Many people in the trucking industry experience back pains and muscle aches after spending hours sitting down. When you drive a truck, your posture isn’t correct, and this is an unnatural position for your body. The spine isn’t fully supported, so getting a lumbar support pillows or cushion for your back is essential. It will support your lower back, thus ensuring that you sit up straight throughout your trip.
What are Lumbar Support Pillows?
Lumbar support pillows/cushions provide lower back support for people who spend long periods sitting. They help align your spine and ensure that you don’t sit in a hunched position which can strain your muscles and cause backache, fatigue, and even cramps.
These cushions come in different shapes and sizes, but most range between a square and a doughnut. The square ones are good for keeping your back straight, while the doughnut cushions support your lower spine.
Lumbar support pillows can be attached to the chair via straps, buckles, or even loops. They come in different materials such as memory foam, mesh fabric, and neoprene.
These pillows have in common: they provide support to your lower back, thus ensuring that you sit up straight for long periods without straining your muscles.
Why Should You Get a Lumbar Support Pillow?
According to Statista, in 2016, the cervical pillow market was valued at about $3.24 billion worldwide.
Here are the top reasons to get yourself a lumbar support pillow for your truck or car seat.
Improve Your Posture
Sitting up straight with the proper posture is essential for people who spend long hours sitting because you are less likely to stress your muscles and experience fatigue. These pillows are perfect for ensuring you sit in the correct position.
Prevent Backaches, Muscle Aches, Drains, Fatigue
Having a lumbar support pillow is good for your health. It helps prevent the pains and aches that come with spending hours in an awkward position.
It ensures you relax as you drive, which reduces stress and fatigue levels, especially after long trips.
Maintain Good Spinal Alignment
The lumbar support pillows are primarily meant to provide lower back support for people who spend several hours sitting.
It ensures that your spine isn’t curved, good for your spinal alignment.
It Prevents Slouching and Strains
When you don’t have a lumbar support pillow, you are likely to hunch or slouch when sitting for too long. It leads to strain and fatigue. Having one ensures that your back remains upright while you sit, good for your spine and muscles.
Keeps Your Body Cool While You Sit
The material used in making these pillows usually allows airflow, meaning you won’t feel hot and sweaty while you use them. It is excellent for the summer months when you need to keep cool.
However, lumbar support pillows are not suitable for everyone as some people may have back pains caused using these pillows. In such instances, it’s advisable to consult a doctor before using one as they can worsen your condition.
It’s Inexpensive
Lumbar support pillows are more affordable than getting a whole ergonomic chair which is good for your back. They vary depending on the material used in making them and the quality of artistry.
Can Be Customized
These pillows usually come in different shapes and sizes, and some even offer custom fitting options. It means you can get a comfortable pillow that’s the perfect size for your truck or car seat.
Tips to Choose the Right Lumbar Support Pillow
- Get a Firm Pillow
A firm pillow is the best option as it provides back support and ensures you maintain good posture. It’s also more durable, which makes it worth your money. You can get a firmer pillow by choosing one with additional foam padding or memory foam, especially if you have a bad back condition.
- Choose Your Ideal Shape and Size
The shape and size of your pillow will depend on the area of support you need. The most common shapes used in these pillows include square, doughnut, and ergonomic, while some only provide lower back support. Ensure you go for a suitable size that fits your car seat or truck chair perfectly. Consider the material used in making the pillow, as this will affect its durability and comfort.
- Get a Proper Fitting Pillow
Some pillows can be adjusted to ensure you get a proper fit for your back support needs. In such instances, look out for those that have straps or hooks that can easily attach to your truck seat. These are the best as they stay firmly on your seat.
