Every person is different, so it should go that every person's office chair should also be different. However, most large offices purchase in bulk, putting unnecessary stress on worker's backs and arms. If you have the opportunity to choose your own office chair, you need to know what to look for to keep your position stress-free.

Ergonomics is key to choosing the right chair. Ergonomics is the design factor most important in choosing an office chair, because you will want a chair that works best to keep you spine in alignment along with alleviating stress on your wrists and elbows when you are working. Good ergonomics means less aches and pains along with more productivity.

When you are looking to purchase an office chair, there are some specific ergonomic functions that separate the good chair from the bad chair. The first component is to make sure that you can easily adjust your seat height. The technical term for the item offering you the flexibility is the the "pneumatic adjustment lever." Make sure you can adjust your office chair so that your feet remain flat on the floor with your thighs horizontal. Your arms should be even with the height of the desk.

Besides adjustable height, you should also look for the correct width and depth of the seat. You should be able to comfortably fit into the seat of your office chair with your back resting against the backrest of the chair. There should be about two to four inches between the back of your knees and the seat of the chair, and you should be able to adjust the backward and forward tilt of the chair, too.

Since your back is touching the backrest of the office chair, you should find one that has a good lumbar support. Since the lumbar portion of your back has a natural curve, you need to find a lumbar support that keeps your curve from flattening, causing you to slouch. The lumbar support in your office chair will prevent a lot of back pain. Finally, just as the lumbar support protects your spine, the remainder of the backrest should also be adjustable to do the same. It should be able to adjust to a forward or back angle and lock in place.

Other items involved in finding the right office chair involve seat material, arm rests, and a swivel. These items may be more of a personal choice. You can find good ergonomic chairs in a variety of styles from the most elegant to the most simple, and these chairs also come in a variety of prices. However, a good office chair is essential to preventing repetitive stress disorders like chronic back pain and carpal tunnel. So finding the right ergonomic office chair will allow you to make it your own.