Which Ergonomic Chair Should I Buy?
Which Ergonomic Chair Should I Buy?
Whether you work in an office or telecommute from home, you should always consider the ergonomics of your work environment. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, work-related injuries account for over one-third of all reported musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). Ergonomics will greatly reduce your risk for MSDS, as well as increase your comfort, productivity, and overall well-being.
Creating an ergonomic workplace can seem like a daunting task but the benefits far outweigh the temporary inconvenience. A good place to start is with your chair. If you have a desk job, most of your time will be spent sitting in a chair. If the chair doesn’t fit your body correctly, you will begin to feel stiff and fatigued. You may also start to experience significant pain in your hips, tailbone, back, shoulders, neck, and arms. An ergonomic chair should solve this problem. However, before you go online and purchase the first chair you see, consider these factors:
Budget
Depending on the material, brand, and functions of the chair, you can spend anywhere from $50-$1000+ on an ergonomic chair. Before you set out on your quest for the perfect work chair, set a price range that you’re comfortable with. Then search within those parameters.
Material
Material is sometimes a matter of preference. Authentic and faux leather is easy to clean but can run hot and feel stiff at first. Cloth chairs are more comfortable, but difficult to clean. We generally recommend mesh ergonomic chairs for ultimate comfort and breathability.
Height
Everyone is shaped differently so test out the chair to make sure it fits your height. When you sit, your legs should ideally create a 90-degree angle. Make sure your legs fit comfortably under the desk and aren’t angled too high or low. Also, if the chair has a headrest, make sure it’s level with your head.
Seat-Pan Size
The seat pan is that part of the chair that you sit on, sometimes referred to as the cushion. Sit on the seat pan and pay attention to the position of your legs. If the cushion is pressed against your calves, the seat is too big for you. You should be able to fit 2-3 fingers between the back of your calves and the seat pan.
Back Support
To prevent back pain, you want to make sure the curve of the backrest fits the curve of your back. Some chairs are equipped with a lumbar support feature that you can adjust to fit your lower back. If you can’t find a seat that conforms to your shape, consider purchasing a separate back support pillow.
Armrests
Armrests are optional. Some workspace setups are better off without them, making it easier to slide the chair under the desk or keyboard tray. However, if you would like to have armrests, make sure they fit your arm and shoulder’s natural rest position. Your elbows should be at a comfortable 90 degrees.
Recline, Tilt, and Swivel Capabilities
Find an ergonomic chair that moves. Remaining stationary isn’t good for your body. Chairs that swivel, recline, and tilt keep your body in motion and allow you to change positions. Reclining also reduces pressure on the spine.
Adjustability
If you are buying a chair online and can’t test how it fits with your body, make sure it has adjustable components. Most ergonomic chairs on the market today feature height and tilt controls. More advanced chairs are engineered to fit your body perfectly, including adjustable lumbar, headrests, and armrests in addition to the height and tilt.
E3 Consulting Will Help You Find the Best Ergonomic Chair For Your Needs
If you spend a lot of time sitting, It’s important to make sure your chair is giving you the support you need as well as contouring to your body’s natural shape. Ergonomic chairs are specifically designed to resolve postural problems and discomfort related to work chairs. If you aren’t sure where to begin, E3 Consulting offers specialized ergonomic programs to evaluate your office and offer solutions. Contact us today to learn more.
