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Sciatica is a type of pain that radiates from the sciatic nerve, which is in your lower back and goes through your buttock and legs. In most cases, sciatica only occurs on one side of your body (left or right leg and buttock). It’s caused mainly by a herniated disc; however, among office workers, it’s most commonly caused by incorrect sitting positions.
For sciatica relief, we recommend a great ergonomic office chair. Our team of experts has compared dozens of ergonomic options on the market and created our list of the five best office chairs for sciatica based on adjustability, effectiveness, price, and durability.
What Makes an Office Chair Good for Sciatica?
To lower the chances of sciatica occurring, desk workers should avoid working in an incorrect sitting position. Ergonomic office chairs are the best type of chair for this task; they have numerous adjustable features that support your neck, upper back, buttock, and most importantly, lower back.
For best results, a good office chair for sciatica relief must have:
- Adjustable Lumbar Support
- Adjustable Height & Seat Depth
- Recline Tilt Lock
- S-Shaped Backrest
- Adjustable Headrest
- Adjustable Armrests
In this guide, we ensured that all our recommended options have these features. Keep scrolling to see our picks, learn more about the benefits & what to consider when choosing an office chair for sciatica and discover more office tools that can help eliminate sciatica.
The Best Office Chairs for Sciatica
- Sidiz T50 Ergonomic Office Chair – Top Pick
- Nohaus Ergo3D Office Chair – Best Value
- Steelcase Gesture Series Office Chair – Premium Pick
- Ticova Ergonomic Office Chair – Best Under $300
- Samofu Ergonomic Office Chair – Best for Tall People
Through extensive research, we found that these five options are the best for reducing static nerve pain. Keep reading for a detailed description of each chair as well as its pros & cons, key features, and specifications.
First up is our top pick, the Sidiz T50 Series Ergonomic Office Chair. This option has all the adjustable features required to combat sciatica, a robust structure, and a modern style, all backed by a good warranty.
To begin with, let’s start by discussing why this chair is ideal for dealing with sciatica. Most importantly, it has all the ergonomic features required for a healthy posture; this includes adjustable lumbar support, an S-shaped backrest, adjustable seat depth and height, tilt tension control, adjustable armrests, and a fully adjustable headrest.
The chair’s backrest is made from mesh which is a breathable material that allows for adequate back ventilation. For extra comfort, the chair’s seat is padded with thick, high-density foam.
Furthermore, the Sidiz T50 model is quite a sturdy chair. This is thanks to a robust nylon wheelbase that allows for a 300 lb maximum weight capacity. For peace of mind, Sidiz offers a 3-year manufacturer’s warranty covering all chair parts.
When it comes to pricing, this office chair is slightly on the expensive side. However, it’s nowhere near as expensive as premium brands, and many desk users consider the T50 an affordable office chair with high-performance ergonomics. If you are interested in more options with a similar price tag, feel free to read our best office chairs under $500 guide.
Overall, the Sidiz T50 is an affordable highly-ergonomic office chair ideal for maintaining a healthy posture, thus reducing sciatica. The only downside is that the 3-year warranty is not as long as what premium brands such as Steelcase or ErgoHuman offer.
KEY FEATURES:
- Stylish Ergonomic S-Shape Design
- Adjustable Lumbar Support
- 3 Years Warranty
- Pneumatic Height Adjustment Lever
- Adjustable Seat Depth
- Fully Adjustable Headrest
- Backrest Recline with Lock
- 3D Adjustable Armrests
- Breathable Mesh Backrest
- 30-Day Free Trial
- Five Smooth-Rolling Casters
SPECIFICATIONS:
- Dimensions: 28.9″ D x 28.9″ W x 45.8″ H
- Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
- Seat Height: 18.1” to 21.5”
- Material: Mesh, Foam, Plastic,
- Weight: 43.9 lbs
- Manufacturer: Sidiz
PROS:
- Fully Ergonomic
- Good Ventilation
- Also Available in Black
- Decent Weight Capacity
- Made from High-Quality Materials
- Semi-Affordable
- Decent Warranty
- Excellent Reviews
CONS:
- Shorter Warranty Compared to Premium Brands
Next on our list of the best office chairs for sciatica is our best value choice, the Nouhaus Ergo3D Series Office Chair. This chair is an affordable high-performance alternative to premium brands with all the ergonomic features required to maintain a healthy posture.
