Which Is The Right Chair For Me.

[sbrown1450]

I have osteoarthritis in my hands, hips, knees and have had my coccyx removed and have a lot of back pain.
I need a new chair and have no idea which will be best for me and I do not trust the salesperson to give me the correct information.
Should I get a high back chair - I am worried it may get uncomfortable sitting in it for London periods of time ie all evening.
Or should I go for a rise and recliner chair?
This is my dilemma.
Thanks for any advice you can give me.

[sandyRoe]

Could a physiotherapist help you decide?

[Eve]

Everyone is different so is there somewhere you could go and try some out, preferably without some aggressive sales person going on at you.

I have problems in most of those areas (not coccyx) and others due to Rhumatoid Arthritis and some osteo issues and find a high backed chair with a firm back it more comfortable for me at work though I have issues in my back, shoulders and neck too.

But the OH advisor who assessed me gave me a lumbar roll I can move which is ok for some issues but not great generally. I think it's a very personal thing.

I do find something roomy is good so I can move about and get comfortable is good though, nothing too stiff and restrictive or slippery like some of the shiny leather like sofas. I find a something really nice and soft is helpful to cushion my joints (though you can achieve that with cushions and such) but something a bit raised (easier to get in and out of!) and high hard backed for the support, which you can also pad up with cushions if needed.

I love the idea of a rise and recliner! I've heard some people say they are great if you are comfortable there that you can sleep in it rather than moving to get up to bed then try and get comfortable again.

[woofgang]

Are you still in touch with any NHS service because of your OA or surgery? If you are then ask for a referral to NHS occupational therapy who can assess you and suggest the shape of chair that will be the best for you. No one will guarantee to you that the chair will be comfortable, but you may be entitled to pressure relief (cushion or chair) which may be suppled or part funded by the NHS or social services which will help with comfort.
Otherwise, either ask your GP for a referral to NHS Occupational therapy or phone social service and ask to speak to the occupational therapy department. They will also be able to give advice on what chair shape will be the best for you.