The Mckenzie D lumbar roll back support cushion promotes normal alignment of the lower back when sitting. If looking at a human spine from sideways on it has a broadly S shape which the spine curving forwards at the lower back, (the lumbar spine), outwards at the middle back, known as the thoracic spine and forwards again at the neck/ cervical spine. The curve where the lumbar spine arches forwards is known as the lumbar lordosis.
When we sit we have a tendency to slump meaning the lumbar spine drops backwards reversing its natural curve and loosing the lumbar lordosis. In this slumped position the muscles at the bottom of the back are put on a stretch and so cannot work as well, additionally the lumbar discs are pushed backwards and can start to press on the nerves. Furthermore in order to maintain an upright posture if the lumbar spine curves backwards the chin has to jut forwards, this is often a contributing factor to neck and shoulder pain.
The D shaped lumbar roll back support cushion was developed by the respected New Zealand Physiotherapist Robin Mckenzie, its concept is simple, a d shaped roll which is positioned at just above waistband level when sitting to stimulate the user to maintain a better sitting posture. The roll is D shaped so the flat back side sits flush to the chair and the curved side mimics the contour of the lumbar spine. Held in place by an elastic strap the roll is easy and quick to fit to most chairs meaning it can by moved without difficulty from car to office to dining chair and so on.
The Research to Show the Effectiveness of a McKenzie D roll Back Support Cushion
An article was published in 1991 in the journal spine which looked at 210 people all of whom had back pain. Half the people were given a Mckenzie roll and half a support which caused a more rounded posture. The group who used the lumbar roll experienced less back pain.
A further study was reported in Spine in 2010 which showed that the angulation of the chairs back rest and the addition of a lumbar roll are the two most important factors to favorably change head and neck posture when seated.
Who Could Benefit from a Mckenzie Back Support Cushion?
- Anyone spending hours working in a seated position whether driving or sitting at a desk
- People with generally achy backs
- Anyone who experiences neck and shoulder pain when working at a computer.
- Back pain which is causing pain going down one leg
Who Probably Won't Benefit from a Mckenzie Back Support Cushion?
- Anyone with narrowing of the spinal canal. If the tube that the spinal cord passes through is narrow this causes symptoms such as pain down both legs. These people will find that their pain may be worse with the use of a lumbar roll, but better in a slouched position.
- If using a chair which already has a lumbar support built in. The addition of another lumbar support may exaggerate the lumbar lordosis too much.
Where to Purchase a Lumbar Roll Back Support Cushion?
Lumbar roll back support cushions will cost in the order of £16 to £25 depending on supplier. Two reliable web based suppliers of back support cushions are:
Physio Supplies and physio room both stock D shaped lumbar rolls.
Disclaimer: The information on this page is written to help you manage your back pain. There are many possible causes for back pain and should you have any concerns you should always seek advice from a qualified health professional such as a Chartered Physiotherapist or your GP.
