How to measure for a rise and recliner chair starts with a simple question many people ask: What size recliner do I need? Choosing the right fit isn’t just about comfort; it’s about ensuring your chair works perfectly in your space. From seat width to back height, these measurements are essential to get right before making a purchase – and the best way to make sure they’re spot on is to have a professional do them for you. In this guide, we’ll break down the exact steps to measure, so you can enjoy your new chair without any guesswork.

What Measurements Do You Need to Size a Riser Recliner Chair?

The correct measurements make all the difference between a chair that feels tailor-made for you and one that could cause discomfort.&nbsp;

Each of these plays an important role in how supportive, practical, and comfortable your chair will be.

How to Measure Seat Depth and Why it’s Important

Seat depth refers to the distance between the backrest and the front edge of the chair. To measure a chair’s seat depth, calculate the distance from the backrest to the front edge of the seat base. To check if it fits you, sit back against the backrest and measure from your buttocks to about 2–3 inches before the back of your knees. A well-fitted seat depth supports your thighs without putting pressure behind the knees.

This measurement matters because it affects leg support; too deep, and your knees may not bend comfortably, too shallow, and your thighs may not be fully supported. Getting seat depth right ensures you can sit for long periods of time without causing unnecessary pressure.

Seat width is the distance from one side of the seat to the other, measured at the widest point, and determines how much lateral space there is when sitting. To find the correct seat width, measure the distance between the inner sides of the armrests. Ideally, there should be a small gap of around 20 mm (about three-quarters of an inch) between the user’s hips and each armrest. This allows the person to sit comfortably while keeping their arms supported. If the seat is too wide, it can cause the user to lean to one side, while a seat that’s too narrow may press against the body, leading to discomfort.

Seat height refers to the distance from the ground to the seat. To measure seat height correctly, consider the space between the floor to the very top of the seat cushion. Getting this right is essential for both comfort and health. A seat that’s set too high often causes people to slouch, as they shift forward to rest their feet flat on the floor. On the other hand, a seat that’s too low can restrict circulation in the lower legs, leading to swelling, while also placing extra pressure on the buttocks. Over time, this pressure can be uncomfortable and may even increase the risk of developing pressure sores.

Armrest height is the vertical distance from the seat surface to the top of the armrest, which determines how comfortably your arms and shoulders are supported while sitting. To measure armrest height, start at the midpoint of the seat, halfway between the front of the arm and where it connects to the backrest. From there, measure vertically from the top of the seat cushion up to the armrest.

The armrests should allow your arms to rest naturally at your sides without lifting or slouching your shoulders. If the armrests are set too high, they can create tension in the neck and shoulders. If they’re too low, getting in and out of the chair becomes more awkward too.

Backrest height is the distance from the top of the seat cushion to the upper edge of the backrest, indicating how much support the chair provides to your back, shoulders, and sometimes head.

To measure the backrest height, take a vertical measurement from the rear edge of the seat cushion up to the very top of the backrest. A well-sized backrest should be high enough to support the head when sitting fully back in the chair. If it falls short, the head may tilt forward, causing discomfort to the neck.

Here are the typical measurement ranges you’ll see when sizing a <a href="https://oaktreemobility.co.uk/rise-and-recline-chairs">rise and recliner chair.</a> These provide a useful guide, but always double-check your own measurements for the best fit.

Other Considerations When Measuring for a Riser Recliner Chair

Beyond the main measurements, it’s important to think about a few practical details too. If you have specific medical or lumbar needs, choose a chair that offers the right support. Always check the chair’s overall size and weight capacity to make sure it’s suitable for you. Finally, measure doorways, hallways, and available space around your home to ensure the chair can be delivered easily and has enough room to fully recline.

Measuring With an Experienced Professional

Measuring with an experienced professional takes the guesswork out of finding the right fit. At Oak Tree Mobility, our experts visit the homes of those interested in our chairs and take the necessary measurements for you, removing the pressure of doing it yourself. The result? A perfect fit every time - your chair meets your exact needs! You can relax, knowing it will provide lasting comfort and support.

