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Frequently asked questions   Why is rocking important? What is the difference between the Opera 20, 30 and 60 Ranges? Descriptions of the Opera 30 & 60 differ to 20 models but the chairs look the same? Can the back or seat pad be changed for a better ‘fit’? Can a neck rest or Z rest be added later? Can the arms be removed or changed? Can control levers be put on the left-hand side? Do you have a showroom?
Why is rocking important?		The need for movement
		Humans are designed to move. Dynamic imbalances in our body, created whilst sitting, can become permanent through unconsciously adopting high-risk postures, problems such as back pain and RSI may result. To move we follow ingrained patterns, the body takes the line of least resistance. If the correct muscles required for a given movement are too stiff, a more flexible group is used, pulling in a specific direction. If this direction is biomechanically unsound a movement imbalance is created, often around a joint, which then becomes a site of pain. Movement is also desirable to prevent postural problems due to static loading but to stop dynamic imbalances occurring it must be started with the body in its natural balanced position so the muscles are in their correct resting alignment. Active sitting is the key to efficient working not only does it prevent pain due to static muscle strain but helps improve digestion, oxygen consumption and blood circulation. For healthy sitting always adjust the workstation to suit the user. Ensure height and position of the equipment is correct in relation to the body and that there is sufficient space to perform all tasks in a relaxed, comfortable manner. Remember move, change posture, take breaks and vary tasks. The body is designed to move but it must be accomplished in the correct manner. For more detailed information on your body and the office environment consult our “How to” guides or ask for our leaflet “Tips on Sitting Correctly”.
Thermal images of lower body and legs Rocking just eight times can produce a 1°C rise in temperature of the quad muscles of the thigh, this indicates increased blood flow which will reduce muscle fatigue and so help one to stay alert. (Research by Advance Seating designs, 1991)
What is the difference between the Opera 20, 30 and 60 Ranges? Basically the difference is with the action of the mechanisms, all are highly adjustable, with the seat and back lockable in any position but the Opera 20 and 30 have a balanced rocking facility – see the Compare Ranges page for more information.
Descriptions of the Opera 30 and 60 differ to 20 models but the chairs look the same? The upholstery size and shape is identical in all Ranges up to the Opera 26, 36 and 66. The Opera 36/66 is the tallest back available in the Opera 30/60 Ranges so is described as a ‘high back’. In the 20 Range the back on the Opera 27 is taller but is also called a high back.
Can the back or seat pad be changed for a better ‘fit’? Yes, upholstery (back and seat pad) for the Opera 20, 30 and 60 Ranges is modular and can be easily interchanged, even mechanisms can be swapped.
Can a neck rest or Z-rest be added later? Yes, providing the internal bracket for fitting into the back pad to hold the headrest (order code ZRB) is included at the time of original manufacture. If not a new back pad plus required headrest will have to be purchased.
Can the arms be removed or changed? Yes, the arms can be easily removed and/or replaced using the supplied allen key. Various types of arm are available depending on the support needed and the space available.
Can control levers be put on the left-hand side? Yes, but only by substituting a different mechanism and moving the controls, however the action and adjustability with left handed levers is limited to that of the Opera 40PU Range. Thus an Opera 22 or 62 would become an Opera 44 specified with a left hand control modification (but keeping the Opera 22 or 62 upholstery). Maximum upholstery size with left handed controls is equivalent to an Opera 26 or 66.
Do you have a showroom? Yes we do, but visits are by appointment (020 8747 7526) and tend to be for specialist fittings of people with serious clinical conditions. Using our POSE™ system we can supply the most appropriate chair for you to try at your place of work. Following the assessment the chair is on a 14 day free trial, which we feel is better, removing the need to travel and take time off work.   TOP

Our policy is one of continuous improvement and specifications may change from those shown. Copyright © 2003 - Advance Seating designs - All rights reserved Legal and Disclaimer notices Last updated: 6 October 2007