Who wants to live with a brittle spine? No one, that’s the only right answer. That’s why we owe a huge thanks to the person who invented back stretchers.
Instead of going for medicine and drugs when you feel pain, you just have to get on your back stretcher and relax. And the rest is magic.
Before you go adding back stretchers to your cart, there are some things you need to know. Here, I’ll guide you through everything you should be aware of. But first, let’s start with the 7 best orthopedic stretchers on the market.
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Our 7 Top Picks for Orthopedic Back Stretchers
Here are 7 of the best orthopedic back stretchers on the market. They’re available in different price ranges to fit your budget.
SOLIDBACK Back Stretcher
The Solidback stretcher has a spiky design that’s distinct from other brands. It’s designed to dig deep into your spine and deliver the long-awaited comfort. Additionally, it takes the shape of an arch to provide enough lumbar support.
The Solidback has a weight capacity of 300 pounds. It’s also highly stable on the ground due to its dense build. Not to mention that it’s made of top-tier EVA foam that ensures maximum comfort. You’ll only need 5 minutes on that stretcher for it to do its mission. If you are suffering from acute or chronic back pain, then check out our guide about the best back traction devices for home use.
Key Features
- Dimensions: 12” x 11.3” x 3.7”
- Weight: 1.25 pounds
- Weight capacity: 300 pounds
- EVA foam
Pros
- Stable on the ground
- Budget option
- Massaging function for the lower back
- Instruction videos included
Cons
- The spikes can be uncomfortable for some people
Fitness Junction Back Stretcher
The Fitness Junction back stretcher is an excellent option for lumbar support. It’s designed to target this specific area and decompress it. Only 10 minutes on this device will give you the comfort you need.
Furthermore, the stretcher is highly efficient in correcting postures. If you train on it long enough, you can get your back as good as new. In addition, it has a foldable design for user’s convenience. You can also use it anywhere.
Key Features
- Weight: 2.5 pounds
- Weight Capacity: 330 pounds
- High-tech plastic exterior
- Three adjustment levels
Pros
- Easy assembly
- Highly durable
- Posture correcting function
Cons
- Users complained that it wobbles under heavyweight
North American Health Back Stretcher
The North American stretcher has a design similar to that of a pillow. It’s a highly comfortable stretcher that’s also very durable. On top of that, it’s fairly easy to use and won’t cause you any discomfort, even if it’s your first time using it.
You won’t have to worry about the fit with the North American. It suits all heights and all body shapes. Moreover, it has a hefty weight capacity of 250 pounds. Therefore, it should be safe to use for most people.
Key Features
- Dimensions: 21” x 18.5” x 16.8”
- Weight: 2.4 pounds
- Weight capacity: 250 pounds
- Leather exterior
Pros
- It can be used in different positions
- Padding included for comfort
- It works on the whole back and tailbone
Cons
- Tall people may find it uncomfortable
Magic Back Support Stretcher
The Magic Back Support stretcher is ideal for frequent travelers. It has a compact build that can easily be disassembled. Plus, it’s designed ergonomically to ensure you get the safest treatment possible.
The stretcher targets the knots in your muscles and relieves the pain they incur. That’s why people love it; because it alleviates the pain, along with correcting the posture. Furthermore, you can adjust it to three different positions, according to the area you want to stress on.
Key features
- Dimensions: 15.9” x 10.2” x 2.7”
- Weight: 1.3 pounds
- Weight capacity: Unlimited
- Two separate parts
- Spinal grooves
Pros
- High efficiency
- Posture correction
- Three-level adjustment
Cons
- The spinal grooves hurt a bit
Soft Touch Back Stretcher
The Soft Touch has a design similar to that of the Solidback. However, it costs more because it comes with two massage balls; a smooth one and a spiked one. Here’s a quick video to show you how everything works.
The stretcher provides support for the spine and the lumbar area. The spikes in it will give you a soothing massage feeling when you move your back against it. Additionally, the EVA foam that’s used in manufacturing has a soft feel, but it’s firm enough to hold your body.
Key Features
- Dimensions: 12” x 11.5” x 4”
- Weight: 0.6 pounds
- Weight capacity: Unlimited
- Eva Foam
Pros
- Portable
- Two massage balls included
- Suitable for all weights and ages
Cons
- Too rigid for some people
Lumia Wellness Back Stretcher
If you sit in bad postures frequently, the Lumia Wellness stretcher will be a nice option to consider. It’ll help you restore your spine curvature as if it’s never been affected. Additionally, you can use it on your knees, hips, and neck.
The steep design of the Lumia relieves pain instantly. It alleviates the pressure off the harmed areas and heals painful decompressions. You can use it to treat spinal stenosis, ruptured discs, and sciatica.
Key Features
- Dimensions: 16” x 8” x 4”
- Weight: 0.5 pounds
- Weight capacity: Unlimited
- PU Foam
- Rayon bamboo exterior
Pros
- Removable exterior for easier washing
- Posture restoring
- Lightweight
- Affordable
Cons
- Coul be too stiff for some people
Magic Back Support 2020 Back Stretcher
Magic Back Support has been known for its impressive products for a long time now. So, it’s not a surprise that its latest back stretcher is that efficient. The stretcher has memory cushioning that contours your spine’s shape. That way, it’ll perfectly fit your body.
