After sitting for four hours in an uncomfortable office chair, you might wonder if there is a better chair out there. You may have heard of ergonomic office furniture but feel confused about what exactly they are and who they are for.
Ergonomic chairs are for everyone.
What is an ergonomic chair?
With an ergonomic chair, you don't have to settle for thin seat padding, inadequate low back support and limited adjustment options. Ergonomic chairs offer full adjustability so that your chair can support your individual body.
Ergonomic chairs offer effective support for your whole back, from the lower portion up to your shoulders and neck. They are designed to provide full comfort and promote good posture by guiding you to sit upright, like the Mesh Ergonomic Office Chair BS11 PRO from FlexiSpot.
Are ergonomic chairs better for you?
Ergonomic chairs are better for your health and productivity than regular desk chairs. Not only do ergonomic chairs tend to be more comfortable, they can also have huge benefits for your seated posture.
As ergonomic chairs offer far more adjustment options than regular desk chairs, they can be set up to suit your individual needs, from your height to your shoulder width.
The achy back, compressed shoulders and sore neck associated with long workdays at your desk can be hugely reduced by an ergonomic chair.
How to set up and use an ergonomic chair
Here are some useful tips for improving your desk set-up and posture, guiding you to focus on the particular areas which are causing you discomfort:
Step 1: Protect your back
We don't often give our backs much thought or much love, but your back is the core of your body - it holds you up and keeps you mobile.
To reduce tension in your back, use an adjustable desk chair so that your lower back is protected. Alter the height, backrest position and tilt of your chair to achieve optimum comfort. Ensure your knees are slightly lower than your hips, using a footrest if your feet don't quite reach the floor.
Rearrange the equipment on your desk so that you always sit straight, keeping your back straight and avoiding unnecessary strain.
Step 2: Reduce strain on your neck
Tweaking the placement of your screen can make a huge difference for your neck and general posture. If your screen is too high or too low this will damage your neck over time and encourage poor posture.
Ensure your screen is directly in front of you, not off to one side. It should be about an arm's length away and tilted so that the centre of the screen is roughly at eye level. You might need to try a monitor mount to achieve this.
Step 3: Reduce tension in your shoulders
Where possible keep your shoulders in a neutral position - not crouching forwards or lounging backwards.
Move your keyboard so that your elbows rest nicely by the side of your body and form an L-shape at the joint to protect your wrists and shoulders.
Arrange your desk so that objects which you regularly use, like your phone or stationery items, are within easy reach. This will help you avoid repeatedly stretching and twisting in ways which are bad for your back as well as your shoulders.
Step 4: Ease your wrists
Adjust the height of your desk chair so that your wrists are not at an awkward angle as your type. Your wrists and forearms should be level with the floor to prevent repetitive strain injuries.
Place your keyboard directly in front of you as you type, or move your keyboard away and place your mouse closer to you if you are not using your keyboard. If you are typing for a long period of time, leave a gap of 10cm-15cm at the front of your desk to rest your wrists.
Ergonomic chairs that have adjustable arm rests are great for reducing wrist strain, like the Ergonomic Resilient Swivel Office Chair BS3 from FlexiSpot.
Step 5: Reduce pressure on your hips
Avoid crossing your legs, especially for prolonged periods of time, as this can contribute to tightness in the hips.
Take regular short breaks and stand or walk around to help loosen off the hips. This can be so beneficial for your whole body as regular breaks and posture changes give your muscles time to relax as others - like your legs - take the strain. Using a standing desk or a desk converter for periods of your working day can also help to stretch off the hips.
Ergonomic chair FAQs
1. What are the most important features that I should be looking for when buying a new office chair?
You can't go far wrong when selecting an ergonomic chair, especially if it has the following features:
● Adjustable seat height that suits your body
● Adequate seat depth so that your feet rest gently on the floor and your back reaches the lumbar support
● Full lumbar support for your lower, middle and upper back
● Headrest to support your neck and head
● Backrest tilt to allow you to relieve pressure on your hips throughout the day
● Armrests at an appropriate height and angle for typing or writing
● Comfortable seat padding
● Swivel to help you reach for things on your desk without pulling at your back and shoulders
2. How do ergonomic chairs support my body?
Ergonomic chairs are designed with one key function in mind: supporting your body. They have superior design, padding and adjustability which puts them leagues ahead of other office chairs in terms of comfort, pain relief and posture correction.
Ergonomic office chairs provide excellent support and comfort for your body by:
● Relieving pressure points
● Fitting the natural curve of your spine
● Being adjustable to fit your individual body perfectly
● Providing comfort and support where you need it most
3. Are ergonomic chairs worth it?
Yes! An ergonomic office chair is a very worthwhile investment for your health, wellbeing, productivity and mood.
Feeling comfortable and supported throughout your work day can make a huge difference. Good ergonomic chairs can successfully reduce the pressure points you experience while sitting at a desk for a long time and can even improve your posture in the long term.
Ready To Find Your Perfect Office Chair?
Investing in an ergonomic chair – and setting it up correctly for you – can make a huge difference to your health, comfort and productivity. Check out the full range of ergonomic and stylish office chairs from FlexiSpot.
