I have a herniated disc: what chair do you use?
Maybe because I’ve been working from home more, my back keeps hurting. The doctor said it’s an early-stage disc issue. I’m curious what everyone uses—Sidiz, Herman Miller, etc.
I’ve also heard it’s better to spend the money on exercise than on an expensive chair—is that true?
6 answers
Got a source? There's plenty of talk that “exercise is better than chairs,” but I've never seen a quantitative comparison lol. Even data comparing someone who uses a bad chair but exercises hard versus the opposite case would be great.
If the hospital said it’s an early-stage disc issue, I think the order should be physical therapy or rehab first, before changing chairs. Spending a lot on a chair right away could be something you regret later. Even a Sidiz chair in the 400,000–500,000 KRW range is perfectly comfortable to sit in.
The idea that exercise is better is only half true. It doesn't mean a bad chair is fine as long as you exercise—you need both.
I was also diagnosed with early-stage disc issues and went through three chairs, but the conclusion is that sitting habits matter more than the chair. Standing up every hour and stretching for five minutes worked better than that expensive chair. I've used both the Sidiz T50 and Herman Miller, and the claim that Herman Miller is unconditionally better is a bit exaggerated; in the end, if the seat depth and armrest height don't fit you, even an expensive chair will wreck your back. From your question, it seems you're already suspecting that exercise is the key, and you're right. Without the muscles that stabilize your back, any chair will break down.