Ergonomics in the workplace has been shown to create a healthier, more comfortable work environment that reduces physical stress and increases productivity. As computer usage rises, so does muscle-related disorders. To avoid discomfort and disorders choose an office chair that fits properly and allows maximum body and lumbar (lower back) support. The chair should also be flexible enough to allow movement in many postures. Keep the following in mind when choosing an office chair that best fits your needs.

While seated the body places twice as much pressure on spinal discs than standing. A chair that fits should provide the maximum amount of body and lumbar (lower back) support, and also be flexible for movement in the upright posture and the relaxed posture. The backrest of the chair should best support the lumbar region, and should adjust up / down and tilt forward / back. The tension of the backrest can also be adjustable on an office chair. The chair's seat height should be able to move higher and lower so that the users thighs are positioned parallel to the floor and that the feet rest firmly on the floor. To distribute the body's weight and pressure evenly, the seat should be able to adjust to the forward and back positions while the seat pan angle is able to tilt forward. For the most comfort, forearms should be parallel to the floor. Padded armrests should be both height and width adjustable. A chair's ability to rotate a full 360 degrees provides an ease of motion. For stability of an office chair look for a five-prong base. For the mobility of an office chair make sure the chair has casters.

An ergonomic office chair supports the body and provides a healthy, comfortable seating experience to best fit your individual work need.