How to set up your computer chair
How to set up a computer chair
Posted by Dr Michael Crane on 26th Feb 2015
As a specialist in ergonomics, I can't emphasize enough, the importance in setting up your computer chair as ergonomically desirable as possible. This aspect often determines whether the operator is injured or not. Injuries to the neck, shoulder and lower back regions occur frequently when sitting poorly. To help manage this risk, simply choose a computer chair that has a 5 star ergonomic rating. A 5 star rated computer chair will be effective in complying with the operator’s body shape & posture. These chairs have the below features as adjustments to help customize your sitting needs.
 |
Seat pan tilt. Generally most operators will begin with the seat pan horizontal to the floor. If the chair allows, tilt seat pan backwards or slightly uphill, so that front of seat pan is marginally higher than back of seat pan. This will prevent operator’s buttocks from sliding forward due to the uphill angle of the set pan. The operator can assume a more consistent posture. |
 |
Seat pan height - Adjust the seat pan height so your feet are flat on the floor and your knee joints are angled at around ninety degrees. The operator should sense, at the back of their thigh (hamstring region) a sense of evenness with no excessive pressure in any particular point. |
 |
Backrest height - Needs to be positioned so that the lumbar support section on the front of the backrest, marries in with the apex of the operators lumbar curve. Its height dependant, therefore shorter operators will adjust it to a lower level, whilst taller operators will adjust it to a higher level. |
 |
Backrest Reclination angle - Adjust the angle of the backrest to around 100°-110°. The idea is to lean against the backrest and transfer your upper torso body weight onto it. This will reduce the weight and therefore pressure applied to the lumbar region, in particular the discs. |
 |
Arm Rest Height - With your elbows at 90 degrees by your waist side, adjust the armrests so that they just touch the elbow/forearm surface. From here, simply elevate armrests further by half an inch. This will take pressure away from the shoulder girdle. |
|
Guard the Chair - Once the chair has been adjusted for your body requirements, make sure no-one disrupts this positioning. |
