Working from home often means more neck and back pain — and a terrible workspace setup. Let’s be honest: dining tables and chairs are for eating, not working.
Ergonomic chairs sound like the solution, but they can be expensive. So, are they really worth the price? Let’s answer the most common questions about ergonomic chairs — each section below tackles one of them.
Why Use an Ergonomic Chair?
If you’re young, you may not realize that there was a time when ergonomic chairs didn’t exist. The concept sounded as odd as taking supplements once did. Back then, supplements were considered a waste of money — just “alternative health nonsense.”
Then suddenly, every company started marketing their own version of the “best” ergonomic chair.
The truth? We spend too much time parked behind screens, and what we sit on absolutely matters. If your chair is uncomfortable or set up wrong, your posture — and your body — will pay the price.
That said, too many people think buying an ergonomic chair means they can sit forever. No matter how great your chair is, you still need to get up every hour. Ideally, you should have a sit-to-stand desk and alternate between sitting and standing throughout your day.
Following the tips on this ergonomic checklist are key!
How Do Ergonomic Chairs Work?
Ergonomic chairs are designed to adapt to your sitting posture. Most include:
- Lower back support
- Adjustable armrests
- Adjustable seat and height
- Components that fit your body
Do they work? Sure. But I have issues with many of them.
For one — I’m not a fan of armrests. By the end of the day, your body sinks into the seat while the armrests stay in place. This forces your shoulders upward and creates tension in your neck, mid-back, and between your shoulder blades.
My favorite ergonomic chair solves all of that — and costs under $50!
Which Ergonomic Chair is Best?
The best ergonomic chair is an exercise ball.
Yes, you read that right.
An exercise ball isn’t as stable as a regular chair — and that’s exactly why it works. While sitting on it, a part of your brain called the PMRF (pontomedullary reticular formation) constantly activates to keep you balanced. This region controls your upright-against-gravity command.
When your brain tells your body to stay upright, your muscles respond. This ongoing activation keeps your core and postural muscles engaged — a process known as positive neuroplasticity.
Plus, it prevents you from collapsing over your diaphragm. Slouch and try to take a deep breath — you’ll feel how restricted your breathing becomes.
So yes, the exercise ball is the best ergonomic chair — but make sure it’s XXXL (at least 95 cm in diameter). All ergonomic principles still apply: keep your hands, arms, and neck in proper alignment.
Watch this video to learn more about proper ergonomic setup:
What Ergonomic Chair Should I Buy?
If an exercise ball isn’t your thing, choose a chair with as many adjustable parts as possible.
Keep these guidelines in mind:
- Your feet should rest flat on the ground.
- Your knees should be slightly higher than your hips.
- Avoid over-reliance on built-in lumbar support.
Why? Because manufacturers can’t design lumbar curves to fit every body. Instead, roll a small bath towel or hand toweland place it in your lower back curve. It should support your spine — not overarch it.
And remember — no matter what chair you use, you must get up every hour. Move around for a few minutes or do a quick stretch before sitting back down.
Can You Buy an Ergonomic Chair with FSA or HSA?
Great question — and it depends on your plan. Check with your HR or benefits provider.
If you’re seeing a chiropractor for pain caused by sitting, your doctor can often write a prescription for an ergonomic chair. That documentation might make it eligible for FSA or HSA reimbursement.
Some patients even get approval for larger purchases. I once had a couple write off their $10,000 mattress under HSA because their old one was causing lower back pain. It made perfect sense.
Will My Insurance Pay for Ergonomic Chair?
Almost certainly not!
If health insurance truly focused on health, it would cover your supplements, organic food, and gym memberships too. Unfortunately, it doesn’t — which is why I prefer to call it “sick insurance.”
But remember — your chair is just one piece of the ergonomic puzzle.
I’ve written a blog about laptop stands that’s worth checking out. Even with the perfect chair and desk, humans are not designed to sit for long stretches.
So, get up every hour. Walk. Drink water. Alternate between sitting and standing throughout the day. Your body will thank you for it. And contact me with any questions.
Dr. Shakib