Drummer needing help with managing back pain
As the title (and my name) suggests, I am a drummer. I’m also a 24M, 6’6 (when back outstretched all the way) and about 230 pounds. I currently have a round, very soft and cushiony drum “throne” (stool) and it is making me sink down into my seat really bad and kinda making my spine fold in on itself, resulting in me being very hunched over, even with my throne at maximum height (which makes it very unstable).
So after asking Google—I know, never the best option—I was told that a saddle/motorcycle shaped seat would be better, and I’ve used one in the past and really liked it, but I’m just trying to figure out what specifically I should do when it comes to a few things, other than seat style/shape: 1. spindle vs hydraulic height adjustment. Google says that the hydraulic lift will take more pressure off of my back, and offer me less pain. Is there any merit in that? Does that really make that big of a difference?
2. Should I use a backrest? While every comment posted on all the online drum forums says a backrest is the optimal choice for any drummer with back pain, I’m afraid of a backrest pushing me too far forward as I play, resulting in more of the problems I’m currently trying to find solutions for.
And 3. Could I actually keep using my current seat and still be able to have a good posture and significantly less back pain? I don’t think I could, but just wanted to check.
If it helps: for understanding my body type: I’m a 36 waist and 32 in height. Not a very long torso.
For understanding the current stool I have now: it’s a [Mapex T680,](https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/T680--mapex-t680-600-series-threaded-steel-spindle-drum-throne-round-top) and it’s definitely not the worst option in the world.