A biomechanical analysis of active vs static office chair designs. (October 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Cardoso, Michelle R.; Cardenas, Andrew K.; Albert, Wayne J.
• Is Part Of: Applied ergonomics. Volume 96(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-10
• Subjects: Active chairs -- Chair design -- Office ergonomics; Human engineering -- Periodicals; 620.82
• DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2021.103481
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0003-6870

Abstract

Abstract: The objective of this study was to provide a biomechanical comparison of two different types of active chairs (AC1 & AC2) versus a static chair (NAC). Thirty healthy participants were recruited: fifteen healthy females and fifteen healthy males. Participants worked at a computer workstation (1-h per chair). Equipment included: Pressure pads, Electromyography, Near–Infrared Spectroscopy, and Questionnaires (rate of perceived discomfort, seating discomfort questionnaire and exit survey). A significant increase in anterior–posterior postural sway was found on the seat pan with the use of the AC1. An increase in neuromuscular activity of the external obliques and an increase change in total oxygen index (%TOI) values in the gastrocnemius were also found using the AC1, however the difference was not much higher than the NAC and AC2. Lower discomfort scores in the gluteal area were found with the use of active chair AC1 compared to the NAC. Preliminary findings suggest that having an office chair with a split seat pan design shows potential to yield biomechanical and physiological benefits for the sitter, however further research is needed to better understand the ergonomic benefits of active sitting. Highlights: Active vs static office chair designs: a biomechanical analysis. Equipment: Pressure pads, Electromyography, Near-Infrared Spectroscopy, Questionnaires. Healthy participants recruited, 1 h per chair at a computer workstation. Office chair with a split seat pan design helps reduce discomfort compared to a static chair. 5-Participants prefer active chairs, especially a split seat pan design.