Upholstered Rocking Chairs  

Upholstered rocking chairs today may not be anything like we typically associate as a rocking chair. Many may also be marketed as 'gliders'. The birth of the rocking chair is generally attributed to Ben Franklin. It seems he simply wanted to be able to rock back on the hind legs of the chair, so he installed a pair of rockers to the legs of one of his favorite chairs. This provided the relief he sought and provided much better stability. The stroke of genius seemed to catch on and most of those that worked with woods, cabinetmakers or other furniture manufacturers, began to produce rocking chairs. 

Because of the hard seat and backing, or a design that may have a back that was just too short for proper support when rocking, removable cushions for the seats and backs were designed. We have come a long way from that simple, yet tasteful, alternative. For many with back injuries or pain, the rocking motion can be a source of relief. They saw a tremendous swing in popularity during the U.S. presidency of John Kennedy. He had suffered back injuries during his service in WWII on a PT boat and had a rocker in the oval office. Photos of President Kennedy sitting in the chair, or the presence of the chair itself in the White House, seemed to peek the interest of the population that led to many coming to understand the benefits that could be gained by gentle rocking.

The rocking motion has also provided much comfort for mothers with little ones as it seems to help quiet a restless, irritable child. It was hardly unusual to see rockers on many porches across the world as a place to relax after a long day and catch up with the topics of the day. Some models will look very much like any other chair that is upholstered except the rocking mechanisms that may also be totally covered.  Another option with the rockers of today may provide a sliding motion, back and forth only, and are marketed as gliders. The back does not tilt as with a regular rocking chair, it will remain in the same upright position.  A quick look at the base of the chairs will illustrate the mechanisms involved with a glider and how it differs from a rocker. The base remains in contact with the floor at all times with the glider system built into that frame allowing only the back and forth motion.

For an example that has a standard wooden frame, plush cushioning, covered arms and a simple rocker base, visiondecor Furniture has the "Carolina Cottage Oxford Upholstered Club Rocking Chair." Available in four colors, they also come with separate storage bench or an ottoman. These can make a very comfortable addition to the den or put it in the children's room to sit with infants while they are gently rocked and comforted or used during playtime when you might participate with them. If you might prefer a standard rocker with a distinguished look of leather, there are several styles with padded leather seats and backs. These come in popular styles like Mission or Traditional. Look to FY Lifestyle for a series of interesting rocking chair designs.

Upholstered rocking chairs are available in many coverings of different colors and weaves for a long-lasting, stylish addition to your furnishings. Aching backs will benefit. Children will love to be cuddled and gently rocked. Propping your feet up on a matching ottoman or footstool will relieve muscle tension. So in one piece, you can have therapeutic benefits, unmatched comfort and an attractive addition to your current decor.