18 Jul 7 Steps to a Perfect Seat!
Modern working class easily spend a third or more of the day at work, and much of that time is spent seated at the work desk. This puts them at high risk of suffering non-incidental back injuries simply because when seated, the pressure on the base of the spine is 3 times greater than when standing up. Sitting in a wrong office chair just about exacerbates the problem!
As the old adage goes: prevention is better than cure, so here are 7 easy steps to sit pretty and healthy!
Adjustable Seat Height
Keep your feet on the ground, literally! Go for an office chair with a pneumatic adjustment lever that will allow you to have your feet flat on the floor, your thigh horizontal and arms even with the desk height.
Comfortable Seat Width and Depth
Squeezing into a tiny chair is definitely one of the most uncomfortable thing on earth! Ensure that the seat width is between 17 and 20 inches. It should also be deep enough for you to sit with your back against the backrest while still leaving 2 to 4 inches between the back of your knees and the chair seat. Make sure that the forward or backward tilt of the seat is adjustable.
Adequate Lumbar Support
We all come in different size and shapes, with our own curves… on the back of course. So, make sure that the chair has a proper lumbar support adjustable in height and depth so you can a proper fit for the curve of YOUR lower back.
Back Rest
Not many of us can maintain a straight sitting posture for hours on end, and here is where the back rest of the office chair comes into play.
The ideal width would be between 12 to 19 inches wide. Should the back rest be separate from the seat, ensure that it is adjustable in height and angle, and be able to support your spine. For chairs with the seat and backrest in one piece, make sure that the back rest is adjustable in forward and back angles with a locking mechanism to secure the preferred angle.
Seat Material
For maximum comfort, opt for breathable materials such as mesh and fabric for back rest and seat.
Adjustable Armrests
Imagine leaning back into a chair with your arms propped too high and shoulders hunched… no, scratch that! Your perfect office chair should have adjustable armrests to allow your arms to rest comfortably and shoulders relaxed… .
Swivel
And no, you wouldn’t want to pull a muscle while stretching for that document at the far corner of your workstation. Check for swivel function in the office chair to help you turn anywhere you need effortlessly, and with poise, of course.
Now you’re armed with knowledge, you can do a little shopping for a healthier and more comfortable 8 hours at work!
Cheers!
Source: www.spine-health.com