Working in the office often involves spending long hours sitting down. The average worker spends about 40 hours per week sitting, so you can certainly say that majority of their time on an office chair. Even while working from home, you will still likely be setting up a home office to maintain productivity in your work. As such, choosing the right ergonomic furniture is crucial to ensure you stay comfortable and create a safe working environment.
With the number of hours spent sitting on a chair and in front of a computer, it only makes sense that an Ergonomic Office Chair will be one of the most important purchases for your office. Sitting for long periods can cause discomfort and health risks like back pain and leg problems, which can affect your productivity. However, with several chairs to choose from in the market, the choice is more challenging than it sounds.
Below are some of the most important factors to consider when looking for an office chair. Take your time examining your choices to ensure you choose the right one.
Seat Height
A good office chair should have an adjustable seat height ranging from 16 to 22 inches off the floor. The proper height should allow you to have your feet flat on the floor, knees at a 90 degree angle, and arms aligned with your desk’s height. This sitting position prevents straining your knees and helps you maintain a good posture.
Seat Width and Depth
The standard seat width for an Ergonomic Office Chair is at 17 to 20 inches, which gives you ample space to sit comfortably. Ideally, you would want to have some space for your hips, but not too much that you would have to stretch out your arms for the armrest. The seat depth, on the other hand, must allow you to sit with your back against the backrest while leaving some space between your knees and the seat. As much as possible, try looking for a chair with a seat slider, so you can adjust the forward or backward tilt.
Lumbar Support
Lumbar support is an essential component in office chairs since it supports your lower back and distributes your weight evenly to avoid putting too much pressure in the area. Without lumbar support, which contains an inward curve, can flatten the natural curve of your spine and cause lower back pain. It can also lead to slouching, which can have a detrimental effect on your posture. Ideally, you want to get an office chair with a proper lumbar adjustment, so you can get the right fit for your lower back.
Backrest
The backrest should be between 12 to 19 inches wide to support the curve of your spine. Make sure to get a chair that has an adjustable backrest that allows you to move in forward and backward angles. This way, you can have a more dynamic sitting position to promote blood circulation and prevent putting too much pressure on the lumbar disc.
Movement
Conventional ergonomic office chairs can be swiveled to help you move around and rotate to reach anything in your desk without standing. Check out the chair’s wheels to ensure they are high-quality and stable since you will likely be moving around while working. Likewise, you must also find a chair that can support your weight capacity to prevent accidents from occuring.
