Okay, here are some quick notes based on journal articles that I've read:
Prolonged sitting is bad for you even if you have a well designed, ergonomic chair. Try to reduce the amount of sitting as much as possible.
Even if you have an ergonomic chair, it is very beneficial that you make full use of the features and adjust it so that it fits your body and environment.
It is recommended that people take a 5-10 min break to walk around and stretch each hour. Some researchers suggest even longer breaks. They didn't quite specify if the breaks should be done continuously or split between several periods in an hour.
Sitting up straight is no longer the most "ergonomic" way to sit. It is actually better to adjust your sitting positions every once in a while so that you can relieve pressure on one muscle group and unload it onto another.
Standing workstations can help reduce musculoskeletal symptoms. especially when used in conjunction with ergonomic chairs. People can try to alternate between sitting and standing for maximum effectiveness.
Other notes on things that I didn't do as much research on:
Exercise is important! However, choosing the right kinds of exercise is important. Certain exercises (such as heavy weightlifting) can worsen back pain.
Stretching is also important, but you have to do it properly. (
see this post). Same for Yoga.
One journal article found that jack knife stretching increases hamstring flexibility.
Improving hamstring flexibility can reduce lower back pain.
That all being said... I miss my Amia
. I've just been using this leather task chair that I got from my uncle and my back gets pretty sore by the end of the day.