Whether you’re an individual seeking to improve your own work environment or a company looking for ways to boost productivity, ergonomic chairs are worth investing in. Rather than simply allowing you to sit comfortably for longer periods, these chairs help protect your back, neck, and shoulders by encouraging healthy posture. As you shop for the perfect chair, look for one that’s built from comfortable yet durable materials, supports body movements and repositioning without loud squeaks, and comes with adjustable features to meet the needs of your unique physique.
When shopping for an ergonomic chair, it’s important to consider how you use your computer and the types of tasks you typically perform at your desk. If you spend a lot of time on the phone or communicating via email, look for a seat with armrests that adjust to accommodate your arm length and position. You may also want to consider the height of the seat pan — it should be adjustable so that your feet are firmly on the floor when seated, and it’s preferable if this mechanism is pneumatically operated (meaning you can change the setting while you’re sitting in the chair).
The angle of the backrest and the tension of the tilt mechanism are two other essential factors to keep in mind when shopping for an ergonomic office chair. You’ll want to fine-tune these settings so that your chair feels custom-made for you, and most experts recommend changing the tilt angle throughout the day instead of holding it in one position for too long.
A good ergonomic chair should also have lumbar support, which is designed to reduce pressure on the lower back and buttocks by promoting a natural S shape when you sit. This feature is especially crucial if you’re prone to slouching or have neck pain.
You should also consider the armrests and headrest of an ergonomic chair. While the headrest can reduce strain on the neck, you’ll want to ensure it doesn’t restrict your ability to move around. Some people find that they need to tuck the headrest under the chin in order to focus, and some people have trouble sleeping while wearing a headrest.
Lastly, a good ergonomic chair should have a stable base that allows you to move and recline easily without having to hop over the legs of the chair. This is important because it will allow you to shift positions quickly and efficiently. If the chair has a hard base, you’ll have to struggle to get to a new position, which can be very distracting and affect your productivity.
It’s also important to remember that a comfortable workplace promotes positive employee morale. A well-designed office that includes ergonomic furniture sends a message that your company values the health and comfort of its employees, which can attract progressive workers with fresh ideas. This in turn can boost productivity by making it easier for employees to concentrate on their tasks without being distracted by discomfort.