Best Recliners for Back Pain – a Comprehensive Buyer’s Guide

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Ah, who doesn’t love to kick back in a recliner at the end of a hard day of work? In this post, I will review the best recliners for pack pain on the market. Back pain lead me to try most anything to find relief. A few of my favorite solutions? A Teeter FitSpine X3 inversion table, stretching exercises with my Plexus Wheel and, as you may have guessed, a supportive reclining chair.

So, if you are in need of a new recliner to help with back pain, consider some of our favorites.

Things to consider when shopping for a recliner

  • Cushion – This may sound pretty basic, but you want to get something that will feel good to you, not too hard, not too soft.  You will want to make sure the cushioning will keep it’s shape and density over time.  The armrests, headrests, back, all of it need to be considered.
  • Frame – A quality, heavy-duty frame will certainly last longer than a cheap one. Is it wood, or metal? Different types of wood frames will cost more than others. If you have a chance to look under the hood so to speak, see if they use sturdy screws, and hopefully not a lot of plastic fasteners.
  • Upholstery – I would definitely look into how easy it is to clean the upholstery.  You will also want to see how well the chair is stitched together.  Do you want cloth or leather, is another thing to consider.  Leather is durable, vinyl will tend to crack over time.  There are so many new fabrics these days, you can surely find something that will work for you. Ultimately it will come down to the feel you are looking for.
  • Warranty – Super important with a recliner.  Make sure the manufacturer is going to stand behind the product they are selling. Look at what exactly is covered.
  • Operation – Are you looking for a manual chair that you will need to push back, or an electric power operated chair?  They make recliners today that you would never imagine is a recliner, with the manual pushback operation.
  • Features  like heating and massage.  Are these types of features important to you?  Do you need extra bells and whistles, or are you looking for something more basic?  Do you need a lift to help you get out of the chair?  Just things to consider.
  • Do you have the space for this recliner?  Do you want a “wall hugger” which requires very little room between the recliner and the wall, saving you space?  Do you want an oversized chair?  You will need to decide what you have room for.

Recliners can serve a lot of different uses and people buy them for a variety of reasons. Whether you are recovering from an injury, or just want to elevate your feet and relax at the end of the day.

The top 7 best recliners for back pain

Best Dual Massaging Recliner

Dorel Living has designed a very traditional, comfortable recliner. The Dorel Living Padded Dual Massage Recliner has ample padding throughout the recliner and has and over-filled design that should meet most of your reclining needs.  The chair comes in two colors, neutral tan, or chocolate so this should fit nicely in a variety of settings.  You will love the microfiber material, which is soft and easy to clean.  I think this will look great in just about any living room.

Dorel Living Padded Dual Massage Recliner, Tan
456 Reviews
Dorel Living Padded Dual Massage Recliner, Tan
  • Traditional zone massage chair with high and low settings.
  • Massaging located in both the seat and back area. Massaging zones can operate together or separately.
  • Designed with foam seating for added comfort and durability.
  • Features a lever release to make reclining easy.
  • Minimal assembly required.

Dimensons

  • 36 inches wide
  • 40 inches deep
  • 40 inches high

The best part that I haven’t even talked about yet?  As the name suggests, yes it’s a massage chair.  There are two massaging zones, one in the seat and the other in the back.  These massaging zones can be used separately or together.  What an awesome feature after a long day, come home, kick back and get a massage!

The chair comes disassembled, it should only take a few minutes to put it together.  You just attach the back to the bottom and plug in the power cord.  I think even I can probably handle that.

The chair operates with a lever release to recline back.  This may not be ideal for all users, but this is how a lot of basic recliners operate.  This is also very traditional in the sense that it only rocks and reclines, but does not swivel.  I think for the price, this chair is worth a try.  Again, it’s a very basic recliner and should serve its purpose.

Pros

  • Dual massage zones
  • Budget-friendly
  • Neutral colors

Cons

  • Does not swivel
  • The user experience with massage varies widely

Best rocking recliner

Ashley has been making furniture for a very long time and this traditional recliner, the Larkinhurst Rocker Recliner, will definitely help to transform your room. With earthy southwestern tones of faux leather give a rustic look that can really pull a room together.  You will love the traditional rolled arms with nail head trim give this a unique and rustic look and feel.