First and foremost, the Ergo3D has everything you need to combat sciatica. The chair’s adjustable features include dynamic lumbar support, 4D adjustable armrests, an adjustable headrest, pneumatic seat height adjustment, and a 90-130 degree recline function with tension control. The only downside is that the seat depth and tilt are not adjustable.
This office chair is incredibly stylish, finished in a modern blue color, although it’s also available in burgundy and black. Furthermore, the chair has an s-shaped backrest, ideal for a healthy posture. Adding to that, users can regulate the chair’s overall height between 44 and 49 inches, that’s relatively high for an office chair and suitable for tall users. Read our best high back office chairs guide if you’re interested in more options with a high backrest.
One of the biggest selling points of the Ergo3D model is its warranty. Nohaus offer a generous 5-year manufacturer’s warranty covering all parts giving buyers peace of mind in the event of chair failure.
The chair’s strong aluminum wheelbase allows for a decent maximum weight capacity of 275 lbs. Another feature worth mentioning is the chair’s wheels. They are high-quality roller blade wheels that roll smoothly on hard surfaces and don’t damage floors.
All in all, if you consider the Nohaus Ergo 3D model’s features and warranty, it’s excellent value for money. It’s an affordable office chair with most of the ergonomic features needed to fight sciatica. The only thing it lacks is adjustable seat depth.
KEY FEATURES:
- Stylish Modern Design
- Robust Aluminum Wheelbase
- Adjustable Lumbar Support
- 5-Year Manufacturers Warranty
- 90-135 Degree Recline
- Breathable Backrest and Seat
- Chrome 4D Armrests
- Fully Adjustable Headrest
- Pneumatic Gas Lift Lever
- High-Quality Dual Blade Wheels
SPECIFICATIONS:
- Dimensions: 16.3″D x 27.95″W x 49″H
- Seat Height: 18.5” to 22.4”
- Weight Capacity: 275 lbs
- Material: Mesh, Foam, Nylon, Aluminum
- Weight: 46.3 lbs
- Manufacturer: Nouhaus
PROS:
- Available in Multiple Colors
- Long Warranty
- Excellent Reviews
- Decent Weight Capacity
- Affordable Price Tag
- Premium Casters
- Fully Adjustable
CONS:
- Seat Depth is Not Adjustable
Third on our list is our premium pick, the Steelcase Gesture Series. Steelcase is known for the high quality of its chairs, and the Gesture Series is their most comprehensive and ergonomic product.
To begin with, this Steelcase chair is ideal for maintaining a healthy posture which can eliminate sciatica caused by incorrect sitting positions. It has all the necessary adjustable features, including; adjustable lumbar support, four tension control points, fully adjustable 4D armrests & headrest, adjustable seat depth & tilt, and a 3-setting lockable recline.
Additionally, the Steelcase Gesture Series uses LiveBack technology. This innovative tech makes the chair fully adaptable to the user’s body shape. That’s something that only other premium brands like Herman Miller can achieve.
Thanks to an ultra-strong nylon wheelbase, the Gesture Series can handle weights up to 400 lbs, making it suitable for heavy users. The chair is exceptionally tall; it can be lifted all the way to 57 inches high. So far, we haven’t seen any other office chair that can do that, hence why we included this chair in our best office chairs for tall people guide.
The best thing about Steelcase is its warranty. They offer an outstanding industry-leading 12-year warranty. Only Herman Miller can match that. With such an extended warranty, choosing this office chair is a wise investment for the long run. The only downside of that is the chair’s premium price tag.
All things considered, if you want the best office chair for sciatic nerve pain based on all factors, including durability, ergonomic performance, and warranty, look no further.
