Living with Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD) can be challenging, especially if you’re working in a role which requires you to sit for extended periods. A good quality office chair, with the correct features, can make a significant difference. Not just enhancing comfort, but also by promoting a healthier posture – which will alleviate symptoms.
In this article, we’ll discuss what Degenerative Disc Disease is and give you our top three office chair choices that offer features which will benefit people dealing with this condition.
What is Degenerative Disc Disease?
Degenerative Disc Disease is a medical condition where the discs between the vertebrae of the spine progressively break down. These vital discs serve as shock absorbers for the spine, allowing flexibility and preventing bone-on-bone contact and, over time they can lose hydration and elasticity which leads to pain, stiffness, and movement limitations.
While DDD is commonly associated with the aging process, other factors like genetics, obesity, smoking, and certain professions can increase the risk. Intervention methods for DDD range from physical therapy and medication, to surgery in severe cases.
Now that we’ve outlined what DDD is, let’s move onto the main attraction: the best office chairs for Degenerative Disc Disease sufferers.
Our Top Choice of Office Chair for Degenerative Disc Disease
Rather than compile a large shortlist of 10, we bring you our top 3 – our top three office chairs that provide the best comfort and support for sufferers of Degenerative Disc Disease. We discuss them in more detail further down, but if you can’t wait, our top pick is given below….
We opted for the Steelcase Gesture Ergonomic Chair.
Our Best Choice  | Steelcase Gesture Ergonomic Office Chair Our choice as the best chair for sufferers of Degenerative Disc Disease. A solid, well made and well designed model from Steelcase, its innovative ‘3D LiveBack’ technology should be just the thing to help sufferers of DDD. |
Why?
Because of it’s innovative 3D LiveBack technology which can dynamically adapt to the user’s spinal movement, maintaining support.
The 3 Best Office Chairs for Degenerative Disc Disease
1. Herman Miller Aeron Ergonomic Chair
The Herman Miller is a name synonymous with quality and comfort, their Aeron Ergonomic Chair stands out as one of the most comfortable office chairs for Degenerative Disc Disease.
The chair features its ‘PostureFit’ Sacral support, designed to maintain the natural S-shape of the spine which provides excellent lumbar support. The fully adjustable arms allow users to set the ideal height and angle, accommodating various body sizes and work habits – ideal to aid taking weight off the spine.
The chair’s material is breathable, ensuring your back remains cool and comfortable throughout the day. However, some might find the price a little ‘eye-watering’ but given its unique features and durability, it is a worthy long-term investment for your health and comfort.
The downside is the chair does not come with a headrest, though models can be bought as an aftermarket addition, like in the image above.
2. VIVO DRAGONN Ergonomic Kneeling Chair with Back Support
The DRAGONN Ergonomic Kneeling Chair by Vivo offers a unique approach to tackle the symptoms of DDD. Instead of a traditional sitting position, this chair places the user in a modified kneeling posture.
The ergonomic kneeling design promotes better posture by distributing weight evenly across the body, this reduces stress on the lower back and leg muscles. The chair is adjustable, catering to various body sizes and preferences.
It is constructed from quality materials as the chair can support up to 250 lbs, ensuring a durable and long-lasting life span.
Although it might take some time to adapt to this unconventional seating arrangement, it can be a game-changer for some DDD sufferers. Though, not all Chiropractors and medical practitioners on the benefits of Kneeling chairs, so this may require a trial and error approach for some DDD sufferers. If you have a chronic condition, we’d definitely recommend consulting a medical professional.
3. Steelcase Gesture Chair
The Steelcase Gesture Chair is another top-tier choice for DDD sufferers. It’s designed with a focus on promoting good posture and providing ample back support.
The 360-degree rotating arms offer a high level of customization that allow the user to find their most comfortable position. The 3D LiveBack technology adapts to the user’s spinal movements, providing continuous support and reducing strain on the lower back.
The chair itself is adjustable, catering to a wide range of body types, sizes and preferences. Its forward-leaning seat offers a more natural sitting position, reducing spinal compression.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. Do long hours of sitting make DDD worse?
Yes, sitting too much and bad sitting posture can cause the Degenerative Disc Disease to worsen. Decreasing the time sat down, taking breaks to move and stretch, and sitting with good posture in an ergonomic chair will give the user a better experience.
Q. How should I sit with Degenerative Disc Disease?
Degenerative disc disease causes spinal pain while sitting, but can be exacerbated whilst being seated in a forward sitting position as it places pressure on the lower back. The recommendation is to sit in an upright position, ideally in a good chair which can provide proper support to the spine.
To Wrap Up…
Living with Degenerative Disc Disease doesn’t mean you have to put up with discomfort while working. Regardless of the severity of your condition investing in a well-designed and supportive office chair would be money well spent – significantly improve your comfort, productivity, and overall quality of life.
The Herman Miller Aeron Ergonomic Chair, DRAGON Ergonomic Kneeling Chair, and Steelcase Gesture Chair are all excellent choices, each offering unique benefits to help alleviate the symptoms of DDD. Remember, the best office chair for Degenerative Disc Disease is one that promotes good posture, provides excellent support, and of course, feels comfortable for you.