Book your <a href="https://oaktreemobility.co.uk/landing-pages/request-your-home-appointment">free home demonstration</a> today.

Frequently Asked Questions When Measuring for Rise and Recline Chairs

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions we receive from customers sizing up&nbsp; for a rise and recline chair.

What are the Size Differences Between Recliners?

<a href="https://oaktreemobility.co.uk/rise-and-recline-chairs">Recliners</a> come in a range of sizes; petite, standard, large, etc. The difference usually lies in seat depth, seat height, and backrest height, ensuring the chair fits different body shapes and sizes. A chair that’s too big or too small can quickly become uncomfortable, so matching the size with your height or figure is essential.

Why is it Important to Measure Before Buying a Rise and Recline Chair?

Measuring ensures the chair supports your posture, circulation, and mobility needs. The right fit helps you sit comfortably, stand with ease, and avoid pressure points. Without accurate measurements, the chair may be awkward to use.

Can Rise and Recline Chairs be Customised to Fit?

Absolutely, many rise and recline chairs can be tailor-made to your exact measurements, from seat width to back height. In fact, a customised approach is best, for a fit uniquely tailored to you. You can also choose fabrics, cushioning, and support features to match your comfort and health needs.

What Clothing Should the Person Wear When Being Measured?

Light, everyday clothing is best. Avoid bulky coats or thick jumpers when being measured, as they can add inches and give an inaccurate result. The aim is to measure how you sit naturally day-to-day.

Should a Healthcare Professional be Involved in Measuring?

If you’re still unsure about how to measure for a rise and recliner chair, it might be a good idea to involve a healthcare professional, such as an occupational therapist. They can assess your individual needs, identify any postural risks, and ensure the chair provides the right level of comfort and support.

The size you need depends entirely on your own body measurements and comfort preferences. Measure seat depth, height, width, armrest height, and backrest height, then compare these with the chair’s specifications. This will give you the most supportive and comfortable fit.

If you’d like to dive deeper into choosing a rise and recline chair, these guides are a great place to start:

If you’re looking to measure up for a rise and recline chair, our mobility experts are here to help. By arranging a <a href="https://oaktreemobility.co.uk/landing-pages/request-your-home-appointment">home appointment</a>, they’ll be able to take precise measurements, assess your comfort needs, and recommend the best chair for your body and lifestyle. They’ll also check that the chair will fit easily into your home and position correctly in your chosen room. With this personalised service, you can be confident your chair will be a perfect fit from day one.

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How to Measure for a Rise and Recliner Chair

We all want to be active, mobile and pain-free as we get older. But with 15% of Baby Boomers experiencing daily back pain, it’s a problem that many of us have to grapple with. Fortunately, there are some simple ways to help prevent back pain as we age. Integrating these habits into your daily life is a great way to keep your spine healthy and pain at bay well into your 70s, 80s, 90s and beyond!

Always get advice from a medical professional if you’re concerned about back pain.

It’s true that back pain is more common in later life, with most people experiencing back pain to some degree from the age of 40. But that doesn’t mean it’s inevitable. As we age, the bones, muscles and joints in our back change and wear and tear is natural. However, many people keep a healthy, pain-free spine by staying active, looking after their posture and avoiding unnecessary strain.

As we get older, these causes of back pain become more common:

Tips on How to Prevent Back Pain As You Age

Back pain isn’t something you just have to “put up with” as you get older.

With the right habits, a little bit of care and the right support, you can keep your back strong, flexible and pain-free for longer. Here’s what you need to know.

1. Exercise Regularly and Focus on Core Strength

Keeping your body moving is one of the best ways to protect your back. Gentle activities like walking, swimming, Pilates or Yoga keep your muscles strong without putting too much strain on your joints.

