1. Backrest adjustment



A backrest adjustment can help to prevent or even alleviate the discomfort that's associated with sitting for long periods of time. The features of a backrest adjustment include:

Backrest height - This allows you to find the backrest height which will provide support for the lumbar portion of your lower back. Backrest tilt - this feature will allow someone to adopt different postures while still keeping good support for the lower back. You can also adjust the feature as you wish. Horizontal backrest movement - this feature isn't the same as the tilt. Instead, the horizontal will move side to side, making the chair a little deeper for those who need it.

2. Chair height adjustment

Every office chair must have a height adjustment. With most chairs, a pneumatic lever is the most common way, as it allows you to readily adjust the height of your office chair from a seated position. Office chairs of the past require you to place a foot on the base of the chair then spin it around and around to raise or even lower the height.

3. Seat pan characteristics With a chair's seat pan, you should look for the following characteristics:

a. Rounded edge - found at the front of the seat pan, this will prevent uncomfortable pressure at the back of the legs or behind the knees.

b. Seat pan depth - Between the back of the knee and front of the chair there should be a space about the size of a clenched fist. For the legs, this will help maintain proper circulation.

c. Seat pan tilt - This will allow room for posture changes and also help to alleviate pressure on the back of the thighs.

d. Fabric - Be on the lookout for durable and permeable material that will dissipate moisture and heat.

4. Armrests

An armrest shouldn't interfere with the task at hand and always provide you room to move. Armrests aren't normally needed for keyboard use, although they can be used with reading, editing, or even doing work on a desk. If you have to have them, look for those with an adjustable height, adjustable width, and adequate padding.

5. Stability

A great office chair will have a five pronged base with the appropriate casters (soft for hard surfaces and hard for soft surfaces). Chairs with four prongs are less stable and prone to tipping sideways or backwards when the users leans in any direction.