Many people that work in an office setting suffer from neck and back pain. There are several reasons for this, but the most prominent is what office chair they use. Ergonomics, or the science of proper sitting, has recently become a priority in office environments. A well-designed ergonomic chair is often an effective solution to neck and back pain. We’ve made a list of some of the top picks, so read our reviews and take a step towards better spinal health by finding the best office chair for back and neck pain.
Best Chairs For Back and Neck Pain
Steelcase Gesture
The Steelcase Gesture is one of the highest-quality and most popular chairs on the market to relieve neck and back pain. If you want a chair that will be kind to your body and last you for years to come, this is a wonderful option.
The Gesture uses the highest quality steel parts and craftsmanship, so you can feel good about paying the price. The back has an S shape, designed to offer extensive lumbar support, so sitting for hours at a tie will be bliss. The seat is also flexible and will move with your body as you lean and turn. The flexibility helps prevent pressure on your spine because it isn’t fighting against the chair.
Steelcase does away with fancy add-ons and color choices, making this chair simple to the eye but comfortable on your spine.
Duramont Chair
The Duramont chair is also a sober design, with few color options and a basic look. However, there is nothing basic about the ergonomic properties of this chair. The chair is interesting because they focus on the seat bottom to solve back and neck problems. The seat is shaped like a W, so it cradles your bottom naturally. The W prevents many people from shifting their hips which can compress the spine and cause discomfort.
We love this chair because it falls between affordable and quality, offering both to its customers. It is durable and long-lasting, so it can provide your neck and back comfort for years to come.
Berlman Mesh Chair
The Berlam mesh chair is a unique style that has a futuristic feel. If you want a fancy-looking chair, this one is great, and it will also relieve your neck and back pain. The chair has a generous tilt tension and also is super adjustable. You can customize this chair to fit your body perfectly.
The headrest is the only fixed part of the chair. The fixed design ensures your neck and skull are positioned correctly throughout the day. Sometimes an adjustable headrest causes people to adjust it incorrectly, possibly worsening their pain.
Livinia Chair
The Livina chair design is ideal for people with neck and back pain because it has a split-back design. The seatback is in two parts, leaving a gap in the middle. This prevents any part of the chair from putting pressure on your spine or neck, as it has a space designated for your spine.
This chair is high-quality but also affordable, making it one of the best choices for people that suffer from neck and back pain. This chair is hard leather, so if you want something more cushioned and soft, this isn’t the chair for you.
Advice to Buyers
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There are a few aspects of office chairs to consider when you’re choosing one. Consider these factors when shopping:
Ergonomics
Of course, this is the most important factor if you’re shopping to solve your pain problem. Not every office chair is designed with ergonomics in mind, as research in this field is relatively new.
On the other hand, some manufacturers prioritize ergonomics, making every aspect of the chair, so it cradles your body and spine the right way. If you hear ergonomic terminologies like air technology or lumbar support, this is a sign the chair is a good choice for someone with neck and back pain.
Price
Office chairs can be $100, or they can be $2,000. There is a massive range in price, so it’s a good idea to set a budget for yourself before you start shopping. This will help you when shopping online or going into stores.
It will also help stop you from falling in love with a pricey Herman Miller when there are more affordable options that may be just as effective.
Quality
The chairs range in quality just as much as they range in price. It depends on what compromises you are willing to make and how long you plan on keeping the chair. If you plan on having this chair for a year, you will survive with plastic parts and fake leather. But if you want this chair for the next ten years, opt for steel parts and bonded leather.
Comfort
This is super important. We don’t care if this is the best ergonomic chair ever invented, if you don’t find it comfortable, then it’s not the chair for you. Not every chair is going to be ideal for every person. If you sit in the chair and it feels strange or puts pressure on your hips or coccyx.
People also have different preferences when it comes to the amount of padding and cushioning. Some people don’t want to feel like they’re sitting on a cloud, while others think that sounds ideal.
Bottom Line
There is no reason to be in pain and discomfort throughout your workday. Not only does a poor office chair cause this pain, but it can also slow productivity because workers are unhappy and focused on their strained back or neck.
These four chairs are just a few of the ergonomic office chairs that can save your spinal health and get you back to smiling at your desk.
In addition to opting for an ergonomic chair design, you should also follow our other tips so that you can live a life with a focus on your body’s comfort and health. Many of us don’t realize the stress our body goes through from doing something as simple as sitting. Don’t neglect your spinal health, or you may develop worse conditions down the road.
FAQ
Are neck and back pain the same thing?
They aren’t necessarily the same thing as they are different spots on your body where you are experiencing pain. However, they are very connected, so neck pain may be a result of pressure or tension on your back.
Do I need a chiropractor?
Some people have chronic neck and back pain that needs more than a new chair. If you use an ergonomically designed chair and follow all the other tips for reducing back and neck pain and you are still in significant pain, you may want to consult an expert.
Chronic neck and back pain is a problem, and while many suffer due to office environments, there can also be underlying conditions that should be addressed.
