The nature of job tasks in the office work environment has changed significantly since armrests were added to office chairs. This literature review examines applicable research in an effort to understand the importance of adjustable armrests and to distinguish some of the issues surrounding proper design features. Evidence suggests that adjustable armrest can relieve muscle activity and promote better seated posture in workers who use computer input devices as a regular part of their job.
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References
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Note: this is an abbreviated set of references. For a document with a list of citations, contact your Steelcase representative or on the Internet at www.humanics-es.com/armrest.htm
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Of note, infirmities are not only a function of age. Most of us develop a disability at some time in our lives, resulting from sprained ankles, arthritis, pregnancy, or other health considerations. For such users, ease of rising from a chair takes on a particular relevance.
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