A Chair is Not Just a Chair

Sometimes a chair is not just a chair and a pain in the backside is not the fault of a demanding boss. In fact, the steady onset of headaches, back, neck, shoulder, arm, pelvic or leg pain can mean there is a problem. The source of the pain may be due to improper posture caused by a chair that is not suitable for your body type. Alternatively, your discomfort could be from a combination of incorrect use of your workstation and the wrong kind of seating. A desk is not just a work surface and a chair is most definitely not just a resting place for your backside.

The first consideration when selecting a chair is the intended use. For the purpose of sitting and working for extended periods, a chair should be properly fitted to the user and be very supportive. Chairs for leisure use will likely recline and have more padding. In situations where padding or cushions will not be practical, chairs can be formed with ergonomics in mind; using supportive curves. When sitting, most of the body weight is spread over the back of the seat, thus the padding in that area should be more firm than on the front of the seat. If the cushioning is uniform throughout the seat, it will either not support the buttocks and back, or it will feel too hard on the back of the knees.

The back of the chair serves different purposes, according to its height. A chair with a relatively low back will support the lumbar region of the back, but may pose a problem for those with existing back issues. Instead, a chair with a back reaching the shoulders will support the entire back and shoulders. Most task chairs do not include a head rest; however it is very obviously important for seats in vehicles to include a headrest. Chairs meant to recline will always have a back reaching to just above the shoulder area. Having a higher back means that when the chair is reclined, it will transfer the weight of the body from the lower back to the shoulder area.

Ideally, every person who had to sit for extended periods of time would have a custom fitted chair. Many workers are taking a stand, demanding ergonomic desk chairs or pads. However, for some people with injuries or of non-average size, that may not be enough. Consider that the average American male is 5.9 feet tall and the average American female is 5.4 feet tall. That measurement is simply from the bottom of the foot to the top of the head. It does not take into account the popliteal height (distance from the underside of the foot to the underside of the thigh) or the sitting height (distance from the top of the head when seated).

Weight, posture and the possibility of existing injuries influence the needs of the user as well. A heavier person may require a wider chair with more back support. A shorter than average person may require a specialized workspace with a custom chair. The continued use of incorrect seating in situations where workers are sitting for long periods will end with chronic blood circulation issues, sciatica, back pain and other issues.

The investment in ergonomic chairs fitted to the individual is well worth the savings in possible medical leave on the part of the worker. Employers cannot afford to simply shuffle chairs around when there is a staffing change. A chair is not just a chair. It is a tool in prolonging the physical health of the worker.