Sale
Signature Design by Ashley Larkinhurst Faux Leather Manual Rocker Recliner with Nailhead Trim, Brown
268 Reviews
Signature Design by Ashley Larkinhurst Faux Leather Manual Rocker Recliner with Nailhead Trim, Brown
  • TRADITIONAL ROCKER RECLINER: Rich texture and quality comfort meet in this recliner. The stylish rolled arms give it a traditional touch, while the weathered faux leather make it easy on the eyes
  • COMFY UPHOLSTERY: This recliner is made with a polyester/polyurethane blend. Pull tab reclining motion eases you back
  • EARTHY TONE: There's something so relaxing about the neutral tone. With nailhead trim accents and overstuffed back pillow support, you can lounge fashionably in this chair
  • GREAT LIVING ROOM PIECE: Pair with a sofa or armchair for a well-rounded living room you can call your own. Measures 43” W x 40” D x 40” H
  • ASSEMBLY REQUIRED: Easy-to-follow instructions included. Screwdriver (not included) is needed for assembly. Fits through doorways 32" or wider

Dimensions

  • 43 inches wide
  • 40 inches deep
  • 40 inches high

The recliner is made with a polyester/polyurethane blend and is equipped with an overstuffed back pillow that provides a lot of support.  The rolled arms and nailhead trim really finish this recliner off and make it stand out.  There are other pieces in the series that you can add as well.

As the name indicates, this is a rocker as well as a recliner. This recliner gives you the look of leather, but without the cold when you sit down.  Assembly is a snap and shouldn’t take but a few minutes.  The seat depth is 23 inches and the seat height is 20 inches.  This chair has a pull tab reclining motion.

Overall, I think this is a very solid and comfortable rocker recliner.  You get the look of weathered leather, without paying the high price.  The fabric is durable and easy to clean.  Really the only negative I see is that there is only one color option.  I really think this is a great recliner for the price.

Pros

  • Rustic leather look
  • Extra support in back
  • Rocks and reclines

Cons

  • Only available in one color
  • Not a power recliner

Best leather power lift recliner

Okay, time for a power lift recliner. U-MAX’s Massage Chair Power Lift Recliner is made from a soft PU leather, with extra padding added to the arms, back, and headrest.  The electric lift mechanism is designed to help you out of your chair.  There have been times in my life, dealing with back pain issues when that really could have come in handy for me.

U-MAX Lift Recliner Power Lift Chair for Elderly Wall Hugger PU Leather with Remote Control (Brown)
715 Reviews
U-MAX Lift Recliner Power Lift Chair for Elderly Wall Hugger PU Leather with Remote Control (Brown)
  • THE PACKAGE OF THIS CHAIR WILL BE SENT OUT VIA 2 BOXES BY UPS OR FEDEX. PLS KEEP THIS CHAIR 45CM FAR FROM WALL.
  • The chair is made of soft and sturdy PU leather,padded with extra thick sponge for back,head and armrest. Electric powered lift mechanism could lift you up smoothly and safely.Very easy to assemble.
  • All functions are controlled by 2 seperate remotes for your easy use, no need to operate manually.One is for the lift and reclining, back and footrest work together.
  • The 4 areas of massage focus (leg, tight, lumbar,back) with 5 modes( pulse, press, wave, auto, normal) meet your demand of different massage.Heat function is for the lumbar part.
  • The carrier do not provide door to door delivery service. Mostly they will deliver the package at the front door, garage ect. It needs to be moved home by yourself.

Dimensions

  • 33.4 inches wide
  • 35.4 inches deep
  • 44 inches high

This chair is a wall hugger design which means that is designed to be placed closer to a wall than a traditional recliner and only needs to be about 10 inches away.  This saves space since you need less room behind the chair in order to recline.

There are 2 separate remotes for ease of use.  One remote is for reclining and one is for the power lift.  Another great feature of this chair is the massage aspect.  There are four areas of focus for massage and five different modes to choose from.  This chair offers a lot of value at this price point.

