Many of us spend our evenings in a recliner or a soft sofa, thinking we’re resting our joints. However, a common mistake is choosing furniture that is too deep or too soft, which makes getting up a struggle and puts immense pressure on your lower back and knees.
First, check your hip alignment. When you sit, your hips should be slightly higher than your knees. If you’re sinking into a plush cushion, your knees end up higher than your hips, which strains the pelvic area. Try adding a firm foam wedge or a stiff decorative pillow to lift your seat height.
Second, pay attention to the armrests. You should be able to push off them comfortably without straining your shoulders. If your favorite chair lacks support, it might be time to swap it for a firm armchair with a straight back. Finally, set a timer for every thirty minutes. Even the best chair becomes a problem if you don’t stand up and stretch your legs frequently. Small adjustments to your seating can prevent that stiff, “locked-in” feeling after dinner.
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Plywood under the cushions! My dad used to do that. I thought he was just being cheap, but now I realize he was probably just trying to save his back.
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My doctor actually suggested a ‘lift chair’ for my husband because his knees are so far gone. It’s been a life saver for his independence, though they are quite pricey. If you can’t afford a new chair, the firm pillow trick Janet mentioned is definitely the best starting point. We used a piece of plywood under the sofa cushions for a while too, which helped stop the sagging.
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Great advice on the timer. Movement is medicine.
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I find that if I use a small footstool it helps my circulation, but then my knees get stiff. It’s a constant trade-off.
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Is there a specific brand of wedge you recommend? I’m seeing a lot of options online and don’t want to get one that’s too hard.
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I actually bought a firm foam cushion last month because our sofa is so old and saggy. It made a world of difference for my knees when I go to stand up. No more ‘counting to three’ before I can move!
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Thanks for the tip about the hips being higher than the knees. I never thought of it that way.
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I struggle with this at the office. Those ‘ergonomic’ chairs aren’t always great for people with osteoarthritis.
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Martha, I had the same issue. My PT told me to stop using the footrest and keep my feet flat on the floor more often. It really helped with the lower back pull.
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What about recliners? I find they are the only way I can get comfortable, but getting out of them is a nightmare.
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This is so true. I realized my favorite ‘comfy’ chair was the reason my hips hurt every single morning.
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