Lumbar Support: HSA Eligibility

What is lumbar support?

Lumbar support is a term that encompasses a wide range of chairs, cushions, pillows and other devices that are designed to provide optimal support to the muscles and skeletal structure of a person's lower back. In the vast majority of cases, lumbar supports are designed to provide additional reinforcement to an individual's back when in a seated position, but they are also available for individuals who need additional support when walking and performing day-to-day activities (wiseGEEK).

The importance of proper lumbar support is extremely valuable to a person's overall well-being, as injuries to the musculature of the lumbar area can inhibit an individual's ability to walk, and can even lead to paralysis if proper treatment is not pursued. In most cases, lower back issues begin as twinges of pain that are a result of daily activities, but beginning the usage of lumbar supports as soon as this discomfort arises can dramatically reduce lower back issues and can have a significant impact on the user's quality of life in later years.

What are the most common lumbar supports?

Lumbar supports have been incorporated with a wide range of consumer products that can provide additional support to the lower back area whether standing or sitting. These include via Veritashealth.com:

• Chairs: Individuals who work in an office setting and sit for extended periods of time are at a higher risk of lower back pain, which is why many office chairs are now made with lumbar supports to provide optimal support for the back.
• Pillows/Cushions: Lumbar support pillows are the ideal option for individuals who need additional support on the go. These pillows are perfect for cars and airplanes, improving the support of chairs around the house and anywhere else the person can sit.
• Standing Lumbar Support: Those with more advanced lower back pain can benefit from mobility lumbar support which can be worn over the user's clothing and can provide additional protection against strain injuries that may result from regular and awkward movements.