| Not everybody knows exactly what ergonomic | | | | Real ergonomic chairs cost hundreds of dollars. |
| means, but it's getting to the point where | | | | Look for manufacturers that specialize in |
| everybody knows an "ergonomic chair" is better | | | | ergonomics and are known for producing quality |
| than just some plain old chair. Thus even Joe | | | | chairs. Examples are Herman Miller, Neutral |
| Newbie is more likely to buy the ergonomic chair | | | | Posture, and BodyBilt. Avoid gimmicky chairs (such |
| than the chair that is not advertised as ergonomic. | | | | as kneeling chairs and ball chairs) unless you have |
| The problem is stores and manufacturers are | | | | actually had the opportunity to try one and feel |
| starting to put the word ergonomic in front of | | | | it's a good fit for your body. Remember, the chair |
| every chair they sell, whether it has anything to | | | | that is comfortable when you first sit in it may |
| do with ergonomics or not. There is more to | | | | not remain so after several hours. |
| ergonomics than a little added cushioning in the | | | | Why and When Should You Consider Buying an |
| seat. | | | | Ergonomic Chair? |
| So, What Is an Ergonomic Chair? | | | | An ergonomic chair promotes good posture, |
| Ergonomics is the study of equipment designed | | | | reduces the fatigue that comes with sitting in one |
| with humans in mind, meant to reduce operator | | | | position for a protracted period of time, and it can |
| fatigue and discomfort. Specifically, an ergonomic | | | | even reduce the likelihood of developing Carpal |
| chair should be highly adjustable, including not just | | | | Tunnel Syndrome and other repetitive stress |
| a knob for lowering and raising the chair but | | | | injuries (many of these hand and wrist injuries |
| adjustability in the back tilt and the height of the | | | | start with poor posture at the computer). |
| arm rests. An ergonomic chair should also have a | | | | Anybody who spends more than an hour a day |
| sturdy frame (avoid plastic), a great deal of | | | | at the computer should consider buying a good |
| support, especially in the lumbar region, and | | | | ergonomic chair. If you work 8 hours a day or |
| padding that has some give and supports your | | | | more at the computer, you should definitely have |
| body without losing shape. | | | | a good ergonomic chair. |