Working full-time in an office often means spending up to eight hours, and sometimes longer, in the same office chair. Office furniture needs to support your body. That way, you don't develop any work-related injuries or illnesses. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, poor ergonomics causes disorders that account for up to 63% of workplace injuries and illnesses. Ergonomic desk chairs are essential for comfort while supporting productivity. Here are four essential features of ergonomic desk chairs.
1. Adjustable Seat Height and Good Swivel
Office desk chairs shouldn’t be identical because the people who use them aren’t identical. The best office furniture adjusts to individual users, so they can be relatively comfortable throughout the day while also being productive. An adjustable seat height enables people to have the ideal height for reaching a computer keyboard, mouse, and other desktop equipment. The seat should also swivel easily, so you can move about as needed while seated at your desk.
2. Proper Seat Depth and Width
The seat needs to support the user while seated without putting pressure on the tailbone or cutting off circulation to the legs. The seat should have a comfortable pad that prevents painful buttocks, and its depth should be several inches between the edge of the seat and the back of the knees. If the seat extends too far forward, it’ll put pressure on the back of the knees.
3. Adjustable Tilt and Lumbar Support
You should be able to adjust how much tilt a seat has. That way, you can sit comfortably with the seat pan comfortably cupping your bottom. The tilt also helps the backrest support your back so you don’t get any cramped muscles or an aching back. The backrest should also have good lumbar support that you can adjust to get the ideal lower back support. If the seat doesn’t support your back, you might have a sore back after several hours of use.
4. Tension-Relieving Armrests and Headrests
The armrests should help reduce any tension that you might feel in your upper body while seated. Quality office furniture makes it easy to relax the shoulders and upper body while working at a desk and using a computer. An adjustable headrest can also help take pressure off the neck and prevent neck pain.
It's important to work in comfort! By treating your body right, you're saving yourself from pain and injuries down the road. When you need new office furniture, you can visit the Commerce Office Furniture storefront to learn more about how ergonomic desk chairs can improve your comfort and productivity.
