A good office chair is an essential part of your career. It is where you sit and make life-changing decisions for your company and your clients. You are here moving and shaking eight or more hours a day and you want a comfortable seat. Most office chairs, however, are not comfortable or may not meet your needs.
This is particularly true for individuals suffering from Deep Vein Thrombosis. Blood clots form deep in the veins when you have DVT.
The clots may occur in the lower leg, thigh, pelvis, or even arm. So, how can you minimize DVT while at work? The first thing you need to do is find an office chair that offers leg support and circulation. Here are a few that might assist you.
Also Read: Top 6+ best office chair for diabetics
Table of Contents
Ergonomic office chairs: what to look for
To get the best ergonomic support, you should consider the following points before you invest in a chair that claims to be ergonomic but may not fulfill all the requirements:
Adjustability
You need to be able to adjust your office chair easily to meet your unique needs if you want it to be an ergonomic office chair. Everybody is different, so the chair needs to be able to adapt to the needs of each individual. The following criteria include the adaptability of a chair’s various parts, including who will use it, in what context, and what functions it will serve.
Seat height
Ideally, a chair will be adjustable from 15 to 22 inches off the floor. This height is suitable for people between 5′ and 6’4″ tall. At the right height, your feet should be flat on the floor, with your knees at a 90-degree angle. You can adjust the height of your knees and lumbar region by sitting in a chair with a pneumatic adjustment, but a chair with a spinning mechanism will work to adjust the seat pan height as well.
Seat width
In order to provide ample thigh support, the standard seat is 17 to 20 inches wide. An individual should sit comfortably on a quality seat pan with an inch or two on either side of their hips, but not so wide that their arms need to stretch to touch the armrests.
Dimensions of the seat
A good ergonomic office chair should have a deep seat that allows a user to sit with their back against the backrest, while leaving enough room between the chair’s end and their knees for 2 to 4 fingers. A chair needs to support at least 34% of the thighs. Look for chairs that have a sliding seat, so the user can slide the seat in and out while seated.
Lumbar support
In addition to good lumbar support, adjustability is an important criterion. The lumbar spine stabilizes and supports the upper body, including the head and neck. As well as allowing truncal movement, the backrest also protects the spinal cord and controls leg movements. The concave curve helps distribute weight evenly, reducing the concentration of stress in the lower back. Sitting in a chair without lumbar support flattens the curve, which leads to lower back pain.
Backrest
In order to increase blood flow, an ergonomic office chair should promote dynamic sitting rather than static posture. A typical backrest ranges in size from 12 to 19 inches wide. In order to relieve some weight from the lower backs, it should, therefore, allow its users to try different recline positions. Depending on the body type, the lumbar discs and muscle activity are at their lowest when the reclining degree is between 110 and 130 degrees.
Seat and backrest materials
Make sure the materials you choose are comfortable to wear for long periods of time.
The seat pan padding should be made of high-quality foam. Insufficient padding and low-quality foam can lead to misalignment of the hips, imbalance, back pain, fatigue, and discomfort.
Synthetic materials should be avoided. Choose fabric on the seat that is comfortable and breathable, and leather that is easy to maintain.
It contours to the body and distributes the body’s weight over a wide area, keeping its users cool by allowing air to flow. Mesh backrests are also comfortable due to their ability to keep air flowing.
Armrests
A good armrest provides the users with a comfortable place to rest their elbows and forearms while typing. It is advisable that the armrests are adjustable and even removable if possible. The ideal height should be between 7″ and 10″ above the seat pan height.
Movement and stability
To reach anything on a desk without straining, the chair needs to be able to move and rotate freely. Furthermore, a chair that allows movement promotes a dynamic position and increases blood flow. An ergonomic office chair should also be stable. An ergonomic office chair should have at least five spokes, and the wheels should be of high quality, to avoid damaging the floor. Also, check the weight capacity to make sure it is appropriate for your user.
