Unfortunately, there is no governing body that regulates the use of the word "ergonomic" when it comes to office chairs. This means that any company can claim that their chair is ergonomic, whether it actually is or not. This can be misleading for consumers who are looking for a chair that is specifically designed to support good posture and reduce the risk of musculoskeletal disorders.
In fact, research has shown that many so-called "ergonomic" office chairs on the market do not actually provide the level of support and comfort they claim to. Some may have a few adjustable features, but they may not be sufficient to meet the needs of all users. Others may be uncomfortable or poorly made, leading to even more problems for the user.
One such study, published in the Journal of Human Environment System, found that there was a significant lack of evidence to support the claims made by manufacturers of these chairs. The researchers concluded that "it is not clear whether the use of an ergonomic chair can reduce the risk of musculoskeletal disorders or improve comfort."1
Another study, published in the journal Ergonomics, looked at the sitting posture and muscle activity of individuals using various office chairs labeled as "ergonomic." The researchers found that while some of the chairs did provide good support and reduced muscle activity, others did not. They also noted that there was a wide variability in the way the chairs were designed and constructed, which could impact their effectiveness.2
This can be misleading for consumers who are looking for a chair that will truly support good posture and reduce the risk of musculoskeletal disorders.
So, if you're in the market for an office chair, it's important to do your research and not just rely on the label "ergonomic." Look for chairs that have been tested by independent organizations and have proven to provide the support and comfort needed for good posture. Don't be fooled by flashy marketing and claims of being "ergonomic." In the end, it's better to be cautious and well-informed when making a purchase that will impact your daily comfort and health.
If you are looking to improve posture while sitting, look no further than Anthros.
Anthros is the only chair in the world that is guaranteed to improve posture, or your money back. The science-backed, patented design is registered with the FDA as a posture-improving chair and is proven to have the lowest pressure (most comfortable) cushion on the planet (verified by university testing).
Take the next step to reducing pain, increasing comfort, and maximizing performance!