The Best Office Chairs to Avoid Back Pain
Fun fact, an average desk worker will spend almost 1700 hours a year in front of a computer screen. That’s a long time staring at a glowing rectangle. Apart from getting up, stretching or walking every 30 minutes to an hour, it’s important to make sure your posture has the support it needs from your office chair. Although comfort can be subjective, the best office chairs for your posture share the same attributes. To avoid back pain or back problems in the workplace, read on to find out what the best office chairs have in common.
Lumbar Support
Your lumbar spine is otherwise known as your lower spine. Naturally our lower spines have a curve in them. When seated for long periods of time, without lower back support, it is common for us to round our lower backs and straighten this curve. This can strain the lumbar spine, creating discomfort and possible back issues.
To avoid this from happening, investing in an ergonomic office chair is essential. An ergonomic office chair will offer an adjustable lumbar support which you can position to adequately support your lumbar curve.
Removable/Adjustable Armrest
Arm rests should be adjusted to make sure they do not interfere with access to the desk. Arm rests can block your ability to get in close to the edge of the desk, causing you to over stretch to reach your keyboard. Drop the arm rests to a level that does not disrupt your ergonomic set up, or remove them all together.
Adjustable Height
A chair that has an adjustable feature for its height is important to ensure you are seated correctly. You must ensure your feet are planted flat onto the ground, your lower back is placed firmly on the back of the chair and your arms and thighs are horizontal to the height of the desk.
Adjustable Backrest
Look for an office chair with a back rest that is adjustable in both height and angle. These features will not only help support the natural curves of your spine, but will also help you maintain good working posture while you are at your desk!
Seat Depth
The depth of the seat of your office chair is an important feature to support good working posture. Sit right back in your chair so your back is supported by the back rest and lumbar support. Your feet should be placed comfortably and firmly on the ground, and the back of your knees should have a few inches of space clearance from the seat edge (at least 2 finger space).
Finding a chair that allows you to adjust the seat a forwards or backwards tilt, will also help significantly.
Swivel Component
Finally, make sure your desk chair has a swivel component. This will allow you to swivel around so you can properly align yourself to your tasks without straining.
To ensure you are doing what you can for the health and function of your spine, invest in an ergonomic office chair.
For any other information or inquiries regarding back/spinal pain or if you would like to book an appointment with the team at Langer Chiropractic and Soft Tissue Occupational Therapy Wembley, Perth Western Australia call Ph: 9382 3466
Alternatively, you can contact us via our contact form here.