The Best Lumbar Support for Car Seats
The other day, I spent about an hour on the road due to errands that couldn’t be put off any longer. Guess what, when I hopped out of my car, I was stuck for a good 5 seconds in a bent position because standing straight placed a searing pain across my back. That never happened before and my eyes grew wide as I thought that age was catching up to me.
Or maybe it was just because, as humans, we spend a lot of time sitting down. We are seated when we eat, watch, work, drive and every other activity in between. Without proper support, imagine the strain we put on our backs. My car incident got me thinking, “There must be something I can buy to lessen the pain that I will surely get in the future.”
It would seem like pillows are my holy grail for any pain that I feel in my body. Oh well, I still started my research anyways.
I’m sure there are many of you who, like me, would rather buy a comfortable pillow to address body pains, rather than giving my money away to chiropractors. Not only do they offer treatments that require you to go back regularly but they are pricey as well! So instead, we go to pillows. We’ve covered the best pregnancy pillows, pillows for neck pain and even baby pillows; today, we will be looking at lumbar pillows for seat support, specifically those that can be used in a car.
Table of Contents
Get to know lumbar supports
The term “lumbar” relates to the lower part of the back, where the loins or the vertebrae between the thoracic vertebrae and sacrum are. In lieu of a scientific illustration, the lumbar region is the part of the lower spine area that bulges inwards above the tailbone.
Lumbar support pillows used to be available for office chairs only since it was the main source of lower back pain incidents. More and more, companies started looking for other niches that they could introduce lumbar support to and found another activity where we also sit down a lot for: driving. Today, there are numerous kinds of lumbar supports available that cater to your specific needs.
The main job of a lumbar support pillow is to provide comfort while maintaining proper posture so that there will be less pressure being placed on your lumbar region and thus, less pain.
How supportive are lumbar pillows?
If you have some free time, do try to take a look at the shape of your car seat. Most often than not, there is a hollow area at the lower part of the seat which illogically does not meet the inverted C our bodies make when seated. To compensate and to try and fit snugly into the car seat, we tend to slouch, which is a big no-no.
Enter auto lumbar pillows. The photo above is the general way a lumbar pillow is shaped and where it is supposed to go on the car seat. Support is maximized when you take your seat.
Auto lumbar pillows offer lower back support by being attached to your car seat to provide extra cushioning for a pleasant and comfortable ride.
Why lumbar pillows are the bomb
Lumbar pillows for cars are a great investment because they offer a lot of benefits.
1. Eases pain
First and foremost, lumbar pillows were created to give support. They help align your neck, back, and hips as you sit down. Without a lumbar pillow supporting your back, you will end up slouching or straining your back as you drive. It may not seem obvious at first, but long drives without any support will result to back pain.
Lumbar pillows relieve and reverse back pain because it realigns your spine as you sit which takes off the pressure and all the weight from your lower back and redistributes it evenly. Click To Tweet2. Increases comfortability
They’re not too hard and not too fluffy, the best lumbar pillows are made just right to give you optimum comfort. Because let’s face it, somehow car manufacturers just don’t make the seats perfectly, which, in a way, is a smart choice because our backs and body frames are shaped differently and they must produce cars that can accommodate all clients.
3. Promotes good posture
We all know how difficult it is to constantly be implementing proper posture while sitting down. It is an activity that must be done consciously while the temptation to slouch is constantly there. When driving, you cannot allocate much attention to remembering to sit up straight. Lumbar pillows are there to help. They automatically push you to sit up properly and exercise proper posture.
With good posture comes less pain. Isn’t that great!
4. Heightens health and safety
Less medical costs! No more trips to the doctor for lower back pain, or constant massage sessions which are both expensive.
Auto lumbar supports decrease fatigue levels which heightens concentration. Furthermore, it promotes better head motion that increases vision capabilities and easier breathing because of proper posture. All of this help ensure your safety as you drive.
5. Not heavy on the pocket
Good quality lumbar pillows for cars only cost around $20! You do not have to shell out a hundred bucks to get the benefits mentioned above.
