Desk Chair

[AP1967]

Hi all. I am a PALS and have right leg and arm (a little) weakness. I am short, just about 5'1". I am still working, just reduced from 5 days to 4 days with some intermittent hours for breaks. I have recently been struggling to sit comfortably at my desk (mostly work from home).

I have a high quality mesh desk chair from Staples that had been very comfortable. Lately it has not, the seat being too deep for me and me not being able to get comfortable (back, neck, shoulders hurt). I then bought a new one from Wayfair that we put together. The height and depth is correct, and it does not have wheels, but it is not comfortable.

Does anyone have any suggestions? Where to look? Should I look for an ergonomic specialist to advise? I did just reach out to my PT in case she has suggestions. But I am looking for this group for ideas as well.

 

[lgelb]

Not sure what about the new chair isn't comfortable, but if it's a matter of cushioning and being able to relax, you might consider trying a minimalist "over the top" foam back/seat cushion. The kinds that are used in motor vehicles even have steel frames for stability, though that does add more to the depth. You could try an overlay in both your old and new chair, if you still have both.

If you end up more comfortable with something that pushes you forward somewhat, you may need to add a foot rest to your setup. Since your arm is affected, you might want to add a clamp-on R or bilateral arm support to your desk or chair. It could be that stabilizing your arm is using up energy you aren't aware of and thereby compromising your positioning.

It is hard to get a sense of what works in a store or in a PT clinic, since fatigue from poor positioning often doesn't set in right away. So returnable or regiftable options remain your best bet.