Advice needed on back support for sitting

Hi all,

I wonder if you can help with this: I love sitting reading in bed at night, and I already have a ‘butterfly’ cushion, but after a few minutes I am in pain. I just wondered if anyone else has had this problem and found a way around it? Also, has anyone tried a particular type of desk chair that has helped them?

Miranda x

Comments

  • Cimca
    Cimca Member Posts: 33

    Hi Miranda

    I keep checking this post as I have the same problem. I have yet to find a comfortable solution. I also enjoy reading in bed but it has become more painful. I might have another look on internet.

  • crinkly
    crinkly Member Posts: 156

    Hello to you both. I have OA in most areas of my spine and, like you, am an avid reader, also need to sit comfortably at a computer desk. There is no single solution as everyone is different and also has to manage changes in their individual condition so I'm afraid it's mainly a matter of trial and error. That can take time and some travelling by way of research but it can be fun too.

    By now I have arrived at a combination of supportive pillows that works well for a good bedtime read but that has changed over the years so I can't say much to help other than collect and try pillows of varying size and shape.

    Selecting chairs is also an individual challenge and, in the early days I went to an NHS Disabled Living Centre then to two different large commercial showrooms of disability products plus large local 'normal' furniture stores. At the first I had the help of an Occupational Therapist who encouraged me to write down the measurements of any chair that I found particularly comfortable so I was able to check the chairs in other places without buying from the first seller.

    For me a high back in which I can rest my neck is essential but reduces the available products so it might need a bit of assertiveness to escape the 'hard sell' approach. Stick firmly with the seat size, height from the ground and height and angle of backrest that you have found works for you. 'Almost right' is always wrong and any salesperson worth their salt will allow you to take your time, make whatever notes you need and depart without making an order. If you are harassed by a salesperson I would advise politely leaving the shop at once.

    If funds are limited and you have decided on the exact chair you need, it's worth browsing the internet and looking in the larger charity shops as well as local furniture stores. It's surprising how many bargains can be found in unexpected places provided you know just what you are looking for. (My favourite reclining chair was in a local charity shop in almost new condition - just a scratch on one arm that was easily treated.)

    Most reputable manufacturers advertise the dimensions of their desk/office chairs and will allow you to try their range in the showroom before making a decision. Last year I found one that fits both me and my desk really well. It wasn't cheap and I had to wait 4 months for it to be delivered as it was out of stock when I ordered but nothing else would have been as good.

    My best suggestion then may not seem very helpful but it is not to assume that anyone else's recommendation will be right for you and make sure you have tried several shortlisted options before buying.

    Happy reading! 😎

  • Cimca
    Cimca Member Posts: 33

    Thanks crinkly. I had a feeling the best bed support would involve pillows and trial and error. Will continue to work on it!

  • Mike1
    Mike1 Member Posts: 1,992

    I can't stay in bed once awake as the pain kicks in despite having an electric bed which adjusts to allow for sitting up. My OT provided a recliner for me as when at about 45 degrees the pressure is taken off my back and neck. Perhaps contact your Adult Social Care department at your Council and ask for an OT visit who will then be able to recommend any other alterations and equipment to help you out. This is a free service and, if items are required, most are provided on permanent loan. I did this a few years ago and now they keep an eye on me every year or so, plus they always respond quickly if I contact them as they know my case. Worth a try.

  • Miranda
    Miranda Member Posts: 23

    Thanks everybody for your suggestions, that’s a lot for me to look into. As a side note: I bought a ‘magnetic posture support’ in a charity shop today, (new) which I’m wearing now and is helping with my back pain. Just thought I’d put that out there in case it helps anyone!

    All the best,

    Miranda x

  • airwave
    airwave Member Posts: 579

    The longer I spend on my back the numbness increases in my lower half, then the pain starts, the only solution I find is to turn on my side. I have tried different pillows. As for supporting your spine, still the best by far is your own muscles, ligaments and tendons. Keep doing the exercises.


    it’s a grin, honest!