Storage has been included, there are 2 cup holders and 4 storage bags to keep all your “stuff”.  You will be able to recline 130°.  The weight limit if 330 pounds with this chair.  One more thing…there are wheels on the bottom to help you move the chair where you want it.  This chair does not rock, well, I think it rocks :)… but it’s not a rocker.

Pros

  • Power lift to easily get out of the chair
  • Two separate remotes for power lift and recliner
  • Lots of storage pockets
  • You can raise the footrest without reclining
  • Massage and heat features

Cons

  • Does not recline totally flat
  • No battery backup
  • Available in two colors, more options would be nice

Best plush power lift recliner

Ashley’s Ernestine Power Lift Recliner is a power recliner with a dual motor design to really escalate your reclining experience.  The plush cushions offer comfort and style.  The slate gray color is a tone that will fit well in many rooms.  It would be nice if they offered more colors, but the slate color is neutral.

Sale
Signature Design by Ashley Ernestine Power Lift Adjustable Recliner for Elderly, Gray
901 Reviews
Signature Design by Ashley Ernestine Power Lift Adjustable Recliner for Elderly, Gray
  • POWER LIFT: Relax on comfy high-resiliency foam cushions upholstered in cozy polyester. One-touch power control with adjustable positions. Supported by a corner blocked frame and metal reinforced seat
  • NEUTRAL HUE: This reclining chair is finished in a cool, slate gray for easy breezy styling. The soft shade matches with just about all decor styles and furniture pieces
  • GENEROUS SIZE: Measuring 39” W x 40” D x 40” H, you can sprawl out and lounge in total comfort. Pairs well with sofas, couches or accent chairs
  • LIGHT ASSEMBLY REQUIRED: Simply snap seat back to unit and plug into the wall for instant enjoyment. Power cord included; UL listed
  • BUY WITH CONFIDENCE: Designed and manufactured by Ashley Furniture Industries. The trusted source for stylish furniture, lighting, rugs, accessories and mattresses. For every taste and budget

You can recline to any position with the touch of a button.  With the dual motor recline and foot elevation, you have a ton of options as far as getting comfortable.  You can put this in just about any position you want.

Dimensions

  • 38.75 inches wide
  • 37 inches deep
  • 43 inches high
  • Max weight limit is 300 pounds

Assembly is required for this recliner, but it’s not too bad.  The chair is equipped with battery backup in case of a power failure but doesn’t come with the 9-volt batteries.  You will need to purchase those separately.  Some customers have said they had some issues with the battery backup, but hopefully, that is not something you will have to use on a regular basis.

Overall, I think this is a very good option when you look at comfort, design and the electric power options.  The power lift option is so great for so many different people.  Whether you are recovering from an injury, or just plain have trouble getting up out of a reclined position, this is a great option for you.  The lift alone makes this one of the best recliners on the market.

Assembly is required but is not too difficult.  You screw in the feet, slide the back onto the base and insert the arm pads.  You need to make sure the electrical connections are tight.

Pros

  • Power lift
  • Dual motors for separate function of recline and footrest
  • Battery backup option
  • One remote does operate the entire chair

Cons

  • Does not include the 9-volt batteries for the backup
  • Limited color selection
  • Some users have reported issues with the battery backup
  • It would be nice to have some storage pouches on the side

Best faux leather power lift recliner

The Ashley Furniture Yandel Power Lift Recliner really has you covered.  With its dual motor design it gives you a lot of freedom and, really, infinite reclining positions.  Looks like leather right?  Well not so fast my friend.  You get the look of a saddle colored leather, but it’s actually a poly fiber that looks like leather but is soft and comfy without the chill factor.

