Orthopedic chairs - back support chairs

This page is about orthopedically designed chairs aimed at back and body support for the user when seated. i.e. A chair that can offer optimum levels of support to the back and lumbar areas whilst placing the limbs in comfortable and healthy positions for work or relaxation.

Static back support chairs are also known as ERGONOMIC CHAIRS and they are designed with posture and back support as primary objectives.

These kinds of orthopedic chairs can take the form of office chairs, or sitting room chairs and are often described as "ergonomic" or ergonomically designed chairs.

What is or is not an orthopedic chair is often hard to define. Chairs with "lift and tilt" features, massage motions and heat facilities are often included in the orthopedic chair category, but these functions are really additional features on top of the orthopedic design itself. The features of these chairs are described on other pages.

What an orthopedic (ergonomic) chair does

The objective of an orthopedic chair is to position the skeletal and muscular structure of the body in a posture and alignment that places it in a minimal stress situation.

This kind of sitting posture typically sees the back at an angle close to verticality, with the upper legs at an angle that is slightly greater than 90 degrees to the body’s alignment.

The padding and support of an orthopedic chair, combined with this body alignment, encourages the back to maintain a healthy double "S" profile. This posture also places the head in a position where it does not cause the muscles in the neck and upper back to be placed under unnecessary strain.

Most orthopedic office chairs have high levels of adjustment enabling them to take account of each individual’s height, body shape, comfort level and working environment.

Sitting room chairs tend to be firm, high backed and with a seat area that is slightly more elevated than a standard "easy" chair.

High quality orthopedic office chairs have multiple adjustment features and often possess a "space age" look about them.

Why buy an orthopedic chair

The answer is simple. Whether your back and overall heath are good or bad, your body will benefit from being seated in a chair that provides the optimum levels of support for your body.

Orthopedic chairs, like orthopedic beds, are designed to balance the weight and movements of the body in the most effective way, thereby reducing pressure on joints and muscle groups and avoiding the resulting aches and pains.

Many people think of orthopedic chairs as a product to consider when they are older, but in actual fact, most people would benefit from the use of an orthopedic chair at any age.

Additionally, with a variety modern designs and leather and fabric finishes, many orthopedic "easy" chairs are stylish as well as comfortable.

If you have an existing back or lumbar problem, an orthopedic chair may be a necessity rather than a luxury, In the modern work place, the provision of this kind of chair is now considered a standard requirement.

For a list of features to look for in an ergonomic office chair, see our Ergonomic office chairs information page or our Orthopedic (ergonomic) office chairs page. If you want to see the ergonomic office chair that I use, go to this my chair page.