KEY FEATURES:
- High-End S-Shaped Design
- 12-Years Warranty
- Heavy-Duty Nylon Wheelbase
- Fully Adjustable Headrest
- Adjustable Lumbar Support
- Suitable for Tall & Heavy Users
- 4D Adjustable Armrests
- Premium-Quality Material
- 3D LiveBack Technology
- 90-130 Degree Recline
- Adjustable Seat Depth & Height
- Smooth-Rolling Casters
- Made from 98% Recyclable Materials
- BIFMA Certified
SPECIFICATIONS:
- Dimensions: 23″D x 23″W x 57″H
- Seat Height: 16” to 21”
- Weight Capacity: 400 lbs
- Material: Heavy-Duty Nylon, Fabric
- Weight: 78 lbs
- Manufacturer: Steelcase
PROS:
- Outstanding Warranty
- Suitable for Tall & Heavy Users
- Ideal for Healthy Posture
- Available in 27 Colors
- Reputable Brand
- High Weight Capacity
- Floor-Friendly Casters
- Excellent Reviews
CONS:
- Premium Price Tag
Fourth is our best under $300 pick, the Ticova Ergonomic Office Chair. This chair has the vital features needed to combat sciatic nerve pain for a very low price tag.
First and foremost, this Ticova office chair has most of the ergonomic features required for a healthy posture which can help eliminate sciatica. For instance, it has an s-shaped backrest, adjustable lumbar support, 3D adjustable armrests, an adjustable headrest, and tilt-tension control.
Thanks to the heavy-duty wheelbase and nylon frame, the chair has a decent maximum weight capacity of 280 lbs. Furthermore, Ticova offers a one-year warranty on all chair parts.
The chair’s backrest is made from a breathable mesh material that stops excess sweat often associated with working for prolonged hours. We even included this chair in our best mesh office chairs guide; check it out; it’s worth a read.
Other features include a pneumatic height control lever which allows users to regulate the seat height between 16.5 and 21.3 inches. For extra comfort, the chair’s seat has been double-padded with high-density foam.
By far, this Ticova model’s most significant advantage is the price. It’s one of the most affordable ergonomic mesh office chairs that can help posture. If you are interested in more options priced similarly, view our best office chairs under $300 guide.
At such a low price, you can expect some downsides. For example, this chair’s seat depth cannot be adjusted, and the 1-year warranty is short compared to the other options in this guide.
In summary, the Ticova Ergonomic Office Chair is an ideal option for those who want to reduce sciatica pain but can’t afford to spend a fortune. Definitely, one worth considering for prudent buyers.
KEY FEATURES:
- Simple Ergonomic Design
- Quality Breathable Mesh Backrest
- Strong Metal Wheelbase
- One-Year Warranty
- Adjustable Lumbar Support
- 3” Thick Foam Padded Seat
- Adjustable Armrests
- Adjustable Headrest
- S-Shaped Back
- 90-Day Money-Back Guarantee
- Pneumatic Seat Height Adjustment
- Smooth-Rolling Casters
SPECIFICATIONS:
- Dimensions: 27″ D x 20.5″ W x 20.9″ H
- Weight Capacity: 280 lbs
- Seat Height: 16.5” to 21.3”
- Material: Nylon, Mesh, Foam
- Weight: 39.8 lbs
- Manufacturer: Ticova
PROS:
- Very Low Price
- Excellent Lower Back Support
- Minimalistic Design
- Great Reviews
- Good Back Ventilation
- Robust Wheelbase
- 90-Day Money-Back Guarantee
CONS:
- Seat Depth Cannot Be Adjusted
- Short Warranty
Last on our list is our recommended option for tall people, the Samofu High Back Ergonomic Office Chair. This chair has all the required features needed to maintain a healthy posture and is ideal for tall users.
First of all, this Samofu model has an S-shaped backrest made from a breathable mesh material, which is great for ventilation. Users can adjust this chair’s height using a pneumatic lever to between 46 and 54.2 inches. That’s high enough for people up to 6 foot 3 inches tall.
