How you can prevent lower back pain and get great comfort by using an ergonomic office chair. Many of us sit in front of our desk in a chair that just isn't very ergonomically friendly. We feel fatigued, our backs are sore, and we dread having to sit in that chair for any longer than we have to. But, there is a solution to this problem - and ergonomic office chair. This type of chair is intended to support the spine and provide comfort for those who are attached to their desk at the hip. You can find several different types of ergonomic chairs in the marketplace, and they all have their redeeming qualities. It's tough to say if there is one ergonomic office chair that stands above the rest because each of us enjoys a different kind of comfort. We are all shaped different, and that is why there is no one chair that suits everybody. Still, when you search for the right ergonomic office chair for you, comfort should be your main concern. And, there are a few things that you should look for in any ergonomic chair that are going to ultimately aid in your comfort, and reduce the amount of pain your spine and lower back are in when you have to sit all day long. Lumbar support - The lumbar region of your back is the lower back area, and it takes the brunt of the discomfort when you sit in a seat that isn't ergonomically sound. Your lower back has a natural inward curve to it, and a good office chair will support that curve in the spine. If it isn't there the muscles in the back get strained and that curve starts to flatten out. Seat depth - This is important because your lower back and hips have to support the weight of your legs. If the front of the seat doesn't come within 2 to 4 inches of the back of your knee, then your back might be supporting too much of the weight of your legs. Height of the chair - Most chairs have a pneumatic adjustment on them, and if they don't it is a good idea to steer clear of them. Not everyone has the same size legs, and yours should be able to sit comfortably at a near right angle with your feet flat on the floor. Adjustable armrest - Once again, everyone has their own idea of what a comfortable position is. For most people it relates to how they position their hands on a computer keyboard. If your arms and shoulders can be relaxed, then you are going to prevent strain in your neck and between your shoulder blades. Swivel and rollers - The rollers are optional, but you should at least have a swivel so you can maneuver around your desk with ease. Without a swivel, you may have to strain one way or another to reach things on your desk. This might create some discomfort if you have to do it all day long. Rollers will also give you added mobility. Finding the ergonomic office chair that is right for you might take a little bit of experimentation and testing at your office supply store. It is well worth the effort so you can have comfort, and ease any potential for back pain caused by sitting at your desk all day long. |
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