Using the right seat while working at your desk is incredibly important making all the difference in the world. An ergonomic chair is one that is comfortable and supportive which will significantly improve your productivity and safety. Ergonomics is a part of safety that deals with cumulative related disorders. That means that supporting your back and promoting good postures to prevent strain and discomfort is a safety concern. Seat adjustability will be what allows you to set the proper height to fit you. It allows your feet to be supported sufficiently by the floor and even pressure on the underside of your legs. Desk adjustability or a keyboard tray ensures that your arms are at a proper height for typing and using the mouse. A chair and footrest combination can also allow you to achieve the proper work surface height. This encourages proper whole arm mechanics. So don't underestimate the benefits of a good chair as it will help you avoid pain down the line.
What features will a great ergonomic chair have?
An ergonomic chair offers more than looks, it provides range of adjustable and supportive features that encourage proper posture. Here are just some of the features to keep an eye out for when doing your chair shopping:
- Adjustable seat (pan) height: A chair with an adjustable seat height allows you to plant your feet flat on the floor, which ensures you have more even pressure on the underside of your legs and stress on your lower back.
- Prominent lumbar support: A lumbar support that matches the inward cure of your back helps maintain the natural curve of your lumbar spine. This discourages slouching as well as neck and shoulder protraction. Seek out chairs that have an adjustable height and prominence of the lumbar support to accommodate different your unique body.
- Adjustable height and width armrests: A fitted chair will require adjustable armrests that move up/down and in/out. That way the armrests won't end up in the way of the mobility of the shoulders or place pressure on your elbows. Ideally, the height will allow your shoulders to relax to their lowest point.
- Seat depth: Pay attention to the seat depth range to ensure that you will be able to sit all the way back against the back of the chair. The depth should be an inch from the back of your knees to your back. The width to comfortably accommodate your body. Find a seat that is well cushioned to encourage healthy leg circulation.
- Breathable and supportive material: Pick a chair fabric that is breathable or elastomer mesh to promote airflow and prevent sweating if you run hot. Sometimes just having the back of the chair is ideal for mesh. The material should mold to your body and have some give.
- Swivel and mobility: A chair that swivels work great if you have a large desk to allow you to move freely accross it. Get the casters ideal for your floor. If you're on a hard floor, pick soft casters. If your on carpet, hard casters are best.
If you want to know more or get suggestions from an ergonomic specialist, let an Ergobility representative know. They will have the experience to help you purchase the chair that is measured correctly to you. It is critical since everyone's body varies in shape and size. A consultation on how to setup a chair is another service that can improve your comfort and productivity while working at your office or home computer workstation. Learn more about this topic on our website.
Schedule a consultation with our ergonomic specialists from ERGOBILITY today.
