Do Ergonomic Chairs Really Work?

For the average office worker, sitting at a desk in front of a computer screen for the majority of the day is the norm - but did you know this can pose a variety of health risks? To ensure you’re sitting comfortably without damaging your wellbeing, you could try using an ergonomic office chair. But what exactly is an ergonomic chair, and do they really work? To learn more about these furnishings, keep reading.

What is ergonomics?

In short, ergonomics is the study of the relationship between workers and the essential functions of their jobs. It looks at how employees can be more efficient and productive when carrying out certain tasks, focusing on how they can use equipment comfortably and safely. As a result of work done in this area, it’s possible to purchase office furnishings that have been ergonomically designed - including office chairs.

What are the features of an ergonomic chair?

If you’re thinking of replacing your chair for an ergonomic model, there are a range of features you should look out for. Some of the most important include:

Seat height adjustability

As its name suggests, this function allows you to alter the seat height to a position that’s right for you. Ideally, you should be able to adjust the seat so that you can sit with both of your feet placed firmly on the floor. Your thighs should be parallel to the ground, and you should be able to rest your forearms and wrists on the desk with your eyes level to the top of the monitor.

Lumbar support

The majority of ergonomic style office chairs offer lumbar support. This feature refers to the shape and curvature of the back section of the chair, and it is designed to encourage a healthy, natural sitting position.

Swivel function

For fluid mobility while you work, a chair which has an inbuilt swivel function is essential. This feature means you don’t need to worry about twisting your back when you move, such as when you reach for your telephone handset.

Armrests

While they may not be absolutely necessary, armrests can help prevent strain throughout the arms, as well as offering support for your shoulders. You should be able to adjust the armrests to a height that suits you. Some ergonomic chair designs feature armrests that can be adjusted in terms of width too, allowing you to position your arms close to your body.

Cushioning

When it comes to ergonomics, a chair with a sufficient amount of cushioning is a must. This will ensure you feel comfortable and at ease throughout the day, allowing you to focus on the task at hand. Ideally, you should go for a model that has a thick, padded seat.

Wheeled castors

So that you can move around with ease, it helps to go for a chair with wheeled castors. This is a popular feature on many ergonomic styles, and it allows you to roll the chair from one area of the office to another, meaning there is no need for heavy lifting.

Do they really work?

While there’s no rule to say that you need an ergonomic office chair - but it can definitely help. The truth is, there are a number of benefits associated with using this kind of chair, especially when it comes to your health and wellbeing. Ergonomic chairs can help prevent problems that are associated with sitting down for long periods of time, such as neck, back and shoulder pain. It’s also thought that using an ergonomic chair can help improve mood and increase energy levels, which in turn, can lead to improved productivity and job performance. At Furniture At Work, we offer an impressive selection of office chairs with a variety of ergonomic features. For helping finding seating that’s right for you, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

February 11, 2019 | View: 373 | Categories: office chairs