Buyer Beware: Is That Ergonomic Chair Really Ergonomic?

Not everybody knows exactly what ergonomic means, but it's getting to the point where everybody knows an "ergonomic chair" is better than just some plain old chair. Thus even Joe Newbie is more likely to buy the ergonomic chair than the chair that is not advertised as ergonomic.

The problem is stores and manufacturers are starting to put the word ergonomic in front of every chair they sell, whether it has anything to do with ergonomics or not. There is more to ergonomics than a little added cushioning in the seat.

So, What Is an Ergonomic Chair?

Ergonomics is the study of equipment designed with humans in mind, meant to reduce operator fatigue and discomfort. Specifically, an ergonomic chair should be highly adjustable, including not just a knob for lowering and raising the chair but adjustability in the back tilt and the height of the arm rests. An ergonomic chair should also have a sturdy frame (avoid plastic), a great deal of support, especially in the lumbar region, and padding that has some give and supports your body without losing shape.

Real ergonomic chairs cost hundreds of dollars. Look for manufacturers that specialize in ergonomics and are known for producing quality chairs. Examples are Herman Miller, Neutral Posture, and BodyBilt. Avoid gimmicky chairs (such as kneeling chairs and ball chairs) unless you have actually had the opportunity to try one and feel it's a good fit for your body. Remember, the chair that is comfortable when you first sit in it may not remain so after several hours.

Why and When Should You Consider Buying an Ergonomic Chair?

An ergonomic chair promotes good posture, reduces the fatigue that comes with sitting in one position for a protracted period of time, and it can even reduce the likelihood of developing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and other repetitive stress injuries (many of these hand and wrist injuries start with poor posture at the computer).

Anybody who spends more than an hour a day at the computer should consider buying a good ergonomic chair. If you work 8 hours a day or more at the computer, you should definitely have a good ergonomic chair.

About The Author

TC Thorn has more information on her site Ergonomics Information.

Not 'third front', just electoral alternative: Karat
Times of India, India - 9 hours ago
NEW DELHI: In what is the first clear signal that coming together of Left, BSP, TDP and others is not the 'third alternative' based on common programmes and ...

Supervisor Offers Alternative Site For 2 New Schools
Washington Post, United States - 8 minutes ago
By Erica Garman Living in LoCo is Erica Garman's blog devoted to all things interesting in Loudoun County. You can find it athttp://www.loudounextra.com. ...

Alternative health centre accused of 'brainwashing’
Telegraph.co.uk, United Kingdom - 9 hours ago
An alternative healing centre based in London has been accused of “brainwashing” one of its clients into making donations totalling hundreds of thousands of ...

Washington Post
Gujarat warming up to concept of alternative power
Expressindia.com, India - 9 hours ago
With proposals of a 100 mw solar power plant by Euro Ceramics Ltd. and the world’s largest 5000 mw solar power project by the Clinton Foundation under ...
Thinking About Renewable Energy New York Times
all 6 news articles

President advises farmers to find alternative sources of income
Hindu, India - 19 hours ago
"Farmers' suicide in the country is a matter of serious concern and it is not a solution to the problem, therefore they should opt for alternative sources ...

Mellow, sun-drenched, and discreet, Corsica provides an ...
TheChronicleHerald.ca, Canada - 19 hours ago
For the mellower segment of the boldface crowd, southern Corsica has lately emerged as a discreet alternative to the South of France. ...

Mediocre job performance is better than the alternative
The Gazette (Montreal), Canada - 22 hours ago
Canada's job market is in mediocre shape, we discovered yesterday, and when you look at the alternative, this is wonderful news. For the past few weeks, ...

MSN UK News
Blair 'only alternative to Brown'
The Press Association - 22 hours ago
Tony Blair is the only alternative leader who would dramatically improve Labour's electoral prospects if Gordon Brown was removed as Prime Minister, ...
‘Only alternative to Brown is Blair’ Howrah News Service
Brown's sinking, but where are the alternatives? Spectator.co.uk (subscription)
Only Blair could save Labour now Independent
all 177 news articles

There is An Alternative to Going to the Doctor -- Doctors Are ...
MarketWatch - Sep 5, 2008
He then goes on to urge readers to investigate the world of alternative treatments; providing general directions, treatment alternatives and specific ...

Hill Country Times
Bush Urges Expanded Oil-Drilling Vote Before Election (Update1)
Bloomberg - 13 hours ago
Bush's final list of election-year priorities includes approving the Colombia and Korean free-trade agreements, extending relief from the alternative ...
Video: Bush: Congress Should Allow Offshore Drilling AssociatedPress
Congress's Return Adds Another Facet to Elections Washington Post
Bush Wants More Offshore Oil Drilling Voice of America
PoliGazette - U.S. News & World Reportall 488 news articles

Wind Chimes and more...

Windchimes for great gifts!

Youth People Obsessed With Sunless Tanning