When selecting an ergo chair, armrests often top the list of desirable features. But are they truly essential for comfort and productivity, or could they potentially cause more harm than good? For those new to ergonomics, armrests are designed to support the arms in a neutral posture, allowing the upper arms to hang vertically and naturally by the sides, elbows close to the body, and forearms parallel to the floor. This positioning aims to reduce muscle strain in the arms and shoulders.
Armrests with adequate adjustability can indeed be beneficial. However, the muscle load on the shoulders and arms in the aforementioned position is minimal, making armrests more of a tool to combat arm fatigue rather than an absolute necessity.
When Armrests Do More Harm Than Good
Despite their intended benefits, armrests can become counterproductive in certain situations:
1. Contact Pressure Issues
Armrests made of very firm materials can cause discomfort or even numbness when a user rests their elbows or forearms on them for an extended period of time. This discomfort arises because the arm’s weight is not evenly distributed across the armrest’s surface. Softer, more cushioned armrests can mitigate this problem, but issues often persist if the armrests cannot be adjusted to fit snugly under the forearms.
2. Wrist Bending Problems
Armrests positioned too far apart can force users into a “winged out” posture, causing the wrists to bend awkwardly as the hands converge on the keyboard. This is far from an ideal typing posture and can lead to strain, discomfort, and wrist injury over time.
3. Restricted Movement
Movement is key to preventing discomfort for office workers. Even perfectly adjusted armrests may require frequent readjustment every time the user stands up. This constant need for adjustment often results in armrests being left in a “wide” position, reducing their effectiveness. Additionally, some users may develop a habit of leaning on one armrest, leading to awkward back postures and potential discomfort.
4. Raised or Abducted Shoulder Posture
Non-adjustable armrests can force users to lift their elbows up and outward to rest on the armrests, resulting in raised shoulders. While armrests may bear the arm’s weight, reducing muscle strain, this position requires muscle activation whenever the user moves their arm, such as switching between using their mouse and typing on the keyboard.
5. Excessive Reaching
One of the most common issues with armrests is the need to reach forward. Many armrests can’t be adjusted to avoid interference with the desk or keyboard tray when the chair is pulled close. Even slight forward reaching can cause shoulder muscles to activate throughout the day, leading to fatigue in the shoulders, upper back, and neck. Proper workstation arrangement and office chair adjustment are crucial to eliminate this reach and reduce discomfort.
Do You Really Need Armrests?
Some individuals do benefit significantly from armrests, particularly those who need assistance getting in and out of their chairs. For example, employees with hip or knee issues may find armrests essential for support.
Additionally, individuals who cannot maintain a vertical upper arm position due to body size or other factors, such as a larger abdomen, may find armrests helpful in supporting an awkward arm posture. If armrests are necessary, it’s important to choose a chair with the appropriate features. Upgrading to adjustable armrests can be costly, so it’s essential to ensure they will provide the desired benefits.
Conclusion
Deciding whether your office chair needs armrests is not straightforward. While they can offer support for some, they are not a universal solution. Assessing your specific needs and work environment is key to determining if such a feature is necessary for your office chair.