Thanks to a long list of ergonomic features, the chair offers excellent posture and lower back support needed for combatting sciatica. The list includes adjustable lumbar support, 2D adjustable armrests, an adjustable headrest, and a tension-regulation knob. Read our best office chairs for back pain guide if you’re interested in more options built specifically for back support.
Apart from being highly suited for posture maintenance, the chair is also sturdy. It has a robust nylon frame and wheelbase that enable a maximum weight capacity of 300 lbs. Even better, Samofu offers a generous five-year-long manufacturer’s warranty covering all chair parts.
The only significant downsides of this chair are the lack of some adjustable features. For instance, the armrests cannot be tilted or rotated, while the seat depth cannot be adjusted at all.
Overall, the Samofu Ergonomic Office Chair is still a viable option for maintaining a healthy posture and eliminating sciatic nerve pain. It lacks a few minor features, but with such a long warranty and solid structure, it’s worth considering.
KEY FEATURES:
- Simple All-Black Design
- Five-Year Warranty
- Suitable for Users Up To 6 foot 3’
- Adjustable 2D Armrests
- 135 Degree Lockable Recline
- Nylon Plastic Wheelbase
- Adjustable Lumbar Support
- Silent PU Wheels
- Pre-tested Pneumatic Lift
- Strong Metal Seatplate
SPECIFICATIONS:
- Dimensions: 19.1″D x 21.2″W x 54.2″H
- Overall Height: 46” to 54.2”
- Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
- Material: Mesh, Plastic, Metal
- Weight: 45.5 lbs
- Manufacturer: Samofu
PROS:
- Long Warranty
- Excellent Price
- Good Reviews
- Fully Adjustable
- High Weight Capacity
CONS:
- Seat Depth is Not Adjustable
- Armrests are Not Fully Adjustable (Only Up & Down)
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Office Chair for Sciatica
Before you go out there and pick your ergonomic office chair, there are numerous essential factors you have to consider before making your decision. Below are the main aspects you should take into consideration.
Ergonomic Features
As we mentioned in the intro of this guide, sciatica originates from the sciatic nerve in your lower back; therefore, you should look for ergonomic features that support the lower back. You should ensure that your office chair has adjustable lumbar support, adjustable seat depth, and an s-shaped backrest. Other ergonomic features such as an adjustable backrest and armrests also play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy posture.
Chair Dimensions
When choosing an office chair, buyers should ensure that it is suitable for their body size. Most office chairs are not suitable for plus-size people, heavy users. These people have to check the chair width and weight capacity carefully. Additionally, tall people should look for office chairs at least 50 inches tall. On the other hand, short users need an office chair with a low minimum seat height. Read our best office chairs for short people guide for more information on that.
Manufacturers Warranty
The manufacturer’s warranty is a factor that many online shoppers often forget about. It is one of the most important factors when choosing the best office chair for sciatica. In the event of chair failure, the manufacturer will provide you with a replacement chair, repair service, or a refund as long as this occurred in the warranty-covered period. Therefore, the longer the warranty period, the better. We recommend choosing office chairs with warranties at least five years long for peace of mind.
Weight Capacity
If you want to know how much weight an office chair can handle, you can check the maximum weight capacity. Heavy users should pay close attention to this key factor. Additionally, the weight capacity is also a good indicator of how strong the overall structure of the frame is. Office chairs with a weight capacity of 400 lbs or more are considered heavy-duty.
Online Reviews
Another factor many online shoppers overlook is customer reviews. The reviews of previous buyers give you an insight into how people feel about the chair and how it performs for them. We recommend only choosing chairs with a positive overall rating from at least a hundred unique reviewers for best results.
Benefits of Ergonomic Office Chairs for Sciatica
Investing in an ergonomic office chair has many health benefits that can help manage sciatica and improve your daily office performance. Below are the main benefits of ergonomic office chairs.
- Improved Posture – Thanks to the s-shaped backrest and other adjustable features, ergonomic office chairs help users maintain a healthy posture and help to prevent lazy, incorrect sitting positions.
- Help with Sciatic Nerve Pain – Recent government guidance suggests that ergonomic office chairs with adjustable lumbar support can help manage sciatic nerve pain.