Your core muscles - the ones in your stomach and lower back - act like a natural corset for your spine, so keeping them strong is key. A physiotherapist can recommend exercises that suit your needs. Strength training twice a week is a good place to start.

Your spine needs good nutrition to stay strong. Make sure you’re getting plenty of calcium (for bone strength) and Vitamin D (which helps your body absorb calcium). Dairy, leafy greens, oily fish and eggs are all great options.

Eating a healthy diet isn’t just important for keeping bones strong, but also to manage weight. Carrying extra weight puts extra pressure on your back which can cause pain over time. Even losing a few pounds can make a noticeable difference.

When you’re stressed or sleep deprived you’re more prone to injury. It’s even been said that those who are anxious or depressed feel more aches and pains. That’s why looking after your mental well-being is so important. Gentle stretching, breathing exercises, meditation, time with friends or even a nice warm bath can help you unwind. Find whatever works for you.

When lifting heavy things, make sure you bend your knees, keep your back straight and hold items close to your body. And remember, it’s always OK to ask for help!

6. Practice Safe Movement and High Impact Exercise

It’s clear that exercise and movement help to prevent back pain in old age, but it is possible to overdo it. Certain high impact activities that involve jumping, twisting or sudden movements can put too much strain on the muscles in our back.

Before exercising, it’s important to warm up and to try and avoid sudden movements. Low-impact activities are safer if you’re worried about your back.

Even everyday movements like getting out of bed, climbing the stairs or getting in and out of the bath can cause injuries if you make sudden, jarring movements. Adaptive furniture like stair lifts, <a href="https://oaktreemobility.co.uk/bath-lifts">accessible bath lifts </a>or hand rails can be a big help if you’re experiencing discomfort.

The wrong sleeping position can cause or worsen back pain. Try sleeping on your side with a pillow between your knees, or on your back with a small pillow under your knees. A supportive mattress or <a href="https://oaktreemobility.co.uk/adjustable-beds">an adjustable bed</a> can help you find a pain-free position.

Whether you’re standing, sitting or pottering around the house, try to keep your shoulders back and your head in line with your spine. Poor posture over time can strain your back muscles.

If you’re struggling with aches and pains, a GP or physiotherapist can spot early signs of problems and suggest treatment before things get worse.

The furniture you use every day plays a big role in how your back feels. If your chair or bed doesn’t give the right support, your spine can be forced into awkward positions.

A <a href="https://oaktreemobility.co.uk/rise-and-recline-chairs">rise-and-recline chair </a>can help you get in and out of your seat without straining, and it lets you adjust the backrest and footrest so you can find the most comfortable position for your back.

When it comes to sleep, a <a href="https://oaktreemobility.co.uk/help-and-advice/health-and-wellbeing/the-best-bed-mattress-for-back-pain">supportive mattress for back pain </a>is essential. The right mattress should keep your spine in a neutral position (not sagging or arching) and relieve pressure on your hips and shoulders. If you struggle to get comfortable at night, an adjustable bed lets you raise or lower your head and legs to take the strain off sore muscles and joints.

Over time, investing in furniture that supports your body properly can help reduce pain, improve posture and make daily life a lot more comfortable.

Ready to improve your spinal health? Talk to our team or <a href="https://oaktreemobility.co.uk/landing-pages/request-your-home-appointment">book a free home appointment</a> to find the right supportive furniture for you.

FAQs About How to Avoid Back Pain in Later Life

If you still have questions about avoiding back pain, the answers to these frequently asked questions might help.

At what age do most people get back pain?

Back pain can start at any age, but it’s more common from your 40s onwards.&nbsp;

How do I stop my back from hurting as I get older?

Stay active, eat well, keep a healthy weight, practise good posture and don’t ignore early signs of pain.

What’s the best way to sleep to prevent back pain?

<a href="https://oaktreemobility.co.uk/help-and-advice/health-and-wellbeing/best-sleeping-position-for-lower-back-pain">The best sleeping positions for lower back pain</a> include sleeping on your side with a pillow between your knees, or on your back with a pillow under your knees.

