Are Recliners Bad for Your Hips? What You Need to Know

Recliners are a popular piece of furniture that allows you to relax in a laid-back position with your feet up. While recliners can be very comfortable, some people find they cause or worsen hip pain. So are recliners actually bad for your hips?

The short answer is – it depends. Recliners themselves do not directly cause issues in an otherwise healthy hip joint. But certain factors like posture, weight, and underlying conditions can make a recliner problematic for some people’s hips.

In this article, we will demystify the link between recliners and hip pain, offering insights into potential causes, preventive strategies, and crucial factors to consider when selecting a recliner that won’t exacerbate hip pain.

Let’s start!

Why Does Your Hip Hurt When Sitting in a Recliner?

Delving into the complexities of hip pain reveals how a seemingly comfortable recliner can become your discomfort catalyst.

1. The Impact of Poor Posture

It’s easy to slip into a slouched position in a recliner, but doing so can have negative consequences. A hunched posture exerts additional pressure on the hips and spine, leading to pain and stiffness over time.

This malalignment can also disrupt blood circulation and nerve function in the lower body.

2. Crossing Your Legs

Crossing your legs or leaning to one side while relaxing in a recliner may seem harmless, but it can lead to hip and pelvic imbalances.

This, in turn, can trigger pain and inflammation in the hip joints and muscles. Moreover, crossing your legs can impede blood flow and compress nerves in your legs.

3. Uneven Surfaces and Support

Sitting on an uneven surface, such as a recliner that is too soft, too hard, or unbalanced, can push your body into an unnatural position.

This can place additional stress on one hip, leading to poor posture and discomfort in the hip region. Older, unsupportive recliners can exacerbate this issue.

4. Prolonged Sitting

Recliners invite relaxation, but prolonged sitting can make hips tight and stiff. Lack of movement allows the hip muscles to remain contracted, which can lead to pain.

5. Underlying Medical Conditions

Conditions like arthritis, bursitis, tendinitis, and pinched nerves can cause inflammation and degeneration in the joints and tissues, impacting the hips and causing pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced range of motion.

Lupus, an autoimmune disease, can also attack healthy tissues in the hip area, leading to similar symptoms.

6. Hip Joint Issues

Issues with the hip joint, such as a loose or damaged joint, can result in discomfort. These issues can stem from injury, wear, and tear, or congenital disabilities and may cause pain, clicking, popping, or locking sensations in the hip area.

7. Obesity

Excess weight applies additional stress on the hip joints, especially when sitting in a recliner. The extra force on the joint surfaces can compress and damage cartilage, potentially leading to osteoarthritis.

How to Prevent Hip Pain While Using a Recliner

If you experience hip pain when sitting or lying in a recliner, there are some steps you can take to prevent it.

1. Perfecting Your Posture

The way you sit in a recliner can significantly impact your hip health. Always aim for a straight, supported spine, with your feet flat and comfortably resting on the footrest.

Avoid slouching, crossing your legs, or leaning to one side, as these can strain your hip joint.

Frequent shifts in your position can also help prevent stiffness and undue pressure on your hips.

2. Recliner Adjustments

A well-fitted recliner, tailored to your size and shape, can make a world of difference. Look for options with ample cushioning and adequate support for your back and hips.

Adjust the angle and height of your recliner to suit your comfort level, thereby reducing strain on your hips.

3. Exercise and Stretching

Gentle exercises and stretches can strengthen and loosen your hip muscles and joints. Low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, cycling, or yoga can improve blood circulation and flexibility.

Specific hip exercises and stretches, such as hip rotations, hip extensions, hip abductions, bridges, and butterfly stretches, can also be beneficial.

Regular exercise, excluding any movements that cause pain or discomfort, can help maintain hip health.

4. Importance of Movement Breaks

Sitting for extended periods can lead to stiffness. Aim to get up at least once every 30-45 minutes when relaxing in a recliner. A short walk or a quick stretch can help keep your hips flexible.