- Reduced Neck Pain – Adjustable headrests combined with lumbar support help users keep their neck positioned in the proper ergonomic position, reducing their chances of neck pain.
- Increased Productivity – Government studies have shown that maintaining a healthy posture during prolonged work hours can reduce the chances of musculoskeletal disorders and make desk workers more efficient, productive, and satisfied.
- Increased Blood Circulation – Blood in your body circulates faster when you maintain the proper posture as it is your body’s natural sitting position. Ergonomic office chairs help you maintain the correct posture and avoid bad posture, which slows down your blood circulation.
Consider a Standing Desk for Sciatica Relief
Many office workers who suffer from lower back pain have reported that using a standing desk can provide relief, and government studies back this. It is widely known that sitting for too long can have negative health impacts, especially when it’s eight hours at a time. Standing desks allow users to switch working positions from sitting to standing and vice-versa, thanks to an adjustable worktop height.
Switching positions every 30 minutes gives the best results and reduces pressure from your lower back. These ergonomic desks also come with many other physical and mental benefits. If you are interested in a standing desk, see our standing desk reviews to ensure you choose a reliable and durable product.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, investing in an ergonomic office chair that can help you maintain a healthy posture is certainly a wise idea if you suffer from sciatic nerve pain. If your health is important to you, purchasing one should be a no-brainer as the health benefits greatly outweigh the initial investment.
Thanks for reading. We hope that our best office chairs for sciatica guide have helped you find the perfect chair. Before you go, don’t forget to thoroughly read the things to consider section of this guide, as it is critical to choosing a chair that fully meets your needs.
If you have any further questions or comments, feel free to contact our team anytime. Keep reading below for the frequently asked questions associated with office chairs for sciatica.
FAQs
What kind of chair is best for sciatica?
Ergonomic office chairs with adjustable lumbar support, an S-shaped backrest, and adjustable seat depth are the best for combating sciatica. These chairs help users maintain a proper posture which lowers the chances of lower back pain.
Can bad office chairs cause sciatica?
Office chairs that don’t allow users to work in a healthy posture can cause sciatica, especially when used for a prolonged period daily.
Can standing desks help relieve sciatica?
Prolonged sitting in the incorrect posture is one of the leading causes of sciatica amongst office desk workers. Using a standing desk allows users to switch from standing to sitting frequently throughout the working day, which takes away pressure from the lower back and helps to avoid lazy sitting positions.
How We Review: Our Office Chair Ratings Methodology
At Overheard on Conference Calls, we take pride in how we review office chairs. Our team of office chair experts spend hours researching and reviewing dozens of products before they even start writing their review or article. Our goal is to bring you honest and unbiased information to help you make an informed choice that will be the best for you. Our recommendations are not for sale and they are not influenced by any of the manufacturers we review.
When reviewing an office chair, there are numerous factors we analyze to determine our recommendations. Here are our four most important:
- Comfort: Comfort is key to a good office chair. It’s likely you’ll be sitting in it for hours so you’ll want something that won’t cause you aches and pains after hours of use. We gauge comfort by testing for 4+ hours as well as looking at the thickness of the seat cushion and its material.
- Durability: Not all office chairs are built the same. Our durability factor looks at the quality of the materials and how sturdy the chair is after assembly. Because we have a limited tested period, we also conduct customer research of longtime users.
- Lumbar Support: While this is an ergonomic feature, we made this its own separate rating factor because of how important it is to your overall posture, health, and comfort. We analyze each chair for its lumbar support or lack thereof.
- Ergonomic Features: In addition to lumbar support, we also look at other ergonomic features such as the armrests, height adjustment, reclining, seat ergonomics, and more. The better it is for your ergonomics and the more features/adjustability, the better.
Why isn’t price included on that list? Fair question! We do consider price in the order of our recommendations but because everyone has their own budget in mind, we won’t rule a chair in or out just because it has premium or budget price.
Our team has researched and reviewed hundreds of chairs and we’re confident in our recommendations. We strive to only recommend the best products and we periodically refresh our reviews and rankings.
