Office chairs are designed to increase workers' productivity by enabling
them to sit comfortably for extended periods of time. Swivel chairs
allow their occupants to turn in a full circle and perform a variety of
tasks in their work area without getting out of their seats.
Chairs with wheels also allow for greater range of mobility; you can roll
from one end of the desk to another without having to get up or scoot
an otherwise awkward chair. Many of today's office chairs also have
adjustable seats, heights, armrests, backs, and lumbar supports to help
prevent stress injuries and back pain.
The style, size, and covering of an office chair are often used to subtly
convey one's status in the business world. For example, while most
clerical workers use rolling, swiveling cloth-covered chairs, the chief
executive might use a larger, high-backed leather chair.
Choosing the right office chair is important for your physical well-being,
especially if you sit in the chair for a number of hours each day.
Make sure the chair you select allows you to sit upright with your feet
on the floor and your knees at right angles. A slumped seating
position or limited lumbar support can cause neck pain or back pain.
If you work at a computer, make sure your desk height is about 27 inches
to help you relax your shoulders and reduce the risk of carpal tunnel
syndrome. To further protect your wrists, consider putting wrist
support pads in front of your keyboard and mouse.
Office Chair Styles — Office Chair Silhouettes
Office furniture manufacturers offer a broad range of office chairs,
and ergonomics is an important consideration. Many ergonomic chairs
are designed to help you sit with proper posture and avoid muscle tension,
but each individual is different and no single ergonomic chair design is
best for everyone. So you should test several chairs before buying
one. This will help ensure that your selected office chair has the
features you want and the comfort you need.