Disc Degeneration:
How Sitting Impacts Spinal Health

And What You Can Do to Feel Better Every Day

If you’ve been diagnosed with degenerative disc disease (DDD), you’re not alone. It’s one of the most common age-related spinal conditions—and it doesn’t just affect your back. It can lead to persistent pain, reduced mobility, and even nerve compression.

But here’s the good news: while you can’t reverse disc degeneration, you can influence how much pain you feel and how well your spine functions—especially when it comes to how you sit.

learn how

What Is Disc Degeneration?

Disc degeneration refers to the gradual breakdown of the intervertebral discs—the soft, cushion-like structures between your vertebrae. These discs absorb
shock, support movement, and help keep your spine aligned.

Over time, they can dry out, thin, or develop small tears in their outer layer (the annulus fibrosus), leading to instability and pain. Learn about the four stages of disc degeneration here.

Common causes and risk factors include:

Aging (most people show signs after age 40)
Repetitive strain or injury
Genetics
Poor posture and sedentary lifestyle
Smoking or poor nutrition (which can limit disc hydration and repair)

According to a study published in The Spine Journal, disc degeneration is present in over 60% of individuals by age 50, even if they’re asymptomatic.¹

But for many, the breakdown of disc structure results in stiffness, inflammation, and nerve irritation—especially with poor sitting posture.

Why Sitting Matters with Degenerative Disc Disease

When you sit—especially with a rounded, slouched posture—your discs are under more pressure than when you stand or lie down.

One study found that intradiscal pressure increases significantly in a flexed seated position compared to neutral standing.² Over time, that stress can accelerate disc wear and worsen symptoms. Learn how poor posture can fuel disc degeneration here.

Poor sitting posture may:

Compress weakened discs even further
Shift load unevenly across the spine
Increase inflammation and stiffness
Trigger or intensify back, hip, or leg pain

The position of your pelvis is especially important. When your pelvis tucks under (posterior pelvic tilt), your lumbar spine loses its natural curve. This places more stress on the already compromised discs.

How the Right
Chair Can Make a Difference

You might not be able to change your diagnosis—but you can incorporate exercises as well as change your sitting environment. A chair designed for spinal health can help relieve pressure on your discs and promote a neutral, aligned posture.

The Anthros chair was engineered with disc health in mind.

THE CHAIR FOR
PAIN RELIEF

Effortless Good Posture

The Precision Posture System uses a two-part adjustable back design to stabilize your pelvis in a neutral position and support your upper spine—so your body doesn’t have to fight gravity all day. By holding you in optimal alignment, it reduces the load on degenerating discs and helps protect your spine throughout the day.

Reduces Disc Pressure—Proven by Science

3D human modeling showed that the Anthros chair reduces disc pressure at L4-S1 by over 50% compared to a leading ergonomic chair. Less pressure on your spine means less wear, less irritation, and less pain.

Relax Without Compromise or Pain

Our 3D human modeling shows that tilting in the Anthros chair reduces disc pressure even further—especially important for those with disc degeneration. Unlike traditional recline systems, our Posture Lock Tilt keeps your pelvis and spine in alignment, so you can lean back and relieve pressure without collapsing into harmful postures. Learn more about how tilt here.

Contoured Supportive Premium Cushion

Our contoured, medical-grade foam cushion is designed to support your body in optimal postures—crucial for managing disc degeneration. By minimizing peak pressure under the pelvis and thighs, it promotes circulation and reduces nerve irritation. With Cloudfloat® and Cloudtex® technology, you get stable, all-day comfort that helps protect your spine from the stress of prolonged sitting.

Tips for Supporting
Degenerated Discs While Sitting

In addition to choosing the right chair, try these posture-supporting tips:

1

Use pelvis support

to maintain the natural curve of your spine

2

Keep your feet flat

on the floor or on a footrest

3

Avoid slouching

or leaning forward for long periods

4

Take movement breaks

every 30–60 minutes

5

Stretch regularly

to maintain mobility and disc nutrition

Disc Degeneration:
How Sitting Impacts Spinal Health