The terms computer ergonomics and office ergonomics are often used interchangeably; they are usually referring to body-adapted ergonomic chairs, office chairs, stools, desks, keyboards, mice, and so on. The word ergonomics has become an important part of office terminology. The features of ergonomic chairs and ergonomic office chairs are listed below.

What you need to look for in an ergonomic chair depends a lot on what you'll most likely be using the chair for. Ergonomics can be applicable in many work environments including, medical, industrial and laboratory but it's growing more important than ever in today's office environment. When buying an ergonomic chair you'll want to choose a chair that has all the essential features and adjustments you need and still be affordable.

Managers' chairs frequently have a knee tilt mechanism, which is perfect for any multitasking; it makes it easy to go from computer work to phone conferences. Ergonomic comfort is very important to help keep employees alert. Executive chairs usually have holstered back rests and upholstered arms.

Ergonomic executive office chair or seating, also called managers' chairs, most often have a higher back and leather or stitched leather upholstery. If you want an industrial chair you'll want one that has durability for long-lasting use on the manufacturing floor. There are some extra large ergonomic chairs that are great for security guards because the size of this chair allows for equipment to be worn on the belt and not become hooked on the arms of the chair.

Armrests alleviate pressure on the back but can interfere with some lower desks. Tilt adjustments are preferred by most people to allow for a forward working or reclined posture. Almost all ergonomic task chairs come with a hydraulic seat height adjustment, which is probably the single most important adjustment mechanism on the chair.

Three or four of your fingers should fit between the seat pan's front edge and the back of the knees. The seat should always extend at least one inch from either side of the hips for optimum comfort because insufficient hip room can make you sit too far forward and not get enough support for the thighs. Adequate lumbar support is the most crucial element of the backrest.

Make sure that the front part of the seat should slope down slightly and allow a fist size gap between the back of the knees and the front edge of the seat pan to reduce pressure at the back of the thighs. The tilt mechanism maintains support as you move and recline; it's best to have your back slightly reclined while you're seated at your desk. Inadequate lumbar support places too much pressure on the spine.

You can think of an ergonomic chair purchase as an excellent investment in your health. When shopping, whenever you see the designation 'ergonomically designed,' find out if it's truly ergonomic or just a marketing ploy. Almost every catalog featuring ergonomic office and laboratory chairs stresses that their products are 'ergonomically designed'; do some research on the company and brand name because they may not be ergonomic at all. You won't be saving money or your health if you buy an ergonomic chair and find out later that it isn't.