6. Easy to use
These pillows are very easy to use and don’t come with a long manual to study before setup. They can easily be installed onto your car seat with no fuss and confusion. Most lumbar supports come with a strap or buckle to be attached to the seat.
Choosing the right lumbar pillow for you
Lumbar pillows are available in many different angles in order to provide proper support for the issue and each one has its own unique features. There are some things to consider in making sure that you choose the right lumbar support for your car.
Things to consider:
- Universal fit – A lumbar pillow that is made to fit all car seats is usually the best way to go for easy installation. If you find a lumbar pillow with specifications and includes car models, even better.
- Contour design – There are lumbar pillows that are concave-shaped and curve inwards and there those that bulge out in a convex shape. They also come in different sizes, therefore it is advisable that you personally pick out the pillow that will cater to your needs.
- Ventilation features – To avoid any heat build-up behind your back, get an auto lumbar support with good ventilation that improves airflow. This will increase comfort during use and long-term performance and durability.
- Ergonomics– Probably the most important of all considerations are the features of the pillow that you are looking for in lumbar support. A good ergonomic fit will ensure that the pain or issues you are trying to address will be fixed.
My top 3 picks
Now that we know what lumbar support pillows are and what they can do, I’ve gone on ahead and made extensive research on picking out the best lumbar pillows available in the market. To further enhance my decision-making on which pillows should make my list, I also looked at the reviews. Real people giving their actual experiences with lumbar support is a great way of assessing the functionality of the product. I’ve included two reviews for each pillow.
Presenting, my top 3 picks:
1. Castle Bulwark Memory Foam Lumbar Support Pillow
amazon
Named after the largest castle in the world located in Poland, the Bulwark Knight Back Cushion is here to make you feel like royalty as you sit on your throne.
Features:
- It uses deluxe, 70D medium density memory foam that never forgets to give you optimum back support
- The Bulwark has an adjustable and extendable strap that gives a secure fit on any seat
- Yes, it can be used in other things other than a car seat. Take it with you at home, an office chair or even while traveling
- It comes with a drawstring bag for storage and travel purposes
- The cover is, thankfully, removable and machine washable
- The lumbar support promotes proper back and spine posture
- It also removes and relieves unnecessary pressure on the tailbone
- The foam is made of nontoxic and safe materials
- Did I mention it passed an 80,000-compression test? That is some durable stuff
- If the Knight Back Cushion is too big for you, they also have the Squire size which is smaller and has an orthopedic wave shape
- Both pillows come in black or grey for more variety
Dimensions:
- The Knight – 15 x 4.8 x 17.8 inches in size and weighs 2.15 pounds
- The Squire – 17 x 4.2 x 12 inches in size and weighs 1.85 pounds
The reviews:
“I drove from Atlanta to Jersey City, my back felt like it never took such a long ride. I sit around the house with it.
Really like it” – Amazon customer.
Can you imagine? That 859-mile drive seemed like nothing for the satisfied Amazon customer. If you think this pillow is the one for you, click this link for more information on the Bulwark lumbar support pillow.
“I have a bad back and needed a pillow for support. I’ve tried a few cheaper ones and they just didn’t help. I decided to spend a little more money and buy the Bulwark firm memory pillow. This pillow is fantastic. I use it in my car, when I go to a restaurant with those uncomfortable chairs, etc. it comes with a bag and drawstring so you can carry it easily anywhere. I love this back support pillow and recommend it highly. It’s a perfect size. Not too thick or thin. The gel inside molds to your lower back. It’s so comfortable” – Randi
Customer Randi absolutely loves his Bulwark pillow. He uses it everywhere! Uncomfortable chairs are not a nightmare anymore for those with bad backs, thanks to this lumbar support. He finds the drawstring bag convenient as well, making the pillow a good companion on his errands. Want to feel as good as Randi? Head on over to Amazon for more details.
