Find The Best Office Chair
We spend a lot of time in our office chairs – especially now with most people working from home. Whether you’re working remotely or you’re in the office, odds are good that you’re racking up the hours sitting. While an occasional walk and stretching session will help offset the impact of some of that sitting, an ergonomic chair can also do wonders for your health. The next time you’re shopping for a new office chair, be on the lookout for these features:
Adjustable Heights and Backrests
Start by selecting a chair you can adjust for your height. For maximum comfort, your thighs should be horizontal to the floor when you’re seated. Some office chairs even feature pneumatic adjustment levers to bring the chair up higher or lower. You’ll also want a model that allows you to move your backrest forward or backward. Make sure you can lock your preferred position into place before you shell out for a fancy new chair.
Lumbar Support
Any office chair worth buying will have excellent lumbar support. This feature helps support your lower back so you’re not slumping through the work day. Select a chair that’s shaped to match your back’s natural contours. This may mean going into a store and trying out various options in lieu of – or before – ordering online.
Wide, Deep Seating – with Armrests
An office chair should be both wide and deep enough to allow you to sit comfortably. If you’re on the taller side, that may mean you need a deeper seat. For those on the shorter end of the spectrum, a shallower seat will suffice. Ideally, you want to sit with your back against the backrest and have about two to four inches of space between the back of your knees and your seat. It’s also worth investing in a chair with armrests. While armless chairs might look sleek, versions with armrests will allow you to take serious strain off of your neck and shoulders.
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If you’re feeling the strain of working 40 hours a week at a desk, you may benefit from some physical therapy. Physical Therapy Partners is a fully independent physical therapy practice in the Triangle. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!