Whether you’re working, eating, driving, or gaming, you do so sitting down. If you think about it, whether you’re a gamer or not, people, in general, spend a huge part of their day seated. And while you may think this won’t do any harm to your body, a chiropractor will say otherwise.
To be clear, it’s not the sitting that’s the problem, but rather, the way we do. Sometimes we tend to take proper posture for granted and end up slouching in the chair after hours of gameplay and thus straining your back.
Take it from me, as someone who has suffered from a disc injury from sitting improperly in front of a computer for long periods of time, this is no laughing matter. Thankfully, there is a simple way to maintain proper posture and alleviate chances for back pain while seated. Back support or lumbar cushions exist to eliminate that soreness and tightness on your lower back, thereby helping you enjoy your game pain-free.
So, if you want to be able to play for hours without suffering from lower back pain, then you ought to consider getting yourself one of these cushions. Apart from offering good support for your back, it also provides additional comfort while seated. If you’re not yet convinced, that’s okay. We’re here to give you a complete walkthrough for all things back support.
Now, getting your very first back support cushion may not be that easy, because there are way too many options out there. But don’t worry, because we’ll also help you identify what you need to look for in a pillow. We’ll even list down our top 5 picks for the best back support cushions out in the market today. Apart from that, we will also answer the most frequently asked questions about the topic. So just sit back and relax as we tell you everything you need to know about back support cushion.
Most Comfortable
Xtreme Comforts Memory Foam
Find Out More
Best Overall
Castle Bulwark Memory Foam Pillow
Find Out More
Best for Long term Use
Original Mckenzie Lumbar Roll
Find Out More
LoveHome Memory Foam
Most Firm
“The firmness of the cushion forces you to sit up straight while at play.”
This chiropractor-recommended pillow helps keep your spine aligned even when you sit on your chair for hours. The firmness of the cushion forces you to sit up straight while at play. The cushion is made purely of high-quality memory foam and feels extremely comfortable despite its firmness. It conforms to the shape of your back which helps eliminate pain.
The cushion has two adjustable straps that allow you to secure it in place in a heartbeat. Its cover is removable and washable as well. What’s even greater is that there is a wide range of colors to choose from!
Find Out More
Xtreme Comforts Memory Foam
Most Comfortable
“You can expect an improvement in your blood flow, a relief in muscle pains, and a comfortable gaming experience”
For the price of $34.99, you can expect an improvement in your blood flow, a relief in muscle pains, and a comfortable gaming experience. The back support cushion is designed to conform to the contours of your spine, and thus promotes proper posture and alignment.
The pillow is made from 100% bamboo, making it 100% hypoallergenic. The breathable material ensures all-day comfort that won’t make you sweat. It comes with 4 adjustable straps that ensure the backrest sits firmly in position. Its pillowcase is removable and washing machine-friendly, as well.
Find Out More
Everlasting comfort Pure Memory Foam
Best Memory Foam
“Made of high-quality memory foam and is built to improve your posture and alleviate back pain.”
From the name itself, you already know how amazing this backrest is. It is made entirely of high-quality memory foam and is built to improve your posture and alleviate back pain. What we love about this product is that it can be used not only for your lower back, but for your mid back, upper back, and neck as well! Just adjust the position of the pillow accordingly. Not bad for only $21.20!
It is also made from hypoallergenic material, so those who suffer from allergies won’t have a problem using this product. The cushion itself is washable: just dump it in your dryer and pour some fabric softener sheet, and it’s good to go. It also comes with 2 adjustable straps to keep the cushion firmly in place.
Find Out More
Original Mckenzie Lumbar Roll
Best for Long term Use
“The McKenzie cushion is made from premium durable memory foam and is designed for long-term use.”
The OPTP-designed pillow comes in two density levels and is highly recommended by chiropractors and physical therapists alike. Its unique cylindrical shape enforces you to sit properly with that S-shaped curve of your back. Some people might feel a little uneasy using it in the beginning, but bear with it for and you’ll notice your posture improving in no time.