Sale
Signature Design by Ashley Yandel Faux Leather Electric Power Lift Recliner for Elderly, Brown
2,566 Reviews
Signature Design by Ashley Yandel Faux Leather Electric Power Lift Recliner for Elderly, Brown
  • CONTEMPORARY POWER LIFT RECLINER: Style and functionality merge together in this dual motor lift chair recliner. With just the touch of a button, the power lift eases you back and elevates your legs for the ultimate lounging experience
  • INVITING COMFORT: Designed for support and comfort with a high back, thick cushions and faux leather upholstery, Sturdy corner-blocked frame has a metal reinforced seat
  • SMOOTH BROWN UPHOLSTERY: Saddle brown upholstery looks like leather, but is actually thick poly fiber with a cozy feel-good touch
  • GENEROUS SIZING: Oversized recliner measures 35"W x 40"D x 42.5"H with a 20" seat height and 69" fully reclined length
  • EASY ASSEMBLY: Instructions, hardware and tools included, Fits through doorways 30" or wider

Dimensions

  • 35 inches wide
  • 40 inches deep
  • 42.5 inches high
  • Max weight limit is 300 pounds

This recliner does come equipped with battery backup capabilities but does not come with the two 9 volt batteries.  You will need to buy those separately.  The lift is quiet and smooth and should get you up out of that seat with no problem.  I truly believe this is one of the best recliners you will find.

I think you will really like the look and feel of this Ashley recliner.  The armrests and back are stuffed for added comfort.  The footrest and recline function operate separately, so you can find just the right spot. I really like the stitching, it gives the chair a finished rustic look.

You have the option of black or the tan/saddle color which is a nice added option.  The color choices should fit well with a lot of different schemes.  I also like the fact that there are storage pouches on the side of the recliner, for books, magazines, or whatever else you may want to put in there.

Assembly is required but is not too difficult.  You screw in the feet, slide the back onto the base and insert the arm pads.  You need to make sure the electrical connections are tight.

Pros

  • Power lift for easy access in or out of chair
  • Dual motors for easy reclining.  You can elevate your feet independently of reclining
  • Two color options available
  • Faux leather adds a comfortable, cozy feel

Cons

  • Batteries are  not included with the onboard backup system
  • Some users have reported issues with the remote control being a bit confusing

Best modern electronic recliner

This chair, the Babyletto Kiwi Electronic Recliner, is fairly different from the others on our list. First, starting with the most obvious, the color: White Linen. This is a very modern color, in a very modern style of recliner.  I really think this chair is super cool and very unique.

Babyletto Kiwi Electronic Power Recliner and Swivel Glider with USB Port in Grey Tweed, Greenguard Gold Certified
477 Reviews
Babyletto Kiwi Electronic Power Recliner and Swivel Glider with USB Port in Grey Tweed, Greenguard Gold Certified
  • Modern wingback style recliner with hidden push-button control panel and USB charging port
  • Smooth and quiet reclining mechanism lowers headrest and raises footrest
  • Swivels 270 degrees and glides back and forth in upright position
  • Constructed and upholstered by hand
  • Free of chemical retardants and meets all CA TB117-2013 flammability requirements

This chair swivels 270 degrees and glides back and forth, in the upright position.  It also has a hidden, secret control panel with all the goodies.  Okay, so it’s not a secret, but it is kind of hidden.  This is where you will find the controls to kick back and relax.  This modern wingback recliner is a nice neutral color that will fit nicely in many living rooms.

Dimensions

  • 28.8 inches wide
  • 38.2 inches deep
  • 40.2 inches high

Okay, now for one more really great feature.  Remember I spoke about the hidden control panel?  Well, there is a built-in USB port for charging your devices as you rest in relaxation. I think this is a great added feature that not many chairs can boast about.  It also comes with a lumbar support pillow so you can get just the right fit.

The motor is quiet and smooth.  This chair doesn’t fully recline, but I am sure it will put you to sleep :).  Oh, and it does need to be plugged in, for the USB adapter to work.  The Kiwi Electronic Recliner comes mostly assembled.

Pros

  • Swivels 270 degrees
  • Rocks and glides back and forth
  • Built-in USB charging port
  • Unique style will fit a variety of rooms

Cons

  • Does not fully recline
  • The footrest and back do not move independently of each other.
  • Only available in one color

Best recliner and ottoman set

Okay, this is a bit of a different take on the traditional recliner, in that it is actually 2 pieces. The Barcalounger Jacque II Leather Recliner & Ottoman gives you more positions to find comfort.  If you don’t want to elevate your feet, you can sit upright without the ottoman.  The other nice thing is that you have the ability to put the ottoman where it suits you.  So this chair can really fit a wide variety of different sized users.

