Top 5 Tips to Pick the Best Office Chair

There are many benefits to having a good office chair in addition to having less back strain. A good, supportive office chair prevents fatigue and discomfort that can come from siting in the same chair for hours on end.Studies have shown that comfortable employees are more productive and contribute to a more positive work environment than uncomfortable employees. Finally, having the correct, comfortable office chair reduces the number of breaks the employee will need to take due to being uncomfortable.Let’s follow the 5tips to pick the best chair for your office.

Lumbar Support: A good office chair will have support for the lower back. Some of the better ones will even have an adjustable lumbar support that allows the user to fit the chair to their lower back. This is important in preventing back strain that can worsen and become sciatica, a condition which can be debilitating.Reclining in your chair supports the weight of your upper body and as a result relieves some weight from your lower back. Changes in your posture help you stay comfortable and more attentive. You want to choose a chair that enables you to comfortably recline without straining your eyes, neck or arms.

Wheel Base: Nearly all office chairs have a wheel base; however, if the office is carpeted it may be necessary to get a chair with wheels specifically made for carpet. Rolling is important in preventing strain due to reaching across a desk to retrieve items that are out of reach.

Seat Height & Depth:When seat height is properly adjusted, thighs should be parallel to the ground with knees bent and feet flat on the floor or footrest. You should be in full contact with the chair’s backrest and there should be adequate space (width of 2-4 fingers) between the back of the knees and front edge of the seat. Having an adjustable seat depth allows individuals to achieve long-term comfort.

Swivel Base: All office chairs should swivel freely to allow for easy access to various parts of the desk. If the chair doesn’t swivel freely, arm fatigue can result from over extending to reach various items.

Fabric: The fabric should be breathable to keep the chair from becoming hot and uncomfortable after hours of sitting in it. In addition, it should have enough cushion to support the person sitting in it without feeling the base of the chair through the cushion.