You don’t have to have back problems in order to reap the benefits of ergonomic chairs. Anyone who spends a good portion of their day sitting at a desk will likely benefit from investing in one. “A chair that is well-designed and appropriately adjusted is an essential element of a safe and productive computer workstation,” says the United States Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration. And who are we to argue with that? Additionally those who feel neck, back, and shoulder strain, or who experiences numbness or swelling in their legs and feet after a long day of sitting, choosing from among the best office chairs to find the right ergonomic fit can make a big difference to comfort and the amount of pain one might experience. “Since the chair has a direct influence on body alignment (posture), individuals suffering from musculoskeletal symptoms related to prolonged sitting are often advised to alter the chair of their workstations,” according to a meta-analysis of multiple studies that looked at the effectiveness of office chairs when it came to reducing musculoskeletal pain. The review paper was published in the journal BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders.
Features to Look for When Shopping for the Best Ergonomic Chairs
Lumbar Support The best ergonomic chairs have a backrest that conforms to your spine’s natural curves.Adjustability Look for chairs that allow you to adjust the seat and back height, tilt angle, armrest height, and more, and find the most comfortable position for you.Comfortable Armrests Though not all chairs have them, if armrests are included, they should be padded, and at the right height so that your shoulders are relaxed and elbows are at a 90-degree angle.Material The best ergonomic chairs should have supportive padding that’s not too hard or soft, and breathable fabric that promotes circulation.Design If you have to sit in an office chair all day, you might as well look good doing it. Luckily, some of the best ergonomic chairs also come in modern and classy designs and colors.
Types of Ergonomic Chairs
Office/Executive Chairs These are the most common, classic options – the typical office chairs on wheels that you’ll see in front of most desks.Kneeling Chairs Just what it sounds like, these backless chairs aim to take pressure off of your spine.
Now that you understand some of the benefits of ergonomic chairs, it’s time to choose the right one for your needs. Explore our top six picks for the best ergonomic chairs for your home office.