BarcaLounger Jacque II Leather Recliner & Ottoman - Whiskey
40 Reviews
BarcaLounger Jacque II Leather Recliner & Ottoman - Whiskey
  • BarcaLounger Jacque II Leather Recliner & Ottoman - Whiskey

You will love the swivel feature on this chair, giving you the ability to rotate a full 360 degrees.  The whiskey color is going to fit with a lot of different decor, so this should be a pretty good color for a lot of people.

Dimensions

  • 34 inches wide
  • 35 inches deep
  • 41 inches high
  • Rated for users up to 250 pounds

Cleaning this guy should be pretty easy with the top grain leather finish.  This is a manual type recliner and will recline to 140 degrees, so not quite completely flat, but pretty darn close.  The chair is not a rocker, but you can get some rocking motion out of it.

Overall, this is a super comfortable, easy to assemble, not your typical recliner.  I have sat in these types of recliners and I think they are really comfortable.  It’s just a little different than your traditional recliner.

Pros

  • Durable, easy to clean material
  • Swivels a full 360 degrees
  • You can put the ottoman where you want it
  • Basic color that will fit in a variety of spaces

Cons

  • You can not elevate your feet very high
  • There are no automatic or electric features
  • Will not fully recline

 

Conclusion: Best recliners for back pain relief

I have a little different perspective than some people when it comes to recliners. When I was recovering from a pretty severe back injury in 2016, I spent way too much time in my recliner. You can read my full story here. I was doing stupid stuff at the gym, and sprained my SI joint and blew a disc in my back.  I was dealing with both the pelvis region and lumbar spinal stenosis as a result of my injury. My disc was pressing against my spinal cord and I was bent over about 40° at the waist.

With the right recliner, I was able to find relief and I hope you can do the same.

22 thoughts on “Best Recliners for Back Pain – a Comprehensive Buyer’s Guide”

  1. Hi. U have some great recliners here for sure. I am in the market for one and I am looking for a recliner with heat and massage but not a lift type chair. Is there anything you can recommend? I did not see one in the list, though I could have missed it. I injured my back too and need a new chair. Thanks for your response.

    Carl

    Reply
  2. This is Awesome! recently I have had issues with my back and have been advised to try using a recliner.Am very happy finally I have established the best recliner for my back courtesy your post !thank you so much

    Reply
    • Ah, you are welcome. I too spent a lot of time in my recliner when I was dealing with my back issues, and it was a big help to me. Thanks for your comment, I really appreciate it.

      Reply
  3. Wow, you have given us a lot of cool choices! I was shopping for a new sofa before Christmas, and my daughter was helping by checking out the recliners lol.

    That Lane Stallion looks like it would be super comfy of all the choices, and the Grayson Wingback would be a fun surprise for anyone snuggling into it.

    Is there a benefit to having the power recliner feature as opposed to the manual? Does the mechanism last longer with the power feature? I remember my dad fixing his manual recliner a few times, with the chair upside down in the living room…not something I would ever want to tackle!

    Great post!

    Reply
    • Thank you for your comment. The benefit of the power recliner, is you don’t have to do anything :). Power recliners are great for people who may be recovering from an injury or have lost range of motion. Or, if you just plain want a power recliner. You have the power to recline to pretty much any angle you want, with the touch of a button. Not all of the recliners will recline completely flat, but they will get your pretty darn close. Close enough to get some zzz’s in. I hope this helps. Please let me know if you have any more questions.

      Reply
  4. My wife hurt her back years ago and the only way that she could get any sleep was in her recliner. Neither of us like leather seating. You gave us some really good starting points for shopping for our next recliner. Thank you for all of this information.

    Reply
    • You bet! Sorry to hear about the back injury. Please let me know if you have any questions, or need any help. Thanks for stopping by.

      Reply
  5. Excellent post and I can agree with you about the back issue, I had the same challenge when I had my back injury 🙂 Love the extensive review you give of each chair. Thank you.

