Preventing Low Back Pain While Sitting
Sitting with an unsupported back puts a great deal of pressure on the spine. (This situation includes sitting on the floor for exercise or meditation purposes.) To avoid low back pain while sitting, select a chair with a back that is both sturdy and somewhat flexible -- if not padded. If the small of your back does not feel right when you are sitting, the chair may not have enough lumbar support for you. A small pillow or a rolled-up towel can help. Experiment until you find the location for the pillow or towel that feels the best; the pressure inside your spine is lowest when you feel the most comfortable. Keep your knees slightly higher than your hips. If you cannot change the height of the seat, rest your feet on books or on a low footstool. Your feet should be flat on the floor; legs crossed at the knees places uneven pressure on the spine.
