When we think about comfort at our desks, chairs and standing desks often get most of the attention. But there’s one small accessory that can make a huge difference in how you feel throughout the day: a footrest.
You might be wondering — what exactly is a footrest? What does it do? And do you really need one? Let’s break it down.
What is a Footrest?
A footrest is exactly what it sounds like: a supportive surface placed under your desk where you can rest your feet while sitting. It can come in different shapes, sizes, and materials — from simple padded cushions to adjustable platforms made of wood, metal, or plastic.
Some footrests are angled to allow for rocking motion, others are flat and cushioned for simple support. You can even find ergonomic footrests designed to promote better posture and circulation, or specialized footrests with massage rollers to relieve tired feet.
In short, a footrest is a small addition to your setup that can lead to big improvements in comfort, posture, and overall health.
What Does a Footrest Do?
At first glance, a footrest might seem like just another office accessory. But it plays a surprisingly important role in helping you sit properly and stay comfortable during long hours at a desk.
Here’s what a footrest actually does:
1. Promotes Better Posture
When your feet are flat on the floor or supported by a footrest, your body naturally aligns itself better. Without support, you might cross your legs or tuck your feet under your chair — habits that can throw off your posture and lead to back, hip, or leg pain.
A good footrest encourages you to sit back in your office chair with your hips and knees at roughly 90-degree angles — the optimal position for healthy sitting.
2. Improves Circulation
Sitting for long periods can slow down blood circulation, especially in your lower body. This is one reason people sometimes experience swollen feet or even deep vein thrombosis (DVT) during long flights or work sessions.
Using a footrest helps keep your feet elevated slightly and encourages small movements, like rocking or shifting your weight. These movements boost blood flow and reduce the risk of circulation-related problems.
3. Reduces Pressure on the Lower Back
When your feet aren’t properly supported, it can cause a chain reaction of discomfort up your body — starting with your legs and moving to your hips and lower back. A footrest helps by distributing your weight more evenly and taking some of the pressure off your spine.
By giving your legs a stable base, a footrest helps you maintain the natural curve in your lower back, leading to less strain and fewer aches.
4. Boosts Comfort for Shorter Users
Standard office desks and chairs are often designed for the "average" height person. If you're on the shorter side, you might find that even at the lowest chair setting, your feet don’t fully touch the ground.
This can be uncomfortable and bad for your posture over time. A footrest bridges that gap, giving your feet a solid surface to rest on and ensuring your body stays properly aligned.
5. Encourages Movement
Many ergonomic footrests are designed to rock or tilt gently, which encourages you to move your legs throughout the day. These micro-movements can help reduce stiffness, prevent fatigue, and make you feel more energized overall.
Instead of sitting frozen in one position, a footrest invites small, healthy movements that your body will thank you for.
Do You Need a Footrest?
If your feet can comfortably reach the floor and you have an ergonomic chair that supports your posture, you might not need a footrest — but you could still benefit from one.
Anyone who spends long hours at a desk can find more comfort and better posture with a footrest. It’s especially helpful if:
- Your feet don’t touch the floor when sitting
- You experience lower back, leg, or foot pain
- You have poor circulation in your legs
- You notice yourself slouching, crossing your legs, or feeling uncomfortable after sitting for a while
Footrests are also great for home offices, gaming setups, and even in lounge areas where you want to kick back a little more comfortably.
Choosing the Right Footrest
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to footrests. Here are a few tips to help you choose the right one:
- Adjustability: Look for a footrest with adjustable height and tilt so you can customize it to your ideal sitting position.
- Material: Choose a surface that feels comfortable underfoot — padded cushions for softness, textured surfaces for massage effects, or sturdy platforms for maximum support.
- Mobility: Some footrests rock or move to encourage circulation; others stay firmly in place. Think about what suits your work style best.
- Size: Make sure it’s wide enough for both feet and fits comfortably under your desk.
Final Thoughts
A footrest might seem like a small thing, but it can have a huge impact on how you feel during your workday. It supports your body, encourages better posture, improves circulation, and can even make you more comfortable and productive.
If you’re looking to upgrade your office setup, don’t overlook the humble footrest. Your back, legs, and feet will thank you!
