Do corded headsets require picking up the receiver?
This depends on your telephone and not the headset.
If your telephone has "on-hook" dialing or a dedicated headset button you probably will not need to lift the receiver.
Check your user's manual for details. If you wish to more comfortably answer calls we recommend a wireless headset with a 'remote lifter'. This will allow you to avoid repetitive motion from picking and hanging up the handset.