    Reply
  6. Wow, there are so many types of recliner available. Thanks for your thorough review. I like how they have different ones there are for everyones tastes. My father in law had a power chair to help him with his disability. It really helped him get in and out each day. We had a massage chair when I was growing up. I really want to get one of these for my office. I have tested some and I want a zero gravity chair. I am excited for relaxing in it in the future. 

    Reply
    • Yes, there are a ton of options out there, and I only hit on a few of them. Hopefully I have give you something to think about.  Please let me know if you need any help fine tuning your decision making.  I would love to help you choose just the right chair.

      Reply
  7. Hey thanks for providing a thorough review in this great article. I definitely never thought I’d learn so much about recliners. There are some pretty nice ones out there, it just depends on what you are looking for.  I have helped my grandma with purchasing a few recliners for my grandpa.  He loved his recliners and had a power own to help him along.  These are awesome, like you said if you have lots range of motion, or are recovering from an injury.  I will definitely check back with you.  I will send this post to my grandma as well.  Thanks for sharing.

    Reply
    • You are welcome, and thank you for your comment.  I know there are a lot of options to choose from and I have only scratched the surface.  Hopefully there are some viable options here if you are ever in the market.  I know what you mean about your grandpa, mine is the same way.  Thanks again for stopping by, I appreciate it.

      Reply
  8. Wow, this is a very extensive list of recliners with all the specs. Thank you. I always wanted a very roomy, comfortable one that I could just curl up in to read, watch tv or take a nap! The Ashley Larkinhurst looks very stylish and roomy. Thanks for this information.

    Reply
    • Thank you for stopping by and leaving a comment, I appreciate it. Ashley certainly makes solid furniture, I own a couch made by Ashley. Please let me know if you need anything else, I am here to help.

      Reply
  9. I really like your website and that you are sharing your personal experiences. The article on the recliners is quite extensive with lots of very helpful information for anyone interested in buying a recliner. I like how you explained your personal circumstances and what led you to deciding to get a recliner and what type to get. It’s important when people can find a relatable reason for going along with someone else’s personal experience. Good job!

    Reply
    • Thank you very much for your comment, I appreciate it.  Yes, I think it adds value when you can relate personally to something and help someone else along the way.  My situation was unfortunate, but hopefully I can provide a sliver of hope and help to someone else who might be in a similar situation.  Back problems are no fun, as I can attest to.  Thanks again for stopping by.  Please le me know if you need any help in the future.

      Reply
  10. The serta power recliner sounds like my kind of chair. I used to play with my grandfather’s recliner many years ago. I liked how comfortable it was, but I was really annoyed at the fact that I can not lay it down completely flat.  I don’t mind the brown color of this power recliner, because these chairs usually get worn out over time. Brown actually masks that and make it “age slower” in my opinion. One question I do have is how to protect it against pets, if I have a cat for example?

    Reply
    • Thank you for your comment.  Pets are challenging.  You may want to leave a blanket or a towel in the chair to protect the upholstery from the cat.  Cat’s have a mind of their own, and it’s tough to keep them off the furniture.  Thanks for stopping by.

      Reply
  11. Hi Steve,

    I find it easy to agree with your thoughts of sliding into a comfortable reclining chair at the end of a long day.

    You describe the features of a good recliner well. A chair of this stature needs a lot of consideration. Your go-to chair at the end of a long day quickly becomes a very special friend.

    Do you find the “swivel” factor in a chair to be very practical for smaller homes and apartments?

    What are your thoughts on power recliners that have no manual override?

    As I continue reading through this very extensive and detailed review I am fascinated by the world of “chairs”.
    The list of features and options seems to be endless.

    Many of these chairs in your review are “chairs of beauty”.

    Thanks for this very informative post on recliners. I have learned so much about what a good chair should be.

    Paul.

    Reply
    • Thank you very much Paul.  The swivel factor is definitely something to consider for a smaller space, like you may not have enough room to work with.  As far as the power chairs without a manual override, I did read a few comments about that.  A battery backup is a good thing, but yes, I suppose there a small risk of getting stuck :(.  I would hope that risk is pretty minimal, but again, something to think about.  

      Thanks for your comment, I really appreciate it.

      Reply

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