How to Shop for an Ergonomic Chair

An ergonomic chair helps you maintain proper posture, is adjustable to fit any desk height and provides spinal support to ward off back pain and fatigue. Finding an ergonomic chair that fits your body and your budget can be a challenge, but there are several things to shop for that will make the job easier.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Choose an office chair with a seat height adjustment that allows you to move up or down by pulling a pneumatic lever. This simple design enables the user to position the chair height so that his feet rest firmly on the floor with his knees at an approximate 90-degree angle.
2. Make sure that you have 2 to 4 inches of space between the back of your knees and the edge of the chair. If the chair seat cuts into the back of your knees, it could limit blood circulation and cause rapid leg fatigue.
3. Select a chair with a seat back that adjusts forward or backward. Depending on your desk design, you may wish to sit more upright or to lean slightly back. The chair back should be tall enough however to support a neutral spine position from the hips to your neck.
4. Find a chair that supports the lordotic (inward) curve in your lumbar spine. Without proper lumbar support, your lordotic curve will begin to straighten over time, causing tension and pain in the low back. A well-designed chair should have an adjustable lumbar support to maximize the user's comfort and ability to maintain a neutral posture.
5. Choose a chair with a soft seating surface that provides cushioning while you're sitting for extended periods. While leather and vinyl cushions remain cooler in the summer, you may prefer a fabric covering that breathes and does not stick to your legs if you're wearing shorts or a skirt.
6. Shop for a chair with adjustable armrests. When seated at your computer, your elbows should rest lightly on the armrests as you type. If your forearms are touching the chair arm, lower the armrests to avoid tension building in your shoulders.
7. Find a chair with a swivel feature, as this allows you to move easily and efficiently to reach everything in your workspace.
8. Head to your local office supply store to try out several chair styles in person. Familiarize yourself with the adjustment features, upholstery options and price ranges to determine what feels best to you and falls within your budget.
9. Visit Sitcorrect.com to browse dozens of ergonomic chair choices with prices ranging from inexpensive to steep. If you find something you like, you'll enjoy free shipping with your purchase (see Resources below).
10. Check out ErgoDirect if you're in the market for premium brands like Humanscale and Neutral Posture (see Resources below). If you can't afford to pay several hundred dollars for your new chair, ErgoDirect also carries Office Master products. Office Master is a durable, but more affordable, brand.