How to choose the perfect office chair
Most of us sit for over 9.3 hours and sleep for under 7.7 hours. We don’t even realize how often we sit, because everyone around us is doing the same. Sitting causes more damage to your system than you can imagine. It exerts excessive stress on your spine leading to several back-related ailments. Apart from making you feel fatigued, less productive, anxious and depressive, a sedentary lifestyle coupled with a job that requires you to sit all the time can cause several health issues. Here are a few points that you must keep in mind.
- The swing (recline-ability): This ability allows you to recline, while enabling you to reach your work desk without straining your arms, shoulders or eyes.
- High back: The height of the chair makes a huge difference to your posture. Always ensure that your feet are flat on the floor/foot rest, and your thighs are slightly sloping down.
- Seat depth: Ensure that the seat depth allows you to slide backward and forward to suit your leg length. A good way to check is to ensure that you have a 3–4 finger gap between the edge of your seat and the back of your knees.
- Armrests: Your forearms must be parallel to the floor. Ensure that the armrests are adjustable and provide the right arm height. They need to be comfortably placed in the right angle while typing or writing.
- Lumbar support: Back ailments are common among individuals who tend to sit for a prolonged period of time. The backrest must fit the natural ‘S’ curve of your spine. The lower back must fit comfortably against the lumbar support.
- Rubber wheels: Chair mobility is paramount. It must allow you to move freely, especially if you work at a larger desk.
- Headrest: This feature is important because most times you might not use it when writing or typing. However, it is important to sit back and rest your head at various intervals.
The RH Logic 400 embodies all the above features and is definitely a good buy. Read the research from Chalmers University of Technology, Gothenburg, Swedenpublished on the RH Logic at http://publications.lib.chalmers.se/publication/183337However, do check out the other options available as well.You can improve your health to a great extent by choosing the right ergonomic office chair.
Author: Mr George Ampat, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, specialising in spine, foot and ankle surgery. Visit www.feetandspine.com