A bad posture can be harmful for the body in more ways than one. For e.g. sitting in a working chair for long hours in a wrong posture (bending forwards or twisting to the sides) can lead not only to back problems but also create trouble for the digestive as well as respiratory organs among others. Premature fatigue, circulatory disturbances, overstraining the spine and vertebrate disks are some of the ill-effects of a bad sitting posture. Muscular and skeletal diseases could also develop over the years in worst cases.
A proper sitting posture can be achieved with a proper back support or backrest. The back of your chair should offer ample support to your upper and lower back. Your sitting position should be well balanced and comfortable. The backrest should ideally be slightly curved near the bottom to provide proper support to the spinal cord's natural lower back curve. An adjustable backrest is recommended as this can be used to change the angle, in case you want to change or shift your position while sitting. A back rest that conforms to the natural curves of the spinal column and provides adequate lumbar support reduces lower back fatigue while providing ample upper back support as well.
If you are used to a back rest, make sure it’s an adjustable one. Listed below are some useful tips on adjusting the back rest that will provide optimum support to your back -
Height of the backrest is important as it helps administer the required support for the lumbar section of the lower back, try and find the best backrest height for you.
Backrest tilt is important to adjust to different postures that you might use while sitting. It is important that there is enough support in all seating positions.
Horizontal backrest movement is what allows the movement of the backrest from side to side. This may also allow the chair to go a little deeper if required.
Some important features that you must consider while procuring a work chair -
A backrest that reaches the shoulder blades and is equipped with an adjustable kinetic resistance.
Provides support for the lumbar spinal column.
An adjustable seat that can be tilted forwards or backwards.
Auto-controlled regulation of backrest and seat to an ideal angle.
Strong springs that softly cushion the weight while sitting.
A minimum of five foot legs with rollers that provide stability.
Seat and backrest height adjustability.
Last but certainly not the least, here are a few words on the correct sitting posture. Correct sitting essentially means frequent change in position and posture. Ensure that different parts of the body are constantly used; this reduces fatigue affecting certain muscles or regions. The best height of your working chair is when your forearms on the table are at right angles to your upper arms. Make sure you are able to place your feet entirely on the floor, this will align your thighs and lower legs at right angles.