Manufacturing and warranties
As your ergonomic office chair will go through years of use, make sure it comes with a good warranty. You may also want to check where it’s made (the closer to home the better! ), how sustainable it is, and any certifications it may have.
Price
A good ergonomic office chair costs between $200 and $2,000.
Also Read: Top 7+ best office chair for degenerative disc disease
The best office chair for DVT
1. HomCom Reclining PU Leather Executive Home Office Chair
I like the fact that this chair has great comfort and a comfortable footrest. My legs/feet can be elevated whenever I want thanks to the retractable footrest and the great adjustability. I would recommend this chair to anyone, especially those with DVT, in general.
The HOMCOM office chair with retractable footrest gives you both comfort and productivity, so you can get comfortable and stay productive at the same time.
If you need to remain seated at your desk for several hours, this chair helps maintain a comfortable posture due to its high-quality materials and ergonomic structure. This comfortable office chair footrest set by HOMCOM allows you to relax like an executive in style.
Pros
- You can add style to any room or decor with a modern ergonomic office chair
- PU leather covers this easy-care bag
- Comfortable desk chair with curved armrests and high density sponge padding
- For maximum comfort, tilt the chair up to 145 degrees
- The tilt, recline, and lock functions are controlled by a tension control mechanism.
Cons
- There isn’t much adjustment and for the price, I’d like a bit more comfort.
2. Nouhaus +Posture Ergonomic PU Leather Office Chair
Look no further than the Nouhaus +Posture Ergonomic PU Leather Office Chair if you are looking for both comfort and style. It features five stages of lumbar support, so you are free to adjust it to your liking.
The Nouhaus office chair is a great solution for anyone who spends a lot of time seated. With its high back and adjustable lumbar support, the chair has exceptional comfort and an ergonomic design that removes pressure off the spine. The best part: it can be adjusted to give you a footrest when you need it.
A classic color will complement any office decor, and flip-adjust armrests allow you to find the perfect position for your arms. The PU leather fabric is durable and soft to the touch, and the tiltrock feature allows you to rock back and forth while you work.
This chair provides the perfect level of support and comfort whether you’re working at a desk or using a computer.
Pros
- As someone who does not work with their hands much, I was able to put this together in about 30 minutes by myself. The one tool you need is included in the package. You can attach the back of the chair to the seat on your own, but it is tricky and easier with two people.
- Quality leather PU leather is very smooth and well stitched.
- It feels quite plush on the seat cushion.
Cons
- There is cheap silver paint on the metal parts of the chair that looks like it could chip or scratch.
3. Steelcase Series 1 Work Office Chair
We are well aware that the health of our workers is one of the most important factors in any company’s success. That is why our products are designed to reduce the risk of developing DVT, heart disease, obesity, and back pain.
It features a signature LiveBackTM flexor system and provides optimal spine support as you change postures. Steelcase Series 1 is one of the most flexible chairs on this list.
A variety of other adjustments can be made to this ergonomic office chair, including stool height, seat depth, and armrests. The Steelcase Series 1 chair is also compatible with all kinds of office chairs. Its wheels work on carpeted surfaces, and its small surface area allows it to fit in small office spaces.
Pros
- It takes maybe 3-5 minutes to put together. As shown in the video.
- The seat cushion fabric feels of high quality as well. The seat slide adjusts as well. All plastic chair, but the plastic feels of high quality. The seat cushion fabric feels of high quality as well.
- If you need disassembly videos, there are some on Youtube. Please feel free to try it for yourself. I’m sending mine back.
Cons
- In the assembly process, it is difficult to put the back on.
