Moreover, the natural tendency for most people is to slouch over or slouch down in the chair, and this posture can overstretch the spinal ligaments and strain the discs and surrounding structures in the spine.

Sitting on an ergonomic chair can improve your comfort and the health of your back. There is no single “best ergonomic chair” that fits all body shapes and sizes and that is comfortable for everyone. You can only tell whether an ergonomic chair will work for you if you sit in the chair for some time. Of course, if it’s really uncomfortable then you will know this pretty quick. But, sometimes things that seem comfortable after a few minutes use don’t work so well in the long term. The seat shouldn’t feel too hard or too soft, be uncomfortable under your hips or thighs, and it should not be too long.

While traditional chairs are designed to provide complete support, an exercise ball (Gym Ball) helps develop your abdominal and back muscles while you sit. It requires active use of one’s muscles (for balance and to sit upright). If you have an injured back or other health problems, it is advisable to first talk with your doctor prior using exercise ball for sitting.

What can I do if I have acute low back pain and not having “ergonomic chair”?

• Sit as little as possible, and only for short periods of time (10 to 15 minutes).
• Sit with a back support (Chiropractic Massage Pillow) placed at the hollow of your back.
• Keep your hips and knees at a right angle (use a foot rest or stool if necessary). Your legs should not be crossed and your feet should be flat on the floor.
• When you are not using a back support sit at the end of your chair and slouch completely. Draw yourself up and accentuate the curve of your back as far as possible. Hold for a few seconds. Release the position slightly (about 10 degrees). This is a good sitting posture.
• Sit in a high-back chair with rest arms. Sitting in a soft couch or chair will tend to make you round your back and won’t support the hollow of your back.
• At work, adjust your chair height and work station so you can sit up close to your work and tilt it up at you. Rest your elbows and arms on your chair or desk, keeping your shoulders relaxed.
• When sitting in a chair that rolls and pivots, don’t twist at the waist while sitting. Instead, turn your whole body.
• When standing up from the sitting position, move to the front of the seat of your chair. Stand up by straightening your legs. Avoid bending forward at your waist.

Finally, no matter how comfortable you are in your chair, prolonged, static posture is not good for your back and is a common contributor to back problems and muscle strain. Try to remember to stand, stretch and walk for at least a minute or two every half hour. A twenty minute walk on a daily basis will help even more, promoting healthy blood flow that brings important nutrients to all the spinal structures.