How to prevent back pain when using a computer?

Sit with your feet flat on the floor, keep the screen at eye level and take regular breaks to stand and stretch.

Use tools with long handles, kneel on a cushion and avoid bending for long periods.

Adjust your chair and desk to support good posture and take short movement breaks every 30 - 60 minutes.

Stand upright, keep your back straight and use long, smooth strokes to avoid twisting.

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How To Prevent Back Pain in Old Age

Sitting comfortably? Or could you be more supported? If you or a loved one has issues sitting or standing, a rise and recline chair could make all the difference. These chairs come in many different shapes and sizes, with multiple features. So, it’s a great idea to research your options before making a decision.

Our guide outlines everything you need to know about choosing the perfect rise and recline chair for your needs and lifestyle.

Riser recliner chairs are armchairs built to support people with limited mobility, helping them to stand or recline and relax with ease. These chairs have built-in electric motors that can rise and lift people up to their feet safely.

There’s no one group of people the chairs cater to. Many will find a riser recliner helpful:

Rise recliners are a mobility aid recommended by the <a href="https://www.nhs.uk/social-care-and-support/care-services-equipment-and-care-homes/household-gadgets-and-equipment-to-make-life-easier/">NHS</a>.

When it comes to choosing your riser recliner, here are the key terms you’ll hear and what they mean:

Two-Way Recliner: The back and foot rest move together, typically with two basic positions — ‘upright’ and ‘reclined’.

Three-Way Recliner: The back and foot rest also move together, but these chairs include a third, ‘full recline’ position (the chair can be extended to almost flat).

Single Motor Recliner: One <a href="https://oaktreemobility.co.uk/help-and-advice/rise-and-recline-chairs/oak-tree-rise-and-recliner-chair-motors-explained">motor</a> controls both the back and foot rest — they move together.

Dual Motor Recliner: Two motors provide independent movement of the back and foot rest for maximum adjustability. For example, our range of <a href="https://oaktreemobility.co.uk/rise-and-recline-chairs">mobility chairs</a>.

This table provides further information about types of rise and recliners:

Depending on the support you need, there are various backrest styles to choose from:

Key considerations when choosing your chair

Your riser recliner needs to be tailored to your personal measurements for maximum comfort. Here are the different measurements an Oak Tree Mobility expert will come and take from you in person, if you decide to choose one of our chairs.

The distance between the floor and the top of the seat surface, where the user sits.

The distance from the front edge of the seat to the backrest.

The space from one side of the seat to the other.

Taken by measuring from the seat surface to the top of the backrest.

The distance from the front edge of the seat to the end of the extended leg rest.

For more information on measuring for a riser recliner chair, see our guide.

Riser recliners come in many fabrics and materials. From smooth leather to cosy weaves, you can find a look that fits your home (and you). What’s more, there are different benefits to consider when choosing between leather and fabric.

Fabric: A popular choice for its breathability, warmth, and wide range of colours and patterns. Fabric chairs can offer a cosy and inviting feel. Different types of fabric, such as chenille, velvet, or woven blends, provide varying levels of softness and durability.

Leather: Known for its luxurious feel, durability, and ease of cleaning. Leather ages well and can be matched to existing leather furniture. It's also a good option for those with allergies, as it doesn't tend to trap dust mites.

Medical fabrics: For individuals with specific health needs or those in care environments, specialised medical fabrics are available. These often feature properties like water resistance, anti-bacterial treatments, and enhanced breathability, designed to promote hygiene and prevent skin issues.

Beyond providing a comfy seat, many rise and recliners offer customisable features and extras for added convenience. When selecting a model, here’s what to consider:

1. Lower back support and headrests:

Proper support for your lower back and neck is important. Many chairs come with adjustable lower back support for good alignment and comfort. Integrated or adjustable headrests also improve comfort and help reduce neck strain.

