How to Choose the Right Ergonomic Office Chair ?

If you are sitting for hours upon hours in the same chair you may experience some discomfort and maybe even pain to a certain degree. Either one of these are symptoms of a poor office chair. It is no myth that sitting for a prolonged period of time in the wrong position will inevitably cause back pain and hurt your spine.

It is very important you chose chair that is comfortable, an also supports your posture. With so many office chairs out there this can be quite a difficult task. There are important differences like designs and materials along with less important aspects such as colour. But all these factors will be taken into consideration when choosing the right ergonomic office chair. Take into account that you are looking for a practical chair, not the prettiest chair.

Tips When Buying

You may want to disregard colour and presentation when selecting a chair, I am not saying chooses the ugliest chair, no. But don't have these factors as your priority when looking for the best ergonomic office chair. Instead, have these aspects on your checklist:

Back Support

Our lower backs are not straight, they are curved. Therefore a chair that is perpendicular and offers not back support will not compliment your spine or posture. Look for chairs with a convex shape that will allow your lower back to rest comfortably in. When you test out the chair you should immediately feel relaxed. Your upper back should lean into the back rest whilst your lower back is still supported.

Adjust ability

The chair should have an adjustable seat height, back rest and arm rest. Not every person is the same height and size, so it is necessary that these chairs offer some variation. Starting with the height, you should be able to adjust it according to your height. You will need to ensure your feet can rest on the ground with your hips a little higher than your knees to avoid any pains. This variation should be easily adjusted and it shouldn't take long for you to find the right height. As for the back rest, you will need to vary it from the perpendicular, 90 degree position. Sitting totally upright is not the optimal position to minimize any pains and aches. Adjust it so it is slightly leaned back, each person will vary but it shouldn't take long to find the right spot. Lastly arm rests, it is essential that you can vary these. Often static arm rests won't allow you to get close to the desk and can cause you to slouch and bring along with it back pain. Adjustable arm rests will allow you to relax your elbows and shoulders and let you get as close to the desk as possible.

Seat Depth & Edge

Make sure the seat has a waterfall edge, in other words the front of it curves down slightly, and this is much more comfortable for your legs. As for seat depth you don't want it to be too much, test it out to make sure it is just right for you to rest in.
 
There are a number of other factors to take into account when choosing a chair, of course be sure to always test it out and see what it feels like. Look for a chair that has been recommended by physiotherapist and other respective health clinics, these professionals know what they are talking about in terms of looking after your health. Also, try and choose a chair that comes with warranty, so that if anything does go wrong you can cover your investment as necessary.