Useful Tips
Selecting The Right Chair
Febuary 24th, 2007
Consider your work tasks, and your body size and shape, when choosing a chair. A single size or type of chair is not appropriate for all tasks, and cannot suit all body shapes and sizes.
When you sit to perform a task, your spine is most comfortable when it's in "neutral posture", a slightly reclined sitting position. The following adjustment options can help you maintain "neutral posture".
SEAT:
- Height: Seat height should adjust to fit the height of the user and/or the work surface.
- Tilt: The seat should adjust at a variety of angles to allow for changing positions and postures for different tasks. A rocking mechanism can provide continuous active repositioning while working.
- Depth: The seat should support your hips and legs, and provide a 1-2" space between the front edge of the seat and the back of your knees. Sliding seat options can help you set the proper depth position.
BACKREST:
- Height: The backrest should adjust up and down to fit the curves of your spine. Adjustable lumbar support is often necessary to accommodate flat, average or deep low back curves.
- Contour: The backrest of the chair should support your upper and lower back, while allowing free arm movement. If you recline, you may need a backrest that extends up to your shoulders or neck.
- Angle: The backrest should adjust independently from the seat tilt to provide optimal support for a variety of work positions, such as reclining or leaning forward.
ARMREST:
- Armrest: Armrests can provide additional upper extremity and back support when taking breaks or pauses between writing or keying tasks.
- Height: If you have armrests, they should be adjustable. Your forearms should be able to rest on the armrests with your shoulders relaxed.
- Width: Inward and outward adjustment provides additional personal fit. This is especially important with large and small stature individuals.
- Pivot: Pivoting armrests provide both width and angle adjustment of the armrests.
SOURCE: UCLA Ergonomics
See the bad back store range of ergonomic chairs, kneeling chairs and saddle seats here »
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