Imagine you're looking for an ergonomic office chair that is high-quality. You've probably come across the never-ending debate over ergonomics and armrests for office chairs while shopping.
The topic of ergonomics is often about the impact of armrests on productivity. Some manufacturers claim adjustable armrests have many benefits. Others claim that armrests can hinder the user's ability reach the desk.
Some people may be unfamiliar with the concept of ergonomics. Let me briefly explain: ergonomics refers to the art of creating or organizing workspaces, products for workspaces, systems, or studying people in their workplace environment. It is designed to be as productive and comfortable as possible for those who use it.
A good-quality office chair is essential for workspaces. It will increase productivity and make employees feel more comfortable. A variety of ergonomic features make it easy to improve your posture and give you the right amount of support.
When buying an ergonomic chair, we all know what to look out for: adjustability, seat height and width, depth, lumbar support, backrest, and depth. The question is, "Are armrests good ergonomically?" This article will explore the question in greater detail. But first, let's get some background.
What are Office Chair Armrests?
Armrests for office chairs provide a comfortable place to rest your forearms. They are made of padded or upholstered arms that can be attached to the chair. When you use a computer, a wrist rest or armrest can relieve pressure on your wrists.
Armrests not only provide a place for your forearm to rest, but also allow your arm to breathe. They don't cause neck and shoulder strains during long work hours. There are many kinds of office chairs. Some office chairs don't have armrests while others have adjustable or static armrests.
These are some of the most popular armrests:
T-Shaped Armrests-The name refers to the armrest that looks like the letter "T", which attaches at the chair mechanism. Many armrests in the T-shaped shape can be adjusted in height.
Looped Armrests-These armrests form an entire circle and can be fixed or adjusted. Some options may offer looped armrests.
Fixed armrests – A fixed armrest limits the adjustability of office chairs. We can see the fixed armrests for executive and budget office chairs.
You might be curious about armrests for office chairs now that you are familiar with the concept.
Why do most office chairs come with armrests?
Before personal computers were introduced to offices in 1980s, armrests for chairs were a simple accessory that supported workers. As technology advances, office furniture is constantly changing. Office chair designs are now able to support prolonged sitting.
Ergonomics research was developed in the 1990s due to the nature of desk work and the adverse effects of prolonged sitting. Adjustable office chair armrests were developed, which provide extra support for the upper abdomen and forearms for people who work for long periods.
Office Chair Armrests Position
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The armrests should be placed at the natural elbow position. If you're sitting at your computer or laptop, your armrest should be placed so that your elbows are at 90 degrees. People can protect their wrists from excessive straining during typing by keeping the elbow at a 90-degree angle.
An Interesting Fact
Scientific American claims that the ratio of your arm length to your height is approximately 1:1, based upon research.
We have already covered the history of ergonomic chair armrests, so let's get to the main question.
Are armrests good for ergonomics?
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First, armrests on ergonomic office chairs promote a neutral and correct sitting position for the body.
What conditions could make armrests ineligible for ergonomics purposes?
If the chair armrest restricts hand movement. If we have difficulty reaching the desk. Armrests are then not ergonomically appropriate.
Recent research has confirmed the importance and use of armrests in computerized workplaces over the past 25 years. Research has shown that armrests have a significant role in clinical ergonomics and prevent the development of musculoskeletal disorders in upper extremities.
Remember: Armrests only work if they are comfortable!
All your problems can be solved by choosing the right office chair for you based on where and what your body is at work.
We will now look at the benefits of armrests for ergonomic office chairs.
Facts and studies
These points were derived from studies and facts that demonstrate the need for ergonomic chair armrests.
Our arms and hands make up approximately 12% of our total body mass. It is exhausting to hold that much weight for long hours without support. Office chairs with armrests help reduce the pressure on the shoulders and neck. Studies show that armrests in the right configuration can reduce the force exerted on the spine by 10%. It also reduces the force exerted on the hips by approximately 50% when seated. According to Journal of Physical Therapy Science forearm support relaxes upper trapezius muscles and deltoid muscle, which alleviates pain in neck and shoulders. Humanics ErgoSystems states that chair armrests significantly delay the onset of fatigue. Arm extension of eight inches can cause fatigue within ten minutes. However, armrest support significantly extends the time.
These are just a few of the important factors to consider when optimizing the use of armrests. Every person is unique so a standard chair can't be adjusted to accommodate all users. The armrests should be adjustable to promote ergonomics.
Important Note:
Armrests must be able to provide the benefits stated for the person who is using them. Armrests that are ergonomic can be adjusted to suit the needs of every person.
Armrests that can be adjusted for height, width, length and pivots are more likely to suit your body type and position. We will quickly review all the adjustable aspects of office chair armrests in order to better understand their function and importance.
What should you look for in an office chair armrest?
These guidelines will assist you in your search for the right office chair armrest.
Adjustable Height
The ideal height range for armrests is between those that are at the same level as your desk and those that can fit under it. You should be able to reach your desk and sit comfortably at the ideal height. Armrests that are too high or low can cause tension in your shoulders and lead to excessive slouching.
Adjustable Width
Armrests should be considered not only in terms of height but also width. Armrests should be able to be moved towards or away from the upper body. This is especially important if multiple people are using the chair. Your elbows should be under your shoulders. This is the best position to sit. Choose a chair with neck support.
Tip: Look for armrests with a width of at least four inches. This is according to research and suits 90% of people.
Adjustable length
An adjustable length armrest for an ergonomic office chair is another thing to look out for. Some ergonomic chairs have this feature. These chairs slide back and forth to create a comfortable forearm position. You should not be too close to your desk, but the chair should be just right.
Pivoting armrests
Imagine your chair as a bird's eye view. The chair with pivoting armrests may look like the letter V. Ergonomics chairs that have pivoting armrests work well for those who need to keep their wrists close together while working.
It can prevent you from slouching. This type of armrest is great for those who are constantly using their smartphones and tablets.
Flip-up armrests
Flip-up armrests are the best. These are different than the pivoting because they can be flipped up when not in use. This is a great option for those who don't like armrests while they work or sit in their office chairs.
Flip-up armrests are also suitable for smaller workspaces and low desk space.
Only a handful of chairs with flip-up armrests allow for any modification other than flipping upwards. This could be a problem in terms of ergonomics. This is a big decision. Take your time. Consider your workspace and body type when determining the height and width of the armrests.
What does BIFMA have to say about armrests
The 2013 Ergonomics Guideline on Furniture for Office Work Spaces is published by the Business and Institutional Furniture Manufacturer Association (or BIFMA).
Armrests with height and width adjustment should be available for females from the 5th percentile to the 95th percentile of males. Armrests that can be adjusted in height and width should have a range of sizes that covers the 5th percentile for females and the 95th percentile for males.
Armrests are ergonomically beneficial. Armrests can actually improve ergonomics, as long as they don't affect the natural posture of the person seated. You can adjust or remove armrests to suit your needs.
Takeaway
Armrests are great for ergonomic office chairs because they improve ergonomics. Armrests in an office chair can help relieve your neck, arm, and shoulder pain. Armrests support your upper body, reduce pain and help you relax.
Your upper body will relax, which can increase productivity and improve your body posture. It also prevents you from getting injured. You should not sit in your chair for too much. A chair with armrests will provide support for your arms and make your workday more productive.
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