Now that you have your new chair you're ready to create an ergonomic work station. You want to create an environment that will increase productivity and reduce stress and discomfort. The first step is to fit your chair to your desk. Adjust the height of your chair so that you can properly and comfortably use the computer keyboard and mouse.
You want to position your chair so your hands are comfortably resting on the keyboard while your forearms are parallel with your thighs and your feet are flat on the floor. This helps maintain blood flow in the hands and arms and decreases muscle strain and tension. Do not use a wrist rest as this puts pressure in the nerves running through your wrists. If your wrist are naturally resting on the pad in front of the keyboard your chair is positioned too high.
Furniture Floor Pads
Next, adjust your chair so that it has a reclined position. The back of the chair should be between 95 to 115°. Leaning back slightly from an upright position provides comfort, reduces stress to the lower back, and relaxes your muscles. But don't recline too far. Keep your back naturally curved. Ergonomic chairs provide lumbar supports that support your lower back to help maintain the natural curve of your spine.
The seat of your chair should end before your knees. This reduces pressure to the nerves in the back of your knees and helps with circulation to the legs and feet. As you use your ergonomic chair keep your feet flat on the floor or footrest. Tucking your feet under the chair adds tension to the knees and ankle joints and decreases circulation.
Although most people think of sitting down as a relaxing position, it can often put a lot of stress on the body. Remember to take breaks from sitting in your chair. A quick break decreases pressure to the spine and increases circulation throughout the body. Avoid leaning forward for a long period of time to look at your computer screen or to use your desk. The back rest of your chair helps relieve stress. Adjust your armrest so that can comfortably ret your arms while you work to avoid creating pressure points.