Ergonomic Back supports

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Ergonomic back supports and ergonomic chair options.

There are several types of lumbar back supports available in different types of office chairs:

Ergonomic chairs. There are a many ergonomic chairs that are ergonomically moulded with a lumbar support built into the chair. To test if the ergonomic chair siuts you  well,  should sit up straight, with the head, spine, and buttocks in alignment. Then sit all the way back against the seat. An ergonomic back support should naturally follow the curve of the lower back. This type of lumbar support is not adjustable, so it is a good idea to test properly  to ensure a correct fit.

 Adjustable ergonomic back supports. Many office chairs have a seatback that can be lowered or raised to custom fit the user. The seatback should be set up so that the curve of the lower spine is supported by the curve in the back of the chair. This is a good option where multiple users will be using the chair.   

Portable lumbar ergonomic back supports. These comprise of a curved cushion or lumbar roll, fitted to the seat back of an office chair. They can be manually placed to fit the proper areas of the back and lumbar region. These lumbar rolls  can be used in conjunction with most types of chairs to best fit the individual's need. Some products may be inflatable to increase or decrease the amount of support. Many portable lumbar roll supports are designed to sit in a certain way, facing up or down. This type of ergonomic back support may be transferred to the office chair, to use in chairs at home,  or in the car.

Alternatively a small pillow or rolled up towel can be used when a commercially back support is not avaliable. By rolling or folding a towel to the desired thickness, this support is placed wherever the user deems fit for the most comfort and support while sitting in an office chair. 

Good ergonomic back supports will aleviate and prevent many back problems in the office, however avoid sitting in the same position for long periods. Take a break every hour for five minutes, stand up and stretch,  walk about and loosen up before going back to work. Also review a workstation ergonomic checklist and see what other measures you can take to prevent back problems and work related injury.