Based on general expert knowledge, as the provided context was not relevant to the question, here is how you can sit more comfortably on a couch with sciatica.
Finding a comfortable position on a couch when you're dealing with sciatica can feel like an impossible task, but you don't have to give up on relaxing in your living room. By making a few strategic adjustments, you can take control of your comfort and significantly reduce that nagging nerve pain. Your couch can become a place of relief, not an instrument of torture.
First, tackle the main problem with most couches: they are too soft and deep, encouraging you to slouch. Counteract this by creating a supportive base. Place a firm pillow or a rolled-up towel in the small of your back to provide essential lumbar support. This maintains the natural curve of your spine and prevents the rounding that can compress the sciatic nerve. Try to sit with your hips all the way back against the cushion.
Next, focus on the position of your legs. You want your knees to be at about a 90-degree angle, ideally level with or even slightly higher than your hips. This takes a tremendous amount of strain off your lower back. If the couch is low or your legs are short, use a footstool or an ottoman to elevate your feet. Be sure to keep both feet flat and avoid crossing your legs, as this can twist your pelvis and aggravate the nerve.
Finally, remember that movement is your best friend. Even the most perfect posture shouldn't be held for too long. Make it a rule to get up, stretch, and walk around for a minute or two every 30 minutes. By actively managing how you sit, you can transform your couch from a source of pain into a place of genuine rest and recovery.
