Choosing the Right Ergonomic Office Chair

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Ergonomics is a term used to describe a comfortable, efficient and user friendly work environment. It is the science behind the effort to design jobs, work equipment and the workplace to suit the worker so that they can work efficiently and effectively.

Ergonomic science can extend from waiting room chairs to work desks to even the lavatory. However, in an office environment, the most important piece of furniture is the office chair. The worker sits on the chair for hours on hours a day. The way it is built effects not only how the person sits but how they interact with the desk and computer. A poorly designed chair can lead to workplace injury. This is why it is important to find a chair that is suitable for your weight, height and any injuries or chronic diseases that you have.

There are a wide range of different types of ergonomic chairs. Some are basic and inexpensive, while others have special features such as wireless stereo speakers embed into the head rest. Regardless of which chair you choose, the following factors are what you should look for in a good ergonomic office chair.

Lumbar Support

An ergonomically designed office chair will offer support for the lower back. This is where many office workers complain about pain or injury. If the chair doesn't place your spine in the correct position then over time you can develop stress injuries. Muscles can also tighten and cramp in order to compensate for inadequate support. The correct spine position also helps to prevent neck pain.

The back support should be adjustable in any chair you choose. This will allow you to make the chair suit your particular requirements.

Seat Adjustability

The depth of the seat should be able to be adjusted. This will allow the seat to be moved into a position to suit the length of your legs. Taller people will require a deeper seat while shorter people will need a shallower one. The correct depth will allow you spine to be in the natural position without you leaning forward or back.

Adjustable Arm Rests

Don't underestimate the important of arm rests as they can assist a person to have the back in the correct position. You should choose a chair with adjustable arms rest so that you can have the chair adjusted to suit the position you need.

Adjustable Height

Taller people will require a higher seat than smaller people. Again, the correct height will allow your spine to be in its natural position and avoid injury.

Other Factors

The office chair doesn't operate in a vacuum. To ensure that your spine and neck are in the correct position you also need to consider the height of the desk and the computer screen. By having all these pieces of furniture adjusted for your personal circumstances you will be able to avoid workplace injury well into the future.