The McKenzie cushion is made from premium durable memory foam and is designed for long-term use. It’s polyester cover is wrinkle- and moisture-resistant, and may be removed for washing. It has adjustable straps to keep the cushion in place as well.
Find Out More
Castle Bulwark Memory Foam Pillow
Best Overall
“It passed an 80,000-compression test, meaning that even if you use it all day, every day, you can still rely on it to get the job done.”
The backrest comes in two colors: full black and black and gray. It has two variants as well: full back and low back. We love how the foam’s shape and bottom notch truly promotes good back posture. Its foam density is at an impressive level of 70D, making it adjust to even the smallest movements of its user. At $39.99 apiece, it may be a little more expensive than regular cushions, but we do believe that it is a worthy investment.
Additionally, its foam is built to last for years. It passed an 80,000-compression test, meaning that even if you use it all day, every day, you can still rely on it to get the job done. Its mesh cover is easily removable (it has a zipper) and may be machine washed. It has a strap that affixes it firmly into place, so you won’t have to worry about adjusting it every so often. The product also comes with a strap extension and a drawstring bag.
Find Out More
So, what is a back support cushion, anyway?
A lumbar or back support cushion is a pillow that is designed specifically to support the spine and improve posture. When sitting for hours on end, we sometimes can’t help but slouch on our seats. That’s where the backrest comes in. Having support for your lumbar region will ensure that you don’t end up slouching.
To be clear, a back support cushion should not be confused for a back brace. A back brace is a device that you wrap around your waist to stabilize your back muscles. It’s typically used by people suffering from severe back conditions such as bulging discs to help their spine and muscles recover from the injury.
I don’t feel back pain, so why should I get one?
As they say, prevention is always better than cure. Back support cushions can help prevent you from having pain and chronic injuries. Sitting for long periods of time causes a contraction in your back muscles and ligaments, resulting in stress build-up. But, with the help of a back support cushion, your muscles get the support they need to avoid the “creep”. Here are some more benefits you get from using a back support chair.
It promotes good posture – A good back support cushion will help develop good posture in general. Having a back support cushion that tells you to sit up straight regularly will also remind your body to maintain good posture even when standing up.
It prevents you from slouching – Back cushions literally won’t allow you to slouch because they physically prevent you from bending your spine unnaturally. And since slouching for prolonged periods will lead to muscle tightness and pinched nerves, you can say goodbye to those as well when you use a back support cushion.
It prevents chronic back problems – In case you didn’t know, surgeries and therapies cost a lot. So if you want to avoid the physical and financial pain of having back injuries, then you should definitely go and buy a back support cushion.
It may be used wherever – Apart from your gaming chair, you could also place it essentially wherever you want to sit. So, whether you’re driving to work, going on long road trips, or playing all night, your cushion will always be there to support your back.
It’s affordable – A good reliable cushion only costs around 20 to 40 bucks. Need I say more?
How exactly does it work?
A back support cushion has a curved design such that it always remains in contact with your spine. It helps support the muscles in your lower back, thus eliminating back pain. It’s pretty easy to install and use the cushion, too. Just fasten the straps to the back of your gaming chair, adjust it accordingly as desired, and voila! You’re all set to play.
Won’t it make my muscles weak?
A common misconception about back support cushions is that they may weaken your back muscles. But in truth, they merely provide additional support to your tired back muscles to ensure good posture and relieve pain from prolonged sitting. That’s it!
Does every gamer need it?
While back support cushions are essential for people with chronic back conditions such as a bulging disc or sciatica, they’re also great in preventing such ailments to happen to you. So, if you’re a gamer who spends hours on end on the computer, even if you don’t feel back pain, you should definitely get one especially if your gaming chair barely offers any lumbar support.
Now, if you already have a gaming chair that offers good support for your back, then you might not need a lumbar support cushion any longer. How will you know if you do? Simple. Just sit up straight and check whether the back of the chair is touching your lower back. If it does, then you’ve got yourself a good chair. Note: it should not feel as if your chair is over-accentuating your back. It shouldn’t feel as if you need to push your lower back into the chair, either.