- SOFT memory foam lumbar back cushion - Comfortable, responsive memory foam
- Best for folks who enjoy a soft memory foam - This durable foam conforms to the shape of your back
- Orthopedic wave shape and lumbar ergonomic design promotes healthy back position
- 17 L x 12 H x 4 W inches - 3D mesh, zipper removable, machine washable, soft, 100% vegan polyester cover
- Adjustable strap holds back cushion in place - Strap extension for wider chairs such as car seats
2. Everlasting Comfort Lumbar Support Pillow
amazon
Next up is a simple-looking lumbar support pillow that is concave-shaped.
Features:
- Made with 100% premium quality memory foam, this pillow will keep giving you comfort according to the shape of your back for a long period of time
- It relieves acute and chronic pain that occurs at the back and alleviates muscle aches
- Aside from the common pain, this pillow also addresses arthritis, stenosis, herniated disks, and sore backs
- The contour structure allows for complete back support and can be placed anywhere from the neck all the way to the lower back area for pain relief. (More info on neck pillows here)
- Realigns the spine and promotes proper posture while seated in the car
- Ideal for gamers, truck drivers and elderly men and women
- This pillow has dual adjustable straps to keep the pillow in place without slipping down the seat
- Made with a mesh cover that is breathable and hypoallergenic
- The anti-sweat absorbent fabric of the cover keeps the back area cool and dry
- Removable and washable cover
- The Everlasting lumbar support pillow comes with a lifetime replacement guarantee meaning this company has got your back, in all aspects
Dimensions:
- 13.4 x 4.1 x 12.6 inches in size and weighs 1.6 ounces
The reviews:
Everlasting’s lumbar support is therapist-approved! This particular brand has excelled above others, from the memory foam to the double straps and removable cover. The therapist who gave the review now feels good after long commutes instead of aches and pains. Look here for more on the reasonably-priced, must-have, comfortable lumbar support by Everlasting.
“I’m a therapist and have tried several lumbar supports over the last few years. This one exceeds on multiple levels. First, the memory foam is of high quality. It’s soft and nicely conforms to the natural curves in one’s spine. It comfortably supports the back without being too thick. The double straps help hold it securely in place. And I love the fact that the cover can be removed and easily cleaned. I’m currently using it in my car as I often make long commutes and this has made all the difference from feeling achy after a drive to feeling good! If you’re looking for a reasonably priced, effective and comfortable lumbar support. This is it” – 2Travel
Want to know how effective Everlasting’s lumbar support pillow is? According to the joyfully retired customer below, back pains were immediately eliminated! The reviews on the product were all praise and amazement. Specifically used on a Subaru Outback, we now know that fits mid-sized SUVs. If you want to make your purchase now, let me redirect you here.
“This turned out to be exactly what I needed and I love it! I have a Subaru Outback, and this has immediately eliminated the back pain I’d been experiencing every time I made even a short drive around town (I’m 5 foot 4 inches tall and pretty tubby). Having two straps is great and they are amply long enough to slip over the headrest and behind the seat. I haven’t even had to secure the straps–I just scrunch the pillow to what’s most comfortable when I get in and off I go. Bravo!!! (I measured, and one of the straps is 39 inches and the other is 35 inches; they are also elastic, so they should fit well around even pretty big seats.) The pillow also has a zipper, so you should be able to wash the cover if necessary.” – Joyfully Retired
- Our Office Chair Cushion Makes Sitting More Comfortable: Made with pure heat responsive memory foam, our lumbar pillow adjusts to the contours of your back, providing the lumbar support your current chair lacks
- Back Chair Support No Matter Where You Go: Lightweight and portable, it works perfect as a lumbar support pillow for car, back pillow for office chair, sciatica pain relief pillow, gaming chair pillow, lumbar support pillow for recliner, and even on airplane seats
- Lumbar Pillows Designed to Keep Fresh: With daily use the lower back support pillow is bound to need a little refreshing. Fortunately, the breathable mesh cover is easy and convenient to clean. Simply remove the cover, wash on the gentle cycle, and tumble dry
- Back Support Cushion Will Never Flatten: Designed with slow rebounding memory foam, our chair cushion for back pain will never flatten. It retains its shape after each use, so it's always ready to provide you with the back support you need
- Improve Your Work Productivity with Our Chair Cushion for Back Pain: Most chairs lack proper back support, causing discomfort. Our chair back support relieves pressure and pain in the upper, middle, and lower back so you can better focus on the task at hand
3. Bokemar Lumbar Support Cushion Back Pillow
amazon
It may look like a spaceship pod, and rightfully so because this next lumbar support will give you an out-of-this-world driving experience.
