The Best Seat in the House

It’s one of the work-at-home mysteries that we’ll spend a fortune on modern technology while sitting all day long on a worn-out, decades-old chair. But a good office chair is just as important to your business as keeping up with techno-innovations.

Webster’s Dictionary defines ergonomics as an applied science, fitting people and things together to work efficiently and safely. In the world of office furniture, that means chair design that is comfortable while reducing your risk of injuries. Researchers at UCLA call these injuries “musculoskeletal disorders,” which is scientific talk for all those lower backaches, neck strains and tension headaches that can occur from prolonged sitting in the wrong chair.

Sound familiar? If so, it’s time for a new home office chair. Here are some things to consider when making your selection:

The Basics

• For good mobility, you’ll need a wheeled, 5-pedestal, star-shaped base.
• You’ll be spending lots of time, close up and personal with your seat pan. Make sure yours is a comfortable fit. Sitting in the center of the seat pan, you should have at least one inch of space on either side of your hips and thighs.
• Adjustability is a key factor in selecting your office chair. You may not need all the moving bells and whistles, but you definitely need adjustable seat height. The knob or lever should be accessible from the seated position.
• If you’re a big fan of armrests, make sure these are adjustable, too. The armrests shouldn’t be in the way of working at your desk.
• Don’t leave the store without instructions. The best ergonomically designed chair in the world won’t be much help if you don’t know how to use it.

The Extras

• Technically, material is not an extra, but the kind of material you choose can affect cost and comfort. For example, an inexpensive low-density foam cushion will sag and depress over time, and eventually you’ll end up with an imprint of your seat in your seat. Vinyl or leather material can cause that sticky, moisture problem. So consider both the long-term and short-term wear of your material.
• A chair back is technically not an extra either, but an adjustable chair back is optional as long as you’re comfortable and well-supported. You may have noticed a recent trend using mesh material for the chair back (and seat). The advantage with mesh is in the way it provides a breathable, spine-hugging fit.
• Even if you’re absolutely sure about your new office chair, check the return policy. The high-end brands usually include a warranty; the moderately priced ones may not. Pay the extra fee for a warranty. Just in case.

There’s one more thing that the ergonomics researchers found: If you’re comfortable, you’ll work longer and increase productivity. No mystery there.