By: Chelsea on March 18th, 2011
You already have an ergonomic set up at your work office where you spend the majority of your time, so do you really need to have your home office ergonomically equipped too? Most would probably speculate no, especially for those that spend little time in their home office except for the occasional few hours after work or on the weekend. Outfitting your home office with proper ergonomic equipment is just as important as your work set up at your job, particularly for those who work from home. When you are at work, you may have little say in regards to which office chair you get to use and what office furniture gets purchased. However, at your house, you are the boss of your office furniture, and therefor get the freedom to determine exactly what you want and need in your home office. With this freedom, you can ultimately decide what you want and need in order to make working at home a pleasant and pain-free experience.
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The Office Chair – Perhaps the most critical piece of office furniture in any work environment is an office chair; the most used piece of furniture that can greatly contribute to your overall comfort. If you only use your home office chair for a few hours a day, you will want to make sure that your chair is comfortable and has at least a little bit of adjustability. Ideally you will want a chair that has seat height adjustment, reclining capabilities(typically known as tilt lock and tilt control), and some level of lumbar support for your lower back. If you work from home or use your home office chair for more than a few hours a day, you will want an ergonomic office chair that is fully adjustable to meet your body’s needs and keep you sitting pain-free.
Ergonomic Office Chair
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The Keyboard – Ever experience aches and pains in your wrists or forearms while typing? This is the result of a poorly positioned keyboard and can lead to serious health injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome if not addressed. Your computer’s keyboard should not be placed on top of your desk as this will cause strain to your wrists. It is best to have a keyboard tray installed underneath your desk as this allows for the most natural typing position with your shoulders rested and arms in a comfortable position. A keyboard tray is a beneficial ergonomic accessory useful in any office environment where hours of typing at a desk is required, whether you are at work or at home.
Keyboard Tray
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The Computer Monitor - Your computer monitor should be properly adjusted so that the top of the monitor is at eye level or slightly below. You should not have to look up at the monitor because this will put strain on your neck and upper back. An easy way to properly position your computer monitor with minimal effort is with a monitor arm which allows for quick and easy adjustment. Most monitor arms are designed to fit any monitor of any size and come with an easy to install clamp or mount that does not cause any damage to your desk. If you use a laptop in your home office, consider purchasing a laptop dock to avoid neck pain from tilting your head down to read your computer screen.
Monitor Arm
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The Footrest – A footrest is a necessary addition for any office where your feet can not be firmly placed on the floor when sitting in your office chair. This may be the case if your desk height is higher than normal or if you are a shorter individual whose chair can not be adjusted low enough. A footrest is also a nice office accessory to have if you want to rest your feet or have something to prop them up on when reclining in your chair. While you may not find a footrest in every office you enter, it is a nice addition to have if you need a break from keeping your feet flat on the floor, especially if you have a movable footrest that encourages movement of the legs to help avoid cramping or stiffness.
Footrest
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Task Light – More often than not, the lights in our houses are not adequate for reading especially for long periods of time. Bad lighting can cause eye strain and an uncomfortable work atmosphere. Just as you would have a reading light for your books, a task light is a great office accessory to invest in when working at home. Your task light should be placed on your desk close to your computer monitor so that you have proper lighting when looking at your computer screen. Task lights are a relatively inexpensive investment and are an important accessory to have in home offices where the lighting usually is not as adequate as it should be.
Pixie Task Light
Setting up an ergonomic home office requires minimal effort and time, however it can sometimes be more of an investment than one would hope for. The benefits you will receive from having an ergonomic home office will greatly outweigh the costs by saving you from unnecessary medical ailments that can occur from purchasing cheap office furniture or trying to cut corners in order to save money. Your overall health can be affected from having an improper work set up and can lead to serious medical issues down the road. Your home is where you feel most comfortably so your home office should not be any different.
To view Sitbetter’s comprehensive site of ergonomic office chairs and ergonomic office accessories please click here.
By: Chelsea on December 30th, 2010
The Webble Active Footrest is the newest way to relieve your legs and feet while sitting and working for extended periods of time. A new way to make your office even more ergonomically correct, the Webble features 4 wheels beneath a durable frame wrapped in foam and mesh that together create a footrest intended for continual movement.
Available in 3 different color schemes including black mesh/black foam, black mesh/red foam, and silver mesh/black foam. Although it comes with wheels, don’t get any idea about skating on the Webble because it comes with a preventive safety lock mechanism to prevent improper usage. The Webble features smooth gliding casters ideal for carpet use.