Also Read: Top 6 Best chair for varicose veins
4. HON Office Chair Ignition 2.0
HON’s Ignition 2.0 desk chair provides superior support at a fraction of the cost of some premium desk chairs with adjustable lumbar support, mesh back, and arms. As the Health Editor of Good Housekeeping, Zee Krstic, who owns and loves his HON chair, says it feels like flying first class instead of coach. It’s amazing how well HON designed its seat cushion to accommodate people of all shapes and sizes. I usually notice that armrests dig into my sides with standard chairs, but that’s not the case with the HON chair.”
As for the lumbar support, he finds it to be well-executed and the adjustable feature to be excellent in supporting his lower back. In addition to being durable, Krstic says that the cushion hasn’t lost its shape or support under her weight for over a year.
As a result of the thorough design — even down to the rolling wheels, which work flawlessly despite my large size — I feel extremely supported.” At the end of the day, his favorite feature is the adjustable height on the seat, which is “longer than most other options I’ve seen — my legs are quite long, so I can actually put my feet flat on the ground instead of crossing them.”
Pros
- Mesh back for breathability
- Features that are adjustable
- A durable product
- Creating a supportive environment
Cons
- Suitable for larger spaces but not for smaller ones
5. Gesture Office Chair
The Steelcase chair is great for those who work long hours or suffer from back pain. Despite not having tested this model in the lab, we have reviewed several models from the brand and praised its quality construction.
With Gesture 360 armrests, you can adjust the armrests so they support you whether you’re typing on a keyboard or texting. With the ability to adjust both the seat depth and the seat height, you are able to find a comfortable fit. Additionally, it can be reclined in four different positions.
With 3D LiveBack Technology, your spine is aligned in a healthy shape by mimicking your movements, and the seat cushion is designed to reduce pressure and conform to your body, according to the manufacturer.
Despite being an investment, this chair will provide excellent lumbar support and comfort throughout the day.
Pros
- Ergonomic design
- Ideal for long hours
- Adjustable
Cons
- Expensive
6. Aeron Ergonomic Chair
Herman Miller’s chair is one of our most comfortable picks, but it will cost you quite a bit. You can customize and adjust most of its features, such as the amount of arm pad support you need and the amount of back support you want.
Unlike other chairs, you can choose between a small, medium, or large size so the chair fits your body best. While some pros wish there were more forward-looking design elements and colors available, this chair is suitable for a wide range of consumers.
Pros
- A durable product
- There are three sizes available
- Features that can be adjusted
- Reputation for excellence
Cons
- It is a big investment.
Also Read: What office chair is best for your back?
How dangerous is DVT?
Although DVT itself is not life-threatening, the blood clots can escape and travel through your bloodstream if they break free. In pulmonary embolisms (PE), traveling blood clots (emboli) become lodged in the lungs’ blood vessels. In order to treat this condition quickly, you need to get a quick diagnosis.
The symptoms of intermittent leg pain and swelling that can last for months to years may develop in half of those who get a DVT in their legs. In post-thrombotic syndrome, blood pools more than it should in your veins due to damage to the valves and inner lining. The pressure increases inside your veins, causing pain and swelling.
This condition is characterized by the following characteristics:
- Blood pooling.
- Swelling in the legs.
- Your veins are under increased pressure.
- Pigmentation or discoloration of your skin.
- Venous stasis ulcers are leg ulcers caused by blood pooling in the legs.
How do deep vein thrombosis and superficial venous thrombosis differ?
When blood clots form in a vein close to the surface of your skin, it is known as superficial venous thrombosis (also called phlebitis or superficial thrombophlebitis). Blood clots of this type rarely reach the lungs unless they move from the superficial system into the deep venous system first. In contrast to superficial vein clots, deep vein clots can only be diagnosed by ultrasound.
Deep vein thrombosis: how common is it?
There are approximately one to three adults in the United States who develop a DVT or pulmonary embolism every year, and up to 300,000 people die from these conditions every year. Acute DVT/PE is the third leading cause of vascular disease, behind heart attacks and strokes. Acute DVT/PE is less common in children and adolescents and more common in adults over the age of 60. A medical illness or surgery leads to more than half of all DVTs. During a hospital stay, you’re more likely to get DVTs since you’re lying in bed rather than moving around like you normally would.
