The ongoing debate surrounding the use of armrests in office chairs brings attention to the dichotomy between research-backed benefits and real-world challenges. While studies support the efficacy of well-positioned armrests for those maintaining an optimal work posture [1-5], the majority of individuals tend to shift or become engrossed in tasks, often neglecting proper armrest utilization.
In the office, I frequently identify biomechanical dysfunctions and injuries that I attribute to armrest use. Upper back pain, particularly between the shoulder blades, is frequently associated with the asymmetrical twisting of the thoracic spine. Additionally, discomfort over the top or front of the shoulders may result from uneven force on the clavicle caused by leaning on one side of the armrest or the forward displacement of the humeral head in the shoulder joint.
A noteworthy observation is that armrests can inadvertently discourage the engagement of postural muscles, leading to passive stress on tendons and ligaments, potentially contributing to injuries. Given these considerations, my recommendation leans toward either removing armrests entirely or opting for chairs without them.
In a forthcoming blog, I intend to delve deeper into chair recommendations, providing a more comprehensive understanding. Visual aids will be incorporated to enhance your grasp of the biomechanics and anatomy discussed in this article.
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