What we thought:
Fun and innovative. When we first received the Webble, I wasn’t sure what to make of it as it looked like a mesh skateboard. However, after trying the Webble out at my desk, after a few weeks I started getting used to the concept of having a footrest that rolled and I’m really starting to enjoy using it on a daily basis. Being 5’2″ it’s nice to have something to prop my feet up on to ensure I get proper circulation while sitting with my feet flat on the footrest. I have also found that having a footrest that moves and isn’t stationary is actually beneficial as it allows me to move around more often instead of feeling cramped by sitting in the same position for 8 hours a day.
The Bad:
Not every product can be perfect, including the Webble which has a couple of drawbacks. The first drawback I’ve found is the price point; it is understandable many can not afford the Webble starting at $150, however it is also important to keep in mind the benefits of using an active footrest which makes purchasing this product well worth it. The second drawback is that it takes a bit of getting used to, especially if you are accustomed to using a stationary footrest.
The Good:
While the price may seem a bit steep the advantages outweigh the disadvantages by far, making the Webble a worthwhile investment. The Webble has four casters located under its frame that allows you to roll the footrest in any direction. The constant motion is good for your legs because it promotes circulation and eliminates the cramping feeling you may start to feel in your legs from sitting in the same position for too long. The casters also have a locking capability to keep the Webble in place if too much pressure is applied, in order to avoid accidents that could potentially incur from standing or skating on the product.
The overall construction of the Webble is also a force to be reckoned with. The mesh used to cover the top of the Webble is virtually indestructible as I found found after using it for months now. I’ve dug my heel into the Webble countless times, work stilettos and placed the heel on top of the mesh with firm pressure, and it has been knocked around a bit since arriving in our office. I’ve seen quite a few different brands of footrests break after a few months of usage or if too much pressure is applied when sitting, but after using the Webble I would confidently say this product will last for years of usage.
If anything, it will be a fun addition to have in any office. Not only will you be the talk of the office, but you’ll also be the first (presumably) to have the coolest new ergonomic device in your workplace. Just don’t let your co-workers mistake it for a skateboard!
Grade:
4/5 Chairs
Overall, this footrest is worth having, especially if you experience pain in your legs from sitting in the same position on a regular basis or if you are a shorter individual and would like to have something to prop your feet up on, like myself. The only downside is the cost, but it may be worth the investment considering the chance you may have to replace cheaper footrests much more often than you’d have to replace a Webble with its solid quality construction.
The Webble was even featured in Spirit Magazine December 2010 issue, found on Southwest Airlines under the business perk of the month section!
By: Chelsea on December 29th, 2009
With the first decade of the millennium coming to an end and 2010 just around the corner, we found it appropriate to give acknowledgement to the top ten chairs and accessories sold on the Sitbetter website the past decade. It was stiff competition to come out on top amongst hundreds of items sold on site but these ten prevailed over all others, and for that we think they deserve a little extra attention and recognition for obviously having quality, style, comfort, and of course appeal.
10. Ergonomic Knee Sit Chair
Another hot item that everyone seemed to want along with their office chair was the Office Star Ergonomic Knee Sit Chair with Dual Knee Pads. A way to work for those who prefer a different way of sitting. Designed for short periods of time, the knee sit chair puts the back into a more natural position.
The Knee Sit Chair is made for people who want break from traditional sitting, and want some temporary relief on their back. Featuring the comfort of Memory Foam on the Seat and knee cushion!
Perfect to use alongside your regular office chair and for a low price of $89!
Find out more about Knee Sit Chairs by clicking here!
9. Under-desk Pencil Drawer
The Esi – Under-desk Pencil Drawer provides ample storage for under the desk and has different compartment sizes to fit all of your desk accessory needs.
These have been a huge hit recently and at only $50, anyone could use and under-desk pencil drawer to stow away all those unnecessary items that clutter the desk.
Click here to find out more about under-desk pencil drawers!
8. Humanscale – Switch Mouse
The Switch Mouse is an innovative mousing solution that boosts comfort and reduces the risk of injury. This groundbreaking peripheral device integrates two major innovations- a V-shaped base, which puts the wrist and forearm into a natural position, and size adjust ability to provide a perfect fit for any computer user.
Click here to find out more about the Switch Mouse!
7. Big and Tall Bariatric Chair With Caressoft
The Boss Big and Tall Bariatric Chair with Caressoft vinyl is designed exclusively for our big and tall customers’ needs.
The 2 paddle spring tilt mechanism can be locked in any position and there is a 5-inch thick padded seat for comfort.