Features:
- Another lumbar support made with only the best memory foam for enhanced comfort
- The design of this pillow is larger than the rest and extends to the upper back area for ease of use
- Its universal contoured shape fits all
- Comes with an adjustable strap and another extension strap for larger seats
- This lumbar support is orthopedic-approved and relieves pressure while driving
- Developed with chiropractors, the pillow was designed to provide optimum comfort and protection for the back
- The product can be used by pregnant women to give extra support while sitting down (In case you are pregnant and looking for some pregnancy pillows, you can save the following link on the best pregnancy pillows in the world for later)
- It prevents muscle fatigue and tightness in the back area
- Its removable and machine washable cover is made with mesh cloth and soft velvet that is breathable and doesn’t heat up
- In case you aren’t satisfied with the product, it can be returned within 1 year since the purchase date and a replacement or refund will be given
Dimensions:
- 17.7 x 15.4 x 4.3 inches and weighs 0.9 lbs
The reviews:
Ms. Julie Russell below is always on the road for her profession and relieves her back pains with Bokemar’s lumbar support. She even gave a pros list of the product. If you are convinced that your car needs this as soon as possible, click the following link which will redirect you to Amazon.
“I use this in my car because I’m a delivery driver. I’m in the car for hours at a time. I was having lower/middle back pain. Since using this product, the pain is much better.
Pros:
- Comfortable/memory foam
- Good fit for my car seat
- Straps keep it in place
- Removable material so you can wash
I’m happy with it. Would buy again” – Julie Russell
If you are like Paul West, the next reviewer, and you experience chronic back and hip pain, then Bokemar lumbar support might be your miracle in a pillow. Dreading being seated for long periods of time or sitting on uncomfortable seats because of the pain? Alleviate all anxiety and click the following link for more information and reviews on this product.
“I have chronic lower back/hip pain, to the point where it’s painful just to sit down. This puts my back in a position where the pain is almost totally alleviated. No regrets on this purchase”
– Paul West.
- WHY THIS BACK CUSHION IS UNIQUE - After several years of sitting at work and driving in our cars with back discomfort and lumbar pain and after trying many solutions including small pillows, we decided to create the best ergonomic orthopedic full back support pillow to obtain perfect alignment with the lower as well as the upper thoracic area of the spine; we developed with chiropractors what we believe provides the ultimate comfort and protection for your back, the Posture Protector
- WIDE RANGE APPLICATION - Our universal contoured structure, With adjustable & flexible strap and 1 extra extension strap ,our back support cushions can be placed anywhere along the back of a chair for neck, upper, middle, thoracic, or lower back and spine pain relief. Use this backrest as a posture corrector to help with alignment and relieve pressure while driving your car or sitting on your office chair at work. Ideal for a gamer, truck driver, elderly men or women
- ERGONOMIC DESIGN SPECIFICALLY TARGETS BACK PAIN - High Density memory foam back pillows with 17.7 inches perfect streamline which feature Supportive and Comfortable designed for absorbing the pressure on backbone caused when auto starts and brakes, muscle tension from sitting.Great support throughout your lumbar section
- 100% PREMIUM QUALITY MEMORY FOAM LUMBAR PILLOW: with breathable mesh cloth and soft velvet cover, this back support pillow can keep back air circulating well . And cover is removable and machine-washable for easy cleanin,which is vacuee package,you can hit the lumbar pillow when you receive it,it is need a half you recovery the picture shape.
