Posts tagged: Gravity

Zero Gravity Chair

The

Zero Gravity Chair

a chair that offers a unique experience was introduced over a decade ago. Like many of the conveniences we enjoy today the device, the idea for a zero gravity chair is said to have originated as part of the space program. As part of the NASA biomechanical systems, the zero gravity chair has its roots in safety and comfort of the astronaut.

During the phase of the blastoff of any manned space flight, astronauts are exposed to the enormous gravitational forces. To help astronauts withstand the intense levels of acceleration, NASA has developed various seating configurations and materials of the padding. Elastic foam memory visco latex was part of this development process, although the memory foam was never used as part of an art space. Despite being a failure as a component of the manned space flight, memory foam is now used in furniture upholstery and mattresses.

One of the many physical challenges faced by the astronauts is compression of the discs between the vertebrae in the spine. Even for us earthlings, normal gravitational pressure of just over fourteen pounds per square inch can cause compression of the disc. As they break free of the bonds of gravity of the land and the speed of thousands of miles per hour, the astronauts can be exposed during that ten times the normal gravitational pressure found on Earth. The force of Earth’s gravity is so strong that a spacecraft would need to move in over twenty-five thousand miles per hour, designated escape velocity. A stress less chair was certainly needed.

The designers of the zero gravity chair touting several advantages of these unique pieces of furniture. The advantage mentioned most often is the effect on the spine. Sitting in a completely relaxed position with your feet higher than the head can relieve pressure on the spine. The basic concept behind the zero gravity chair is to place the body in a position such that the compressive forces on the spine are reduced to as near zero as possible. Achieving this state requires the knees and hips are held at ninety degree angles. A zero gravity chair could be described as accurately as chair of Z, a reflection of how one takes when it was properly seated. These chairs are made for both indoors and outdoors so you will have total comfort wherever you are.

How the body is positioned in the zero gravity chair the feet above the heart, blood circulation changes in the legs. In a standing position, the heart must work harder to pump blood back to the heart of the legs. The heart needs to overcome the forces of gravity that makes blood in the legs gather naturally. This is the same condition experienced by astronauts and pilots during periods of exposure to high G forces so with the legs elevated, your heart does not have to work as hard.

A whole host of benefits are attributed to the use of zero gravity chair. Along with relieving pressure on spinal the

zero gravity chair

also relieves muscle tension, increases lung capacity, reduces pressure on the heart and even raises oxygen levels in the blood. It can be argued whether these claims can be verified. The real issue is whether a zero gravity chair feels good to you. A similar discussion has centered around what type of mattress is best for people with back problems, a firm or soft mattress. There are strong opinions on both sides of this debate.

A consensus has arisen from this debate and is applicable to zero gravity chair. The consensus seems to be one for the user to decide. A person who feels better by using a zero gravity chair should use one.