Not surprisingly, one of the most common causes of back pain is poor posture. However, poor posture isn't just a problem when we're standing up: in fact, it's just as much of a problem when we're sitting down, especially those who spend long periods of time in n chair. That leads us to the latest trend among office workers – ergonomic office chairs. Can they ease back pain and help you lead a healthier life? Let's find out everything about it!

What is ergonomic chair?
Ergonomic chairs are designed to support the body in ways that promote better posture, comfort, and can accommodate different activities that may be performed at a desk. The chair should be adjustable in a variety of ways including seat height, seat width and depth, tilt, lumbar support, armrests, and headrest. The chair should swivel to allow it to be maneuvered to different areas of the workspace. Adjustability is the key to enabling different people to customize their settings for their comfort level.

The reasons why ergonomic chairs can improve your back pain:
An ergonomic office chair is a tool that, when used properly, can help maximize back support and maintain good posture while sitting. Here are a few reasons why it is great for helping to relieve our back pain.

Adjustable features
For a piece of office furniture to relieve back pain, it must be suitable for a range of body types. For this to be possible, products must offer a variety of adjustable features that allow the user to tailor their chair to their specifications. Ergonomic office chairs are fully adjustable with options to raise and lower the unit according to the user’s height. Users can also adjust the position of headrests and armrests according to their preferences. When a headrest is adjusted properly, it should enable the user to offload pressure from the neck and shoulders by pressing comfortably into the back of the chair. This can help reduce strain from the upper back. Similarly, armrests provide a comfortable resting area where the back and midsection are no longer required to support the full weight of the arms. Additionally, adjusting the height of your chair so that your legs sit at a 90 degree angle protects the lower back from pain caused by hip strain.

Flexible materials
In addition to adjustable features, materials that are flexible enough to contour to the body’s natural curvatures are an important element of any ergonomic desk chair. This way, your seat and backrest can mold to the shape of your body, providing superior comfort. Some computer chair backrests are made with a breathable mesh material that adequately supports the back, promoting a healthy curvature of the spine, while bending slightly to fit the user’s specific body type. Breathable mesh also offers better temperature control than that of a solid plastic or wooden backrest. This way, the back can rest comfortably without overheating or causing further inflammation in areas where back pain is present. And some chairs also support the lower back by way of a high-quality, cushioned seat. Comfortable cushioning materials are perfect for sitting for long periods at a workstation while maintaining optimal posture.

Lockable recline
Reclining chairs offer a number of benefits that help ease back pain. First, reclining in your desk chair takes pressure off of the spine, transferring it to your lower body. This also tends to be a more comfortable position than sitting upright, which promotes greater muscle relaxation throughout the back. Another way in which reclining features alleviate back pain is by creating healthy blood flow throughout the upper body. This can help reduce inflammation that frequently causes pain at specific points on the back. Of course, if your chair reclines too far back, it may not be a practical addition to a productive workstation. This is where lock ability becomes essential. This way, you can pinpoint the most comfortable position for your body, and avoid shifting around while reclining in your chair.

Lumbar support
The lumbar region is the lower part of the back, which naturally curves inwards towards the navel. This large area is made up of five vertebrae, and plays a major role in the body’s ability to support weight, exercise, and perform day-to-day activities. Unfortunately, this region of the spine is also highly susceptible to injuries within the surrounding muscles, discs, and ligaments. Consequently, back pain is especially common in this area. Ergonomic desk chair serve as an excellent way to increase lumbar support throughout the day. Many chairs are designed with a cushioned back, but lack the proper curvature and firm support that our chairs provide.

Improved posture
The source of back pain is often poor posture. When we position the body against the natural alignment of our spine for long periods, this can lead to inflammation and pressure on the nerves, joints, muscles, and ligaments. Unfortunately, desk workers tend to sink into a hunched position, rounding the shoulders forward and arching the spine throughout the day. While this may feel comfortable in the short term, poor posture can quickly lead to misalignment of the spine, resulting in sharp pains at various points on the back. Poor posture can also inhibit blood circulation, making it difficult for the body to heal itself after a back injury. Ergonomic desk chairs promote improved posture by adequately supporting the glutes, providing premium comfort, and molding to the body. After prolonged use of an ergonomic desk chair, many users find that their posture improves in day-to-day life.

Additional Tips for Back Pain Relief in the Office:
No matter how comfortable it is to sit in an office chair, prolonged static postures are not good for your back, so you should incorporate some quick stretches or some minimal exercises that will also help.

Regular Movement:Even with a supportive computer chair, it’s important to incorporate regular movement throughout the day. Take short breaks to stretch, walk, or perform simple exercises to relieve muscle tension and improve blood circulation.

Proper Posture: While an ergonomic chair provides support, practicing good posture is essential for long-term back pain relief. Sit with your back straight, shoulders relaxed, and feet flat on the ground. Avoid slouching or hunching forward, as it can strain the back muscles.

Exercises and Stretching: Engage in exercises and stretching routines specifically targeted at strengthening the back muscles and improving flexibility. Consult with a healthcare professional or physical therapist for guidance on exercises suitable for your condition.

An office chair with a proper ergonomic design and adjustable features can significantly contribute to reducing back pain and promoting spinal health. By investing in a chair that provides lumbar support, an adjustable backrest, cushioned seat, and other key features, you can create a supportive and comfortable workspace that minimizes strain on your back. At the same time, remember to incorporate regular movement, maintain good posture, and consider exercises and stretching routines to further alleviate back pain. With the right chair and healthy habits, you can experience relief from back pain and improve your overall well-being in the office.