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Office Furniture Buying Guide: How to Find the Best Office Chair

In a rapidly changing workplace environment, the need for a comfortable office chair remains paramount. Many people spend 40 plus hours of their week seated at their desk and experience some sort of back, neck or other pain, due to an uncomfortable or unsupportive office chair. According to Dr. John Triano, in an article for Spine-health.com, an unsupportive desk chair can lead to poor posture, which over time can damage the spinal structure and worsen back pain.

Finding an ergonomic office chair that fits your body can help you avoid daily back pain and the possibility long-term spinal damage. Here are 5 things to look for in the best office chair:

 

1. Get a “Custom Fit” Feel with an Adjustable Office Chair

First of all, the best office chair should be adjustable without having to use any special tools. This will allow you to adjust your office chair as your needs change. Seek out a chair with an adjustable seat height, so you can sit comfortably with your feet flat on the ground and knees at a 90-degree angle. The armrests should also be adjustable, allowing you to rest your elbows and arms lightly on the rests while typing. Your forearms should not rest on the armrests while typing.

 

2. An Ergonomic Office Chair Provides Comfort and Support

A comfortable seat should contour to your body, helping to provide even weight distribution. The standard width of an office chair seat is 17-20 inches, so be sure to try different widths to see which size is most comfortable to you. The seat material should also be considered. Seek an office chair with a padded seat, preferably covered in a breathable fabric to optimize comfort during sustained use.

 

3. Say Goodbye to Back Pain with a Supportive Backrest

The backrest should support the natural curve of your spine with adjustable lumbar support. Standard width for a backrest is 12-19 inches wide, so again, be sure to test different widths to determine which is the best fit for your body.

 

4. Swivel Office Chairs Offer Mobility without the Pain

Ensure that your chair of choice offers optimal mobility around your desk. A swivel feature will help you access multiple areas of your desk without having to strain or move your chair.

 

5. The Best Office Chair Provides Both Fashion and Function

Although function and comfort are top priorities, you don’t have to forfeit a modern design that fits your office space. Seek design elements and materials that match your desk and office aesthetic. Even a small accent will help tie the chair into your office.

 

Ergonomic Office Chairs are not One Size Fits All

“Ergonomic chairs are designed to suit a range of people; however, there is no guarantee that they will suit any one person in particular. “ (Canadian Center for Occupational Health and Safety) Work with a furniture expert. This will give you the opportunity to provide your wishlist of features and design qualities and the expert can help match you with a chair that fits your wishlist and your body.

 

Whether you are in the market for the perfect desk chair or are planning a large office remodel, Everett Office Furniture can help you with all your facility needs.