Contoured cushions improve posture with built-in lumbar support. Pneumatic seat height adjustment with adjustable tilt tension and tilt-lock is another feature of the big and tall chair.
Big and Tall Chairs generally cost upwards of $400-$600 for all of the features mentioned above. For the low price of $239 you will definitely get your bang for your buck for this chair, which is why these flew out the door all last year!
Find out more about the Boss Big and Tall Chair!
6. Heavy Duty Stacking Chairs
The Essential by Chairworks is just as it states, essential for any work environment. The Essential is a heavy duty stacking chair that is rated for up to 350 lbs.
The durable design is what made this chair so sought after, and it comes in a pack of 4 for only $389.
If you need to seat a large event or gathering the Essential is perfect for you.
Find out more about the Essential here!
5. Kore Rocking Stool
The Kore rocking stool was a surprise hit this decade and has taken off in popularity just in the last year.
Taking stool technology to another level, the Kore Stool embodies an ergonomic feature long touted by ergonomists as a bedrock of proper ergonomics: Continual motion of your body while at work.
The Kore™ Stool allows the user to flex side to side and front to back – with its patented anti-tip system and gently rounded ergonomic base.
The stool allows you to move and flex without falling or leaving your seat.
The Kore™ Stool great for exercising your legs, back, and abdominal muscles, while also relieving and preventing soreness and stiffness!
Find out more about the Kore Stool!
4. Boss Deluxe Posture Office Task Chair
The Boss Deluxe Posture – Office Task Chair with Loop Arms has a thick padded seat and back with built-in lumbar support.
The waterfall seat reduces stress to te legs and the back heigh and seat depth are fully adjustable.
The 5 star nylon base allows smooth movement and stability along with the loop arms. Available in four colors: Grey, Burgundy, Blue and Black tweed; complete with a Six-Year Limited Manufacturer’s Warranty.
The best part about the chair and what makes it so popular is that you can work a full day in this chair comfortably for $66.
Available with or without arms, both were just as popular.
Find out more about the Boss Deluxe Poster here!
3. Emc2 Advantage
The Emc2 Advantage placing in the top 3 chairs of the decade doesn’t come as a surprise.
The Advantage Series Ergonomic Mesh Chair provides complete ergonomics with 4 way adjustable lumbar and padded, 4 way adjustable arms, breathable mesh, 2:1 syncro tilt knee, satin nickel base with foot-guards, and smooth roll casters.
Not only is this chair great quality but it also comes at a great price of $189. In my opinion, one of the best deals you can find for an office chair anywhere because the price definitely is less than it is worth in reality.
I personally spend 8 hours a day sitting in this chair and it has given me no problems so far, only guaranteed comfort daily! With the growing popularity of this chair, they are nearly out of stock so get them while you still can!
Find out more about the Emc2 Advantage here!
2. Mid-Back Guest Chair with Mahogany Finish
Coming in strong at second place is the Boss Mid-back Guest Chair with Mahogany Finish.
Most purchases of this chair were in bulk, an ideal use for lobbies or reception areas with its classic retro styling. Although most were purchased in bulk, also perfect if used as a guest chair for offices.
The chair is comfortable, made of durable black caressoft vinyl and molded polyurethane armrests.
Be sure to impress your guests, and at only $119, these are perfect to buy in large quantities at an affordable price.
Find out more about the Boss Mid-back Guest Chair here!
1. Allseating Inertia
Our best selling chair of the year was the Allseating Inertia, and for good reason. The Allseating Inertia High-back is both comfortable and affordable. It also fits in with practically any office environment – not to mention any budget. At only $321 it comes as no surprise that the Inertia landed our number one selling chair of the year.
Also available in a midback version, mesh conference room chair, mid-back mesh drafting stool, mesh back side chair, mesh back bar stool, and leather conference chair.
By: Chelsea on December 17th, 2009
With a sharp increase in computer usage over the past decade, a vast majority of the United States population generally uses some form of a keyboard to type on their computer at some point everyday. This is especially true for the workers that are considered to be full time employees whose average work day consists of 8.4 hours, according to the American Time Use Survey Summary. With the increase in working such long hours typing and sitting in front of a computer screen, ergonomic keyboard trays are becoming more popular and more common as the number of daily computer users rises. A keyboard tray is a piece of ergonomic computer furniture that is designed to hold your keyboard and mouse and is generally used to move the location of such input devices, either moving to a fixed position or being adjustable to the users specific needs. Ergonomic keyboard trays are made to comfort your wrists while you are typing in order to take the strain off the muscles in your wrist, which are used the most when you work continuously at a keyboard.
