Ergo Tips

How to Adjust an Ergonomic Chair

It is very important that an ergonomic chair is adjusted for the user.

Five Ergo Tips When Sitting:

#1. Don’t lean on armrests while typing.
#2. Both feet should be firmly planted (on the floor or on a footrest).
#3. Sit back against the backrest for support when working. (Don’t perch on edge of chair)
#4. Elbows and knees should be at a 90-degree angle.
#5. The monitor should be at an arms-length distance.


How to Select an Ergonomic Chair

#1. Cylinder size: This is what enables the chair to go up and down. You want to make sure that the chair can go low enough so your arms are at a 90-degree angle when typing and both feet are on the floor. High enough if you have a sit-stand for the same posture.

#2. Seat Pan: Ergonomic chairs have seat pans that slide, so make sure that you adjust it. Once adjusted, you should have 2-3 fingers of space between the back of your knee and the front edge of the chair. If you have more space, you will need a larger seat pan.

#3. Back Rest: Ergonomic chairs have backrests that go up and down. You want to adjust the backrest so that the lumbar is in the curve of your back. Different chairs offer varying degrees of lumbar support. Some have adjustable lumbar pumps.

#4. Arms: Ergonomic chairs have adjustable arms. If the arms are banging against your desk, adjust the arm to avoid hitting your desk. The arms are not meant to support your arms while typing, and should not get in the way of properly sitting at your desk.

#5. Slim or wide backrest: A slimmer backrest promotes better posture, opens up breathing and enables you to move your arms without hitting the backrest.

 

How to Properly Use a Sit-Stand To Feel Great!

Different Types of Sit Stands:

#1. Desktop Converters: These are portable units that are placed on top of an existing surface. They come in electric and manual adjustments.

#2. Retrofit existing desks: Pacific Ergonomics can take existing non-adjustable desks, and turn them into adjustable desks. A very popular option to maintain the investment of current office furniture.

#3. Stand-alone sit-stand desks: There are sit-stand units in every size that are electric with presets. Monitor arms can be attached.

#4. Keyboard tray sit stands: Some keyboard trays can rise to a standing or seated position.

The Benefits of Using a Left Hand Mouse if You Are Right Handed

How to Select an Ergonomic Keyboard To Reduce Hand and Wrist Strain

  • If you don’t regularly use the numbers on the keyboard, consider getting a keyboard without numbers. This will decrease the repetitive motion distance of using your mouse and reduce wrist and arm strain.