5. Use of Cushions/Pillows

Lumbar cushions, leg elevators, and side pillows can provide added support and comfort, taking pressure off your hips while sitting. Position them optimally for alignment and comfort.

6. Maintaining a Healthy Weight

Maintaining a healthy weight is a key aspect of hip health, and it isn’t as difficult as you might think!

Every extra pound we carry puts additional strain on our hip joints. This added pressure over time may lead to discomfort or even damage. So, how can we prevent this?

Balance is the key. By finding harmony between a nutritious diet and regular physical activity, you can control your weight effectively.

Swap those high-fat, high-sugar snacks for fresh fruits and veggies. Incorporate lean proteins and whole grains into your meals. Hydrate yourself with plenty of water, too!

As for exercise, you don’t have to hit the gym seven days a week. Try brisk walking, cycling, swimming, or any activity that gets your heart pumping. Even small changes can make a big difference.

7. Seeking Medical Help

If hip pain persists despite your best efforts, it’s crucial to consult a doctor. Severe, persistent, or activity-limiting hip pain needs professional attention for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Your doctor may prescribe stronger medications, physical therapy, or other treatment options.

Choosing the Best Recliner for Your Bad Hips

When seeking a recliner that won’t exacerbate your hip pain, certain key factors should be considered before finalizing your purchase.

1. Fit Your Form

Picking a recliner that perfectly aligns with your body size and shape is essential. Ensure the recliner offers enough room and cushioning for your back and hips, avoiding seats that are too tight or loose.

An adjustable height and angle can significantly enhance comfort and lessen hip strain.

2. The Right Seat Dimensions

The depth and width of the seat play a crucial role. A seat that is too deep can misalign your hips.

• Aim for a depth of around 16-20 inches, which suits most people.
• A wider seat, around 24 inches, offers room to adjust your hip position, whereas narrow seats can force the hips together.
• The seat height should allow your feet to rest flat on the footrest without excessive knee bending.

3. Comfort and Support

Opt for a recliner that offers adequate support and comfort for your hips. A firm yet soft backrest that supports your spine and maintains its natural curve is essential.

A padded seat that adapts to your hips and evenly distributes your weight can prevent undue pressure on any single point.

Medium-firm, high-density foam cushions are ideal. Soft cushions can cause your hips to sink in and misalign, while thinly padded recliners can be uncomfortable.

Armrests and footrests can further enhance comfort by supporting your arms and legs, reducing tension in your hips.

4. Beneficial Features and Functions

Some recliners offer features that can enhance relaxation and provide pain relief:

Power Lift: A power lift recliner uses a remote control to lift or lower the seat, making it easier and safer to get in and out of the chair, thus preventing hip strain.

Massage: Recliners with massage capabilities can stimulate blood flow and relax tense muscles in the hip area.

Heat: Heated recliners can reduce inflammation and stiffness in your hip joints.

Zero Gravity: Recliners with a zero gravity feature can reduce pressure and stress on your hips and spine by creating a feeling of weightlessness.

Adequate Lumbar Support: Look for a chair that supports the natural curve of your lower spine when in a reclined position. This feature can protect your hips.

5. Smooth Motion

Opt for recliners with smooth gliding or rocking motions. Avoid recliners with jerky lever-activated motions, which can jar the hips.

Read more: Why Are Good Recliners So Expensive?

Wrapping Up

Recliners are not bad for your hips when used properly and carefully selected. While they can be a source of comfort for many, improper use or a poor fit can contribute to hip discomfort.

The key to enjoying a recliner’s relaxation without causing hip pain is maintaining good posture, making necessary adjustments to recliner settings, and embracing strategies like gentle exercises, and stretches.

Choosing a recliner that suits your needs in size, shape, support, and features can further enhance your experience.

Keep in mind that if hip pain persists, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice.

Finally, if you’re particularly big and tall, don’t miss out on our specialized collections of Recliners and Power Lift Chairs. These models are specially designed to cater to larger body types, ensuring everyone can enjoy the comfort and style a recliner has to offer.