The benefits that result from buying and installing a keyboard tray are numerous. An adjustable keyboard tray is one of the many ergonomic devices you can utilize that can help prevent common injuries and conditions resulting from daily computer use. Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) is the most common and most often diagnosed computer-related injury people develop. Perhaps the most well known repetitive stress injury is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, which effects your hands, wrists and forearms. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome leads to paresthesias, numbness, and muscle weakness in the hand. Frequently repeated tasks, such as typing on a keyboard or using a mouse, are the main cause for these types of ailments, and installing a high quality tray is a surefire way to reduce tension in your shoulders and arms.
Keyboard trays are designed to install under a computer desk, with the ability to pull out the keyboard from under the desk when it is needed and put the keyboard away when not at the computer. With a keyboard tray installed under the desk rather than on the desk itself, this allows for more free space and a cleaner desk area. Proper adjustments are needed in order to ensure healthy posture and positioning of your wrists. Make sure the keyboard tray is not too high, or you will strain your shoulders by having to raise them in order to lift the arms up. If it is too low then it will result in bent wrists when you are typing. Distance should be adjusted that the forearms and floor remain parallel to each other and elbows rest close to the body.
Most importantly, keyboard trays are created to give the end user the most comfortable typing experience possible while providing healthy typing at the same time. When working strenuous hours on end everyday, it should not have to be any harder by using improper or uncomfortable devices which can be ultimately eliminated with a keyboard tray. They also come in stylish looks and designs perfectly suited to any working environment whether you are using one at home or in your work office. If spending multiple hours in front of a computer is part of your everyday routine, a keyboard tray will be a worthwhile investment for your home or office; especially in the long run.
By: Chelsea on December 9th, 2009
When purchasing any kind of computer, most people would generally only be concerned about having a monitor and some sort of stand for their monitor. As long as you have the computer, monitor, and stand you should be good to go, right? What people sometimes do not even think to consider is that a monitor arm can be extremely beneficial to add to your new or existing computer setup. Many might speculate how much added advantage there is in purchasing a computer monitor arm which is why we can take a look at some of the benefits to help you decide if it is worth the investment.
Perhaps the most vital reason to have a computer monitor arm is the importance of working in an ergonomic environment. By working in an ergonomic environment every piece of equipment used, whether it be your office chair or in this case the monitor which you use, is tailored to be adjustable to fit the unique individual’s body. Monitor arms are specifically designed to easily adjust the height of your computer screen and can be brought closer or farther away from your face to find the optimum reading position. A good rule of thumb to correctly position your monitor is to make sure that the top of the viewable area of your display should be approximately at eye level, or in a position that is comfortable for you and does not cause you to strain your eyes in order to read what is on the screen. Ergonomic experts say that an arms length away is a good indication to a correct viewing distance, but this may vary from user to user. This type of movement and flexibility is impossible to achieve without the use of a monitor arm.
Another added benefit of monitor arms, is that they can be used by virtually anyone with any kind of computer. First and foremost, those with a desktop computer will always need to have purchased a monitor to begin with. But even lap
top users, like myself, can benefit from a monitor arm as well. A few months ago I found myself straining my eyes to read the tiny print on my 13” laptop monitor and knew I needed to find a solution before I compromised my vision. With the purchase of a large monitor and a monitor arm, I could easily attach the monitor through a port in my computer to make viewing text much less strenuous on my eyes. Increasingly workstations are shared between more than one user, especially for jobs that stay open all day with multiple shifts. If you share your station at work with another colleague, with a few simple movements the monitor can be easily adjusted to the height and depth suitable for that individual
Monitor arms are especially advantageous when trying to make room or save space on a desk. Most stands provided by manufacturers consume a lot of room on a desk, whereas an ergonomically designed monitor arm will typically clamp to the back of a desk or be attached directly to a slat-wall leaving the desk space completely clear. An office space or work place will look much less cluttered, more stylish, and more organized with the addition of a computer monitor arm. Some even come in stylish designer colors, such as white and silver, to further enhance the modern design.
In the long run, the monitor arm will not only add style and design to any work space, but it may also reduce work related injuries such as repetitive strain injury and chronic back pain if used ergonomically correct. Monitor arms are also built to withstand the test of time; generally if monitor arms are used 5 days a week for 8 hours a day you can expect it to last at the very least 5 years. While the move to a monitor arm may seem like a risk, the benefits vastly outweigh any disadvantages.
