Your office chair becomes your indispensable companion as you settle into your workday. But did you ever consider that this seemingly harmless piece of furniture may have a significant role to play in your overall well being? We're going to look at the ergonomics of chairs, back pain and how to make sure your chair supports you without interfering with your health.
The Hidden Impact of Chair Height and Angle
The height and angle of your chairs are more important than you realise. Rarely do we pay attention to the levers and knobs tucked away beneath our seats. However, these controls are essential for optimising the hip joint angle in a seated position. Why does this matter? It's going to have an immediate impact on our pelvis position and curve in the lower back.
- Hip Joint Angle: Adjusting your chair height alters the degree of flexion at your hip joint. A recent study found that a more open angle between the trunk and thigh (i.e., hip joint angle) can relieve pressure on spinal discs.
- Muscles at Play: Quadriceps, psoas, and hamstrings—these muscles play a crucial role in posture-related back pain. Getting your seat height right ensures these muscles function optimally.
Practical Tips:
- Seat Height: Compare your knees’ height to your hips’. When seated correctly, your feet should rest flat on the floor without thigh pressure. If your feet dangle (perhaps due to your height), use a footrest or a thick book.
- Desk Setup: Ensure your desk complements your chair height. Your arms should rest comfortably on the desk surface, forming a 90-degree angle at the elbows.
Lumbar Support: Friend or Foe?
Lumbar support—a buzzword in ergonomic circles. But here’s the catch: it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Some chairs offer built-in lumbar support, while others require additional pillows or cushions.
- The Lumbar Curve: Our lower back naturally curves inward (lordosis). A well-designed chair supports this curve without overdoing it. Too much lumbar support can push our spine into an unnatural position.
- Customise It: Adjust any lumbar support features to fit your unique spine curvature. Experiment with different levels until you strike the right balance between comfort and alignment.
Sitting Isn’t Static: Move It!
Remember, even the best ergonomic chair won’t save you if you remain glued to it all day. Movement is key:
- Dynamic Sitting: Shift positions frequently—lean back, sit upright, cross your legs—anything to keep blood flowing and muscles engaged.
- Microbreaks: Set reminders to stand up, stretch, or take a short walk every 30 minutes. Your body will thank you.
Beyond Chairs: The Bigger Picture
While chairs matter, they’re just one piece of the wellness puzzle:
- Lighting Tips and Tricks for a Better Home Office Setup: Why It Matters and How to Do It
- How to Boost Your Energy and Focus with Ergonomic Breaks and Micro-movement
- Ergonomic Exercises and Stretches for Desk-bound Professionals
- The Benefits of Ergonomics in the Workplace: Why It Matters
Remember, wellness isn't just about ergonomic chairs, it's about creating a holistic workspace that nurtures both your body and your mind. So ask yourself next time you get settled in your office chair: Is this helping me to stay healthy, or is that hindering it? Choose wisely; your well-being depends on it!
Checkout our featured ergonomic office chair, perfect for any workspace.
