How to choose the right office chair for your structure

Finding the right office chair is not only an important task, but it is also becoming crucial, as the time spent sitting in a sedentary position has increased with hectic work schedules and the demands of career paths. commercial fields. The problem is, unless you are an ergonomist or have one available in your dispensing, it is difficult to determine how to find a chair that fits your body properly. The proper office chair should evenly support the body, allow easy movement, be easy to adjust, provide long-term comfort, and help maintain proper posture. Like people, office chairs come in different shapes and sizes. The problem is that not all people will fit into a uniform chair design, unless their proportions perfectly match the chair design. If your chair does not fit properly into your proportions, you will find over time that you will begin to experience discomfort that can lead to more serious problems over time. Consider the following tips before buying your next office chair.

Seat depth

The depth of a seat is an essential component in the overall comfort of your office chair. If you have a seat that is too small, you will not get the necessary support to keep your thighs comfortable throughout the day. If your seat is too large, this will put pressure against the back of your knees, which can also cause discomfort. While sitting, measure the distance from the back of the knee to the backrest. It should be about an inch and a half or 2-3 fingers between the edge of the seat and the back of the knee. If you are unsure whether a seat will be too short for you, consider looking for a chair that has the option of a seat slider that allows you to adjust the depth of your chair.

Seat height

Your chair should allow you to sit with your feet flat on the floor or on a footrest with your knees bent at a 90-degree angle. This can be achieved with the proper seat height. Measure the height from the floor to the crease at the back of the knee. Consider the type of footwear you normally wear to work; the heel, for example, can add a few inches to the seat height you need. Most office chairs only come with a cylinder size that allows for an adjustment range of approximately 4 “, however some specialty ergonomic chairs have the option of cylinders of different heights that can be useful for taller or taller people. low.

Armrests

Many of today’s computer users experience neck / shoulder pain due to their arms being raised and unsupported. The armrests are designed to support the muscles of the neck and shoulders; however, if you are not careful in your selection, they can limit keyboard or desktop access. Armrests should not restrict movement or access to a work station. The height of the armrests should be the same as the height of the elbow at rest, they should not be higher or lower or this will cause discomfort. Look for armrests that can be adjusted in height and width to properly align with your body’s needs. The shoulders and upper arms should be in line with the torso, generally perpendicular to the floor and relaxed (not elevated or stretched forward).

Back

The shape of the backrest should follow the natural curve of your back. That is why many office chairs are designed with an “S” curve to fit the natural shape of the back. Backrests are often locked in place, making it difficult to properly support the naturally shaped backs of taller or shorter users. An adjustable backrest or lumbar support eliminates this problem and allows the user to position the backrest to conform to the shape of their spine. Back height is another concern. For those experiencing upper back pain, finding a higher back that fully supports your shoulders and neck is essential.

Seat width

The seat cushion must fully support its structure both in depth and width. A seat cushion that is too small will not provide full support and one that is too large will not allow comfortable use of the armrests. Look at the distance between the armrests to make sure they are not too wide where one needs to reach to use the armrest or too narrow where one cannot sit.