Adjusting your office chair allows you to change the angle of your hip joint while seated. The angle of your hip joint is one way to control the degree of the curve in your lower back. When you sit properly, muscles such as your quadriceps and hamstrings work properly- protecting you from back pain.
Chiropractors stress the importance of adjusting your office chair to the correct height. When your chair is in the proper position, it can prevent muscle fatigue and numbness. In addition, ergonomic positioning keeps circulation issues and swelling at bay.
Your feet should be flat on the floor with your knees at a 90 degree angle. A great (and fast!) way to ensure that you adjust it properly is to stand in front of your chair and set the seat to just below your kneecaps.
Proper Posture Matters
Too High or Too Low
In an office environment, everyone needs to be able to reach their keyboards. According to the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration, if your feet don’t touch the floor when seated, it is natural to creep forward so that they do. Unfortunately, that leaves your back unsupported which is a risk factor for musculoskeletal disorders.
If your knees are higher than your hips while you are seated, your chair is too low, which is not good for your hip joints. The result is often lower back pain. A chair with an adjustable seat pan solves the problem for everyone who sits in it. If you chair is not adjustable, it is essential that you purchase a foot rest.
Adjustable Arms
Adjustable arms can be just as essential as an adjustable seat pan. If the arms are too low, you will lean over to the side to rest your forearms. This can result in an awkward posture, leading to neck, shoulder and back fatigue. If the arms are too high, you may raise your shoulder in an unnatural position. The result is muscle tension and fatigue in the neck and shoulders.
The Sloucher
What is Your Role?
In addition to using an adjustable chair, there are other ways to prevent back pain when you must sit in an office chair.
- Sit up straight. Your mother was right- Don’t slouch! You should always sit up straight in your chair. Take advantage of your office chair’s back support by tilting the seat up and leaning against it.
- Relax. Although you need to sit up straight, don’t tense your back and shoulders at the same time, or you will end up in pain regardless.
- Watch your wrists. Sit with your elbows close to your sides with your wrists straight. For this to be comfortable, you may need to move your mouse or keyboard.
- Take five. Take plenty of breaks. Try to fit in a five-minute break every 30 minutes to walk around the office.
Don’t suffer with an aching back. Consider these ergonomic seating tips. Your back will thank you for years to come! OfficeChairsUnlimited.com is your source for an extensive selection of office chairs at low prices, with free shipping on every order. Call us toll-free at 800-410-7494 or visit www.OfficeChairsUnlimited.com today!
President at Office Chairs Unlimited – I have been in the furniture industry for over 20 years, and I’m an expert (just ask me) on all things furniture. I know a thing or two because I’ve seen a thing or two.