Some rise and recline chairs come equipped with heat and massage functions. Targeted heat therapy can help soothe aching muscles and improve circulation, while built-in massagers can smooth away tension. These features particularly benefit individuals with chronic pain, arthritis, or muscle stiffness.

3. Pockets, USB ports, and hand controls:

Convenience features, like side pockets, can be incredibly useful for keeping your possessions close by (e.g., a book, medications). While USB ports allow for charging your mobile phone or other electrical devices while in the chair.&nbsp; Built-in hand controls for rising and reclining means you don’t have to worry about a remote control. Look for intuitive, easy-to-use hand controls that are accessible without straining or reaching. Some chairs offer simple button controls, while others may have more advanced options.

In the event of a power outage, a battery backup system ensures that you can still operate your rise and recline chair, allowing you to safely stand up or recline. This feature provides peace of mind and is especially important for individuals who rely heavily on the chair for their mobility.

Custom-built options with Oak Tree Mobility

We pride ourselves on our custom-built <a href="https://oaktreemobility.co.uk/rise-and-recline-chairs">rise and recline chairs</a>. This means your chair isn't just a ‘one-size-fits-all’ product; it's meticulously crafted to your exact measurements and needs. By taking the made-to-measure route, we can ensure your chair is designed for you. To address your unique physical requirements and style preferences.

Still have questions about picking the right rise and recline chair? Explore frequently asked questions others have asked.

Can I get a rise and recline chair from the NHS?

You can get a rise and recline chair through NHS-funded services if&nbsp; you meet a certain criteria and have completed various rounds of assessments by an occupational therapist or clinician. A rise and recliner is not available from the NHS simply for comfort or as a furniture upgrade.

What should I look for in a riser recliner?

The first step is choosing the power type (manual or motorised). If going motorised, you’ll then need to pick between a single or dual motor, depending on if you want to be able to control the back and foot rest separately. A ‘dual motor’ recliner means you can adjust either the back or the foot rest — you don’t have to move both at the same time.

Next on your agenda should be comfort. Maximise this by properly measuring for your rise and recline chair. You can also look for cushioned support, especially around the lower back, and consider features like memory foam or pressure relief. Optional extras like heat, massage, USB ports, or side pockets can add extra convenience and comfort.

The best way to select a rise and recline chair is via Oak Tree Mobility’s free home demonstration service. A mobility expert will be able to look through all the different options with you and see what would fit your preferences. You’ll also be able to try a chair before you buy to ensure it’s the right choice for you. You can book a <a href="https://oaktreemobility.co.uk/landing-pages/request-your-home-appointment">home demonstration</a> with no obligation to buy online today.

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How To Choose A Rise And Recline Chair?

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Kai Anders is a junior marketing executive, writing articles on interesting subjects relating to health, wellbeing and accessibility.

Kai, who holds a Fine Art degree from Arts University Bournemouth and has worked in the healthcare industry, combines his passion for art and design with critical thinking skills and his knowledge of the industry to create compelling content and build community on Oak Tree Mobility’s social media and email channels.

In his spare time, Kai is also a small business owner and passionate about ensuring his customers receive a positive experience, a value that translates into his creative endeavours with Oak Tree Mobility.

Kai Anders is a social media specialist, passionate about sharing information on topics relating to healthcare, mobility and accessibility.

Junior Marketing Executive

Kai Anders

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I am passionate about helping people to sleep well, so much so that I have spent 25 years helping people to sleep and have published 5 books on the topic. When we sleep well and restoratively, the body is healed on so many levels – physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. When we are well-rested, we feel happy, resilient and better able to cope with life’s inevitable challenges.

My belief is that our physiology is perfectly designed for optimal sleep. The key is understanding our unique relationship with rest. To unlock optimal rest, we need to make the daily choices that will enable us to get the deep, restorative sleep we deserve. It’s my mission to shine a light on these choices and make them achievable for everyone.

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