5 Signs a Chair Is Your Ergonomic Best Match
For those who remember the story of Goldilocks and the Three Bears, you will recall that Goldilocks tried out all three of the bears’ things — the papa bear, mama bear, and baby bear — including their chairs. Two chairs were too large, but one was just right. Just like Goldilocks realized, choosing the right chair is important for your posture and health. Whether for work or relaxation in your home, providing proper support for the spine should always be a primary consideration. As people vary in height, weight, age, so do the needs of their backs, knees, and so forth. Let’s examine some signs that may make a chair a good fit for you.
Seat Height
The standard chair seat sits 18 inches off the ground. Office chairs generally have adjustable properties with seat heights ranging from 16- to 21-inches. For an ergonomically comfortable working chair, your thighs should be horizontal, and your arms should be even with the desktop, according to the University of Pittsburgh’s Environmental Health and Safety Department.
Living room furniture sits at a similar height including recliners which, at rest, have a standard seat height of 18- to 22-inches. Taller individuals will find a higher chair more comfortable; shorter people generally prefer a lower chair. Again, one’s thighs should remain horizontal while sitting. When shopping for furniture keep in mind who will be using it the most.
Spinal Support
Any chair where you will be sitting for long periods at a desk while crafting, or for reading, should have good support for your back, especially the lower back. An office chair should have an adjustable tilt for your individual comfort. The goal is for the chair to supply support and prevent slouching which can put a strain on the lower back.
An office chair, or any chair that is used a lot needs to be replaced every seven to 10 years, according to Medium. As a chair ages, the support it should be providing breaks down leaving you with less support. Additionally, the design of various chairs is continually being re-evaluated. Features that may aid in the prevention of back problems or relieve aches and pains that already exist may be available every few years.
Size of the Seat and Back
The seat size should accommodate you comfortably. Your hips should have plenty of room. When your back is up against the chair back you should still have about three inches of your leg extend beyond the seat so it doesn’t hit your knees.
Depending upon the chair, the back of the chair should accommodate the width of the back below the shoulders. Office chairs designed with ergonomics in mind, measure between 12 and 19 inches across the back.
Cushioning and Material
Whether you are looking at a recliner, a high-back chair, or an office chair, the material should provide easy access in and out of the chair, as well as comfort in sitting for long periods. While there should be enough padding to provide comfort, too much, and/or cushioning that is too soft, can make it difficult to get up and down.
Use of a Footrest
Individuals with spinal problems may find sitting in a reclined position more comfortable. Recliners generally have a built-in footrest. However, when using another type of chair, the use of an independent footrest can help. For working in a reclining position there are now workstations designed to provide a place for a tablet, laptop, books, or other types of paperwork. These swiveling work tables help to further care for your back and neck by lifting work up and off of your lap.
Where to Shop
If you are ready to shop for a more comfortable chair to use at a desk, or for reading or watching television in the living room, you can find the latest designs at our Ft. Myers furniture store. Visit one of our convenient Florida locations, of you prefer, give us a call first to set up an appointment. We’ll take the time to help you find the best fit for your needs and providing the comfort you deserve.
