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Why should I use a McKenzie lumbar roll?

As few seats provide adequate support for the lower back, Robin found it necessary to provide his patients with a portable lumbar roll that could be used when sitting. A portable lumbar roll is essential equipment for people with ongoing back problems. When sitting on a seat with a back-rest, a lumbar roll will facilitate the maintenance of a correct lordosis (curve in the spine) and posture.

Ideally the back of all chairs should provide lumbar support so that the lordosis, naturally present during standing, is also maintained while sitting. It is relatively easy to find seating that has some degree of lumbar support, but few seats or chairs provide adequate support for the low back and it is usually still necessary to use a lumbar roll. The Original McKenzie® lumbar rolls are specifically designed for the purpose.

The McKenzie Institute International commissioned a study to examine the effects of sitting with, and without, a lumbar roll. Patients in the group using the lumbar roll were required to use it at home, at the office and when driving. The results showed conclusively that those patients using a portable lumbar roll when sitting experienced much less or even no pain compared to those not using a lumbar support (see Williams et al. 1991).

Proceeds from the sale of the Original McKenzie® spinal supports have been, and continue to be, donated for research into improved methods of treatment for musculoskeletal disorders and to provide relevant education for health care professionals.

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