Moreover, the stretcher has a removable encasing for easy washing. Plus, it’s padded to offer the utmost comfort. Its construction is very stable on the ground, so you don’t have to worry about snapping or wobbling. Not only that, but it also comes with a strap for chairs’ backs.
Key Features
- Dimensions: 13.2” x 12.2” x 3.8”
- Weight: 1.5 pounds
- Weight capacity: Unlimited
- Fastening strap
- Memory cushion
Pros
- Highly durable
- It can be used in many positions
- Very comfortable
Cons
- Flimsy strap
Orthopedic Back Stretchers – Buyer’s Guide and FAQs
To make sure you get the best orthopedic back stretcher out there, there are a few facts you’ll want to know, along with some features you should consider.
5 Things to Consider Before Buying an Orthopedic Back Stretcher
Here are the 5 things you should check off your list when buying your stretcher.
Comfort
If it’s your first time using a back stretcher, you may think of the back-stretch feeling as discomforting. It’s only natural, and it goes away once you get used to it. However, if you feel a strain on your neck or shoulders, that’s when you know you got the wrong stretcher.
The right back stretcher should fit your spine and your lower back perfectly. You shouldn’t feel any pain in your neck or lower back when you’re using it. On top of that, it should be padded enough to give you enough comfort, or at least not rigid as some stretchers are.
Flexibility
It’s necessary to get a back stretcher that can be easily adjusted. If your back stretcher only works on one position, you won’t get the most benefit out of it. You’ll stay stuck on that level for a long time, which is somehow inconvenient.
An adjustable stretcher will allow you to edit the position and height as you see fit. That way, you can upgrade when you feel you’re ready to.
Weight Capacity
It’s not safe to use a back stretcher with a low weight capacity. If it’s lower than your weight, it won’t deliver the right performance. Also, it could get damaged. That’s why it’s vital to check the stretcher’s capacity before you buy it.
Storage
A bulky back stretcher will be hard to store, especially if you use it frequently. You don’t need the hassle of trying to find a place for it. Therefore, it’s always better to get a stretcher that fits your home space. The Fitness Junction is very easy to store and travel-friendly.
Solid Base
Back stretchers with a solid base will hold your weight well on the ground. They won’t wobble under you, which will help you finish your session peacefully. Therefore, you should look for a stretcher that’s holding itself well.
If it doesn’t have a solid base, at least make sure it’s stable on the ground. That way, your mind can be at ease while you’re using it.
How do Orthopedic Back Stretchers Work?
In order to understand how back stretchers work, you need to learn a bit about your spine. Do you know why kids have better flexibility than adults? Because their spines are full of fluid. This fluid contains a liquid substance called Proteoglycan, which is responsible for maintaining your discs’ hydration.
This fluid decreases as the human grows up, which explains why most adults acquire spine pain at some point in their lives. Additionally, bad posture and wrong sleeping positions add to the pain. It’ll only go away if the pressure is alleviated off your spine.
That’s exactly what back stretchers do. Laying on them will get your muscles all relaxed, which is an open invitation for your discs to start doing their job. Once your spine starts elongating, it’ll encourage your discs to soak the fluid up and get hydrated.
That way, the pain reduces and stays like that for a while. The spine will then have enough fluid to stay hydrated, even after you finish your session.
Frequently Asked Questions
These are the top questions people ask about orthopedic back stretchers. Take a look at them; you’ll find some useful answers.
What’s the padding in back stretchers for?
Padding in back stretchers is usually there for extra comfort. It doesn’t have a vital role in the stretching process; that’s why some stretchers come without padding. Some brands replace the padding by a support hook that helps you keep your posture.
Do back stretchers come in different sizes?
No, back stretchers are highly versatile. They’re mostly issued in one size that fits all people. To ensure that, they come with flexible designs that can be compressed and expanded.
If you want to guarantee your stretcher will hold your body, you may want to get one with a suitable weight capacity. That’s the feature that really matters.
Is a back stretcher safe to use for long?
It is, but it’s not necessary. A back stretcher only takes a few minutes to do its job. So, using it for too long could be pointless. We recommend that you only use it two times a day to avoid straining your back.
How do back stretchers affect your spine?
Back stretchers expand the space between your vertebrae. That way, your discs become able to absorb the fluid easily, which is considered a self-healing process.
Can I use a back stretcher in my car?
Yes, you can use it wherever you like. As long as it can be adjusted to the chair. Some stretchers aren’t flexible enough to use in any place other than the ground. So, if you intend to use the stretcher in your car, your office, or anywhere else, look for one that allows it.
The North American back stretcher, for example, can be used anywhere.
Wrapping Up
Why live with constant pain when you can get such an amazing support device? Once you try back stretchers, you’ll wish you knew about them earlier. They’re highly efficient, cost-saving, and convenient.
Our favorite back stretcher on our list is the Magic Back Support 2020 stretcher. It provides comfort, along with fast results. Besides, it comes fully-equipped with a three-level adjustment to fit all bodies.
If you’re not afraid of some spikes, the Soft Touch stretcher is a great alternative. It’ll give you instant pain relief. Plus, the two massage balls that come with it are a bonus. For more amazing products that will help you relieve your back pain, check out our guide to the best handheld back massagers.
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