Back support cushions are very affordable, so you will be able to protect your back without having to spend much.
Side note: when should I see a doctor?
Yes, back cushions are there to help alleviate back pain when you’re seated. But, you definitely should go see a doctor if you’re experiencing chronic back pain.
Likewise, if you are already suffering from such conditions, we highly recommend that you consult your doctor before buying a back support cushion. They will help you identify what type of cushion will support your back based on your specific ailment. You don’t want to get a cushion that will only make it worse.
Is it backed by Science?
If you’re still feeling a little iffy about their effectiveness, here are some scientific studies that support back support cushions.
Is it really the best solution?
Back support pillows can and will make you feel more comfortable while seated because it promotes good posture and supports your muscles. But, while it does help you relieve back pain from prolonged sitting, it is not a permanent fix to back problems, particularly long-term ones.
The truth is, the most effective way to alleviate back pain is through regular stretching and exercise. Having a sedentary lifestyle, while sometimes unavoidable, is not ideal for the back. Sadly for some people, though, getting a daily dose of yoga isn’t really plausible. As an alternative, remind yourself to get up from your chair once in a while (say every 30 minutes or so) and move around a little. Stand up, stretch, go to the bathroom, have a snack — any of these will help loosen those tight muscles.
But, while a back support cushion is not the best solution to alleviate back pain, it will definitely offer a lot of help.
Which kind should I get?
Back support cushions are typically very affordable. The curved profile is meant to complement our spine’s natural curve. While you think back support cushions all look the same, you’d be surprised to know that it comes in many kinds, each having slight differences from one another. They are made using various kinds of materials and attractive designs. As such, it is important for you to know what kind of cushion is the most suitable for you. So, before you go on a search for the best back support cushion, here are some factors you need to consider to ensure you’re getting the perfect fit.
Your chair – If your gaming chair already has built-in back support, and you still feel like you need more, then get a cushion that’s a lot thinner. In doing so, you’ll get proper support without the cushion propping you too far forward. Also, measure the dimensions of your chair so you’re sure that the cushion will fit just right.
Your natural curve – The depth of the lumbar curve varies from person to person, and that’s why back support cushions vary in depth as well. You have to pick a cushion that fits your back’s dimensions comfortably. The deeper your curve is, the thicker cushion you need. If you have a rather flat back, a D-shaped cushion is the best option for you.
Your height and weight – The size of your backrest should also depend on your body’s measurements. For instance, if you’re a bit short, a nice short cushion will fit you perfectly. Naturally, the same size won’t be appropriate for someone who says, 6’2”. In terms of weight, those on the heavier side ought to pick firm cushions that won’t compress easily.
Consider a memory foam – A memory foam is a great idea, especially if you’re not the only person to use the cushion. It has the ability to adapt to the curve of your back, which means it will offer better support. It will also adjust itself based on your different positions.
Adjustability – People don’t sit in the exact same position for long periods of time. We tend to switch from time to time, and that’s why it’s important to find a backrest that is also adjustable.
Straps – when picking a cushion, you want to get one with adjustable straps. The straps will make sure that the cushion is attached firmly to the chair, and won’t slip and slide every time you move around in your chair. Having to adjust your backrest every time it gets dislodged could be really annoying.
Material – Since the cushion will be in constant contact with your skin, it’s good to pick one made with breathable material.
Washable pillowcase – Since you’ll definitely be using your back support cushion a lot, it’s important that it comes with a removable cover so that it may be washed from time to time. Apart from great back support, proper hygiene is also essential.
Our Final Thoughts
Even though it’s such a critical part of our bodies, we usually tend to take our spine for granted. Just because you don’t feel any pain (for now), doesn’t mean everything is going fine. So, if you find yourself spending hours and days in front of the computer, even though you don’t feel a thing, it’s important that you provide your back with the help it needs to support your spine. Trust us, spending a few bucks for a good back support cushion will go a long way.
