There are so many office chairs available online and in shops. It can be a hard decision if you are after an affordable office chair that is of a decent quality as well.
It is a rather personal decision as well because you are going to be using it for a while. You need to feel comfortable and the chair needs to fit into the environment as well.
Click here for some more Officeworks related stories.
Main Features to consider while selecting an office chair
- Back Height
The Back Height of the office chair relates to how high up the back the chair will support, generally speaking a mid back chair supports below the shoulder blades with emphasis on the lumbar region. A high back office chair supports up to the shoulder blades. An Extra High Back chair will give upper back support and may involve a headrest for Head support. You should choose the Back Height that is comfortable for you when sitting and provides support to a particular area if you have a problem there, i.e. Medium back for lower back issues, high back for Shoulder issues.
- Back Shape Square or Oval
Probably the most important feature of the office chair is the level of back support. Different Back shapes and chair moulds will provide different support. The Lumbar or lower back curve should be pronounced with the remainder of the back shape having a slight curve or moulded body shape. The Lumbar support should always be height adjustable.
- Back Support
The shape of the back of the office chair is generally a personal preference. The only point to consider would be that some back shapes will allow for more arm movement when keying by not contacting the elbows.
Some chairs can also offer depth adjustment on the lumbar support. If the seat is too long the user will get contact and pressure on the back of the knee joint. That can lead to blood flow or compression issues. If the Seat is too short the user will get less support along the Leg creating a sensation of perching. Now this can also lead to increased pressure on the back of the mid thigh.
- Seat Moulding
Always make sure your office chair seat is comprised of some form of high quality High Density Foam. Some office chair styles will have a moulded foam shape. Make sure this shape feels comfortable and fits your bottom shape.
- Mesh vs Upholstered
An upholstered office chair has a foam moulded backrest with fabric upholstery, providing a fitted back shape with lumbar support. Some upholstered chair backs can have lumbar adjustability via the use of strapping, tension dials and inflatable air supports. Most Physiotherapists and Occupational Therapists will recommend upholstered style chairs with good lumbar support for people with back issues. Mesh chairs are a modern variant in seating. These are preferred by designers for their slim back design and stylish looks.
Chairs come in different colours, shapes and sizes. Some even have massage functions and a footrest.
Click below to browse this affordable office chair collection.
