MEDesign Backfriend Back Support

The most versatile back support we have seen in 30 years.
Whether the chair you have to sit on is soft and sagging, as upright as a church pew, or even a bench against a wall, Backfriend will provide comfort and support. It can even be used for reading in bed.
Beautifully designed back rest and seat base can be used in most any seat or chair. Firm anatomic contour allows freedom of movement and excellent support while avoiding pressure points.
Doctor recommended. The finest back support available.

Features

Lightweight and foldable with built-in carry handle.
Height adjustable backrest for a custom fit.
Firm support for both the lumbar and thoracic spine.
Shaped seat base prevents slouching.

Specifications

Top quality fire-resistant foam and fabric upholstered over a resin frame.
CA TB117.
Backrest width: 29.5cm (11½”) · Height: 48cm (19”)
Seatbase width: 41cm (16”) · Depth: 36.5cm (14½”)
Weight: 3.5 lb.
Made in the United Kingdom

Brochures and downloads

MEDesign Backfriend Brochure (473 KB)

MEDesign Backfriend: Instructions for hinge and Velcro replacement. (245 KB)

Use and Fit

The Backfriend fits more people, and can be used in more applications, than any other support we have seen in decades. That said, there is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all solution for lumbar supports.

Anatomical variations in human beings are vast and sitting supports can be difficult to fit, especially in cases where a combination of seat inserts may be required to address your seat height, contours, resilience, and angles.

The following tips will help you decide whether the Backfriend is for you. We hope so!

Use

For maximum comfort, recline the backrest 15°- 20° or more.
If used in a reclined position, raise the front of the seat base slightly to maintain your position.
Your thighs should be well supported by the seat base. If your chair is too low, raise it with seat cushions. If your seat is too high, use a footrest.
Not recommended for power wheelchairs or scooters.
Not recommended for tall people in cars. The firm seat raises the body higher in a car seat. Good if you are short, but if you are tall your head will touch the roof.
We recommend the single-padded model for most users. Double padding can mask the anatomical contour making the seat less effective for some.

Fit

The Backfriend is a VERY FIRM back support. Even the double-padded model is VERY FIRM. This is a desirable feature for most individuals. However, if your spine has an unusual shape or there are bony protrusions on your back, you may prefer a back support with more cushioning.

Fits mild and average lumbar lordosis spinal shapes. Not recommended for people with a deep lumbar lordosis or very thick thighs.

Set the backrest height where it is most comfortable. The factory setting is appropriate for the majority of users. We suggest you try this height until you are sure adjustment is needed.
Maximum body weight 280 lbs.

Care

While the support structure itself is very durable, the hinges and velcro closure require periodic replacement under heavy use.

Remove minor stains with a damp cloth or sponge. Major cleaning is best done with a dry foam cleaner of the type used for car upholstery.

Do not carry a wallet in your back pocket when using the BackFriend. The trouser fabric may wear against the hinges.

Some initial wear may occur on the bottom corners if there is friction on the seat base.

Forcing the Backfriend into too narrow a space or knocking the edges against hard surfaces may damage the edge seal.

Accessories and Parts

Genuine acccessories and replacement parts for the MEDesign Backfriend. Manufactured in the United Kingdom to the highest quality standards.

MEDesign Backfriend Wool Fleece Cover

Enhance your Backfriend with luxurious comfort. The resilience and pressure dispersion of real wool are unmatched by any synthetic fiber. Naturally adjusts to fluctuating temperatures to keep you cool in summer and warm in winter. Machine washable.

MEDesign Backfriend Carry Case

Fitted with handle and shoulder straps to make carrying your Backfriend even easier. Ideal when you need to have both hands free.

MEDesign Backfriend Replacement Hinges

Replacement hinge set for the MEDesign Backfriend. Set includes 2 hinges and written instructions.

MEDesign Backfriend Replacement Hinge Locks

Replacement hinge lock set for the MEDesign Backfriend. Set includes 2 hinge locka and written instructions.

MEDesign Backfriend Replacement Velcro

Replacement Velcro for the MEDesign Backfriend. Includes pre-cut hook and loop and written instructions.

Warranty

Defects in materials or manufacture which occur within 12 months from the date of purchase will be repaired or replaced at the option of MEDesign Ltd. Customer is responsible for delivery charges to UK. Please contact your Backfriend dealer for assistance with warranty service outside of the United Kingdom.

Repairs required due to accidental damage, normal wear and tear, or misuse are chargeable.

Backfriend SKUs

Backfriend Single-Padded

SKU: BFS06 - Backfriend SP BFS06 Black
SKU: BFS14 - BACKFRIEND SP BFS14 ANTHRACITE*
SKU: BFS07 - BACKFRIEND SP BFS07 SIENNA*
SKU: BFS01 - BACKFRIEND SP BFS01 OATMEAL*
SKU: BFS04 - BACKFRIEND SP BFS04 OCEAN GRN*
SKU: BFS03 - BACKFRIEND SP BFS03 COBALT BLU*
SKU: BFS05 - BACKFRIEND SP BFS05 BURGUNDY*

Backfriend Double-Padded

SKU: BFS11 - BACKFRIEND DP BFS11 BLACK
SKU: BFS15 - BACKFRIEND DP BFS15 ANTHRACITE*
SKU: BFS12 - BACKFRIEND DP BFS12 SIENNA*
SKU: BFS02 - BACKFRIEND DP BFS02 OATMEAL*
SKU: BFS09 - BACKFRIEND DP BFS09 OCEAN GRN*
SKU: BFS08 - BACKFRIEND DP BFS08 COBALT BLU*
SKU: BFS10 - BACKFRIEND DP BFS10 BURGUNDY*

Backfriend Accessories

SKU: BFC - BACKFRIEND CARRY CASE BLACK*
SKU: FCB - BACKFRIEND COVER FLEECE BACK*
SKU: FCS - BACKFRIEND COVER FLEECE SEAT*

Backfriend Replacement Parts

SKU: BFSH - BACKFRIEND HINGE 2/SET*
SKU: BFSS - BACKFRIEND HINGELOCK 2/SET*
SKU: BFSV BLACK - BACKFRIEND VELCRO BLACK*
SKU: BFSV ECRU - BACKFRIEND VELCRO ECRU*

* Special order *