How to Adjust an Ergonomic Chair Properly – The Secret to Perfect Sitting Posture

Recent studies show that 34% and 46% of office workers suffer long-term back pain and neck strain, respectively. Many companies consider ergonomic chairs the most effective solution to minimize these issues and provide maximum comfort during work.

In the article below, join Okamura to explore the ergonomic chair height adjustment from A to Z, helping you achieve the ideal sitting posture in the future.

1. Guide to Adjusting the Height of an Ergonomic Chair

Adjusting your chair height to match your body’s characteristics helps protect your spine and reduce fatigue. Below is a detailed guide on effectively adjusting your ergonomic chair height.

1.1. How to Adjust the Chair Height

On many ergonomic chairs today, the height adjustment lever is usually located underneath the seat on the right side. You should adjust the chair so your thighs are parallel to the floor and your feet rest flat on the ground for a comfortable and correct sitting posture.

Steps to raise the chair: 

• Step 1: Stand up from the chair to release body weight. 

• Step 2: Locate the adjustment lever and gently lift it upward. 

• Step 3: The chair will automatically rise to your desired height; release the lever to lock it in place.

Raising your chair to the proper height optimizes body support and reduces the risk of joint and spine-related problems caused by poor posture.

1.2. How to Decrease the Chair Height

To decrease your chair height, follow these simple steps:

• Step 1: Sit fully on the chair. Then, gently pull the height adjustment lever upward or press the smart control button (depending on your chair’s design).

• Step 2: The chair will slowly decrease due to your body weight.

• Step 3: Once the desired height is reached, release the lever or button. Then, adjust your sitting posture to match your desk height comfortably.

To adjust the chair height, just sit down and pull the lever (or press the button) until the chair reaches your preferred height.

1.3. How to Adjust the Height of Other Chair Components

Besides the overall chair height, adjusting individual parts is essential to enhance comfort and support. Each component plays a key role in achieving an ergonomic sitting posture.

Here's how to adjust them:

• Armrests: Press or rotate the adjustment button upward or downward. Then, hold the armrest and gently lift to raise or push down to lower.

• Lumbar support: Reach behind the chair and place both hands on the lumbar support. Lift it to your desired height and release to set.

• Headrest: Grasp both sides of the headrest and pull up or push down until it reaches a comfortable position.

However, height adjustment is only one of the basic functions of an ergonomic chair. Depending on the high-end ergonomic model, you can use many different functions to optimize your working posture, such as Adjusting the backrest reclining force according to your body weight, locking the backrest reclining, adjusting the depth of the seat cushion, adjusting the tilt of the armrests, etc.

Flexibly adjusting all ergonomic chair components is essential to achieving the highest level of comfort and efficiency, helping you maintain a well-balanced sitting posture.

Note: To get the most out of your ergonomic chair, combine it with a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, adequate rest, and changing your working position every 30 minutes.

2. Common Issues & How to Fix Them When Adjusting an Ergonomic Chair

While using your ergonomic chair, you may encounter specific issues with height. Below are some common problems and suggested solutions:

• Chair won’t go up or down: This may be due to a stuck adjustment lever, internal obstruction, or a faulty gas lift. Try moving the lever repeatedly to release the jam temporarily. If that doesn’t work, the gas cylinder might need to be replaced or repaired under warranty.

• If the chair moves too slowly or unevenly, this usually indicates that the gas cylinder is weakening or that moving parts are experiencing friction. Clean and lubricate the joints and piston using specialized oil. If the problem persists, replacing the gas lift is the best solution.

• If the chair lowers automatically after lifting, this is a sign that the gas cylinder can no longer hold pressure, usually due to age or poor quality. Contact your supplier to replace the cylinder with a genuine part.

Users should perform regular maintenance and seek professional repair services for complex issues to maintain the chair's durability and performance.

Additionally, keep the following tips in mind during use to ensure the best experience and prolong the product’s lifespan:

• Read the user manual carefully: Each ergonomic chair model has a different height adjustment mechanism. Understanding it helps you operate the chair correctly and avoid damage.

• Perform routine maintenance: Clean the chair regularly, especially the height adjustment components, to prevent dust buildup that can cause jamming.

• Avoid DIY repairs without experience: If you're unsure how to fix a problem, contact the manufacturer or a professional service to prevent further damage or injury.

• Respect the weight capacity: Never exceed the manufacturer’s recommended weight limit for the chair.

3. Recommended Ergonomic Chairs with Easy Height Adjustment

Okamura, a high-end brand from Japan, offers innovative and modern office furniture solutions. Their ergonomic chair lineup is meticulously crafted to deliver absolute comfort and promote ideal sitting posture for office workers.

Below are four outstanding ergonomic chairs from Okamura, each offering intuitive and convenient height adjustment features suitable for many users.

1. Contessa II Ergonomic Chair

The Contessa II represents the perfect blend of luxury and authority, making it an ideal choice for executive offices and senior management. With a refined design, elegant contours, and sustainable materials, this chair delivers exceptional support to sustain long hours of high-performance work.

Height Adjustment Features:

• Seat height adjustment: 435–545 mm via the right-hand side lever

• Optional headrest adjustment: Fixed or adjustable up to 75 mm

• Optional lumbar support adjustment: Up to 60 mm

• 4D armrests: Adjustable in four directions—height, depth, width, and angle

With its refined design and premium materials, the Contessa II delivers a luxurious look and ensures maximum comfort.

Discover more about this product HERE

2 - Sylphy Ergonomic Chair

With its sleek and modern design, the Sylphy ergonomic chair is highly adaptable to any office environment. Engineered to meet the diverse needs of professional teams, it stands out with Okamura’s exclusive lumbar curve adjustment technology. This feature allows for personalized back support, accommodating different body shapes and sizes.

Height Adjustment Features:

• Seat height adjustment: Up to 130 mm via the lever under the right side of the seat

• Optional headrest adjustment: Up to 120 mm

• 3D armrests: Adjustable in three directions—height, depth, and angle

With its elegant appearance and versatile adaptability, the Sylphy is ideal for a wide range of workspaces.

Discover more about this product HERE

3 - Abilis Ergonomic Chair

Inspired by nature's graceful lines and perfect balance, the Abilis is an ergonomic chair designed for office staff. It blends a distinctive aesthetic with exceptional functionality. Its hexagonal frame—one of the strongest and most material-efficient structures—offers a sturdy yet lightweight form.

Height Adjustment Features:

• Seat height adjustment: Up to 92 mm via the lever under the right side of the seat

• Optional headrest adjustment: Range from 80 to 100 mm

• 3D armrests: Adjustable in three directions—height, depth, and angle

Featuring a hexagonal frame that is both durable and elegant, the Abilis offers optimal balance and long-lasting performance.

Discover more about this product HERE

Ergonomic chairs are essential companions that help protect spinal health and enhance work productivity for office workers. Mastering height adjustment techniques of ergonomic chairs not only optimizes the user experience but is also the key to maintaining proper sitting posture and minimizing discomfort. Apply it today to feel the difference and enjoy a healthier working life!