- LIFETIME REPLACEMENT GUARANTEE: Unlike a lot of lumbar cushions that use gel, layers, and other ineffective budget materials, memory foam seat cushions use thick, high density memory foam that can keep its shape, feel soft and comfortable. 12 MONTH quality WARRANTY, 30 days "No questions asked" money back guarantee!
Final thoughts
Sad to say, but because we spend too much time sitting down, we are all the more prone to aches and pains. Although, it doesn’t mean that we must remain as slaves to the sharp pain, temporary immobility and groaning while standing up caused by staying seated for long periods of time.
I personally consider the perfectly designed, soft yet sturdy, comfort-giving inventions called pillows to be heaven-sent. And now, we can have a little piece of heaven while we go for a drive.
Hope to see you all again here at My Pillow Guide!
Seyi
Wow, this is what I have been looking for , the lumbar pillow support. I tend to travel alot due to the nature of my job and it is most by road so I take my car on most of my trips for convince. This recently has had a great effect on my spine sometimes my entire back line as I get severe pain on my waistline after 6 hours of driving none stop. I would most times on weekends go get a massage but for how long. This looks like a preventive measure and it is what I need . I get myself one. Thanks for this post,it’s been helpful.
Louise
Hi there,
Lumber support pillows are marvellous, not just for in the car but also at home, office or workplace.
You’re right in that we do put a lot of pressure on our spine in every day activities and we don’t always sit correctly so long hours slumped in a bad sitting position, it’s enevitable that we will suffer the consequences.
I like that you have offered reviews and info on several different supports to try.
Thank you for your research and subsequent information .
Louise
Svetik
you’re welcome 🙂
ajibola40
Thanks for writing this article on best lumbar support for car seats.the use of lumber support seat in car is essential.for example from my experience I am a person that travel alot by road because driving is one of my hobbies,i see the need of having it in my car at all time when am on the road. But recently am having problem identifying quality lumber support seat for my car.the ones I have been buying for sometimes now don’t last long before it tear.looking at Castle Bulwark Memory Foam Lumbar Support Pillow with all the features it has,i think is the next lumber support for car that I will be buying in couple of days time for my comfort
Tolu
Hi Svetik, you are not alone at all. Thanks for this great post and for introducing the product lumbar support pillow for cars. I do a lot of traveling and experience severe back pain after traveling for hours. I can’t travel more than two hours on a stretch without taking time off to strengthen my body. I have always used a massage cream on my back to ease the pain. However, knowing this product can help is a great relief. I’m getting the lumbar support pillow without delay
jaykaynigltd
This is a great, informative and educative article. Lumbar support are meant to correct poor posture which has resulted in doctors treating an alarming number of patients with lower back pain. You have put everything in perspective for anyone reading this post to understand all about “The Best Lumbar Support”. From why lumbar pillows are the bomb, to Choosing the right lumbar pillow for you to how supportive are lumbar pillows?” You can’t possibly be more exhaustive.
Thanks for sharing.
Sammynathaniels
Sitting in a car can cause some forms of pains in the lumbar region. I personally have been experiencing such for a while now, that’s why I’m so meticulous these days with the type of car I use. If I’m not comfortable at first instance in a taxi or a friend’s car due to the type of lumbar support used for the car seat, I’ll just tell him/her right away and maybe look for another alternative
Doychin Paunov
I have been a professional massage therapist for over 15 years. Most of my clients have problems with either their neck or their lower back (the lumbar part).
Always before we start a session, I have a habit of asking about the lifestyles of my clients and, in particular, their motor culture.In 80 percent of cases, I found that the pain, especially those with pain in the lower back, is not due to the disease but to the wrong posture.
Therefore, as a preventive measure, I recommend a correction of the posture, either by physical exercises (fitness, yoga, etc.) OR by selecting appropriate support.
The lumbar pillow is one of these stuffs than can help us. Because we spend a lot of our time in the car, the comfort of the body is of particular importance.
That is why the lumbar pillows are an indispensable assistant in the fight against the pains in the back and neck (some of the pains in the neck and head comes directly because of problems with the lumbar part).
Very good article! Congratulations!
Svetik
Thank you 🙂