If you’re part of the 50% of working Americans that admit to having back pain annually, a new office chair might be jut what you need to leave work feeling pain free.
An ergonomic chair can minimize the risk of repetitive injury like carpel tunnel and reduce the development of tight, rigid muscles and joints.
There are many chairs on the market, so make sure you choose yours wisely. Ask yourself the following questions while shopping to get the best chair for your body.
1. Is it Comfortable?
It may seem obvious, but several factors go into the comfort of a chair. Make sure you don’t have too little or too much cushioning, and add a cushion if you think you need one. Make sure the seat is firm and supportive and that you’re not sinking into it, and adjust arm rests so they’re the right distance from your body. Also, make sure the fabric is breathable enough to prevent the chair from becoming hot and uncomfortable during prolonged use.
2. Does it Swivel?
Swivel chairs keep you from twisting your back to reach objects on your desk. Wheels are also a great way to prevent the strain of adjusting your chair’s distance from your desk and ensure that you can position yourself as comfortably as possible. If your office is carpeted, you might need to look into chairs with carpet-ready wheels.
3. Does it have Lumbar Support?
It may seem like an easy task for your body to sit in one place all day, but your back is still working hard and needs support. Comfortable chairs for back pain often come with lumbar support that curves inward against your lower back to help support your muscles and prevent slouching. It’s important for a lumbar support chair to be adjustable. A lumbar support in the wrong place won’t do you any good.
4. Does it have a Headrest?
An office chair headrest isn’t a must, but it can be nice, as long as they’re adjustable. You won’t need one if you’re usually leaning forward and typing, but office chair headrests can be great for laid-back meeting environments where you won’t to lean back or stretch. If you decide you want an office chair headrest, make sure it’s suited to your height and won’t get in the way while you’re working.
5. Is it Adjustable?
The best position for reducing back pain is feet flat on the floor, thighs horizontal with the ground and knees even with your hips. Stationary office chairs won’t allow you to adjust to this position, so you just have to hope you’re the right height. An adjustable chair, however, will allow you to adjust each part of the seat and back so it’s more comfortable for you. Quality office chairs will have as many adjustable features you’ll ever need and make great desk chairs for back pain.
If you spend most of your work day in a chair, it doesn’t have to be a painful experience. Find a chair that will keep you comfortable and productive.
