We all understand the importance of maintaining proper desk posture to prevent the discomfort and pain associated with prolonged desk work. However, our workspaces must still be adequately set up to avoid these issues.
Ergonomics plays a crucial role in maintaining health and productivity, especially for those who spend long hours at a desk. A well-adjusted ergonomic desk chair can prevent musculoskeletal disorders, reduce fatigue, and enhance overall comfort.
What is ergonomic design?
Ergonomic design involves creating products or environments that optimise human well-being and overall system performance. The goal is to ensure that people’s interactions with the things they use are comfortable, efficient, and safe.
What makes a desk chair ergonomic?
A desk chair is considered ergonomic when designed to provide optimal support, comfort, and adjustability. It enables users to maintain a healthy posture and reduce the risk of strain or injury during prolonged periods of sitting.
Things that are taken into consideration include but are not limited to, adjustable seat height, seat depth and width, ergonomic office chair lumbar support, comfortable back and armrests, materials, swivel and mobility, and tilt and recline mechanism.
Here’s how to set up your desk chair ergonomically to ensure optimal support and posture.
Seat Height Adjustment
Adjusting height is the first step in setting up your ergonomic desk chair. Sit comfortably with your feet flat on the floor. Your knees should be at a right angle or slightly below your hips. This position helps to reduce pressure on your lower back and thighs. If your feet do not reach the floor, consider using a footrest. Your elbows should also be at the correct height of the desk.
Seat Depth and Pan Adjustment
Adjust your seat depth to ensure your back remains in contact with the backrest while sitting. There should be a 1-inch gap between the edge of the seat and the back of your knees. This prevents pressure on your thighs and promotes proper blood circulation.
Backrest Positioning and Lumbar Support
The backrest is critical for supporting the natural curve of your spine. Adjust the backrest so that it supports the curve of your lower back. Many ergonomic chairs come with lumbar support adjustments; position this lumbar support to fit snugly into the curve of your lower back. The backrest should recline slightly to relieve pressure on your spine.
Armrest Adjustment
Proper armrest positioning can alleviate shoulder and neck strain. Adjust the armrests so your elbows are at a 90-degree angle when your hands are on the desk. Your shoulders should remain relaxed, not hunched. The armrests should support your arms without causing them to rest too heavily, which can lead to shoulder tension.
Tilt and Tension Control
Most ergonomic chairs have tilt and tension controls. The tilt mechanism allows you to lean back and change your sitting position throughout the day, which is essential for reducing static postures. The tension control should be adjusted according to your body weight to provide the correct resistance when reclining.
Headrest Adjustment
If your chair has a headrest, adjust it to support the base of your skull when you lean back. This feature is particularly beneficial for those who suffer from neck pain, as it helps maintain the natural alignment of your spine and neck.
Ensuring Overall Comfort
After making these adjustments, sit in your chair to ensure comfort. Check if you can easily reach and operate your workstation components. Ensure your monitor is at eye level to avoid straining your neck, and your keyboard and mouse are within easy reach to prevent overstretching your arms.
Regular Re-evaluation
Remember that your ergonomic needs may change over time. It’s essential to re-evaluate and adjust your chair settings regularly. As you become more aware of your posture and comfort levels, you may find that minor adjustments can significantly prevent discomfort and enhance productivity.
Setting up your ergonomic desk chair correctly is easy when you know how and can profoundly impact your well-being and efficiency. By following these steps, you can create a more comfortable and supportive workspace that promotes good posture and reduces the risk of strain and injury. The key to ergonomics is personalisation – take the time to adjust your chair to suit your individual needs and preferences.
If your desk chair is restricted in adjustments and won’t allow you to do the above, you may need to find an alternative. Our expert team at TPS Office Furniture will guide you to the correct desk chair and how to set it up. Once set up, you only have to ensure that no one steals or adjusts your seat. There is always one in every office.