Use of chairs to treat back pain
Use of chairs to treat back pain
Back pain has become a common problem with the today’s working generation. One main reason is sitting for long hours. Sitting in static position for long hours increases stress in the back, neck, shoulders, arms and legs. Prolonged static postures also adds large amount of pressure to the back muscles and spinal discs. Most individuals when sitting in an office chair for a long period have a natural tendency to slouch over in the chair, thus overstretching the spinal ligaments and straining the discs and surrounding structures in the spine. Over and above all this, faulty chairs are equally responsible for back pain. Below we have discussed few guidelines for office chairs.
Guidelines for office chairs
Ergonomic chairs are considered to be the best chairs, that can provide you best back support and help you to maintain good posture while sitting. Ergonomic chairs offer great flexibility and can be adjusted to individual needs for better results. However remember that before adjusting an office chair, first establish the desired height according to your desk or workstation. To make sure that your office chair and work area comfortable and will cause the least amount of stress to your spine:
1. Elbow measure
For better posture and comfort make sure that you sit with elbows at a 90-degree angle.
2. Thigh measure
For a better posture, check that you can easily slide your fingers under your thigh at the leading edge of the chairs.
3. Calf measure
Pass your clenched fist between the back of your calf and the front of your chair to measure the calf height. If you can’t do this easily it is time to change the chair.
4. Low back support
For better back support press your back against the back of your chair. Make sure that your chair has a cushion that will cause your lower back to arch slightly thus preventing slumping forward or slouching down in the chair as you tire. This will avoid extra stress on the structures in the low back, and particularly on the lumbar discs.
Since most professionals especially software professional append maximum time sitting in the chairs, it is very crucial that right postures are maintained to prevent stress on the lower back thus avoiding the consequent pain. Proper chairs are very crucial to reinforce the right posture.
