Don’t have an ergonomic chair at work? Technically, our spines are capable of maintaining a natural curvature without lower back support. When sitting for prolonged periods of time we tend to slouch forward which pushes out of sorts and causes discomfort. When we slouch, the natural inward curve of our spine goes in the opposite direction and curves towards the chair which leads to the structures in the lower back straining.
Any good lumbar support in an office chair should be flush against the small of the back. Most portable lumbar back supports have a specific shape for each end. If you’re using it correctly, the back support should keep your ears, shoulders and pelvis in alignment. Good support should maintain the natural inward curve of the spine too.
Another important thing to remember is that the back needs to be flush as that is the key to supporting the lower spine. The spine needs to be kept in a natural position and not overly accentuate the inward curve.
Ways to support your back at work:
• Ergonomic Chair
There are loads of ergonomic chairs are on the market but which type is best for you? Ergonomically sculpted chairs will feature built in lumbar support in the shape of the seat back. To test if the chair is a good match, the user needs to sit up straight with their head, spine and hips aligned. Then the user should sit all the way back against the seat back. If the chair is a good fit, the curve will follow the natural curve of the lower back.
• Adjustable Back Support Chair
All good office chairs have an adjustable seat back that can be lowered or raised to suit whoever is using it. The seat back should be adjusted similarly to the ergonomic chair above, where the curve of the lower spine is supported by the curve in the back of the chair. If there is more than one regular user, then this option is ideal.
• Portable Lumbar Back Support
Many of us purchase this as an added extra after suffering discomfort. This sort of support can come in different variations including a curved cushion or lumbar roll. Usually, these supports attach to the seat back and are adjustable to suit the user. Depending on budget, there are inflatable versions available allowing user to increase or decrease support levels.
• Pillow or Towel
There’s not always a need to purchase a special back support as a pillow or towel will do. Roll the towel or fold the cushion to desired thickness and place where you need support. Cheap trick!
Direct2U’s Top Ergonomic Chairs
• X Range Operator Chair
Available in standard and ergonomic this chair is ideal for prolonged seating in all office environments. The ergonomic back provides built in lumbar support. If that wasn’t enough -the X Range chair is completely customisable with a range of ergonomic add-ons available. These add ons include a 3 level mechanism enabling users to create their ideal seating position. Inflatable lumbar support and sliding seat options are available to create the most comfortable office chair around. The X Range is a superior comfort office chair option for multi-purpose office use.
• Enterprise Ultimate Office Chair
Looking for the ultimate luxury office chair with ergonomic qualities? We have it. The Enterprise Ultimate is a modern chair approved by UK chiropractic doctors. Enterprise Ultimate features a contoured foam back that provides full back support for prolonged comfort when working. This chair promises to remain comfortable for a whole 24 hours of use. We challenge you to find a chair that’s as stylish, comfortable and ergonomic.