For the majority of us who work in office and at desk jobs, we spend a great deal of time sitting down. While sitting for most of the day seems pretty low risk compared to other occupational hazards, sitting in the same position all the time can stress the structures of the spine, and may result in injuries to the back, neck and even the wrist. It is important to find an office chair that is ergonomically designed to support the lower back and promote good posture. An ergonomic chair cannot only prevent injury and pain in the back, but it also maximizes your function at work.
When looking for the right ergonomic chair for you, it is important to find one suited to your needs. With so many ergonomic office chairs on the market, it’s important to research them, since there is no single chair that could be labeled the “best.” There are specific features that should be considered when looking for a desk chair, such as adjustable seat height. Your feet should be flat on the floor with your thighs at a horizontal position, and your arms should be even with the height of the desk. Having an adjustable armrest is also beneficial, since users can rest their arms and relax their shoulders, which can eliminate significant tension while working. You should also look for a chair with a seat that has sufficient width and depth to support anyone that will be using the chair regularly. While working, you should be able to sit with your back resting against the back of the chair. In addition, the back should also be adjustable in its tilt forward and backwards.
Many chairs are really not specifically designed to support the lower back. That is going to be an issue for anyone who spends much time sitting there–whether for recreation or for work. Support for our lumbar spine, or our lower back, is very important. Our spinal curve, known as a lumbar lordosis, has an inward curve in the lumber spine, and sitting for too long without supporting it will lead to slouching and straining the structures of the lower spine. An ergonomic chair must offer lumber support and adjustment so the user can properly fit the chair to the inward curve of the lower back. Additional things to also consider are the seat material: is it comfy? An ergonomic chair with a swivel on the chair can help you reach different areas of your desk without strain AND without unnecessary twisting.
After researching the properties of the ergonomic chairs on the market, you need to consider your specific job and what functions you need to perform. Consider your priorities and properties you need for your ergonomic chair. Once you’ve decided on the chair for you, explore stores to try the chairs out. See if they’re comfortable and meet your needs. Shop around because price and quality vary tremendously.
I’ve met many people through the last 12 years of practice that are somewhat a desk chair connoisseur. Unfortunately, no matter how good the chair, a spine that is not balanced will eventually cause problems that are chronic and unrelenting. Chiropractic care works on the scientific fact that your spine is the lifeline between the brain and the rest of your body. Proper balance (which begins with how the head is sitting upon the upper neck) is essential for not only feeling your best but (and just as important) moving and functioning at your best.
References Used:
[1] http://www.spine-health.com/wellness/ergonomics/office-chair-ergonomic-chair-alternatives-traditional-office-chairs
[2] http://www.wikihow.com/Choose-an-Ergonomic-Office-Chair
[3] http://www.officechairadvice.com/