Choosing a good chair for your back condition can lead to happier days at the office.
Most adults will experience some level of back pain at some point in life. Statistics Canada reports that four of every five adults will experience this. For those who experience severe or chronic back pain, career choice and office set up may have to be taken into consideration. Even those who do not experience regular back pain may find that hours of sitting at an office desk in a regular chair can lead to back strain or stiffness. When used properly, an ergonomic chair can help to reduce stress on the back during the long work hours or during leisure time at home. Those with chronic conditions may find that the right chair can help alleviate some of their back pain.
What To Look For
When purchasing a chair appropriate for a bad back, look for the label of "ergonomic" or one that is designed to help reduce back and other joint stress. To be classified as ergonomic, a chair should be adjustable, have a sturdy frame, good lumbar support and padding.
However, many chairs that are not truly ergonomic can be listed as such by meeting this basic criteria, so there are other factors to consider. A chair should have a high back, good lumbar support, and be adjustable in height, tilt, seating position and reclining angle. The arm rests must be sturdy and adjustable to ensure that you can use your arms to help alleviate some of the pressure on your back. The chair should be able to turn so that you can reach things without having to twist.
Other Factors to Consider
Take into consideration the fabric and cushioning of the seat and back itself, the warranty and high end add-ons. Fabric and cushioning may be almost as important as the adjustable features of the chair. The fabric should be breathable and you should find the level of cushioning comfortable in which to sit. Some chairs have adjustable tension in the backrest available and this may also be considered in the cushioning,
There are options for high end add ons. Perhaps the most common add on is built in heating pads in the back. Helt helps reduce back pain, especially muscle pain. Due to the high cost associated with these chairs, they are often outside the budgets of most. However, if this is feature you would like, use a regular heating pad.
When One Chair Is Not Enough
If you are finding at that even a high end chair does not do the job, use a combination of chairs as a solution. For example, some people with bad backs use a kneeling chair on occasion. Along with their good computer chair, this helps reduce spinal stress. The kneeling chairs are often hard on the knees if used alone, so this combination can be good for the joints when used properly
Move If Necessary and Keep your Office Back Friendly
If you suffer from severe back pain, even a perfect chair or combination of chairs may not be enough. In these instances, light movement such as walking to the photocopier or just standing to stretch for a moment, may help.
Ensure that your office space is set up in such a manner that twisting motions are not necessary and that all height adjustments (desk and chair) work appropriately together. This will help to ensure that you do not put unnecessary strain on your spine.
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