An office chair should provide full lumbar support.
The lumbar vertebrae make up the lower part of the back, just above the buttocks. They carry a large amount of body weight, which subjects them to significant stress. For this reason, the lumbar vertebrae should be fully supported while sitting in a chair.
Significance
While the body is seated, the lumbar vertebrae are subjected to a much greater amount of stress. This stress not only leads to poor posture, but also causes stress on the tissues and joints around the spine.
Function
The lumbar portion of the spine naturally curves in slightly. The back of a chair should have a lumbar support that curves outwards, filling in the gap between the spine and the seat.
Placement
The lumbar support should sit flush against the lumbar region of the back. The support should not only maintain the inward curve of the lumbar spine, but also keep the ears, shoulders and hips in alignment.
Types
Some chairs are manufactured with an adjustable lumbar support, which can be adjusted to match the height needs of the person using the chair. Chairs may also come with a portable lumbar support, such as a curved cushion that can be fitted to the back of a chair to support the lumbar spine.
Alternatives
If a chair is not manufactured with a lumbar support, a rolled-up towel or small pillow should be used in its place. The towel can be rolled to the appropriate thickness and placed where lumbar support is necessary.
Tags: lumbar support, lumbar vertebrae, back chair, chair should, lumbar spine