If You Have to Sit Get a Custom Fit

By Sandy Schroeder

So much has been said about the dangers of sitting that most of us are doing something, or rather anything we can, about it. But one of the most crucial items may be the chair that we use for all of those long hours of fixed positions.

I have been sitting working on a computer and inhabiting a desk for many moons with an assortment of good/bad/and hopeless chairs. In a full time position that required many hours, I had a top-of-the line chair that really had what resembled a car's six-way seating. In other situations at various times, I had office chairs that were just OK and I even toyed with the idea of sitting on my couch and switching over to a computer screen for evening work (bad idea).

Keep Looking

Overall, the most effective choice of all proved to be a used top-of-the-line chair that adjusted perfectly to me. My son found it in an online ad for office furniture clearances. There in the midst of all of the aging furniture were a couple of these chairs, in perfect condition, priced to sell at bargain rates.

If you did the math to determine how many hours a week you sit, versus how many you devote to all sorts of fixes in exercise and other movements to counter the consequences, getting the right chair at whatever price you can manage is probably a really smart move.

If the right one seems way too expensive, shop estate sales, office furniture sites, or check out individual online ads for office furniture sales. It may take a while, but you could wind up with the right chair at an affordable price. 

Adjust It to Fit You

At the same time, when you find a good chair, be aware of how it fits you, your shoulders, your back, the distance from the edge of the chair to the back of your legs, and the elevation tilt that keeps legs slightly above hips. Keep adjusting every lever until it fits you perfectly. The seat, back, arm rests and height should all be adjusted to fit you. Then sit up straight with the monitor at eye level and your feet flat on the floor.

Finally, see how you feel when you use it, and then move to another chair. If there is a dramatic difference you will know you are on the right track. Hang onto the chair, and try to duplicate that support as much as possible wherever you sit.

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Zionsville, Ind.