How dangerous is DVT?
Although DVT itself is not life-threatening, the blood clots can escape and travel through your bloodstream if they break free. In pulmonary embolisms (PE), traveling blood clots (emboli) become lodged in the lungs’ blood vessels. In order to treat this condition quickly, you need to get a quick diagnosis.
The symptoms of intermittent leg pain and swelling that can last for months to years may develop in half of those who get a DVT in their legs. In post-thrombotic syndrome, blood pools more than it should in your veins due to damage to the valves and inner lining. The pressure increases inside your veins, causing pain and swelling.
This condition is characterized by the following characteristics:
- Blood pooling.
- Swelling in the legs.
- Your veins are under increased pressure.
- Pigmentation or discoloration of your skin.
- Venous stasis ulcers are leg ulcers caused by blood pooling in the legs.
How do deep vein thrombosis and superficial venous thrombosis differ?
When blood clots form in a vein close to the surface of your skin, it is known as superficial venous thrombosis (also called phlebitis or superficial thrombophlebitis). Blood clots of this type rarely reach the lungs unless they move from the superficial system into the deep venous system first. In contrast to superficial vein clots, deep vein clots can only be diagnosed by ultrasound.
Deep vein thrombosis symptoms: what do they look like?
People who have a DVT usually don’t have symptoms, but if they do, the symptoms are usually mild and may not cause concern. Symptoms of an acute DVT include:
- Leg or arm swelling (sometimes this happens suddenly).
- Tenderness or pain in your leg or arm (may only occur when you stand or walk).
- Your swollen or hurting leg or arm may feel warmer than usual.
- Discolored or red skin.
- Veins near the surface of your skin may be larger than normal.
- When blood clots affect deep inside your abdomen, you can experience abdominal or flank pain.
- Brain clots can cause severe headaches (usually sudden onsets) and seizures.
The symptoms of acute PE include chest pain, shortness of breath, bloody cough, lightheadedness, and fainting. Some people don’t realize they have a DVT until the clot moves from their leg or arm to their lungs.
Don’t wait to get treatment for a DVT if your symptoms don’t go away. Call your doctor right away or go to the emergency room if your symptoms persist.
Also Read: Top 6 best office chair for pelvic pain
How do you sit with deep vein thrombosis?
Sit or lie down for short periods of time. Avoid putting steady pressure on the back of your knee. Prop up your legs on a stool or chair if your legs swell when you sit.
Can sitting at a desk cause DVT?
In the worst cases, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can occur if your lower legs and feet become tired, swollen, and achy after sitting for a long time.
Can sitting in a chair cause blood clots?
Sitting for long periods without getting up and moving around can lead to deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot that forms in a vein deep within the body. DVT typically occurs in the thigh and leg, but can occur anywhere in the body.
In order to improve my circulation while sitting, what can I do?
When sitting in a position that does not hinder the regular flow of blood in your legs, you can enhance your blood flow in your limbs. For example, you can sit with your legs spaced apart and your feet touching the ground. If you want to improve circulation, you can also lift your legs slightly from the floor from time to time.
Last Words
We spend a significant amount of time in office chairs, so it makes sense to make sure they can help us stay healthy. DVT is a serious condition, and you should make sure to minimize its risks. I recommend starting today by researching and checking out the chairs listed and seeing if they would work for you. You can also try them out in person in a store. That way you get a live experience of how the chair features work and if the seat is comfortable for you to spend a few hours in them.
Although price can play a big role in choosing to purchase an ergonomic chair, looking out for sales, and browsing Amazon should help keep you within your budget. I would also recommend getting up and stretching your legs at least every hour in addition to your office chair. Stretching your arms and legs is also a way to prevent blood clots. I hear it’s shopping time.
Reference
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3557818/