Lumbar support pillows help to ease back pain and offer support--allowing the spine to remain in a natural position, when sitting or lying on the back. Support pillows are available in several forms, including some with memory foam. The shape of the pillow rests along the inner curve of the spine to offer constant support, while cradling the lower back. The pillows are lightweight for easy travel. Sitting for long periods without lumbar support may cause the muscles to tense and cramp. Individuals with lumbar disc problems will experience back pain, as well as pain down the legs, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Step 1
Shop around for the lumbar support pillow, trying brands with different types of inner foam. Place the pillow in a chair, in order to determine if the fit is comfortable. Look for features such as a washable cover, for convenience.
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Step 2
Purchase multiple lumbar support pillows. Leave one on a favorite chair in the house, one in the car, and another at the office. This allows for one less thing to carry during the daily commute. It also increases the possibility of using the pillow, because it is readily available.
Step 3
Place the lumbar pillow vertically in the chair. The pillow needs to rest in the small of the back to keep the normal curve of the spine. For best results, sit in a chair with a firm support. When sitting for long periods of time, in addition to the lumbar pillow, place feet on a small stool to help relieve additional stress on the back, as suggested by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.
Step 4
Use the lumbar support pillow in the car, especially for trips longer than 15 minutes. Nerve pain that travels down the legs while driving is common for individuals with back injuries. The lumbar support pillow helps alleviate the pain in the legs and in the back.
Step 5
Lie on the back when sleeping, for best lumbar support. Elevating the knees and propping them with a few regular pillows will help to reduce the pressure on the lower spine, states spine-health.com. The pillows may be shifted to between the knees, when sleeping on the side.
Step 6
Travel with the lumbar support pillow, especially if flying or taking other long-distance modes of transportation. The trip may be more comfortable, because of using a lumbar support pillow.
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Is this an emergency? If you are experiencing serious medical symptoms, please see the National Library of Medicine’s list of signs you need emergency medical attention or call 911.