Why Sitting is Killing You

Is sitting slowly killing you? Some research shows it is as dangerous to your health as smoking or being overweight.

Let’s have a closer look at the problem.

Sitting for long periods causes a variety of issues including:
– Reduced venous return from legs.
– Reduced arterial supply to legs.
– Tension in hip flexor muscles and weaker gluteal muscle,which may contribute to low back pain.
– Weakened abdominal muscles, which may contribute to low back pain.
– Forward head posture, rounded shoulders, tension in upper limb, which may lead to neck, shoulder and arm pain.
– Slower digestion leading to constipation
– Reduced concentration
– Increased risk of heart disease
– Increased risk of obesity.

Sitting is not inherently a terrible thing to do. Sitting for long, uninterrupted periods IS bad though and should be avoided where possible.  Try these easy tips:

– Sit as well as you can in a suitable chair.

– Move often.  Get up every 45 minutes or so, use a standing desk if possible, go for a walk in your lunch break.

– Undo the slouching with some quick stretches: 1, 2, 3

Further information:
HSE website
Get Britain Standing
Sit Less, Get Active Free Online Course (MOOC)

If you’re suffering with neck or back pain, Osteopathy could help you.  Find out more with a  free consultation.  Book yours by calling 020 8520 5268.