upper back’s alignment, making it suitable for reading or watching TV without strain.

In Conclusion

Choosing ergonomic chairs that correctly support the upper back is vital for managing discomfort from postural strains or spinal conditions. Look for design features like articulating backrests, adjustable lumbar support, and cushioning that hold the upper spine in proper alignment. An ergonomic chair reduces muscle tension and risk of injury from prolonged sitting. Pair it with regular movement breaks for optimal upper back health.