Back pain caused by a work chair that provides insufficient support, how to overcome it?

Sitting in the same position for eight hours every day, like what we do in the office or while working from home, can put significant pressure on your back that you may not be aware of from minute to minute. Without the right equipment and actions such as a work chair that provides support and proper sitting posture, musculoskeletal issues that lead to chronic back pain can develop.

"If you are prone to back pain while working, there are several things you can do to address the issue. This article will help you understand the potential causes and provide tips and helpful advice so you can work free from discomfort."

What causes bad back at work

"Before you make changes to your workplace, it is important to try to understand the causes of your back pain. It could be one of many things – figuring out which ones are relevant to you is key to addressing the issue."

Sitting position

Your parents and teachers at school may have spent a lot of time telling you to sit up straight or not slouch in your chair – and for good reason. When the chair leans forward, the pressure on your back and neck increases.

When you are young, with young bones and muscles, this will not be a problem. However, old habits are hard to break, and as you grow older, pain and discomfort can develop due to poor sitting posture over the years.

If you find yourself slouching or leaning forward, sitting up straight will reduce tension in your lower back. It will also improve your core muscle strength.
There is some evidence that leaning back and stepping further may be a better solution, especially if you suffer from chronic back pain. A 2006 study from the University of Alberta showed that sitting back at a 135-degree angle produces less tension compared to sitting upright at a 90-degree angle. However, sitting upright still produces less tension compared to sitting facing forward.
Sitting with a 135-degree posture may not be practical when trying to use a keyboard and monitor, so experiment with your workspace and see what makes you most comfortable.

Ineffective settings

"Sometimes our equipment can hinder our efforts to feel comfortable at work. The difference made by ergonomically designed office furniture is truly remarkable; if you have adjusted your seating position but it hasn't worked, then this is the next place you should look."
You need a work desk or office chair that supports your efforts in working every day. That means an office chair designed for those with lower back issues, a practical desk setup that has everything within reach, and a monitor that doesn't make you strain your neck.

Stand and stretch

Standing reduces pressure on your spine better than any sitting position. That’s why it’s very important to take regular breaks and move. At least every hour (although ideally every 30 minutes) you should get up from your seat to stretch your spine and back muscles.
"You can have all the right equipment, but in the end, your back is not designed to stay still for hours on end. Moving more often is a simple yet very effective remedy for lower back pain."

What kind of office chair features do you need for a problematic back?

An office chair is an important piece of equipment, but for those suffering from back pain, it becomes very crucial. If you need ergonomic enhancements, make sure the device has all these features for maximum comfort during your workday.

• Lumbar support

Lumbar refers to the lower part of your spine. An ergonomic office chair has extra support in the waist (or lower back) area, providing cushioning between you and the back of the chair. Lumbar support also helps maintain the natural curvature of your spine by encouraging the lower back inward.

• Distance of the five-pointed star wheel axis

One of the biggest causes of back pain while working in an office is continuously moving in an unnatural position. If you have to stretch to reach something, you are putting unnecessary pressure on your body.
With a five-star wheelbase, you can push with your feet and rotate anything that needs to be picked up, thereby reducing strain on the lower back.
Tall, leaning
When you lean back in a chair, the pressure shifts from the lower back to the upper back and neck. Therefore, an office chair with a high backrest and headrest is very important for maintaining good ergonomics throughout your back area.

• Sitting position to relieve back pain

Although sitting back and adjusting your back position is generally important for reducing back pain, maintaining good posture can be achieved in many ways.

Take the following tip and apply it when you go back to your workspace.

• Both feet must be flat on the floor.
• Don't cross your legs.
• Keep your hips and knees at a 90-degree angle.
• Maintain the natural curve in your back
• Position the top of the monitor at eye level.

Now you have learned about the significant causes and the best solutions for back pain in the office, and whether you need to improve and look for equipment that can support your activities?

"As the largest and most complete office furniture equipment center in Indonesia, Oscarliving offers a variety of options for work chairs and desks with a wide range of prices that suit your budget and needs. Visit our website now." www.oscarliving.co.id